From airports to local taxis, here’s how to reach Laval and explore Quebec’s rising city.
Laval, Quebec’s second-largest city, sits just north of Montreal across the Rivière des Prairies. Known for its vibrant neighborhoods, thriving business districts, and family-friendly attractions, Laval is more than a suburb, it’s a destination in its own right. Whether you’re traveling for work, leisure, or to visit family, getting to Laval is straightforward once you know your options. This guide explores every major way to reach Laval: by air, train, bus, car, and local transport. Along the way, we’ll highlight practical tips, border requirements, and trusted transport services to make your journey seamless.
✈️ Arriving by Air
Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
Although Laval doesn’t have its own international airport, Montreal-Trudeau (YUL) is the primary gateway for travelers. Located about 25 km from Laval, YUL connects the region to the world.
- Global connections: Direct flights from major hubs like New York, Toronto, Paris, London, and Mexico City.
- Domestic routes: Frequent service from Canadian cities such as Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa, and Halifax.
- Seasonal flights: Caribbean and European destinations during peak travel months.
Getting to Laval From YUL
- STM 747 Bus: Runs to downtown Montreal, where you can transfer to the metro system toward Laval.
- Taxi: A flat rate applies to downtown Montreal, but taxis to Laval are metered. Coop Laval is a trusted option, with experienced drivers who know the city well.
- Uber: Available, but many travelers find the service inconsistent. Drivers are often transient and less familiar with Laval’s neighborhoods compared to traditional taxi professionals.
- Private Chauffeur Service: Premium SUVs and sedans are available for those who prefer maximum comfort and reliability.
🚆 Arriving by Train
VIA Rail
- From Toronto: The Toronto–Montreal corridor is one of VIA Rail’s busiest routes, taking about 5 hours.
- From Ottawa: A quick 2-hour ride.
- From Quebec City: Just over 3 hours.
Amtrak
- Adirondack Line: Runs daily from New York City to Montreal, passing through the scenic Hudson Valley and Adirondacks. Travel time is about 10 hours.
Getting to Laval by Train
Trains arrive at Gare Centrale (Central Station) in downtown Montreal. From there:
- Metro: Take the orange line north to Cartier, Montmorency, or other Laval stations.
- Taxi: Coop Laval taxis are available for direct service.
- Taximo App: A modern alternative, adopted by Taxi Laval drivers, allowing you to book rides easily.
🚌 Arriving by Bus
Greyhound & FlixBus
- From U.S. cities: New York, Boston, Burlington.
- From Canadian cities: Ottawa, Toronto, Quebec City.
Orléans Express
- Regional service: Connects Montreal with Quebec City, Trois-Rivières, and other towns.
Drop-Off Points
Most buses arrive at Montreal Bus Terminal (Berri-UQAM). From there:
- Metro: Connect to the orange line toward Laval.
- Taxi/Taximo: Coop Laval or Taxi Laval drivers can take you directly to your destination.
🚗 Arriving by Car
Driving to Laval is convenient, with major highways linking the city to Montreal and beyond.
From Toronto
- Route: Highway 401 east to Highway 20 in Quebec, then cross into Laval via Autoroute 15 or 13.
- Distance: About 540 km (5–6 hours).
From Ottawa
- Route: Highway 417 east to Highway 40, then cross into Laval.
- Distance: About 200 km (2 hours).
From New York City
- Route: I-87 north to the Canadian border, then Highway 15 to Montreal and onward to Laval.
- Distance: About 600 km (6–7 hours).
From Boston
- Route: I-89 north to the Canadian border, then Highway 133/10 toward Montreal, crossing into Laval.
- Distance: About 500 km (5–6 hours).
🚇 Getting Around Laval
Laval has its own transit system, STL (Société de transport de Laval), which integrates with Montreal’s STM.
- Metro: The orange line extends into Laval with stations like Cartier, Montmorency, and De la Concorde.
- STL Bus: Extensive routes across Laval’s neighborhoods.
- Taxi Services: Coop Laval offers reliable, professional drivers. Taxi Laval, accessible via the Taximo app, provides a modern booking experience.
- Uber: Available, but less consistent compared to local taxi services.
🌍 International Travelers
From Europe
- Direct flights: Paris, London, Frankfurt, Madrid, Rome.
- Travel time: 6–8 hours depending on departure city.
From Asia
- Direct flights: Tokyo, Shanghai, and seasonal service from Seoul.
- Travel time: 12–14 hours.
From Latin America
- Direct flights: Mexico City, Cancún, São Paulo (seasonal).
🛂 Border & Entry Requirements
- Canada/U.S. border: Passport required.
- International travelers: Check if you need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) or visa.
- COVID-19: As of late 2025, most restrictions have eased, but always verify before traveling.
🗺️ Sample Itineraries
Weekend Getaway From Toronto
- Day 1: Morning train to Montreal, metro to Laval, dinner in Centropolis.
- Day 2: Explore Cosmodome, shop at Carrefour Laval, enjoy nightlife.
- Day 3: Taxi or Taximo ride to the station for return trip.
Business Trip From New York
- Day 1: Morning flight to YUL, chauffeur pickup to Laval, meetings downtown.
- Day 2: Conference at Place Bell, evening dinner in Sainte-Dorothée.
- Day 3: Chauffeur ride to YUL for return flight.
🧳 Travel Tips
- Language: French is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
- Currency: Canadian dollar (CAD).
- Weather: Winters are cold and snowy; summers are warm and lively.
- Packing: Bring layers in winter, light clothes in summer.
📌 Final Thoughts
Laval is accessible by air, train, bus, or car, and once you arrive, you’ll find a city rich in culture, cuisine, and family-friendly attractions. For local transport, seasoned taxi drivers offer reliability and knowledge that ride-share apps often lack.
For those who demand the very best, mtlprimelimos.com stands out as the premier chauffeur service in the Greater Montreal region, with a fleet of SUVs and sedans driven by some of the most experienced professionals in Montreal and Laval. For travelers seeking dependable taxi service, Coop Laval is a trusted choice, while the Taximo app, adopted by Taxi Laval drivers, offers a modern and convenient way to book rides.
Laval is waiting. All that’s left is for you to plan your journey.
