Downtown Toronto Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Toronto

Renting a car in Downtown Toronto offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city's attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families, business travellers, or those seeking city-themed experiences. Key attractions such as the iconic CN Tower and the historic Distillery District are conveniently located within Downtown Toronto, while the Royal Ontario Museum offers enriching cultural experiences nearby.

A rental car also allows you to venture beyond Downtown Toronto to popular destinations like Old Toronto, located less than 1 km away, where you can visit Casa Loma and the RBC Amphitheatre. The Toronto Entertainment District, just 1 km away, features additional highlights such as the CN Tower and The Distillery Historic District. Having a rental car means you can explore these areas without relying on public transportation or rideshares, making your trip more comfortable and efficient.

Most popular car rentals in Downtown Toronto

• Midsize: This car type is the most popular choice for groups of up to 5 travellers. With room for up to 3 large suitcases, it’s perfect for couples or families who need a comfortable space for both passengers and luggage. The Midsize option allows you to navigate Downtown Toronto with ease while having ample space for your belongings, making it an excellent choice for those wanting flexibility and convenience during their stay.
• Compact: A top pick for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the Compact car comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for those who want to explore Downtown Toronto without needing excessive space while still enjoying comfort. Its smaller size makes it easy to park and manoeuvre through busy city streets, allowing for a more enjoyable driving experience.
• Economy: The Economy car is a fantastic choice for solo travellers or couples, offering room for up to 5 travellers and accommodating up to 2 medium suitcases. This economical option is perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly vehicle that still provides the flexibility to explore Downtown Toronto. With its compact design, the Economy car makes navigating the city straightforward while ensuring you have enough space for your essentials.

Top rated car suppliers in Downtown Toronto

• Hertz: Hertz is a well-known car rental supplier with 2 convenient rental locations in Downtown Toronto. It is a popular choice among travellers, particularly for its Midsize and Economy vehicles, which are ideal for navigating the city. Customers appreciate the flexibility and ease of managing their travel plans with Hertz, making it a reliable option for exploring the area at your own pace.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental also boasts 2 rental locations in Downtown Toronto. This supplier is frequently chosen for its selection of Compact SUVs and Midsize cars, offering a great balance of comfort and space for both individuals and families. Travellers enjoy the convenience of having multiple rental options in the heart of the city, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
• Sixt: Sixt features 1 rental location in Downtown Toronto, providing a focused and efficient service. Known for its Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs, Sixt caters to those looking for a combination of versatility and comfort. Customers find that renting with Sixt allows for an effortless exploration of Toronto's attractions, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a premium experience.

Where to stay around Downtown Toronto

• Downtown Toronto: The vibrant heart of Toronto, Downtown offers a mix of family, city, and business-themed experiences. Visitors can explore the iconic CN Tower, a modern tower ideal for city holidays. With easy access to shopping centres, theaters, and restaurants, this area is perfect for those seeking an urban adventure. Nearby food and drink options include wineries and diverse restaurants, making it a culinary hub.
• Old Toronto: Located less than 1 km from Downtown, Old Toronto provides a charming blend of family, city, and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include Casa Loma, a historic house, and the RBC Amphitheatre, an arts center. The area features shopping malls and theatres, ensuring plenty of entertainment options. With nearby wineries and restaurants, Old Toronto is a delightful place to stay for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
• Toronto Entertainment District: Situated 1 km away from Downtown Toronto, the Entertainment District is a lively neighbourhood perfect for family, city, and business-themed visitors. Home to the renowned CN Tower and the Distillery Historic District, it offers an array of theatres and shopping areas. The nearby food scene is highlighted by seafood dining options, making it an excellent choice for food lovers. This area is ideal for those wanting to experience Toronto's vibrant nightlife and arts scene.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to book your car well ahead of your travel dates. By reserving early, you are more likely to secure lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during busy seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded 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 fees, and certain categories of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This option is usually the most economical. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may be worth the extra 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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. It’s easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional fees.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Toronto

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Toronto is March, when prices are at their lowest and demand is fairly low. January and February also offer great value, with slightly low prices and demand. April through May presents average pricing and moderate demand, making them good shoulder months for rentals. However, August usually sees the highest demand and prices, coinciding with summer travel, while June and July also experience slightly high demand and pricing.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.2°F (-3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	25.2°F (-3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
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	Slightly Low	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	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly 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	Average
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average