Montreal Underground City Map
The Montreal underground city is a network of pedestrian passageways that runs right through the heart of downtown. Known as RESO (an acronym for “reseau urbain”), the system is used by more than half a million people a day. The system connects metro stations, shopping plazas and more, covering 33 kilometres (20.5 miles).
Montreal’s underground city map shows you just how vast the network is. It is arranged in a U shape with two main north-south axes and an east-west axis. Each section is largely climate controlled and brightly lit.
The idea behind the Montreal underground city was to give residents and visitors a safe and convenient place to shop, eat and visit attractions without having to venture out into a hot summer sun or bitter winter snow. The system is a lifesaver on brutal winter days when temperatures plummet to well below -20 degrees Celsius, as well as muggy summer days when the mercury soars to over 30 degrees Celsius.
But it’s not just a place to avoid the elements, although that’s certainly one of its key functions. The underground city is also a hub for shopping, dining and entertainment, and for many residents and visitors it’s where they spend much of their time, especially during the cold winter months.
In the heart of downtown, the Montreal underground city is a network of over 33 kilometres (20.5 miles) of connecting passageways. It is home to a number of museums and shops, including a wide range of restaurants, more than 200 stores, 10 major hotels, 10 metro stations, banks, the Palais des Congres convention centre and more.
The first section of the Montreal underground city was built in 1962, when an underground shopping mall was constructed under Montreal’s first modern skyscraper. Over the years, the network grew to include apartment buildings, hotel rooms, shopping malls, train stations (metro and commuter), banks, schools, universities and other important sites of interest. The network also has about 200 entrances above ground.
Unlike most other tunnel systems, the Montreal underground city is open year round and is not restricted to certain times of the day or week. It operates on the same schedule as the city’s metro system, and most parts of it are open from 5:30 am until 1:00 am. For more details please visit montreal underground city map
The RESO system is free to use, and is clearly marked with schematic maps bearing the RESO logo. There are also signs showing which sections are staffed and where to get help if you’re lost. It’s best to plan your route ahead of time, particularly during busy periods, as the system can become crowded quickly. Mobile phone coverage is good throughout the underground city, so you can stay connected to your friends and family while exploring. You can also pick up a RESO map at most Metro station ticket booths. During your stay, make sure you have enough time to explore all the different sections of the Montreal underground city! You’re sure to have a lot of fun.