Montreal to Quebec City by train

Traveling between the two major cities of Quebec is straightforward on the passenger rail network. The direct service connects the downtown cores without the stress of driving or flying. Passengers ride the VIA Rail Quebec City to Montreal and Ottawa route, which operates entirely during the day. The trip offers a relaxed way to cross the province, linking modern Montreal with the historic capital. As of 2026, several departures operate daily, making it easy to fit the journey into a broader Canadian itinerary. Booking early is recommended to secure the best fares and preferred seating.

Your train options

The only direct option is the VIA Rail Quebec City to Montreal and Ottawa train. As of 2026, several trains a day run between the two cities. The trip takes about 3 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes, depending on the schedule and track conditions. This is a daytime service, so there is no overnight travel on this trip. Passengers can choose between two classes of service: Economy and Business class. Economy provides comfortable seating and access to food and drinks for purchase. Business class offers more space, priority boarding, and usually includes complimentary meals and beverages served at your seat. When deciding how to choose, consider your budget and whether you want the extra perks of Business class for a relatively short journey. Both classes provide a reliable and comfortable ride across the province. You can read our Amtrak and VIA booking tips for advice on securing tickets.

The journey

The journey from Montreal to Quebec City takes you northeast through the province of Quebec. After leaving the urban landscape of Montreal, the train crosses into the surrounding regions. The main stops in between include Saint-Hyacinthe and Drummondville. Between Drummondville and Quebec City, passengers will see the south shore farmland of the St. Lawrence plain. This agricultural landscape features wide open fields and rural communities. Because this route operates during the day, you will have plenty of natural light to watch the scenery roll by. The views are mostly flat and agrarian, offering a quiet contrast to the busy cities at either end of the line. The train stays south of the St. Lawrence River for most of the trip before arriving in the provincial capital.

The stations

The trip begins at Montreal Central Station, also known as Gare Centrale. This downtown station sits under the Queen Elizabeth hotel and connects directly to the Metro at Bonaventure and the REM light rail. It is served by VIA Corridor trains, the Ocean, regional trains to Jonquière and Senneterre, and Amtrak's Adirondack. You will arrive at Quebec City Gare du Palais, a château style station opened in 1916. It is located just below the walled Old Town. Gare du Palais is served by VIA Corridor trains to Montreal and Ottawa, while the Ocean stops across the river at Charny instead.