road trip boston to montreal

35 Best Stops Between Boston and Montreal

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How long is the drive from Boston to Montreal?

The direct drive from Boston to Montreal is 311 mi (501 km) , and should have a drive time of 5 hrs 23 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Boston to Montreal, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Burlington , Stowe , Concord , Woodstock , and Manchester , as well as top places to visit like Castle Hill on the Crane Estate and Market St, or the ever-popular Crane Beach.

Top cities between Boston and Montreal

Best stops along Boston to Montreal drive

Crane beach.

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate

Water park of new england, parker river national wildlife refuge gatehouse, hampton beach state park, smuttynose brewing co. - tasting bar & retail, nashoba valley ski area, kimball farm westford, canobie lake park, america's stonehenge, north salem village, o’neil cinemas, mine falls park, marc jacobs - merrimack premium outlets, the palace theatre, currier museum of art, livingston park, union libre - cider & wine, vignoble de l’orpailleur, ski bromont, le musée du chocolat de la confiserie bromont, zoo de granby, parc safari, centre des arts juliette-lassonde, fort chambly national historic site, gault nature reserve of mcgill university, canadian railway museum (expo rail).

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Boston To Montreal Road Trip: The 10 Best Stops

Table of Contents

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a Boston to Montreal road trip, offering a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. This road trip is a fantastic way to explore the stunning landscapes of New England and Quebec while enjoying the freedom of the open road.

The journey from Boston to Montreal covers approximately 310 miles and can be completed in around 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions and route chosen. Travelers have the option to take either the I-93 N route, which is the most direct path, or the more scenic US-3 N route, offering picturesque views along the way.

Top stops for road trippers along the Boston to Montreal route include the charming town of Burlington, Vermont, known for its vibrant arts scene and stunning Lake Champlain waterfront. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire, offering hiking trails and breathtaking mountain views. Additionally, the historic city of Montpelier, Vermont, with its quaint streets and local shops, is a must-see destination.

While traffic can be a concern, especially during peak travel times, planning your trip outside of rush hours can help minimize delays. Be sure to check for any road closures or construction updates before hitting the road to ensure a smooth journey.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, the Boston to Montreal road trip offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure through the heart of New England and Quebec.

Salem, Massachusetts

Essential information.

– Route Options: Easily accessible from Boston on I-93 N and I-95 N. – Opening Hours: Varies by attraction, generally 9 am to 5 pm. – Fee: Admission fees apply to some museums and attractions. – Visit Duration: Half a day to a full day. – Ideal For: History buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those interested in the Salem Witch Trials.

Why is it a must stop

Salem, Massachusetts, a historic coastal town just a short drive from Boston, is a must-stop on your road trip for its intriguing past and unique attractions. Known for the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692, this town offers a glimpse into a dark chapter of American history.

Start your visit at the Salem Witch Museum, where interactive exhibits and presentations shed light on the events that unfolded centuries ago. Delve deeper into the trials at the Witch House, the former home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, one of the magistrates involved in the trials.

For a more lighthearted experience, explore the charming streets lined with colonial architecture and quaint shops. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the House of the Seven Gables, made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel.

Salem also boasts picturesque waterfront views, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing break. Grab a bite to eat at one of the local seafood restaurants or cafes, offering fresh catches and delicious treats.

Before you leave, make sure to visit the Peabody Essex Museum, showcasing a diverse collection of art and cultural artifacts. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply enjoy exploring unique destinations, Salem, Massachusetts, is a road trip stop that promises a memorable experience.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

– Route options: Easily accessible from Boston to Montreal route – Opening hours: Varies by attraction – Fee: Some attractions may have entrance fees – Visit duration: Half a day to a full day – Ideal for: History buffs, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a charming coastal town that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-stop on your road trip itinerary. Start your day by exploring the historic Strawbery Banke Museum, where you can step back in time and wander through restored homes from different eras, gaining insight into the region’s rich heritage.

