Tips when renting a car at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
- Note that prices rise during peak travel seasons (during the summer, Christmas holidays, and significant events). Book early!
- If you’re visiting Ontario for less than three months, you can drive with a valid driver’s license from your own country. Staying in the province for over three months? You’ll need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP).
- While there are convenience charges for renting at the airport, the time and effort saved are unmatched.
- Planning to use the Highway 407 toll road? Ask about how the rental company handles any charges.
- Pick the right car for your journey. Smaller cars will be more efficient on busy city streets, while SUVs or all-wheel-drive vehicles are more suitable for trips outside the city.
- Inspect the car and take photos at pickup and drop-off.
- Although not the law, having winter tires in the colder months is recommended.
Why Rent a Car at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
Once off the plane, visitors can travel from Toronto Pearson International Airport to the city centre by rideshare, taxi, UP Rail, or public transit. However, renting a car directly at the airport is the most convenient way to start your journey. Since the airport is just off major highways like the 401, 427, and 409, you can stow your luggage in the trunk and head to nearby cities, take a day trip, or head downtown. It’s ideal for travellers with children, on a tight schedule, or planning to visit multiple areas. No need to deal with transit apps to figure out how long and far trains and buses will take you.
Driving from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) – Getting Started
As mentioned, YYZ is connected to major highways like the 401, 427, and 409, which can get you to the downtown core in 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic, and other popular destinations in the province.
Common routes include:
- Niagara Falls – 1.5–2 hrs via Highway 403 to QEW south
- Mississauga – 15–30 minutes
- Hamilton – 45–60 minutes via QEW west
- Blue Mountain – 2 hrs via Highway 400 north
- Muskoka – 2–3 hrs via Highway 400 north
- Prince Edward County – 2.5–3 hrs via Highway 401 east
Winter weather and heavy traffic, especially on the highways just leaving Toronto, can affect travel times, so use GPS for real-time updates and road conditions. If you plan to use the 407 Express Toll Route, be sure to check how the rental company handles payment.
Explore Toronto and Ontario from Toronto Pearson International Airport
Toronto is Canada’s most internationally known city, known for its pop culture influence, thriving film and TV industry, and multiculturalism. Beyond the city’s raw energy, Toronto is surrounded by tranquil provincial and national parks, outdoor adventures, and wild, breathtaking natural landscapes. As Toronto Pearson International Airport is the country’s largest and busiest airport, it’s the perfect starting point for exploring the city and the wider province of Ontario.
In and around Toronto:
- Hockey Hall of Fame
- CN Tower – Toronto’s ultimate landmark for panoramic city views and the 10th-tallest freestanding structure in the world
- High Park – The city’s largest public park, boasting hiking trails, a lakefront, a mini zoo, and a relaxed vibe
- St. Lawrence Market – A two-century-old farmers market with local produce, ready-made eats, and butchers and fishmongers
- Distillery District – Cobblestoned pedestrian area for arts, culture, and entertainment
- Kensington Market – Artsy open-air market with tasty eats, thrift stores, specialty products, and other interesting shops
Recommended day trips and scenic routes:
- Niagara-on-the-Lake & Niagara Falls – What’s a trip to Toronto without one to see the wineries and natural beauty of Niagara-on-the-Lake and the iconic Niagara Falls?
- Elora & Fergus – Gorgeous storybook riverside towns with historic buildings, flowing waterfalls, and scenic gardens
- Port Perry – Picturesque town with a historic center that has been featured in many movies and TV shows
- Mono Cliffs Provincial Park – For excellent hiking and views of the escarpment Biosphere Reserve
- Hamilton – Nearby city dotted with conservation areas and known for its thriving arts scene
