From September 19 to 27, 2026, Montérégie will host events for the 2026 UCI Road World Championships in Montreal. A regional contribution to an international event! Are you unfamiliar with our country, Canada, and our province, Quebec? Here is a practical guide to simplify your stay with us.
Weather (in September)
Expect mild days: around 22°C during the day and 11°C at night on average, with a chance of showers. Bring a light waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes.
Language
French is the only official language of Quebec. However, in hotels, restaurants, and attractions, you can often be served in English as well.
Entering Canada (passport, visa, eTA)
Depending on your country, you will need a visa or an eTA to arrive by air. The eTA costs CAD$7 and can be obtained online before booking your flight. Travelers entering by land or sea do not need an eTA, but must have the required documents. Check your country’s requirements on the IRCC (Government of Canada) website. Never use unofficial agencies for the eTA—only go through Canada.ca.
Money, tips, and taxes
Contactless cards and payments: Tap-and-go (card or mobile) is everywhere in Canada. Contactless payments now account for a large proportion of in-store purchases. Most international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) are accepted.
Currency conversion: Use the Bank of Canada converter for a daily indicative rate.
Taxes: Prices displayed do not include taxes. In Quebec, 5% GST + 9.975% QST are added at the register.
Tipping (restaurants, bars, taxis): the standard is 15-20% before taxes. Since May 7, 2025, suggested amounts at the payment terminal must be calculated on the subtotal (before taxes).
Connectivity (SIM/eSIM, Wi-Fi)
To avoid costly roaming charges, the simplest solution is to purchase a local eSIM or prepaid SIM card (Bell, Rogers, Telus, and their brands offer eSIMs; several “travel” eSIMs use their networks). Minimalist option: keep your device in airplane mode and use available Wi-Fi.
Hours and time zones
Quebec is in Eastern Time (EST/EDT). In September 2026, it will be EDT (UTC-4).
Electricity
120 V / 60 Hz, type A/B plugs. Bring an adapter if your plugs are different.
Traffic laws (key principles)
Drive on the right. Speed limits are displayed in km/h. If there are no signs, assume 50 km/h in town and 100 km/h on the highway (but always follow the road signs).
Turning right at a red light: permitted in Quebec, except on the island of Montreal and where a sign prohibits it. (Handy if you’re crossing into Montreal!)
Seat belts are mandatory for everyone (even in the back seat; taxis and Uber included).
Winter tires (car rentals and visitors): mandatory from December 1 to March 15 for vehicles registered in Quebec (including rental vehicles).
Alcohol and cannabis
Legal age for alcohol: 18 in Quebec (purchase prohibited for those under 18; ID check at SAQ stores).
Legal age for cannabis: 21 in Quebec, with strict rules regarding possession and use.
Health and safety
Emergency: 911
Non-emergency health advice: 811 (Info-Santé) – nurses available 24/7, free of charge.
Visitors must have travel insurance: non-residents may be billed for medical care.