After immersing yourself in history, head to Prescott Park to relax amidst beautiful gardens and waterfront views. Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront, lined with quaint shops, galleries, and cafes. Don’t miss the chance to sample fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants, showcasing the region’s culinary delights.

For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for birdwatching and hiking. Alternatively, embark on a scenic boat tour along the Piscataqua River to admire the picturesque coastal landscapes.

In conclusion, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a must-stop destination that offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a memorable addition to your road trip adventure.

Portland, Maine

– Route Options: I-95 N from Boston or I-89 N from Montreal – Opening Hours: Varies by attraction – Fee: Some attractions may have entrance fees – Visit Duration: 1-2 days – Ideal For: Foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs

Portland, Maine, is a charming coastal city that offers a delightful mix of culinary delights, outdoor adventures, and rich history, making it a must-stop on your road trip itinerary. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Portland Head Light, a historic lighthouse offering stunning ocean views and photo opportunities. Afterward, explore the vibrant Old Port district, known for its quaint cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, galleries, and seafood restaurants.

For foodies, Portland is a paradise with its renowned food scene. Indulge in fresh lobster rolls, chowders, and other seafood delicacies at local eateries or visit the bustling Portland Farmers’ Market to sample artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and organic produce. Don’t miss trying a famous Maine lobster roll for an authentic culinary experience.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of outdoor activities in Portland. Take a leisurely stroll along the Eastern Promenade Trail, offering panoramic views of Casco Bay, or rent a kayak to explore the scenic coastline. For a more challenging adventure, hike up the nearby Bradbury Mountain State Park for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

History buffs can delve into Portland’s past by visiting the Portland Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection of artworks, or taking a guided tour of the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, the childhood home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Explore the city’s maritime heritage at the Maine Maritime Museum, featuring exhibits on shipbuilding and seafaring history.

Whether you’re seeking culinary delights, outdoor escapades, or historical insights, Portland, Maine, offers a diverse range of attractions that make it a must-stop destination on your road trip from Boston to Montreal.

Kennebunkport, Maine

– Route Options: I-95 N from Boston to Kennebunkport, then continue on I-95 N to Montreal – Opening Hours: Varies by attraction, typically 9 am to 5 pm – Fee: Admission fees may apply for certain attractions – Visit Duration: Half a day to a full day – Ideal For: History buffs, nature lovers, food enthusiasts

Kennebunkport, Maine, is a charming coastal town that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, making it a must-stop on your road trip from Boston to Montreal.

Begin your exploration by visiting the iconic Bush family compound, Walker’s Point, where you can learn about the political legacy of the Bush family and enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. For a taste of local history, head to the Seashore Trolley Museum, the largest museum of mass transit in the world, showcasing beautifully restored vintage trolleys.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birdwatching and hiking along scenic trails. Don’t miss the opportunity to relax on the sandy shores of Goose Rocks Beach or take a leisurely cruise along the Kennebunk River to admire the picturesque coastal scenery.

Foodies will delight in the culinary offerings of Kennebunkport, with its abundance of seafood restaurants serving fresh lobster rolls, clam chowder, and other coastal delicacies. Be sure to indulge in a sweet treat at one of the local bakeries or ice cream shops for a taste of Maine’s culinary delights.

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or gastronomy, Kennebunkport, Maine, has something to offer every traveler passing through on their road trip adventure.

Old Orchard Beach, Maine

– Route Options: I-95 N from Boston to Portland, then ME-98 E to Old Orchard Beach – Opening Hours: Varies by attraction, generally daylight hours – Fee: Some attractions may have admission fees, beach access is free – Visit Duration: Half a day to a full day – Ideal For: Families, beach lovers, road trippers

Old Orchard Beach, Maine, is a quintessential New England coastal town that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment for road trippers. One of the main draws is the iconic Old Orchard Beach Pier, stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean and lined with shops, eateries, and amusement park rides. Visitors can stroll along the pier, enjoy classic carnival games, or savor fresh seafood while taking in panoramic ocean views.

