A layover at Montréal–Trudeau Airport doesn’t have to feel like wasted time. While this is a busy, functional airport rather than a destination in itself, there are enough places to eat, browse, rest, and reset to make a long wait more manageable. Whether you’re killing a few hours between flights, arriving late at night, or debating a quick trip into the city, these things to do can help you stay comfortable and pass the time without unrealistic expectations.
1. Enjoy a meal
Start your layover with a meal. Montréal–Trudeau has a solid mix of standard airport food and a handful of local names. Popular sit-down options include Pork & Pickle and Wienstein & Gavino’s, while Six Pints is a casual spot for beer and pub fare. Ryu offers sushi if you’re craving something lighter.
For quick bites and familiar options, you’ll find Tim Hortons, Starbucks, Subway, and Burger King throughout the terminal. Some food options remain open overnight landside, but airside choices are limited late at night, so plan accordingly if you arrive very late or very early.
2. Hang out in a lounge
Need to catch up on work? Do you want to hang out in a quieter spot? An airport lounge may be precisely what you need. The National Bank Lounge provides access to any traveller, regardless of your airline or flight class. That means even if you’re flying Economy, you can enjoy the unlimited food and drink, WiFi, TV and news, and comfy setting included in the entry fee. Pre-book online or use your lounge membership program. A few more lounges cater to travellers flying Air Canada. See our Montreal Trudeau Airport Guide for details. [ read more ]
3. Shop
If browsing helps the time pass, Montréal–Trudeau has a mix of typical airport shops and a few stores that reflect local flavour. Alongside duty-free, convenience stores, bookstores, and electronics shops, you’ll find some Québec- and Canada-based brands worth a look.
For edible souvenirs, Délices Érable & Cie is a reliable stop for maple syrup, maple candies, and gift-ready treats that travel well. DAVIDsTEA, a popular Canadian brand, sells loose-leaf teas, travel mugs, and compact gift sets that are easy to pack.
You may also find Roots (Canadian casual apparel and leather goods), Indigo (books, stationery, and small gifts), and Québec-themed souvenir shops carrying items like local chocolates, preserves, and Montréal-branded merchandise.
Selection varies by terminal and hours can be limited overnight, so think of shopping here as light browsing rather than a full retail experience.
4. Relax at the spa
If you want to freshen up or unwind, BALNEA Spa Voyage offers massages and other spa services at locations within the terminal.
5. Explore public art & exhibitions
Montréal–Trudeau incorporates public art throughout the terminal, including permanent installations and rotating exhibitions highlighting Québec artists. Pieces are spread across corridors and open areas rather than grouped in a single gallery, so you’ll encounter them naturally while moving between gates, shops, and seating areas.
This isn’t a destination attraction, but it can be a pleasant way to stretch your legs, slow down, and add a bit of visual interest to an otherwise routine airport walk — especially if you’ve been sitting for a long time or staring at screens.
6. Go sightseeing
If your layover is long and you’re eager to leave the airport, Montréal is reachable — but this option only works if you have at least 8 hours+ between flights and no tight connections.
Before heading out, store any bags you don’t want to carry at the cloakroom (baggage storage) located landside. Then, take the 747 Express Bus, which runs 24 hours a day between the airport and downtown Montréal. Travel time is typically 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis and rideshares are available around the clock and are faster, but more expensive.
Once in the city centre, stroll the cobblestone streets and alleys of Old Montreal, situated right on the St. Lawrence River. Swing by the majestic Notre Dame Basilica, visit the Bonsecours Market and pop into the many shops and cafes. For great views, hightail it up to Mount Royal Park for city views. Museums such as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts are also popular stops if time allows.
Make sure to return to the airport with plenty of buffer time, especially during busy periods. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Montreal.
7. WiFi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport in 60-minute sessions. Once the session expires, you can reconnect by viewing another short ad.
8. Sleep
Sleeping at Montréal–Trudeau is possible, but expectations should be realistic. Overnight travellers must remain landside, as airside areas close overnight. Seating with armrests removed is limited, so you may need to use the floor, especially during busy nights. Bring earplugs, warm layers, and an eye mask — the terminal can be noisy and cool. [ read more ]
For those who prefer a real bed, the Montreal Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel is directly connected to the terminal, near U.S. departures. Several other nearby hotels offer free shuttle service to and from the airport. See our Montreal Trudeau Airport Guide for details. [ read more ]
Updated 18 December 2025
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Montreal Airport. Visit our Montreal Airport Guide for more information about services and facilities, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.