Moncton

When planning a journey through the Atlantic provinces of Canada, many tourists wonder how to get to Moncton — the key transport centre of the New Brunswick region. This vibrant city, often referred to as the "Hub City," is easily accessible thanks to a developed network of air connections, railways, and highways. An exciting trip to Moncton by plane, train, or bus will open a convenient gateway for you to the natural beauties of the east coast.

For most tourists, air travel remains the most convenient way to reach the region. The city is served by its own Romeo LeBlanc International Airport (YQM), located in the neighbouring district of Dieppe. This air gateway is a major transport hub and receives daily flights from the country's largest cities, including Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa.

Due to the compact nature of the region, the journey from the airport to the centre of Moncton takes very little time — a trip by car or taxi will last only about 10–15 minutes. The availability of direct air connections saves travellers from the need to plan complex routes through neighbouring provinces, allowing them to immediately immerse themselves in the atmosphere of New Brunswick.

Travelling by rail is not only a comfortable but also an incredibly picturesque way to get to Moncton. The city is an important stop on the route of the famous The Ocean train operated by VIA Rail. This historic route connects Montreal and Halifax, allowing travellers to cross the eastern part of the country in comfort.

A train ride will provide unforgettable impressions: the windows offer views of dense forests, river valleys, and seascapes for which Canada is famous. Moncton's railway station serves as an excellent transport hub: from here, you can easily continue your journey by bus or rental car to neighbouring cities such as Charlottetown, Saint John, or Fredericton.

Bus connections remain one of the most affordable and reliable ways to reach Moncton. Regular services by the main carrier, Maritime Bus, link the region into a single network, offering travellers comfortable cabins and complimentary Wi-Fi. The route from Charlottetown is particularly impressive: a journey of about 165 km takes approximately 2.5 hours and includes crossing the grand Confederation Bridge, which connects the island to the mainland.

Trips from other cities in the province of New Brunswick are equally convenient and popular. The road from the port city of Saint John takes about 2 hours, covering a distance of 150 km along scenic highways. A similar amount of time is required for the journey from the administrative centre — Fredericton, located 175 km to the west, making the bus an excellent alternative to renting a car.

Travelling by car turns the road to Moncton into a true adventure, especially if you are driving from Charlottetown. This scenic route of about 165 km takes approximately two hours and includes a drive across the famous Confederation Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the Northumberland Strait. Roads in this region of Canada are distinguished by excellent quality, and navigation is intuitive, making road trips comfortable at any time of the year.

Driving from other major cities in New Brunswick also does not take much time: the path from Saint John (150 km) lasts about an hour and a half, and from the administrative centre, Fredericton (175 km), you can arrive in less than two hours via the high-speed Trans-Canada Highway. Although renting a car offers maximum freedom of movement, you can use taxi services, but it is worth noting that intercity transfers will cost several hundred dollars.

To ensure your trip to Moncton is as comfortable and carefree as possible, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. This city in the province of New Brunswick is famous for its hospitality, but proper preparation will make your holiday even more pleasant and help avoid minor inconveniences.

1. Weather and Wardrobe. The climate in the region is quite changeable and humid. If you are travelling in summer, bring light clothing, but be sure to pack a windbreaker or sweater for cool evenings by the ocean. In winter, a warm down jacket, a hat, and reliable waterproof footwear are necessary, as snowfall here can be heavy and frequent.
2. Transport Matters. The city centre is compact and pleasant to explore on foot. However, to reach the main natural attractions in the surrounding areas, it is highly recommended to rent a car. Public transport is represented by the Codiac Transpo bus network, which operates reliably but may not cover all tourist spots.
3. Finances and Tipping. Payments are made in Canadian dollars. Bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted everywhere, even in small cafes. Cash may only be needed for very small purchases. Remember about tipping: in restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave 15–20% of the bill amount, as service is usually not included in the check.
4. Health and Safety. Moncton is a calm and safe city where you can walk without fear in the evening, observing standard precautions. Medical care is of high quality but very expensive for non-residents, so having travel insurance is mandatory. In emergencies, dial 911.
5. Language Environment. This is the first officially bilingual city in the country, so you will be understood in both English and French. A local peculiarity is the "Chiac" dialect, representing a colourful mix of both languages. Do not be surprised if you hear words from different dictionaries in one sentence — this is part of the local culture.
6. Local Etiquette. Residents of Atlantic Canada are known for their politeness. It is customary here to greet bus drivers and shop assistants, hold doors for those following behind, and strictly observe queues. Aggressive behaviour or loud conversations in public places are not welcomed.
7. What to Avoid. Never walk on the muddy banks of the Petitcodiac River or the Bay of Fundy without knowing the exact tide schedule. The water here arrives with incredible speed and power, which can become a dangerous trap for an unwary tourist.
8. Important Advice. Plan your day according to the phases of the moon and water. To see the famous Tidal Bore or walk on the ocean floor at Hopewell Rocks, you need a precise schedule of high and low tides, which can be found in hotels or tourist centres.

By following these simple recommendations, you can easily blend into the measured rhythm of city life and focus on your experiences. Moncton is open and friendly to guests who treat its nature and traditions with respect.