EARLY CHILDHOOD MUSIC EDUCATION - TRAVEL
21 - 24 July, 2026
Early Childhood Music Education
ISME Commission Pre-Conference Seminar 2026
Theme
Dates
Venue
Drummondville, Québec, Canada
Travel
Travelling to Drummondville
How to Get to Drummondville from Montréal:
By Car:
• Drummondville is about 100 km east of Montréal.
• Take Highway 20 East (Autoroute Jean-Lesage) toward Québec City.
• Follow signs for Drummondville and take Exit 177.
• The drive usually takes about 1 hour depending on traffic.
By Train:
• VIA Rail offers service from Montréal Central Station to Drummondville.
• Travel time is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
• Tickets can be booked on https://www.viarail.ca
By Bus:
• Orléans Express provides bus service from Montréal (Berri-UQAM terminal) to Drummondville.
• The trip takes about 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Check schedules and book at https://www.orleansexpress.com
Tip: Drummondville is located between Montréal and Québec City, so it’s easy to reach by highway or public transport.
From Montréal-Trudeau Airport (YUL) to Train or Bus
Option 1: Train (VIA Rail)
• VIA Rail trains to Drummondville depart from Montréal Central Station (Gare Centrale).
• From the airport, take the 747 Express Bus to Berri-UQAM or Lionel-Groulx metro station (about 45–60 minutes).
• Then take the Orange Line to Bonaventure Station, which connects directly to Central Station.
• Total transfer time: about 1 hour 15 minutes.
• Train travel to Drummondville: about 1 hour 15 minutes.
• Book tickets: https://www.viarail.ca
Option 2: Bus (Orléans Express)
• Buses to Drummondville leave from Berri-UQAM Bus Terminal.
• From the airport, take the 747 Express Bus directly to Berri-UQAM (about 45–60 minutes).
• Bus travel to Drummondville: about 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Book tickets: https://www.orleansexpress.com
Tip: The 747 Express Bus runs 24/7 and costs about $11 CAD, payable by credit card or at the airport vending machines.
Rent a car
Major Rental Companies at YUL
You’ll find well-known agencies inside the airport terminal or via free shuttle, including:
• Enterprise, Alamo, National
• Budget, Dollar, Thrifty
• Routes Car Rentals (often offers competitive rates)
Average Prices
• Economy cars start around $18–$26 CAD per day for basic models.
• Full-size or premium vehicles range from $34–$54 CAD per day.
• Weekly rates can be more economical (around $225–$400 CAD per week). [montrealai…ortyul.com], [expedia.com], [skyscanner.ca]
Booking Tips
• Book early (ideally 1–2 weeks before arrival) for the best rates.
• Look for deals with free cancellation in case plans change.
• Check if insurance and unlimited mileage are included.
• Drivers under 25 or over 70 may face additional fees. [expedia.com]
Montréal-Trudeau Airport (YUL) to Drummondville
Renting a Car
• Pros: Fastest and most flexible option; direct route via Highway 20 East (about 100 km, ~1 hour).
• Cons: Parking costs, rental fees, and insurance can add up.
• Best for: Attendees who prefer independence or plan multiple stops.
Train (VIA Rail)
• Steps:
◦ Take 747 Express Bus from YUL to downtown Montréal (Berri-UQAM or Lionel-Groulx).
◦ Metro to Bonaventure Station → VIA Rail to Drummondville.
• Travel time: ~1h15 train + ~1h transfer from airport.
• Pros: Comfortable, reliable, scenic.
• Cons: Requires transfers; limited departure times.
• Best for: Travelers who prefer public transport and comfort.
Bus (Orléans Express)
• Steps:
◦ Take 747 Express Bus to Berri-UQAM → Orléans Express to Drummondville.
• Travel time: ~1h30 bus + ~1h transfer from airport.
• Pros: Affordable, frequent departures.
• Cons: Longer travel time than train; less space for luggage.
• Best for: Budget-conscious travelers.
My Recommendation
• If comfort and simplicity matter: Train (VIA Rail) is the best balance of comfort and reliability.
• If flexibility and speed matter: Car rental is ideal, especially for groups or those unfamiliar with transfers.
• If budget is key: Bus is the most economical option.
Travelling within Drummondville
Suggested Hotel: Hotel & Suites Le Dauphin Drummondville, 600, Boulevard St-Joseph, Drummondville, QC, J2C 2C1, Canada
Address of the ECME Pre-conference Seminar Venue: Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, campus of Drummondville, 555, boulevard de l’Université, Drummondville, Québec J2C 0R5
Getting Around Drummondville
Most transportation during the congress will be organized for you:
• Daily shuttles will run between the official hotel and the campus for all sessions and activities.
• This service ensures you can attend all events without worrying about local transport.
For those who prefer more autonomy, here are additional options:
• Taxi services: Available 24/7 in Drummondville.
• Ride-hailing apps: Uber and similar services operate in the area.
• Car rental: Several agencies are located in Drummondville and at Montréal-Trudeau Airport (YUL).
• Public transit: Drummondville has a local bus network (limited schedules, mainly weekdays).
• Active transport: Walking and biking are easy for short distances; some hotels offer bike rentals.
Tip: If you plan to explore the region or need flexibility, renting a car is the most convenient option.
Travelling within Ottawa
OC Transpo is the transit authority in Ottawa. There is a light rail line and bus routes. Please consult the OC Transpo website for more information.
Uber is widely available in Ottawa. There are also several taxi companies in Ottawa.
Restaurant Options
There are many restaurant options near the seminar venue. Options on campus can be found at https://www.uottawa.ca/campus-life/eat-campus/restaurants-coffee-shops-more.
Canadian Visa information
Please request a visa invitation letter on the registration form only if you have not already done so for the ISME World Conference.
Helpful links:
Event Partners / Sponsors
2026 ECME Social Activities
1. Walking Tour (Optional Activity)
2. Village Québécois d’Antan Visit (Optional Activity)
◦ This activity is optional and not included in the congress registration fee.
◦ The site is located within walking distance from the campus, so no bus transportation is needed.
◦ Guided tour provided in English and French.
◦ Comfortable shoes recommended.
3. Poutine Experience (Optional Activity)
◦ Transportation will be on foot from the hotel to the restaurant (approx. 450 meters / 5-minute walk).
◦ Discover the history of Québec’s most famous dish and enjoy a tasting experience.
◦ Cost: Estimated price $15–$20 CAD per person (depending on your choice of poutine and beverage).
◦ Payment: Participants will pay directly at the restaurant.
Conference Dinner
◦ Transportation by bus is provided (departure from the campus, return to the hotel).
◦ The visit will include key historical sites and a walking tour before dinner.
◦ Costs are included in the congress registration fee – no additional payment required.
Outdoor activities
1. Scenic Walking Trails
• Promenade Rivia: A 7.4 km riverside path perfect for a relaxing walk with forest sections and river views.
• Woodyatt Park: Ideal for short walks and picnics along the Saint-François River.
2. Cycling Adventures (Bike Rentals Available)
• Waterfront Loop (14 km): Easy ride through parks and riverside paths.
• Pontoon Crossing Route (20 km): Scenic route along the Saint-François River.
Bike Rentals: Available at local shops such as Sports Experts Drummondville and Vélozone.
3. Kayaking & Paddleboarding (Rentals Available)
• Saint-François River Access: Calm waters for kayaking or paddleboarding.
Rental Options:
• Extéria Aventures (also offers treetop activities)
• Camping des Voltigeurs (kayak and canoe rentals near downtown)