Montreal Underground City Hours
The Montreal Underground City is a major draw in most tourists’ guidebooks and, for good reason, it is an amazing urban planning achievement. For many locals, however, the system is a little more than a series of mall complexes linking metro stations – a handy place to shop or grab a quick bite to eat without the threat of the blazing sun or freezing cold of the streets above.
The network runs for kilometres and is a veritable lifeline for residents. On any given day, one out of every seven people will use the network for transportation or to get some errands done. It’s also a great way to experience the city, especially during its long winters.
In addition to shopping, dining, and getting around, some of the tunnels offer some unique attractions. Hestia Tea, for example, is a magical tea joint tucked away in a Ville-Marie tunnel. Its owner received the full backing of the Dragons on the show and has been able to create a unique tea experience that the locals love.
Whether you’re in the mood to try a matcha, ginger, and lime green tea or a classic English Breakfast, Hestia is a cozy spot to relax. The best part? They offer a loyalty program, so you can earn rewards as you visit!
If you want to know more about the history of the underground city, or even just learn a few interesting facts about it, take a guided tour. You’ll be accompanied by a local guide who will show you some of the highlights, including the famous Paris Metro sign brought to Montreal when it was first built in the 1960s. The tour will make a stop at Place Ville Marie, an impressive office and shopping complex that serves as the core of the Montreal Underground City.
You’ll also be able to check out the imposing cruciform building 1 PVM, which is an important symbol of the city. It was opened in 1962 (4 years before the Metro system), and its design served as a blueprint for the rest of the network.
For the arts enthusiasts, there is the Contemporary Art Museum (MAC), which has been directly linked to the rebranded Underground City network since 1992. They often host late night half party, half exhibition events known as les Nocturnes du MAC, which are worth checking out!
Most of the passages in the montreal underground city are open during regular business hours. However, the specific hours will vary depending on each individual building’s policies and what you are looking to do there. It’s always best to check the website for the specific locations you are interested in for more information. However, it’s safe to say that the majority of the network will be open at least until the Metro closes at 1AM.