Montreal Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Montreal

Renting a car in Montreal offers you the freedom to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Old Port of Montreal, a marina perfect for outdoor adventures, and Notre Dame Basilica, where you can immerse yourself in culture. The convenience of a car makes it simple to manage your luggage and maintain flexible travel plans, which is especially beneficial for families or those seeking outdoor and city-themed experiences. You can also explore popular destinations like Downtown Montreal, home to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, or take a scenic drive to Brossard, where you can enjoy the Ice Bridge Bike Path and the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Whether you're looking to wander through the historic streets of Old Montreal or spend a day at Jean-Drapeau Park, having a rental car allows you to navigate the city and its surroundings with ease, making your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in Montreal

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a highly popular choice among travellers in Montreal, accommodating up to 5 passengers and providing space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking comfort and versatility. With ample room for both passengers and luggage, it enables you to explore the city and its surroundings conveniently, making it an ideal choice for those with a lot to carry.
• Compact: The Compact car is a favourite among solo travellers, couples, and small families, comfortably seating up to 5 people and accommodating up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for those who prioritise manoeuvrability and efficiency while navigating the streets of Montreal. With its smaller size, the Compact makes parking in the city easier while still providing enough space for luggage and personal belongings, making it a practical option for your rental needs.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV offers a balance of space and comfort, accommodating up to 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for couples, families, or groups who want a bit more room without going for a larger vehicle. With versatile seating and storage, the Standard SUV allows you to travel comfortably through Montreal and nearby areas, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore while maintaining a sense of ease in their journey.

Top rated car suppliers in Montreal

• Alamo Rent A Car: With 3 rental locations throughout the Montreal area, Alamo Rent A Car is an excellent choice for those seeking flexibility in their travel plans. They are particularly popular for their Compact SUV and Midsize options, ideal for navigating both the city and surrounding areas comfortably. Alamo’s commitment to customer service ensures a smooth rental experience, allowing you to explore Montreal at your own pace.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental operates 2 convenient locations in Montreal, making it easy for travellers to pick up their rental vehicles. This supplier is well-regarded for offering Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, perfect for families or groups looking to enjoy the sights of Montreal. With a focus on providing value and reliability, Thrifty ensures your journey through Quebec is enjoyable and hassle-free.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out with an impressive 45 rental locations across the Montreal area, providing unparalleled convenience for car renters. They offer a diverse selection of vehicles, particularly popular choices including Compact SUVs and Premium SUVs, catering to various preferences and needs. The extensive network of locations, combined with excellent customer service, makes Enterprise a top contender for travellers looking to explore Montreal and its surroundings effectively.

Where to stay in Montreal

• Downtown Montreal: A vibrant neighbourhood filled with family-friendly and city-themed experiences, Downtown Montreal is the place to be for shopping and entertainment. Key attractions include the renowned Place des Arts, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, and the historic Notre Dame Basilica. Visitors can also enjoy nearby restaurants and wineries, making it a perfect base for exploring the cultural heart of the city.
• Rigaud: Located a bit outside of Montreal, Rigaud is ideal for families and adventure seekers looking for outdoor activities. With attractions like the Oka National Park for stunning scenery and outdoor adventures, as well as the zipline experience at Arbraska Rigaud Park, there’s plenty to do. Don’t miss the Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes for a cultural touch and nearby wineries for some local flavours.
• Old Montreal: Rich in history and charm, Old Montreal offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and family experiences. Visitors can explore the historic Notre Dame Basilica and the vibrant Old Port of Montreal, perfect for outdoor and beach activities. Jean-Drapeau Park is another great spot for families to enjoy nature and leisure, with nearby options for sweet treats and restaurants enhancing the area's appeal.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Montreal

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and desired features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to locate the perfect vehicle for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your reservation well ahead of your travel date. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Montreal

The best time to rent a car in and around Montreal is January, when prices are moderately low and demand is slightly low. February follows closely, offering a quiet period with average prices. April also presents a good opportunity, as prices remain moderately low and demand stays steady. In contrast, August is the most expensive month, with higher demand and rental prices. June through August see increased competition for vehicles as demand peaks during these summer months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	15.8°F (-9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Moderately Low
February	18.0°F (-7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	28.4°F (-2.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
May	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Moderately High
August	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Moderately High
September	61.7°F (16.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
October	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	36.3°F (2.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Moderately Low
December	25.0°F (-3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average