Not everyone drives—and in Montreal, that’s perfectly okay. In fact, many people living, studying, or visiting here find that having no car is more of a benefit than a burden. With an efficient metro system, walkable neighborhoods, and a growing bike culture, Montreal makes it easy to get around without owning a vehicle.
Whether you are taking in the sights, moving in temporarily, or visiting for several months, the proper neighborhood to lodge in can be very important. Here at Montreal Aparthotel, our expertise is in enabling guests to live in the city comfortably without the hassles of car ownership. Our fully equipped apartments are in the heart of the city and are suited for short stays and also for long stays.
In our article, we will guide you through the best places to live without a car in Montreal, identify who is best suited to a car-free holiday, provide advice on moving around, and explain how our apartments make city living easier.
Why Montreal Is Perfect for a Car-Free Lifestyle
Can you get around Montreal without a car? Absolutely. Montreal consistently ranks among the most walkable cities in Canada. According to the Copenhagen Index, it’s a very walkable city with extensive bike paths, an efficient public transportation network, and vibrant, accessible neighbourhoods.
The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) operates four metro lines and over 200 bus routes. The metro operates daily, and signs are easy to spot with blue and white signs indicating station entrances. Major stations like Berri-UQAM, Jean-Talon, and Lionel-Groulx connect several lines, making it simple to reach your desired destination without a car.
Montreal also offers the Underground City, an interconnected network of passageways beneath the downtown area. This network links offices, shopping centres, universities, and major hotels, offering a warm, weather-protected way to get around, especially during the winter months.
For cyclists, there are ample bike lanes, regular bikes, and BIXI bike docking stations near every major cross street. With an affordable fare structure and thousands of rental bikes available during the warmer months, cycling is a convenient option for short trips.
Google Maps and the STM app make planning routes simple. Many locals and visitors choose this budget-wise mode of travel to save money and avoid the stress of traffic, parking, or navigating speed limits in unfamiliar areas.
Top Walkable and Transit-Friendly Neighbourhoods in Montreal
1. Downtown (Ville-Marie)
Downtown Montreal is the city's commercial and cultural core. With department stores, museums, restaurants, and concert venues within a few blocks, everything you need is close at hand. It's one of the most convenient options for anyone visiting Montreal for the first time.
The area is served by multiple metro stations (Peel, McGill, Guy-Concordia, and Lucien L'Allier), and it connects to the Underground City and major hotels. You’re also close to Saint Laurent and Notre Dame Basilica, two iconic Montreal locations.
Who it's for: Business travellers, students (McGill, Concordia), and those attending conferences or healthcare appointments.
2. Le Plateau-Mont-Royal
Known for its colourful townhouses, leafy streets, and bohemian charm, the Plateau is often named the best area to stay in Montreal without a car. It has everything from indie bookstores to gourmet markets and is well connected by metro (Mont-Royal, Laurier) and frequent bus stops.
With ample bike lanes and vibrant city's lively neighbourhoods, it’s one of the most walkable places in Canada.
Who it's for: Artists, creatives, long-term visitors, and and digital nomads.
3. Mile End
Bordering the Plateau, Mile End is one of the city’s most creative areas. It's full of independent cafes, vintage shops, tech startups, and world-famous bagels. Though it lacks its own metro station, it’s just a short walk from Outremont or Laurier station.
This neighbourhood is a bike-friendly, cultural hub and easy to navigate on foot.
Who it's for: Young professionals, couples, and extended-stay travellers who love local culture.
4. Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie
This area blends residential calm with urban convenience. You'll find Marché Jean-Talon, beautiful parks, and access to the Blue Line (Beaubien, Jean-Talon). It's known for its walkable city layout and quiet street life.
Who it's for: Families, students, and anyone looking for authentic Montreal living.
5. Verdun
Verdun has become one of Montreal’s trendiest spots. Its revitalized Wellington Street is full of restaurants and boutiques, and it’s right on the Green Line (De l'Église, Verdun). The riverside park along the Saint Lawrence River and extensive bike paths make it perfect for nature lovers.
Who it's for: Outdoor enthusiasts, remote workers, and young families.
6. Outremont
Outremont offers quiet elegance and tree-lined streets. With easy access to downtown via Outremont or Édouard-Montpetit metro stations, it balances peaceful living with convenience.
Who it's for: Professionals, visiting scholars, couples.
7. Hochelaga-Maisonneuve (HoMa)
This formerly industrial district has transformed into a vibrant residential area. It’s home to the Botanical Garden, Biodome, and Olympic Stadium. Pie-IX and Viau metro stations offer quick metro line access to downtown.
Who it's for: Budget-conscious travellers, families, and students in health sciences or sports programs.
8. Little Italy
Nestled near Jean-Talon Market and bordered by Saint Laurent, Little Italy offers access to incredible food and a welcoming community. It’s easily accessible via Jean-Talon and De Castelnau stations and ideal for those looking to enjoy a more local experience.
Who it's for: Food lovers, culture seekers, returning travellers.
Who Benefits Most From a Car-Free Stay in Montreal?
From tourists to digital nomads, many benefit from exploring Montreal car-free.
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Tourists can use taxi stands, buses, or trains from Trudeau International Airport and quickly reach the downtown area. They enjoy direct access to Old Montreal, the Underground City, and more touristy neighbourhoods without worrying about parking.
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Students attending exams, short programs, or searching for housing will find most campuses easily accessible by metro or bike.
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Business travellers benefit from staying near major cities' conference hubs without needing a car.
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Families in temporary relocation find that car-free living simplifies logistics when dealing with moving, daycare, or healthcare.
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International visitors appreciate how walkable and connected the city is, particularly for a first trip to Canada.
Tips for Enjoying Montreal Without a Car
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Use Google Maps or the STM mobile app to check real-time bus and metro schedules.
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Simply pay using an OPUS card or single fares for easy access to the metro and bus network.
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Explore Old Montreal and walk to sights like the Notre-Dame Basilica and Saint-Laurent without needing a vehicle.
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Take day trips from Montreal without a car to Quebec City, Ottawa, or Mont-Tremblant via train or intercity bus.
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Use BIXI stations to find the closest docking station and grab a bike for scenic routes along the Saint Lawrence River.
Why Stay with Montreal Aparthotel?
Our short-term rentals are located near metro stations, vibrant city streets, and neighbourhoods that don't require a car. Whether you’re travelling for a few days or a few months, you can enjoy:
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Central access to Downtown, Plateau Mont-Royal, and Mile End
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Fully furnished apartments with kitchen, Wi-Fi, laundry, and living essentials
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Flexible rental terms that work for both short vacations and extended visits
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Lower rates than a typical hotel stay, with more space and comfort
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Real local insight and tips for making the most of your trip
If you’re wondering whether you can live in Montreal without a car, the answer is yes, and you might find it’s actually the best way to experience this beautiful country.
Conclusion
Montreal offers a unique blend of big-city energy and neighbourhood charm, making it an ideal destination for a car-free lifestyle. From vibrant touristy neighbourhoods to quiet bike-friendly streets, the city is built for people, not traffic.
Whether you're exploring the Underground City, cycling beside the Saint Lawrence River, or walking from cross street to cross street through the downtown area, you’ll discover why so many people choose to explore Montreal without a car.
Staying at Montreal Aparthotel puts you close to everything, without the hassle of driving. Book your short-term rental today and enjoy your trip to one of Canada's most walkable cities.
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