For those seeking sun and sand, Old Orchard Beach boasts a seven-mile stretch of sandy shoreline, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The vibrant atmosphere along the beach is enhanced by live music performances, beachfront bars, and the opportunity to try water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby attractions such as the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge or take a scenic hike along the Eastern Trail. Additionally, the town’s charming downtown area offers a variety of shops, boutiques, and art galleries to peruse.

Whether you’re looking to unwind on the beach, indulge in fresh seafood, or simply soak up the coastal ambiance, Old Orchard Beach, Maine, is a must-stop destination on your road trip from Boston to Montreal.

Freeport, Maine

– Route Options: Easily accessible from Boston to Montreal route – Opening Hours: Varies by attraction, typically 9 am to 6 pm – Fee: Some attractions may have admission fees, while others are free – Visit Duration: Half a day to a full day – Ideal For: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, shoppers

Freeport, Maine, is a must-stop on your road trip for its unique blend of outdoor adventures, shopping opportunities, and coastal charm. Begin your visit by exploring the iconic L.L.Bean flagship store, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts offering everything from hiking gear to cozy winter apparel. After stocking up on essentials, head to Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park for a scenic hike along the rugged coastline, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy breathtaking ocean views.

For a taste of local culture, visit the Freeport Historical Society to learn about the town’s rich maritime history and explore exhibits showcasing Maine’s heritage. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss the chance to indulge in fresh seafood at one of the local eateries or grab a lobster roll from a food truck for a true Maine culinary experience.

To cap off your day in Freeport, take a leisurely stroll down Main Street lined with charming boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, handcrafted gifts, or simply want to soak in the small-town atmosphere, Freeport offers a delightful shopping experience.

With its mix of outdoor beauty, cultural attractions, and shopping delights, Freeport, Maine, is a destination that caters to all tastes and interests, making it a perfect pit stop on your road trip adventure.

Augusta, Maine

– Route Options: Easily accessible from Boston to Montreal route. – Opening Hours: Varies by attraction, typically 9am to 5pm. – Fee: Some attractions may have entrance fees, while others are free. – Visit Duration: Half a day to a full day. – Ideal For: History buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and road trippers.

Augusta, Maine, a charming city along the Boston to Montreal road trip route, offers a blend of historical sites and outdoor adventures that make it a must-stop destination. Begin your exploration at the Maine State House, a majestic building with a rich history and stunning architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about the state’s legislative process and admire the grandeur of the Capitol.

For nature lovers, a visit to the Viles Arboretum is a must. Wander through the peaceful gardens, wooded trails, and diverse plant collections, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic amidst nature. The arboretum also hosts various events and workshops, providing a deeper insight into Maine’s flora and fauna.

History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Maine State Museum, where exhibits showcase the state’s cultural heritage, from Native American artifacts to maritime history. Dive into Maine’s past through interactive displays and engaging narratives that bring the stories of the region to life.

To cap off your Augusta experience, head to the Kennebec River Rail Trail for a scenic walk or bike ride along the riverbank. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings, spot wildlife, and soak in the beauty of the Maine landscape. Whether you’re seeking history, nature, or a relaxing outdoor escape, Augusta, Maine, offers a delightful stop on your road trip itinerary.

