Overview
Montreal, the cultured heart of French-speaking Quebec, charms with cobbled old streets, grand cathedrals, festival energy and a celebrated food scene — a European-flavoured favourite for UK travellers in North America. The city's main gateway is Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL), which handles all scheduled passenger flights. Comparing every fare in one place makes finding the right flight from the UK quick and simple.
Best time to fly to Montreal
Montreal has four vivid seasons. Late spring (May to June) and autumn (September to October) bring mild days and gorgeous colours, while summer buzzes with festivals and winter is cold, snowy and great for winter sports. Fares typically ease outside the summer and Christmas peaks, so travelling in the shoulder months stretches your budget — check the price charts on this page for your dates.
Airlines and routes
Air Canada and British Airways fly direct from London Heathrow to Montréal-Trudeau in around 7 to 8 hours. Air Transat also serves the route, and connecting options via eastern Canada, the US or Europe can be better value. Comparing carriers for your exact dates is the surest way to secure the lowest fare.
Things to do in Montreal
Montreal blends old-world elegance with modern flair:
- Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal): cobbled lanes, historic squares and the striking Notre-Dame Basilica.
- Mount Royal Park: a leafy hilltop with sweeping views over the city and river.
- Notre-Dame Basilica: a breathtaking Gothic Revival interior of deep blues and gold.
- Jean-Talon Market: a lively market brimming with Quebec produce and delicacies.
- Plateau Mont-Royal: a bohemian district of murals, cafes and colourful staircases.
At Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
Montréal-Trudeau sits about 20 km west of downtown Montreal, with duty-free shopping, currency exchange, ATMs and dining. The 747 express bus runs into the city centre around the clock, alongside taxis, ride-hailing and shuttles; a new REM light-rail link also serves the airport. Note the older Mirabel airport (YMX) now handles only cargo.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Montreal
- Book roughly 2–4 months ahead for the best value — transatlantic fares climb close to departure.
- Avoid the summer festival and Christmas peaks; spring and autumn bring lower prices.
- Be flexible with your dates — midweek departures are often cheaper than weekends.
- Compare direct and one-stop options; a short connection can sometimes save a good deal.
Travel essentials
- UK travellers need an approved eTA before flying — apply online in advance.
- A valid e-passport is required; no vaccinations are needed for entry.
- The local currency is the Canadian dollar (CAD).