Underground City (RÉSO) Guide
Explore Montreal's Hidden World: The Underground City (RÉSO) Guide
Venture beneath the bustling streets of Montreal and discover a hidden metropolis: the Underground City, also known as RÉSO (Réseau এক্সপ্রেস métropolitain). This sprawling network of tunnels connects shopping malls, metro stations, office buildings, universities, and even performance halls, offering a unique way to navigate the city, especially during harsh weather conditions. More than just a practical passageway, RÉSO is a destination in itself, brimming with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The Underground City's origins date back to the 1960s, conceived as a way to alleviate congestion and provide a climate-controlled environment for pedestrians during Montreal's long, cold winters. Over the years, it has expanded significantly, now encompassing over 32 kilometers (20 miles) of tunnels. While not a city in the literal sense, RÉSO functions as a parallel urban space, offering a fascinating glimpse into Montreal's innovative urban planning. Exploring RÉSO is an adventure! You can shop for souvenirs, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants, catch a movie, or even attend a concert without ever stepping outside. Look for art installations and exhibitions that often pop up within the network. It's also a practical way to get around, especially during winter. While you won't find a specific culinary tradition unique to the Underground City, you'll find a diverse range of cuisines reflecting Montreal's multicultural character, from classic poutine to international flavors.
Transportation
The Underground City is directly connected to several Montreal Metro stations, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the city. Key stations include: * Bonaventure (Orange Line) * Peel (Green Line) * McGill (Green Line) * Place-des-Arts (Green Line) * Place d'Armes (Orange Line) * Berri-UQAM (Green, Orange, Yellow Lines) Look for RÉSO signage within the metro stations to navigate the network. Many bus routes also have stops near entrances to the Underground City.