Bangor, Maine

– Route Options: Interstate 95 – Opening Hours: Varies by attraction – Fee: Some attractions may have entrance fees – Visit Duration: Half a day to a full day – Ideal For: Families, history buffs, nature lovers

Bangor, Maine, a charming city along Interstate 95, is a must-stop on your road trip from Boston to Montreal. Known for its rich history and picturesque surroundings, Bangor offers a variety of activities that cater to all types of travelers. Start your visit by exploring the vibrant downtown area, filled with quaint shops, cozy cafes, and historic buildings. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Stephen King House, the former residence of the renowned author, which is a popular attraction for fans of his work.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bangor City Forest, a sprawling green space perfect for hiking, biking, and picnicking. For a dose of history, head to the Maine Discovery Museum, where you can learn about the region’s cultural heritage through interactive exhibits and displays. If you’re traveling with kids, the Cole Land Transportation Museum is a great stop to see vintage vehicles and learn about the evolution of transportation in Maine.

After a day of exploring, unwind at one of Bangor’s local eateries, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes and other regional specialties. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying a leisurely break on your road trip, Bangor, Maine, offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Bar Harbor, Maine

– Route options: Easily accessible from Boston to Montreal route – Opening hours: Varies by attraction, generally 9am to 5pm – Fee: Some attractions may have entrance fees, parking fees may apply – Visit duration: 1-2 days – Ideal for: Nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, road trippers

Bar Harbor, Maine, is a must-stop destination on your road trip for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Start your day with a scenic drive along Park Loop Road in Acadia National Park, where you can marvel at the rugged coastline and picturesque landscapes. Hike along the trails to reach panoramic viewpoints like Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, offering breathtaking sunrise views.

For a more leisurely experience, explore the charming downtown area of Bar Harbor, filled with quaint shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in fresh lobster rolls or clam chowder, a local favorite. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll along the Shore Path, a scenic walkway that offers stunning views of Frenchman Bay and the surrounding islands.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to go kayaking or paddleboarding in the calm waters of Bar Harbor, or embark on a whale-watching cruise to catch a glimpse of majestic marine life. For a unique experience, consider joining a guided tour to explore the hidden gems of the region, such as Thunder Hole or Jordan Pond.

As the day winds down, unwind with a peaceful sunset picnic at Sand Beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean waves. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Bar Harbor, Maine, offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and coastal charm that will make your road trip truly unforgettable.

Montpelier, Vermont

– Route Options: I-89 N from Boston to Montpelier – Opening Hours: Varies by attraction – Fee: Some attractions may have admission fees – Visit Duration: Half a day to a full day – Ideal For: History buffs, nature lovers, and food enthusiasts

Montpelier, Vermont, the charming capital city of the Green Mountain State, is a must-stop on your road trip from Boston to Montreal. With its rich history, picturesque surroundings, and vibrant culture, Montpelier offers a variety of attractions that cater to all types of travelers.

Begin your exploration at the Vermont State House, a stunning architectural gem that houses the state government. Take a guided tour to learn about Vermont’s political history and admire the beautiful artwork and design of the building.

For nature lovers, a visit to Hubbard Park is a must. This expansive park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the iconic observation tower, which provides panoramic vistas of Montpelier and the surrounding countryside.

Food enthusiasts will delight in Montpelier’s thriving culinary scene. From farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes, the city offers a diverse array of dining options to satisfy every palate. Be sure to sample local specialties like maple syrup, artisanal cheeses, and craft beers.

History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Vermont Historical Society Museum, where exhibits showcase the state’s rich heritage and cultural traditions. Learn about Vermont’s role in the abolitionist movement, its unique agricultural practices, and the legacy of its indigenous peoples.

In conclusion, Montpelier, Vermont, is a must-stop on your road trip for its blend of history, nature, and culinary delights. Whether you’re interested in politics, outdoor adventures, or gastronomic experiences, this charming city has something to offer every traveler.

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A Family Road trip from Boston to Montreal

This summer we took a road trip to a foreign city new to my family- Montreal, Canada. Driving from Boston to Montreal is an ideal New England road trip. In a pretty easy half-day drive you can be in not only a different country, but one that feels foreign. Montrealers speak French, along with English, and the city has a definite European feel.

