Car Rentals in Toronto, CAN

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Toronto

Renting a car in Toronto offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit iconic attractions such as the CN Tower, a modern marvel located in the heart of the city, or enjoy a day of fun at Canada's Wonderland, perfect for family outings. The convenience of a car also allows you to discover The Distillery Historic District, which is ideal for outdoor experiences and family adventures. Beyond the city centre, you can venture to nearby destinations like Mississauga, where you can explore The International Centre and Mississauga Celebration Square, or Markham, home to Markham Village and the Markham Fairgrounds. This flexibility makes a rental car appealing to various travellers, whether you’re seeking a family-friendly experience or a business-related trip. Additionally, having a car simplifies luggage management and travel plans, making it easier to accommodate your needs. With a rental car, you can navigate Toronto and its vicinity with ease, ensuring a memorable journey tailored to your interests.

Most popular car hires in Toronto

• Midsize: This car type is a popular choice among travellers in Toronto, accommodating up to 5 passengers and providing ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. It's particularly ideal for couples and families seeking comfort and flexibility while exploring the city and its surroundings.
• Compact SUV: The compact SUV is another highly booked option, offering space for up to 5 travellers and room for 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle suits solo travellers, couples, and families alike, making it a versatile choice for various travel plans while navigating Toronto's bustling streets.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for those travelling with groups or families, the standard SUV accommodates 5 passengers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is favoured for its spaciousness and comfort, making it an excellent choice for exploring Toronto and its vicinity at your leisure.

Top rated car suppliers in Toronto

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice for travellers in Toronto, boasting over 10 rental locations throughout the area. Known for its reliable service, Hertz offers a variety of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs being the most frequently booked options. This flexibility allows you to explore Toronto and its surroundings comfortably while managing your luggage with ease.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car operates 2 convenient locations in Toronto, making it easily accessible for tourists. Customers often praise Alamo for its quick pickup process and friendly staff. The Premium SUV and Midsize SUV AWD are the top choices among renters, providing a comfortable ride for those looking to navigate the city and beyond with confidence.
• Budget: With over 10 rental locations in Toronto, Budget offers travellers a practical option for their car hire needs. Customers appreciate the competitive rates and the availability of Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, which are popular choices. Budget’s numerous locations ensure that picking up and returning vehicles is a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip.

Where to stay in Toronto

• Downtown Toronto: A vibrant hub for family, business, and city-themed experiences, Downtown Toronto is ideal for travellers seeking convenience and excitement. Within proximity, visitors can explore the iconic CN Tower, marvel at the Royal Ontario Museum, and enjoy the historical charm of The Distillery Historic District. The area boasts ample shopping centres and restaurants, as well as various food and drink options including wineries. With attractions and amenities at your fingertips, Downtown Toronto is a prime base for exploring the city.
• Mississauga: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and business facilities, Mississauga offers a range of attractions including the International Centre and the lively Mississauga Celebration Square. The city is home to shopping malls and amusement parks, providing various entertainment options. Nearby, you can enjoy fine dining and winery experiences, making it a suitable destination for both leisure and business travellers. Mississauga's diverse offerings make it an excellent choice for a stay close to Toronto.
• Markham: With a blend of family fun and cultural experiences, Markham is an attractive option for visitors. Highlights include Canada's Wonderland, a renowned amusement park, and the historic Markham Village. The city features numerous shopping centres and nearby restaurants, as well as waterparks and theme parks for outdoor adventures. Markham caters to various interests, making it a charming area to explore while still being close to the hustle and bustle of Toronto.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Toronto

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a balanced combination of affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure that 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, however, the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if an unexpected situation arises during your trip. It's easy to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Toronto

The best value period to rent a car in and around Toronto is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is also low. March follows closely behind, maintaining similar trends. As spring approaches, April and May see average prices with average demand. However, June through August become the most expensive months, with higher demand and slightly high prices, particularly in August, which is the peak time for rentals. September and October then return to average prices and demand levels, while November shows slightly low prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.2°F (-3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
February	25.2°F (-3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	33.3°F (0.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
April	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
July	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average