The Best Neighbourhoods in Montreal to Learn How to Drive

Learning to drive in a big city can be a daunting task, especially when faced with the complexities of Montreal’s busy streets. However, some neighborhoods offer the perfect environment for new drivers to get comfortable behind the wheel. Whether it’s wide roads, low traffic, or simple stop signs, these areas make learning to drive in Montreal a breeze. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best neighborhoods to practice driving—and our top pick, Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, stands out for its driver-friendly streets and more.

1. Hochelaga-Maisonneuve

Our top neighbourhood for learning how to drive, Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, ticks all the right boxes for new drivers. This area, located near the iconic Olympic Stadium, boasts low traffic, wide, straight roads**, and an abundance of well-maintained, smooth pavement. The simplicity of stop signs and well-marked lanes also make navigating easy for beginners. It’s no wonder this area is a favourite for driving instructors.

What’s more, if you’re visiting this neighbourhood, you can also enjoy a stay at the HoMa Homestay Hotel by Olympic Stadium, which is conveniently located in the heart of Hochelaga-Maisonneuve. Whether you’re learning to drive or exploring the area, HoMa Homestay Hotel offers a comfortable and welcoming experience—book your stay here!

2. Ahuntsic-Cartierville

With its tree-lined streets and residential feel, Ahuntsic-Cartierville is a great place for new drivers to build confidence. The area is calm, with lower traffic volume, and offers a mix of long, straight roads and gentle curves, perfect for practicing turns and lane changes. Parking is also easy to find here, which is excellent for learning parallel parking and other maneuvers.

3. Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie

Another solid choice is Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie, known for its wide boulevards and straightforward intersections. The roads here are less congested, especially during non-peak hours, allowing learners to focus on their driving skills without the stress of navigating through heavy traffic. The area’s well-paved streets are ideal for drivers still getting used to the feel of the road.

4. Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension

Villeray offers a great mix of residential streets and more lively avenues, allowing new drivers to experience both quiet driving and the occasional busier street. This area is known for its straight roads and well-maintained streets, perfect for learners trying to master city driving. It’s also a great neighbourhood to practice stop-and-go driving, with plenty of intersections to navigate.

5. Verdun

For drivers looking for a calm environment to practice, Verdun is a great option. Its wide streets and slower pace make it ideal for learners who want to ease into the driving experience. Traffic here is typically light, and the area provides ample opportunities to practice parking and making smooth turns on its well-maintained roads.

Conclusion

If you’re learning to drive in Montreal, selecting the right neighbourhood can make all the difference in gaining confidence and skill behind the wheel. Hochelaga-Maisonneuve tops our list for its combination of straightforward roadways, low traffic, and the best-paved streets in the city, making it an ideal choice for new drivers. While you’re practicing in this area, don’t forget to check out HoMa Homestay Hotel, the perfect spot to rest and recharge after a successful driving session!