Plenty of Montrealers live happily without owning a car. Between public transit, cycling, and the occasional rental, you can get everywhere without the costs of ownership. Here is how to get around Montréal without a car, and when renting beats owning.

The everyday options: transit, cycling, and walking

The metro and buses of the Société de transport de Montréal cover much of the island. Add bike share and very walkable neighbourhoods, and most day to day trips happen without a car, for a fraction of the cost of ownership.

When you still need a car

Some jobs simply call for a car: a big grocery run, a furniture pickup, a weekend getaway, a road trip, a move, or a visit somewhere off the transit grid. That is exactly when an occasional rental makes sense.

Rent instead of own

Owning a car means paying for insurance, parking, maintenance, winter tires, and depreciation all year long. Renting only when you need to often costs far less. And because U-Lease requires no credit card, renting occasionally is simple and accessible. (See our guide on how much a rental costs.)

Make occasional rentals easy

Keep your licence handy, know what you need to rent, book a few days ahead, and choose the right size of vehicle. You are 18 or older, with a valid licence and a deposit: that is all it takes.

Rates and policies can change and may vary by situation. Please confirm current details with U-Lease when you book.