Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off Date
4.67/5
Based on 1,300+ reviews
Excellent
Trustpilot
Montreal
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Montreal
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Montreal
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Montreal
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Montreal is a vibrant city with a unique blend of European charm and North American energy. While public transport is available, renting a car provides unparalleled flexibility and convenience to explore all that Montreal and its surroundings have to offer.
Explore Beyond the City. With a rental car, you can easily venture beyond Montreal to discover the scenic Laurentian Mountains, charming towns in the Eastern Townships, or even take a day trip to Quebec City.
Convenience and Comfort. A rental car allows you to travel at your own pace, without being restricted by public transport schedules. This is especially beneficial if you're travelling with family, have a lot of luggage, or are on a business trip.
Access to Hidden Gems. Many of Montreal's hidden gems and local favourites are best accessed by car. From cosy cafes in Little Italy to breathtaking viewpoints along the St. Lawrence River, a rental car unlocks a world of possibilities.
Before booking a rental car in Montreal, ensure you meet the minimum age requirements, have a valid driver's licence, and understand the rental company's policies regarding insurance, deposits, mileage, and fuel. Familiarise yourself with local traffic laws and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
Area
431.5 square kilometres (166.6 square miles)
Population
Approximately 1.8 million residents
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (EST/EDT)
Ideal for
Exploring the city and surrounding regions
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Montreal require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, young driver surcharges may apply for renters under 25.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driver's licence is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their licence is not in English or French. A passport and credit card in the driver’s name are typically required.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard rentals include basic insurance, but additional coverage options are available. A security deposit is usually held on the renter’s credit card and refunded upon vehicle return, provided there are no damages.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicySome rentals come with unlimited mileage, while others may have restrictions. Fuel policies vary—many require returning the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. Always check the policy when booking.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, optional add-ons like GPS, or child seats. Review all potential fees before finalising your booking.
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20
SUV:
from £9 / $12 / €11
Peak season (June to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often come with discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
To book a car in Montreal, compare prices from different rental companies, choose the right car for your needs, and carefully review the rental terms to avoid surprises. Booking early is key to securing the best rates, especially during peak seasons. Remember to bring your driver's licence, credit card, and ID when picking up your vehicle.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison site like rentycars.com to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s an economy car for city driving or an SUV for exploring the surrounding regions.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid unexpected charges.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during the summer months.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
Montreal is a vibrant metropolis renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning architecture. Navigating the city by car requires an understanding of local traffic rules, parking regulations, and fuel access, especially when planning to explore beyond the city centre.
As the largest city in the province of Quebec, Montreal offers a unique blend of North American and European influences. It’s a city known for its festivals, culinary scene, and historic landmarks. While Montreal boasts an efficient public transportation system, renting a car provides flexibility for exploring the surrounding regions and attractions. However, driving within Montreal requires some awareness due to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. It's important to familiarise yourself with local driving laws, parking availability, and fuel station locations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Old Montreal
Explore cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and charming shops.
Mount Royal Park
Enjoy panoramic views of the city from this iconic landmark.
Jean-Talon Market
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of one of North America's largest farmers' markets.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Utilise parking garages located throughout the city for secure and convenient parking options.
On-Street Parking
Pay attention to parking signs and time limits when using on-street parking bays.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities located outside the city centre to avoid congestion.
Gas Stations in Montreal
Major Brands Available
Find well-known fuel chains like Shell, Esso, and Petro-Canada throughout the city.
Plan Ahead in Remote Areas
When venturing outside the city, ensure you have sufficient fuel, as stations may be less frequent.
Use Navigation Apps
Utilise navigation apps to locate the nearest gas stations in real-time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Montreal
Use Contactless Payment
Take advantage of contactless payment options for public transportation and parking.
Watch for Cyclists
Be aware of cyclists, as Montreal has an extensive network of bike lanes.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Avoid driving during peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM) to minimise traffic congestion.
Learn Basic French Phrases
While many people in Montreal speak English, knowing a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience.
Major Bus Stations
Gare d'autocars de Montréal
The main bus terminal in Montreal, providing intercity and long-distance bus services.
Railway Stations
Gare Centrale (Central Station)
The primary railway station, offering services to various destinations, including Toronto and New York City.
Airports
Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
The main international airport serving Montreal, located approximately 20 kilometres (12 miles) from downtown.
Renting a car in Canada is generally straightforward, but it’s important to have the necessary documents and meet the specific requirements of the rental company. Here's what you typically need:
A valid driver's licence from your country of residence is required. If your licence is not in English or French, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.
A valid credit card in the main driver’s name is necessary for the security deposit. Some companies may also accept debit cards, but credit cards are generally preferred.
A passport or other form of government-issued photo identification may be required, especially for international renters.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our clients rate such place as Montreal as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Pretty decent, really
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 31.01.2025
Solid, low-key vibe
Chloe Brown
Reviewed: 13.02.2025
Exploring Montréal by car was fantastic! So easy to get around and discover hidden gems. The city's charm is undeniable.
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 13.12.2024
Relaxing, good times
Kevin Lee
Reviewed: 13.04.2025
Montréal was efficient and enjoyable! Easy to navigate, even on a quick business trip.
David Wilson
Reviewed: 12.02.2025
Fantastic spontaneous weekend! Getting around was a breeze, and Montréal charmed us.
Jessica Davis
Reviewed: 01.12.2024
Montréal was amazing! Easy travels seeing friends.
Oliver Peterson
Reviewed: 29.04.2025
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Pretty chill, eh?
Mike Smith
Reviewed: 24.07.2025