How Many Hours Does It Take to Drive from Montreal to Burlington?

 

Traveling from Montreal, Canada, to Burlington, Vermont, is a popular route for both tourists and locals. Whether you're visiting for business, leisure, or shopping, understanding the travel time and available transportation options can help you plan your trip efficiently.

 

Driving Distance and Estimated Travel Time

The distance from Montreal to Burlington is approximately 95 miles (153 kilometers). Under normal driving conditions, the drive takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. However, several factors can affect travel time, including border wait times, road conditions, and weather.

 

Factors Affecting Driving Time

·         Border Crossings: The primary border crossing is the Highgate Springs – St. Armand/Philipsburg entry point. Delays at the border can range from 10 minutes to over an hour, depending on the time of day and season.

·         Weather Conditions: Vermont and Quebec experience harsh winters, which can impact road conditions and slow down travel times.

·         Traffic Congestion: Although this route does not typically experience heavy traffic, rush hours or holiday travel can add time to your journey.

·         Construction and Detours: Roadwork and seasonal construction may add minor delays, especially near the border.

 

Transportation from Montreal to Burlington, VT by Car

Driving is the most convenient and flexible way to travel between Montreal and Burlington. If you have access to a car, you can set your own schedule, take scenic detours, and enjoy a stress-free journey. Here’s what you need to know:

·         Best Route: Take Autoroute 10 from Montreal, merge onto Autoroute 35 South, then follow Route 133 to the US-Canada border. Once in Vermont, continue on Interstate 89 South directly into Burlington.

·         Toll Roads: There are no tolls on this route.

·         Fuel Costs: The average fuel cost for a one-way trip is approximately $12-$20, depending on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

·         Car Rentals: If you don’t have your own car, car rentals are available in Montreal from companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. Most rental agencies allow cross-border travel, but always check in advance.

 

Other Transportation Options

If you prefer not to drive, several other modes of transportation from Montreal to Burlington, VT are available.

 

1. Bus Services

·         Taking a bus is a budget-friendly and comfortable alternative to driving.

·         Greyhound and FlixBus operate direct bus routes between Montreal and Burlington.

·         The journey typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on border clearance.

·         Ticket prices range from $20 to $40, making this one of the cheapest transportation from Montreal to Burlington, VT.

Buses depart from Gare d'autocars de Montréal and arrive at Downtown Transit Center in Burlington.

 

2. Train Travel

Currently, there is no direct train service between Montreal and Burlington. However, Amtrak's Adirondack Line runs between Montreal and New York City, with stops in Plattsburgh, NY. From Plattsburgh, you can take a taxi or bus to Burlington.

 

3. Ridesharing and Private Transfers

If you prefer door-to-door service, rideshare and private transfer options are available:

·         BlaBlaCar: A popular carpooling service where travelers can find shared rides at affordable rates.

·         Private Shuttle Services: Companies such as Vermont Tour & Charter and Green Mountain Transit provide private car services. These can cost $100 to $250 depending on the vehicle type and group size.

·         Uber/Lyft: Ride-hailing services are available in Montreal, but cross-border trips may not always be allowed. Always confirm with your driver before booking.

 

4. Flying from Montreal to Burlington

Although Montreal and Burlington both have airports, there are no direct commercial flights between them due to the short distance. Flying is not a practical option compared to driving or taking a bus.

 

Best Time to Travel

To ensure the smoothest journey, consider the following travel tips:

·         Avoid peak travel times: Weekends, holidays, and rush hour (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) tend to have longer wait times at the border.

·         Check border wait times: Use the CBP Border Wait Time website or app to get real-time updates.

·         Monitor weather conditions: Snow and rain can make driving difficult, especially in winter months.

·         Book transportation in advance: If traveling by bus or private shuttle, book early to secure the best rates.

Conclusion

The drive from Montreal to Burlington takes 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours under normal conditions, making it a convenient and scenic journey. For those who don’t want to drive, buses provide the cheapest transportation from Montreal to Burlington, VT, while car rentals, private shuttles, and rideshare services offer flexibility. Whether you're heading to Burlington for a weekend getaway or a business trip, planning your travel options in advance ensures a hassle-free experience.