Travelers to and from the U.S.-Canada border region often find themselves navigating transportation between Plattsburgh, NY, Montreal, QC, and Burlington, VT. Whether you’re flying into Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG) and need to reach Montreal, or you’re looking for a Plattsburgh Airport Shuttle to Burlington VT, it’s essential to know your options—and their costs—before you book.
One of the most common questions travelers ask is: How much is a taxi from Plattsburgh to Montreal? The answer depends on several variables, including the type of service, time of day, and border wait times. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down:
- Taxi pricing from Plattsburgh to Montreal
- Tips for arranging reliable cross-border transportation
- A complete overview of shuttle services between Plattsburgh Airport and Burlington, VT
- Alternatives to taxis, including rideshares and private car services
Part 1: How Much Is a Taxi from Plattsburgh to Montreal?
The Distance and Route
The driving distance between Plattsburgh, NY and Montreal, QC is approximately 65 to 75 miles, depending on your exact pickup and drop-off locations. The most direct route follows Interstate 87 North to Canada Autoroute 15, leading directly into Montreal. Travel time typically ranges from 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on border crossing delays.
Average Taxi Fare from Plattsburgh to Montreal
Hiring a taxi for this route involves cross-border transportation, which can result in higher fares due to distance, international travel fees, and return trip charges. Below is a general fare estimate:
- Standard Taxi (One Way): $180 to $250 USD
- Luxury or Private Car Service: $250 to $350 USD
- Group Van Services (Shared or Private): $300+ for 4-6 passengers
These fares generally include:
- The drive time (75–90 minutes)
- Tolls and border crossing logistics
Waiting time at customs, if applicable
Note: U.S. taxis cannot legally pick up passengers in Canada, so the fare usually includes the driver’s return to the U.S. without passengers. This is why a round-trip fare is effectively built into the one-way price.
Popular Taxi Services for Plattsburgh to Montreal
Several reliable services specialize in taxi from Plattsburgh to Montreal:
- Northern Taxi Plattsburgh – Known for cross-border trips.
- City Taxi Plattsburgh – Offers advanced booking for international rides.
- Adirondack Taxi – Offers private vans and large group options.
Make sure to book ahead, especially if arriving late or during weekends. Many services prefer 24-hour notice for cross-border pickups.
Part 2: Taxi from Burlington to Montreal – A Related Journey
Another frequently traveled cross-border route is from Burlington, VT to Montreal. Many travelers compare the two when planning their trip.
Burlington to Montreal by Taxi
Distance: About 95 miles (153 km)
Drive Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
Cost Estimate: $250 to $350 USD one way
If you’re flying into Burlington International Airport (BTV) and need to travel to Montreal, taxi options include:
Vermont VIP Transport
Green Mountain Transit’s Partnered Shuttle Services
Private Black Car Services (available through luxury concierge sites or Uber Black when active)
Just like with taxis from Plattsburgh to Montreal, U.S.-based taxis must return empty after dropping you off in Canada. This results in higher base rates, especially during holidays or ski season.
Part 3: Montreal Airport to Burlington – Reverse Trip Considerations
When flying into Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and needing to get to Burlington, VT, your transportation choices include:
- Private Taxi or Shuttle: $250–$400 USD
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Not always available for international travel
- Bus and Train: Requires transferring in Montreal and then again in St. Albans, VT
Taxi from Montreal Airport to Burlington VT
Due to customs and cross-border laws, Canadian taxis generally cannot operate fully into the U.S. However, some private car services (with appropriate licenses) do provide airport-to-door transport to destinations like Burlington.
- Estimated cost: $275–$375 USD
- Booking tip: Use a U.S.-based or binational company that offers pickup directly from Montreal Airport (like Premier Coach or Vermont Shuttle Express).
Part 4: Plattsburgh Airport Shuttle to Burlington VT – Booking Tips and Options
While not as commonly requested as cross-border trips to Montreal, the route from Plattsburgh Airport (PBG) to Burlington, VT is still relevant—especially for budget-conscious travelers.
Distance and Travel Time
Distance: Around 70 miles
Estimated Drive Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including ferry or bridge crossing)
Traveling from Plattsburgh to Burlington typically involves one of two routes:
Ferry Option (Most Scenic):
- Drive or shuttle to Grand Isle Ferry, then continue to Burlington.
- Ferry operates year-round and takes about 15 minutes.
- Adds a scenic water route to your journey.
Bridge Route via Rouses Point and Alburgh:
- Longer in miles but does not require ferry schedules.
- Preferred during winter months or ferry maintenance closures.
Booking a Plattsburgh Airport Shuttle to Burlington VT
Unlike taxi services, shuttle options from Plattsburgh Airport to Burlington are more limited and must be arranged in advance. Here are your best options:
1. Private Shuttle Companies
Vermont Shuttle Express
Offers customized routes from PBG to BTV or hotels in Burlington.
Rates: ~$150–$200 USD for up to 3 people.
Advance reservations required (24–48 hours recommended).
Green Mountain Shuttle
Popular for group bookings or ski season travel.
May offer discounts for multi-passenger groups.
2. Shared Shuttle Vans (Occasional Availability)
Some shuttle services offer shared rides, though they’re limited.
Shared ride cost: $60–$100 per person.
Must coordinate timing with others; longer travel times expected.
3. Rental Cars
Plattsburgh Airport has rental car agencies (Enterprise, Hertz, Budget) that allow drop-off in Burlington with an added fee. This is a good option for travelers seeking flexibility.
Booking Tips:
- Reserve early, especially in winter or holiday season.
- Confirm ferry hours if using the Grand Isle Ferry route.
- Cross-border transport licensing is key: ensure your provider can legally operate in both the U.S. and Canada, if applicable.
Part 5: Alternatives to Taxis and Shuttles
If you’re looking for budget or adventure-friendly alternatives:
1. Amtrak (Plattsburgh or St. Albans to Montreal)
Great for scenic views but doesn’t connect directly to airports.
Customs processing happens onboard.
2. Greyhound or FlixBus (From Burlington or Plattsburgh)
Inexpensive, but not always timely.
Multiple stops, and you’ll need to get from the station to your final destination.
3. Carpooling Apps or Ride Boards
Used mainly by students or seasonal travelers.
Must be flexible on timing and luggage.
Final Thoughts
The cost of a taxi from Plattsburgh to Montreal typically ranges from $180 to $250 USD, with variations depending on service type and time of day. If you’re looking for other transit routes, such as a Plattsburgh Airport Shuttle to Burlington VT, expect to pay anywhere between $150 and $200 USD, especially for private shuttle services.
When booking a taxi from Burlington to Montreal or even from Montreal airport to Burlington, you’ll want to verify cross-border licensing and book in advance to avoid delays. Cross-border transport in this region is a niche but well-developed sector, with several trusted providers servicing these routes.
Traveling across borders requires a little extra planning, but with the right service, your journey between Plattsburgh, Burlington, and Montreal can be smooth, scenic, and stress-free.