Our home base is Providence, Rhode Island, so I was actually traveling from Providence to Montreal, but for the sake of my readers, I will use Boston as a starting point.  We drove through Boston on our way out. It is fairly equidistant to travel through New Hampshire or Vermont to get to Montreal from Providence or Boston, so we chose to travel a different route for each leg of our journey. This gave us a chance to explore more of our beloved New Hampshire , but also one of my favorite states, Vermont . Either route takes a little under 5 hours.

Table of Contents

Road trip from Boston to Montreal

Stops for your road trip from boston to montreal through new hampshire, lincoln, new hampshire.

We left for our adventure after a workday, so didn’t want to do the whole trip in one day. We stopped in one of our favorite New Hampshire towns for the night, Lincoln. Read all about why we love Lincoln.

Stop to See the Longest Candy Counter in the World!

Chutters in Littleton, New Hampshire claims this superlative! There is enough candy here to make the rest of your drive sweet and this is a cute town to see.

How to Visit the Derby Line on your Road Trip

On my first trip up this stretch of road I kept seeing signs for Derby Line that intrigued me. After we got to Montreal I did some research to find out what this line is. The Derby Line is the estimated line half way between the North Pole and the Equator– and a definite road trip must stop!

Derby Line, Vermont/Stanstead, Quebec

Derby Line and Stanstead are two towns built straddling the US and Canada border. There are streets that go directly from one country to another and even a building that sits right on the border– The  Haskell Free Library and Opera House  which was built as a symbol of friendship between the two countries. You can enter the building in the US and exit into Canada, passing through a patrolled crossing. You can also have your feet in both countries at the same time. Follow your GPS to the library and you will be there! I thought it was really cool, my husband expected border guards to come surround us the whole time. There is one imposing sign that suggests that, but the placards state that you can use the walkway to the library which crosses the border.

You can watch a video about our stop of a winter road trip to Quebec City:

Stops for your Road Trip from Boston to Montreal Through Vermont

Woodstock, Vermont

A stop in Woodstock will add about half an hour to your drive, but it is my favorite town in Vermont. Woodstock has a gorgeously charming inn, an upscale downtown full of restaurants and shops and covered bridges.

Read all about Woodstock, Vermont. 

Quechee, Vermont

Right near Woodstock is the village of Quechee. It has a gorgeous gorge to hike, lots of artisans to visit and cheese to taste. You can read about it in the Woodstock post.

Ben and Jerry’s Factory

This famous ice cream factory is a place I return to whenever I happen to be in Vermont and it is right on the route between Boston to Montreal! Ice cream is one of my very favorite foods and Ben and Jerry’s falls in my top favorites for mass-produced ice cream.

Not only is there an ice cream bar with every flavor of Ben and Jerry’s possible, there are also other fun things to do here. For a small fee, you can see the inner workings of the factory (well, from a viewing platform). At the end you get to try a new flavor. After your tour, be sure to check out the flavor graveyard, where some of my favorite flavors are laid to rest. (Did you ever try Oats of This World?– I miss it!)  I would plan to spend between 1-2 hours here.

Warren Falls, Vermont

It will only add about 20 minutes to your drive to add these waterfalls to your Boston to Montreal itinerary. Not only will you be rewarded by natural swimming pools, but also multiple falls and a natural slide only a .1 mile hike off the road.

Crossing the Border Between the US and Canada

You will need a passport, whether you are walking or driving across this border. If you have NEXUS to help expedite your crossing, it only will help if everyone in your car has it. The lane is only open certain hours as well. Because I have it, but not my kids, we all had to wait in line.

As an aside, I have NEXUS as part of my Global Entry package, which was some of the best money I have spent to make travelling easier.

Pretty cool fact– The border between the US and Canada is the longest international border in the world!

You will have about an hour after you cross the border until you reach Montreal. I should add that is without traffic. Montreal has egregious traffic, so plan accordingly.

Read on to explore Montreal with us!

Also, if you keep driving about two hours more, you can get to Quebec , my favorite Canadian city!

