Berri Uqam

Berri-UQAM Montreal Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to Berri-UQAM: Montreal’s Central Gateway

Berri-UQAM station is more than just a transit hub—it’s a historical and cultural cornerstone at the heart of Montreal. As the city’s busiest and most interconnected metro station, Berri-UQAM links the Green, Orange, and Yellow lines, serving as a vital nexus for commuters, tourists, and locals. Opened in 1966 and expanded shortly thereafter, the station stands adjacent to key institutions like the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), La Grande Bibliothèque, and the city’s main intercity bus terminal. Its integration with Montreal’s extensive underground pedestrian network (RÉSO) ensures year-round, weather-protected access to shops, cultural venues, and festivals, making Berri-UQAM a gateway to the Quartier Latin and beyond.

This comprehensive guide explores Berri-UQAM’s history, architecture, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, and safety tips. Whether you’re navigating Montreal’s public transit or exploring its vibrant neighborhoods, understanding Berri-UQAM’s role will enrich your visit. For the latest on schedules and renovations, always consult the official Société de transport de Montréal (STM) resources and Wikipedia.

Origins and Naming
Construction and Inauguration
Architectural and Artistic Features
Practical Visitor Information
Connections and Transport Links
- Metro Lines
- Bus and Regional Connections
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Safety Considerations
FAQ
Conclusion
References

Origins and Naming

Located at the intersection of rue Berri and boulevard De Maisonneuve in the Ville-Marie borough, Berri-UQAM takes its name from two key features. “Berri” refers to the historic rue Berri, named after Simon Després, “Le Berry,” an early landowner. In 1988, “UQAM” was added to acknowledge the adjacent Université du Québec à Montréal, a major French-language university. Originally, the station was known as Berri–De Montigny, reflecting the former name of boulevard De Maisonneuve (STM, Wikipedia).

Construction and Inauguration

Berri-UQAM opened on October 14, 1966, as part of Montreal’s original Metro network, initially serving the Green and Orange lines. The Yellow Line was added in April 1967, providing a direct link to Expo 67 on Île Sainte-Hélène. The inauguration, attended by prominent civic leaders, marked a significant milestone in Montreal’s modernization. Today, a commemorative plaque in the mezzanine honors this legacy (imtl.org, Wikipedia).

Architectural and Artistic Features

Berri-UQAM exemplifies 1960s modernist architecture, designed by Longpré & Marchand. As the network’s second-deepest station, it manages complex transfers with a multi-level underground layout. The interior is marked by functional open spaces, bold red accents, and distinctive circular motifs. Public art is integral to the station’s identity—glasswork by Pierre Gaboriau and Pierre Osterrath, a statue by Raoul Hunter, paintings by Robert LaPalme, and murals by Claude Vermette contribute to its reputation as an “underground museum” (STM, montrealvisitorsguide.com).

Ongoing renovations since 2010 have improved lighting, accessibility, and waterproofing, while restoring artistic elements and introducing contemporary features like a skylight and digital displays.

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Metro Operation

Hours: Berri-UQAM operates daily from approximately 5:30 AM to 1:00 AM, in line with the Montreal Metro schedule.
Holiday Variations: Hours may differ on holidays or special events; check the STM website for the latest updates.

Tickets and Fares

Purchase Options: Tickets and OPUS cards are available from automated machines and service counters within the station.
Fare Types: Choose from single-ride tickets, day passes, multi-ride passes, and reloadable OPUS cards. Reduced fares are available for students, seniors, and children (STM Tickets).
Special Services: The 747 airport shuttle requires a special fare (Moovit).

Accessibility

Elevators: Step-free access is available to the Green and Orange line platforms from the main entrance at 1470 Saint-Denis Street. Real-time elevator status is posted on the STM website.
Yellow Line: No elevator currently serves the Yellow Line platform; access involves stairs and escalators (4 Days 4 Lines).
Tactile Guidance: Tactile paving, clear signage, and accessible washrooms (seasonally available) support travelers with disabilities (Le Québec pour tous).
Mobile Network: Full coverage for navigation and accessibility apps.

Entrances and Wayfinding

Main Accessible Entrance: 1470 Saint-Denis Street (with elevator access to Green/Orange lines).
Grande Bibliothèque Entrance: 475 De Maisonneuve Blvd. East (open during library hours).
UQAM Entrance: 1400 Berri St., corner of Berri and Sainte-Catherine.
Exit C (Place Dupuis): For direct access to Boulevard de Maisonneuve and event venues (Montréal en Lumière).
Signage: Multilingual signs (French/English) and neighborhood maps at entrances and throughout the station (STM).

