Cheap Car Rental in Toronto, Ontario

Tips for Renting a Car Inexpensively in Toronto

Looking for a cheap car rental in Toronto? With Economybookings, you can easily compare multiple providers to find the best possible deal across Canada. Whether you're planning to explore the dynamic city center or take a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside, a quick comparison can save you time and money.

• Compare pickup locations – Select the broader city instead of a specific location to unlock more deal options, including off-airport savings.
• Slightly adjust pickup times and dates – Even changing your booking by an hour can reveal lower rates.
• Choose economy or compact cars – These vehicle types are usually the most budget-friendly.
• Book early – Especially during peak travel seasons like summer (June to August) and the winter holiday period, advance booking helps secure lower prices and better availability.

Tips When Renting a Car in Toronto

Public transport, including taxis, trains, streetcars, buses, and ridesharing apps, is reliable and convenient in the city centre and the Greater Toronto Area. But renting a car can allow you to explore the city and beyond on your own terms.

• In Toronto and Ontario, the minimum age to rent a car is 21 years old. Those under 25 may also face additional fees and restrictions.
• Consider off-site parking outside the core and transition to public transit or rideshares to avoid traffic.
• As Toronto is a bike-friendly city, be mindful of cyclists and bike lanes.
• Avoid rush hour traffic on the Gardiner Expressway during the morning (7:30 – 8:30 am) and afternoon commute (4:30 – 6:00 pm).
• Beware of express toll routes on highways like the 407 ETR.

Driving Tips in Toronto

• Drive on the right and overtake on the left.
• Watch out for the many one-way streets in the downtown core.
• Use navigation apps like Apple or Google Maps and Waze to avoid unexpected road closures and traffic jams (both common in Toronto).
• When driving behind streetcars, always stop when the ‘Do Not Pass Open Doors’ sign is lit.
• Be prepared to take detours in the face of construction zones.
• Use the Green P parking app to find and pay for parking.
• Keep your license, rental papers, and insurance with you at all times.

Speed Limits

Toronto speed limits vary by road type. Designated signs will clearly state speed limits to adhere to, but generally, residential streets have a default limit of 40 km/h (25 mph), major roads up the limit to 50 km/h (31 mph), and highways are often at 80 km/h (50 mph) or higher.

Road Signs

Toronto uses standard Canadian road signs, and most are primarily in English. Although the province of Ontario is officially bilingual, French road signs are quite rare, only found in designated French-language service areas or near federal buildings.

Tolls and Restricted Zones

There are no designated restricted zones in Toronto, but remember that HOV (high occupancy vehicle) lanes require a certain number of people in the car. The only toll highway in the city is the Highway 407 ETR, which is an all-electronic toll highway. Rates vary by vehicle classification, distance travelled, time of day, and zone.

Payment is commonly done online through the official website or app. As always, plan your route in advance and check whether any restrictions apply to your rental car.

Discover Toronto by Car

Toronto is a vibrant and diverse city with distinct neighbourhoods, a celebrated multiculturalism, and many green spaces to get away from the hustle and bustle. With a rental car, you can get around quickly and discover underrated spots in the GTA beyond Toronto’s sprawling urban core.

You’ll find scenic hiking trails on the Niagara Escarpment, reach conservation areas like Crawford Lake, and provincial parks that are much harder to access solely by public transit.

When to Visit

Toronto is known for its harsh and snowy winters, which can be difficult to navigate for those used to warmer and more stable temperatures. Most tourists visit the city between May and September, when temperatures are milder, the days are longer, and the city comes alive with its best outdoor festivals and patios.

Languages & Communication

English and French are the official languages of Canada, but French is rarely used in Toronto. It’s a multicultural city, so you may also hear Urdu, Punjabi, Arabic, Chinese, Portuguese, Ukrainian, Italian, and all sorts of other languages in many neighbourhoods.

Currency & Payments

Toronto uses the Canadian Dollar. While cash is still accepted in many places, the city has moved toward a card and digital wallet-dominated model. ATMs are easy to find throughout the city and suburbs.

Top Driving Routes from Toronto

• St. Catherine's – Find wineries, beaches, and outdoor areas for cycling and hiking.
• Niagara Falls – A popular tourist hotspot for seeing the three iconic waterfalls.
• Kawartha Lakes – Incredible natural region for outdoor and water activities, and a cultural and culinary scene to dive into.
• Blue Mountain – Scenic northern drive to world-class skiing, dining, golf, and a mountain resort and spa.
• Muskoka – One of Canada’s most popular vacation destinations and drives for stunning natural beauty and lakeside cottage life.
• Bruce Peninsula National Park – Limestone coasts, emerald waters, woodland trails, sand dunes, and beaches.

These routes are suited for day trips or relaxed weekend adventures. Thanks to well-maintained roads and easy-to-follow signage, driving is smooth and easy.