Questions or comments? Be sure to leave them below.

If you liked it, please share it. Thank you!

13 thoughts on “A Family Road trip from Boston to Montreal”

Stanstead is the coolest border crossing ever! It feels like you are sneaking into a country even though there is the little border control! Great tips. We have done that drive many times and I don’t think you missed a thing!

Thanks for the article, it is very useful! I will soon go to Boston and this will be my first trip. I already rented a car and found a good hotel. Your article will help me have a good time here.

Nice post. The way you have written is amazing and the images too. Thanks for sharing this. Keep the good work going. Chers.!!!!

Wonderful! This is exactly what I will do with my teenager! I would greatly appreciate any tips on a place to stay in Lincoln or any other ideas for our drive to Montreal (will go as you describe yours) as well as any tips on what to do in Montreal. We are flying in from Europe so this is all unfamiliar land to us:).

Malin, If you give me your email, I can send you links for hotels in Lincoln. Here are suggestions on Montreal https://thedailyadventuresofme.com/home/weekend-in-montreal-with-kids

Great, thanks! [email protected]

You found a lot of good places to stop along the way! Yum to Ben and Jerry’s! Those waterfalls looks nice too.

I would certainly hit that candy store for some road trip supplies for a road trip from Boston to Montreal. I love all the scenery you got as you travelled through Vermont. I might be tempted to stop for longer. We too have a Nexus card and we love how easier it is to tackle the border.

What a great article. Loved reading about your experience driving from Boston to Montreal and the spots you found along the way. The Quechee Gorge looks super cool and I would love to experience it myself.

This looks so awesome! Visiting Vermont has been something Ive always wanted to do and haven’t had the opportunity yet. Your photos are gorgeous. I was actually surprised that the halfway point between the North Pole and the equator is that far north, in my mind it would have been lower.

Thanks for the great blogpost of your trip. It inspired me to take a few of the same stops as well. We’ll travel the other way around though, as part of our 4 week 10-stop US/Can roadtrip that will include NY, Niagara, Algonquin, Cape Cod etc.

Great blog post! Your detailed account of the drive from Boston to Montreal is both informative and engaging. Your descriptions of the scenic views along the way and the various towns and cities you passed through make me want to take the same trip myself.

I loved the longest candy counter photo! Warm Summer Regards!

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USA to Montréal: your guide to a great road trip

Jamie O'Meara

It may come as a surprise to many that the old-world charm and sophisticated metropolitan allure of Montréal is only a short drive away for many Americans in the northeastern United States, and that getting here by car is one of the easiest ways to enjoy a trip to the city that is now wide open for business and visitors. Let the following road trip pro tips help you make the most of your drive to, as we say in Quebec, la belle ville…

Plan a hassle-free road trip

As in most major cities, the summer season is when work is planned to improve the road network. To avoid unnecessary delays, plan ahead by checking the Mobility Montréal website .

Motoring to Montréal is easy peasy

Montréal is located a short hop from the Canada/US border, and the main Quebec border entry points are, not coincidentally, on the major US highways that most American visitors will take on their road trip to the city. The I-87 north from New York City past Plattsburgh gets you to the Champlain/Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle border crossing (only 45 minutes from downtown Montreal on Autoroute 15); the I-93 west to I-89 north goes to the Saint-Armand/Highgate Springs crossing if you’re driving from Boston; and the I-91 goes north to the Stanstead/Derby Line crossing if you’re coming from parts further east in Vermont.

However, if you’re crossing from New York State via the Thousand Islands Bridge, the Seaway International Bridge/Three Nations Bridge, or the Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge into Ontario, and are planning to take the famous 401 highway into Quebec, we strongly recommend you read these essential road trip tips to make the most of your drive to Montréal.