Connections and Transport Links

Metro Lines

Green Line (Line 1): East-west axis, connecting Angrignon to Honoré-Beaugrand, with stops in downtown, Quartier des Spectacles, and the Latin Quarter.
Orange Line (Line 2): U-shaped route from Côte-Vertu to Montmorency, with easy transfers to Jean-Talon Market, Place-des-Arts, and Plateau Mont-Royal.
Yellow Line (Line 4): Direct connection to Longueuil and Parc Jean-Drapeau—ideal for accessing the South Shore and festival venues (STM).

Bus and Regional Connections

Local STM Routes: Numerous lines (24, 30, 125, 150, 350, 355, 358, 361, 364, 427, 445, 747) stop near the station.
Coach Terminal: Direct access to intercity and regional bus services (Moovit).
BIXI Bike Share: Stations nearby, with cycling routes along Boulevard de Maisonneuve (4 Days 4 Lines).

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Iconic Sites Within Walking Distance

La Grande Bibliothèque: Montreal’s largest public library, open Tuesday–Friday 9:00–21:00, weekends 9:00–17:00 (La Grande Bibliothèque).
Quartier Latin: Bohemian quarter with theaters, independent bookstores, restaurants, and nightlife (Le Québec pour tous).
Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM): Modern campus hosting public events and art exhibits (UQAM).
Place Émilie-Gamelin: Urban park and festival site, especially lively in summer.
Old Montreal: Historic district with cobblestone streets, Notre-Dame Basilica, and Pointe-à-Callière Museum (Old Montreal).
Plateau Mont-Royal: Artistic neighborhood with colorful houses, murals, and eclectic cafés (Plateau Mont-Royal).
Montreal’s Underground City (RÉSO): 32 km network of shops, offices, and eateries—ideal for winter visits (Underground City).
Botanical Gardens & Olympic Stadium: Accessible via Green Line; features themed gardens and the Insectarium (Botanical Gardens, Olympic Stadium).
Jacques-Cartier Bridge & Parc Jean-Drapeau: Reachable via Yellow Line, offering scenic views and festival venues (Jacques-Cartier Bridge, Parc Jean-Drapeau).

Travel Tips

Peak Hours: Weekday rush hours (6:30–9:30 AM, 2:45–5:45 PM) are busiest; allow extra time for transfers.
Renovations: Ongoing upgrades may temporarily affect entrances or bus stops; check STM service updates.
Digital Resources: Use Moovit or the STM website for real-time schedules and alerts.
Photography: Permitted for personal use; avoid flash and respect privacy.
Wi-Fi: Available in select station areas.

Safety Considerations

Montreal is recognized as a safe city by North American standards (Government of Canada). Berri-UQAM, as the city’s busiest station, sees high foot traffic and a diverse crowd, particularly at Place Émilie-Gamelin. While most interactions are non-threatening, occasional panhandling and street solicitation occur (Medium Safety Report).

Safety Tips:

Stay in well-lit, populated areas after dark.
Use official station entrances.
Keep personal items secure.
Travel in groups at night, especially in the Quartier Latin and Plateau.
STM staff and security are present; for emergencies, dial 911.

Women and solo travelers should remain vigilant after dark and avoid engaging with strangers offering unsolicited assistance.

FAQ

Q: What are Berri-UQAM’s opening hours?
A: The station operates from approximately 5:30 AM to 1:00 AM, daily.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Purchase at automated machines, service counters, or via the STM app.

Q: Is Berri-UQAM wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, to the Green and Orange lines. The Yellow Line is not currently step-free.

Q: Which attractions are close to Berri-UQAM?
A: UQAM, La Grande Bibliothèque, Quartier Latin, Place Émilie-Gamelin, Old Montreal, and more.

Q: Are there guided tours available?
A: Walking tours of nearby neighborhoods are offered by local companies; check online for schedules.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, for personal use.

Q: Is Wi-Fi available?
A: Free Wi-Fi is available in some metro areas, including Berri-UQAM.

Conclusion

Berri-UQAM is a vital gateway to Montreal’s urban, cultural, and historical landscape. From its rich history and iconic architecture to its role as the city’s main transfer point, the station offers both convenience and a unique sense of place. With nearby attractions, accessible facilities, and ongoing modernization, Berri-UQAM provides an optimal starting point for exploring Montreal. Stay informed with official STM resources and take advantage of digital tools like the Audiala app for a seamless journey.