Downtown Toronto Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Toronto

Renting a car in Downtown Toronto offers the freedom to explore this vibrant neighbourhood and its surroundings at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the iconic CN Tower and the family-friendly Distillery Historic District, both located in Downtown Toronto. The Royal Ontario Museum, a hub for culture enthusiasts, is also within easy reach. Additionally, having a rental car allows for flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families, business travellers, or anyone looking to experience the city’s offerings without the constraints of public transport. Beyond Downtown, you can easily venture to nearby destinations like Old Toronto, less than 1 km away, where you can explore Casa Loma and Exhibition Place. The Toronto Entertainment District, just 1 km from Downtown, provides further entertainment options, including the RBC Amphitheatre. With a rental car, you can manage your luggage effortlessly, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable trip as you traverse the diverse attractions of Toronto and its neighbourhoods.

Most popular car rentals in Downtown Toronto

• Midsize: The most popular choice among travellers, a midsize car accommodates up to 5 passengers and has space for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for couples and families looking to explore Downtown Toronto comfortably. With its balance of space and manoeuvrability, a midsize car allows you to navigate the bustling city while providing ample room for your luggage and belongings.
• Compact: Perfect for those seeking a more nimble option, the compact car accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This choice is well-suited for solo travellers, couples, or smaller families who prefer a vehicle that is easy to park and navigate in the city's busy streets. The compact size does not compromise on comfort, making it a popular option for exploring Downtown Toronto.
• Economy: An excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers, the economy car accommodates 5 passengers and provides space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for efficient and economical transportation around Downtown Toronto. Its smaller size makes it easy to park and navigate, ensuring a practical and flexible travel experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Downtown Toronto

• Thrifty Car Rental: With 2 rental locations in Downtown Toronto, Thrifty Car Rental provides excellent options for travellers seeking flexibility. Their most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, catering to a variety of needs and preferences. The convenience of having multiple locations allows for easy pick-up and drop-off, making your travel experience smoother.
• National Car Rental: Located in Downtown Toronto, National Car Rental is a popular choice among visitors. Offering a selection of Compact and Midsize vehicles, they provide reliable options for exploring the city and its surroundings. With their single location, you can enjoy a straightforward rental process while still having access to quality cars that suit your travel plans.
• Hertz: Hertz operates 2 rental locations within Downtown Toronto, offering travellers a variety of vehicle options. Their most booked cars include Midsize and Economy models, which are ideal for navigating the urban landscape. The availability of multiple locations ensures that you can easily find a Hertz rental that fits your itinerary, making your journey both convenient and enjoyable.

Where to stay around Downtown Toronto

• Downtown Toronto: The heart of the city, Downtown Toronto offers a vibrant atmosphere with easy access to iconic landmarks such as the CN Tower, a modern tower perfect for city holidays. Visitors can enjoy a variety of shopping centres, theatres, and restaurants, making it an ideal base for family, business, or city-themed experiences. With attractions like the nearby sports facility stadium and lookout points, Downtown Toronto provides an exciting urban experience.
• Old Toronto: Located less than 1 km from Downtown Toronto, Old Toronto presents a charming blend of historical and modern experiences. This borough is renowned for its cultural attractions, including Casa Loma, a historic house, and the RBC Amphitheatre, an arts centre. The area is ideal for family and outdoor activities, with shopping malls, theatres, and a selection of restaurants and wineries close at hand, providing a delightful atmosphere for exploration.
• Toronto Entertainment District: Situated 1 km from Downtown Toronto, the Toronto Entertainment District is a lively neighbourhood known for its theatres and shopping areas. Visitors can explore attractions such as the CN Tower and the Distillery Historic District, which cater to family and business-themed experiences. With a range of seafood dining options available, this area is perfect for those seeking a dynamic cultural and culinary experience while being close to the city's main attractions.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise filters on Expedia to assist you in discovering the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy superior availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded locations. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 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 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience it offers may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to embark on long 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 essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Toronto

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Toronto is September, when prices are at their lowest and demand is fairly moderate. You may find good value in May and October as well, with slightly higher demand but still reasonable pricing. However, the most expensive time to rent a car is August, which sees high demand and slightly elevated prices. June and July also experience similar trends, with prices remaining on the higher side due to busy summer travel.

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	Average	Average
March	33.3°F (0.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
April	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
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	Average	Slightly High
August	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
November	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average