St. Catharines Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around St. Catharines

Renting a car in St. Catharines offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or those travelling with luggage, as it allows for easy management of belongings while providing the comfort of a private vehicle. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre for cultural experiences, the Port Dalhousie Pier Marina for outdoor adventures, and St. Catharine's Museum for a glimpse into local history—all located within the city.

Moreover, a rental car makes it simple to take day trips to nearby destinations like Thorold, situated just 6 km away, where you can explore Clifton Hill and Skylon Tower. You can also visit the charming neighbourhood of Port Dalhousie, which features Lakeside Park Beach, or Glenridge for more cultural experiences. Having your own vehicle ensures you have the flexibility to create your own travel plans, making your visit to St. Catharines both enjoyable and convenient.

Most popular car rentals in St. Catharines

• Premium SUV: This option is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers along with 2 medium suitcases. The Premium SUV is an excellent choice for business travellers who need a spacious and comfortable vehicle for their trips around St. Catharines. Its robust build and ample room ensure that you can travel in style and comfort while managing your luggage with ease.
• Compact SUV: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, the Compact SUV comfortably fits 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type provides the flexibility to navigate through urban areas while still enjoying the convenience of extra room for your belongings. Renting a Compact SUV allows you to explore St. Catharines and its surrounding attractions with ease.
• Midsize: The Midsize option is suitable for couples and families, accommodating 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. This car type strikes a balance between comfort and space, making it a practical choice for those looking to travel comfortably without sacrificing luggage capacity. With a Midsize vehicle, you can enjoy your journey through St. Catharines while ensuring everyone and everything fits nicely.

Top rated car suppliers in St. Catharines

• Enterprise: With 2 rental locations within St. Catharines, Enterprise is a top choice for many travellers. Known for its friendly service and convenient locations, this supplier has a solid overall rating of 7.6 out of 10. Popular vehicle options include Compact SUVs and Premium SUVs, making it easy for you to find the perfect car to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace.
• Budget: Budget is another excellent option, boasting 1 rental location in St. Catharines. This supplier is known for offering amazing value, making it a great choice for cost-conscious travellers. The most booked vehicles include Midsize and Compact cars, which are perfect for navigating the city's streets and managing your luggage effortlessly.
• Avis: Avis has 1 rental location in the St. Catharines area, providing a reliable choice for car rentals. This supplier is popular for its selection of Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, catering to those who want a bit more space and comfort while exploring. Avis is known for its quality service, ensuring a smooth rental experience during your visit.

Where to stay in and around St. Catharines

• Thorold: Located 6 km away from St. Catharines, Thorold offers a delightful mix of outdoor, city-themed, and family experiences. Visitors can explore local attractions such as Clifton Hill and the Skylon Tower, both perfect for urban adventures. For those interested in culture, the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Thorold is also home to several wineries and breweries, making it a great stop for food and drink options.
• Haig: Situated around St. Catharines, Haig is ideal for city-themed, family, and business experiences. Key attractions include the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, providing a cultural hub for visitors. Water sports enthusiasts will appreciate the Port Dalhousie Pier Marina, while Lakeside Park Beach offers a scenic space for relaxation. The area is also known for its educational institutions and shopping centres, making it a well-rounded destination.
• Glendale: Approximately 6 km from St. Catharines, Glendale is a vibrant neighbourhood that caters to families and business travellers alike. With a focus on shopping, visitors can enjoy the local shopping mall centre and various retail options. Highlights include the beautiful Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, perfect for outdoor activities, and the Butterfly Conservatory, which is a delightful family-friendly attraction. The area’s proximity to wineries adds an extra dimension to your stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around St. Catharines

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, leverage the filters on Expedia to help you identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower prices and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. 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 vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is generally the best arrangement. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel plans, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often an additional charge for picking up your rental car at airports, though it may be worthwhile for the convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can assist you in avoiding unnecessary expenses and provides you with added peace of mind should something unexpected arise during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
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 St. Catharines

The best time to rent a car in and around St. Catharines is March, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. January and February also offer good value, with lower prices and quiet demand. In contrast, April and May see average prices and moderately high demand, making them busier months. August is the peak period, with slightly high prices and average demand, often making it the most expensive time to rent a car in the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	26.4°F (-3.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	26.6°F (-3.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	34.2°F (1.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
April	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
May	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
June	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	71.8°F (22.1°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	Average
October	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.1°F (5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	33.8°F (1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average