Toronto Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Toronto

Renting a car in and around Toronto offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the iconic CN Tower, which provides stunning views of the city, or the family-friendly Canada's Wonderland, perfect for a day of outdoor adventure. The Distillery Historic District, known for its charming atmosphere, is also easily accessible, making it a great spot for family outings or leisurely strolls.

A rental car allows you to explore popular destinations beyond the city centre, such as Mississauga, which features attractions like The International Centre and the RBC Amphitheatre, or Markham, home to Markham Village and the fairgrounds. Whether you are seeking a family-themed experience, a city exploration, or a business-related visit, having a car makes it convenient to manage luggage and travel plans. Enjoy the ease of visiting multiple locations without the constraints of public transport schedules, making your trip to Toronto a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Most popular car rentals in Toronto

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle type is a popular choice among travellers in Toronto, accommodating up to 5 travellers and offering space for up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs are ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking comfort and roominess while exploring the city and its surroundings.
• Compact: The compact car option is well-suited for solo travellers, couples, or small families, comfortably seating up to 5 passengers and allowing for up to 3 medium suitcases. With its smaller size, this vehicle is great for navigating city streets and parking in tight spaces, making it a practical choice for urban exploration.
• Standard: Standard cars are a versatile option for those visiting Toronto, accommodating 5 travellers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is particularly ideal for couples and families who desire a balance of comfort and practicality during their travels, providing sufficient room for passengers and luggage alike.

Top rated car suppliers in Toronto

• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is a popular choice among travellers in Toronto, boasting 4 rental locations throughout the area. This supplier is particularly favoured for its Midsize SUV and Compact SUV options, which offer a comfortable and versatile driving experience. Customers appreciate the convenience of having multiple locations, making pickup and drop-off hassle-free, allowing for a more flexible travel itinerary.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car is well-regarded for its excellent service, with 2 rental locations in Toronto. Many travellers opt for their Premium Pickup and Standard SUV AWD vehicles, which are known for their reliability and performance. Alamo is often highlighted for its friendly staff and efficient rental process, ensuring a smooth experience from pickup to return, which is essential for tourists looking to explore the city.
• Avis: Avis stands out with over 15 rental locations in and around Toronto, making it one of the most accessible choices for car rentals. The Midsize SUV and Fullsize SUV options are popular selections among customers, providing ample space for luggage and comfort for passengers. Avis is praised for its wide selection of vehicles and efficient service, allowing travellers to easily adjust their plans while exploring Toronto and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Toronto

• Downtown Toronto: Located in the heart of the city, Downtown Toronto is ideal for those seeking a vibrant urban experience. It offers easy access to prominent landmarks such as the CN Tower, which is a modern tower that enhances the skyline. Families will appreciate attractions like The Distillery Historic District and the Royal Ontario Museum, perfect for culture and outdoor activities. With a variety of shopping centres and restaurants nearby, Downtown Toronto is a central hub for both leisure and business travellers.
• Mississauga: This city is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and business facilities. Key attractions include The International Centre, a leading convention venue, and Mississauga Celebration Square, a popular landmark. For those looking for amusement, there are shopping malls and parks nearby, making it a great spot for families. Dining options include various wineries and restaurants, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. Mississauga combines convenience with a lively urban setting.
• Markham: Markham is a dynamic city that caters to both families and business travellers. It features attractions such as Canada's Wonderland, an amusement park perfect for outdoor adventures, and Markham Village, a historic area highlighting the city's culture. With numerous shopping centres and a range of dining options, including wineries, Markham offers a balanced mix of entertainment and relaxation. This city is particularly enjoyable during the warmer months when outdoor activities are in full swing.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally more affordable to rent and easier to park in bustling areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively 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 anything unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance while booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is mandatory 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 November, when prices are lower and demand is at its quietest. This follows October, which has higher demand but still moderate prices. March and April also present good opportunities, as both months see slightly lower prices and reduced demand. In contrast, July and August are the busiest months, with high demand and slightly elevated prices. June also starts to pick up, making it a transitional month into the summer rush.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.2°F (-3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	25.2°F (-3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	33.3°F (0.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
May	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	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	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