Pick your point of entry

You’ll want to have a good idea of which border crossing you’re going to use because there are many of them , both large and small, along the Quebec border (New York State has 17 land border crossings with Quebec by itself, and Vermont has 15). Bear in mind that larger crossings tend to be busier and may take longer to traverse. You can go to the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) website to see current border wait times (it’s updated every hour) for the major crossings and to subscribe to email border alerts. The CBSA Border Alert Service notifies subscribers when unexpected events cause a significant disruption to normal border services. When a service disruption occurs at a border crossing, a border alert is issued to subscribers identifying the impacted crossing and recommending alternate entry points.

Come on in!

Crossing the border into Canada is a typically chill affair with a minimum of hassle in order to keep all the traffic moving seamlessly. You can expect to answer questions about why you’re visiting, where you’re planning to go and how long you’ll be staying — the standard stuff. You may also be asked if you’re bringing in any alcohol, tobacco, food or firearms. While alcohol and tobacco are permitted in limited amounts many other items are a definite no-no. Find out more about what you should and should not bring when crossing the border here .

And if you’re thinking of making the trip north more than once in the next five years (which you definitely should be), you may want to consider making a $50 investment in a NEXUS card . The card gives pre-approval to travellers to both Canada and the US, as well as expedited entry using dedicated vehicle lanes at designated land border crossings.

You’ve crossed the border into Quebec — now what?

The first thing that you’ll notice is that the road signs are in French. The second thing you’ll likely notice is that you can now drive 100 on the highway, woo-hoo! Except that the speed limits in Canada are in metric: kilometres per hour, not miles per hour. So 100 kmh is actually just a smidge over 62 mph. Since Montréal is an island, you will have to access downtown (Centre-Ville in French) by bridge. The two main bridges that you should take are the brand spankin’ new Samuel De Champlain Bridge (which will land you just west of downtown) or the historic, iconic Jacques-Cartier Bridge (which will put you just east of downtown). Driving in the city is not complicated, but it is different, so we highly recommend that you peruse our handy guide to driving in Montréal . See you soon!

What about parking in Montréal?

Check out the Agence de mobilité durable’s website to see where parking is available near your destination. You can also download the P$ Mobile Service app to pay or top up your parking meter, wherever you are.  

Jamie O'Meara was the Editor-in-Chief at C2 Montréal and the former Editor-in-Chief of alt-weekly newspaper  HOUR Magazine .

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Boston to Montreal drive

Boston to montreal road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Boston to Montreal. If you're planning a road trip to Montreal, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am  start in Boston drive for about 56 minutes

11:56 am   Manchester (New Hampshire) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:56 pm drive for about 55 minutes

1:51 pm   Mount Sunapee stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:51 pm drive for about 55 minutes

day 1 driving ≈ 3 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Woodstock (Vermont) drive for about 1 hour

11:10 am  eat at Ben & Jerry's stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:10 pm drive for about 52 minutes

1:02 pm   Saint Albans stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:02 pm drive for about 1 hour

3:13 pm   Parc Jean Drapeau stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:13 pm drive for about 6 minutes

4:19 pm  arrive in Montreal stay at Hilton Montreal Bonaventure

day 2 driving ≈ 3.5 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Manchester (New Hampshire)   (7 answers)     questions about Manchester (New Hampshire):         Best free things to do in Manchester (New Hampshire)? Mount Sunapee Woodstock (Vermont)   (3 answers) Ben & Jerry's   (2 mentions) Saint Albans Parc Jean Drapeau   (3 mentions)

Where's the best place to stay in Montreal?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Montreal .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Hilton Montreal Bonaventure , which was mentioned 2 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Montreal? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Montreal?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest La Banquise Resto , which was mentioned 12 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Montreal? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Montreal?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Montreal. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Montreal.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Montreal to Boston drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

Looking for ideas for more destinations within driving distance of Boston? Try searching for places within 5 hours of Boston .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Boston to Montreal . Or get a full Boston to Montreal flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Boston well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Boston!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Boston to Montreal

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions