Downtown Montreal Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Montreal

Renting a car in Downtown Montreal provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city's myriad attractions at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key sites such as the renowned Place des Arts and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, both located in Downtown Montreal. For those looking to venture slightly further, the magnificent Notre Dame Basilica is only 1 km away, presenting another cultural experience. The convenience of having a rental car is particularly beneficial for families or those seeking outdoor and city-themed experiences, allowing for spontaneous stops and flexible travel plans. Additionally, you can explore popular destinations like Old Montreal, which is also 1 km away and features the Old Port of Montreal and Jean-Drapeau Park, or Quartier des Spectacles, located within less than 1 km, where you can discover vibrant cultural activities. A rental car makes it simple to navigate the metropolitan landscape of Montreal and enjoy everything this vibrant city has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Downtown Montreal

• Midsize: This popular choice accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize cars are ideal for couples and families looking to explore Downtown Montreal with ease. The extra room ensures comfortable journeys, making it a practical option for those needing flexibility in their travel plans.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travellers, couples, and families, the compact car can also accommodate 5 travellers with space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is great for navigating the bustling streets of Downtown Montreal while allowing you to manage your luggage effortlessly. Its size makes it easy to park and manoeuvre through the city.
• Economy: The economy car is a smart choice for those looking to travel light, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option suits solo travellers and couples well, offering a budget-friendly way to explore Downtown Montreal. Its compact nature makes it convenient for city driving, ensuring you can easily navigate through traffic.

Top rated car suppliers in Downtown Montreal

• Alamo Rent A Car: With a rental location situated conveniently in Downtown Montreal, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility. Known for their Midsize and Compact SUVs, Alamo provides a seamless experience for those looking to explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace. The ease of managing luggage and adjusting itineraries makes Alamo a top option for tourists.
• Avis: Avis stands out with three rental locations in Downtown Montreal, offering excellent accessibility for visitors. The most booked vehicles from Avis are Midsize and Fullsize SUVs, catering to those who appreciate spaciousness and comfort. Their widespread presence in the area ensures that you can conveniently pick up and drop off your vehicle, enhancing your overall travel experience.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental offers a rental location in Downtown Montreal, making it easy for tourists to access their services. Known for their Midsize and Compact cars, Thrifty provides options that are both economical and practical for city driving. Their focus on customer satisfaction and value makes them a reliable choice for those looking to explore Montreal and beyond.

Where to stay around Downtown Montreal

• Downtown Montreal: The vibrant heart of the city, Downtown Montreal offers a bustling atmosphere filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It's the perfect base for exploring attractions such as the historic Notre Dame Basilica and the exciting arena entertainment facilities. With a variety of nearby food options, including restaurants and wineries, this area caters to all tastes. Whether you're seeking a cultural experience or a city-themed holiday, Downtown Montreal is a prime choice.
• Old Montreal: Located 1 km from Downtown Montreal, Old Montreal is a charming neighbourhood steeped in history and culture. Visitors are drawn to its cobblestone streets and landmarks like the Notre Dame Basilica and the Old Port of Montreal, ideal for outdoor and beach activities. The area is also home to a vibrant shopping scene and delightful eateries, making it a fantastic spot for families and those looking to soak in the local atmosphere.
• Ville-Marie: Situated 2 km away from Downtown Montreal, Ville-Marie is a lively borough known for its family-friendly vibe and outdoor experiences. The area hosts numerous attractions, including the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, perfect for motorsport enthusiasts, and the scenic Old Port of Montreal for those craving outdoor adventures. With a range of restaurants, cafés, and sweet treat options, Ville-Marie provides a diverse culinary scene for visitors to enjoy.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to assist you in discovering the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payments.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to hire a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Montreal

The best value period to rent a car in and around Downtown Montreal is March, when both prices and demand tend to be low. April follows closely, offering slightly low prices with average demand. Mid-range value months include January and February, which see average pricing with lower demand. In contrast, July is the busiest month with high demand and slightly high prices. December stands out as the most expensive month, alongside slightly high demand, making it a less ideal time for rentals.