Rent a car at Toronto City Airport (YTZ), Ontario, Canada

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) is Toronto’s downtown airport, located on the Toronto Islands just off the waterfront and only about 2 miles (3 km) from the Financial District. Handling around 2 million passengers a year, it serves regional flights within Canada and select U.S. destinations, and is especially popular with business travelers and city-focused leisure visitors who value speed and convenience.

The airport has a compact single passenger terminal operated by Nieuport Aviation. Its size makes it easy to navigate: walking distances are short, wayfinding is clear, and security lines are usually manageable. What makes Billy Bishop unique is the way you reach the terminal. From the mainland, you either use a free underground pedestrian tunnel or a short ferry that runs frequently from early morning until late at night. Both options bring you directly to the island side, where you can move quickly from Arrivals to baggage claim and on to ground transportation.

For car rental, Billy Bishop is well equipped despite its small footprint. Major providers with on-airport counters include Hertz, Enterprise, and National. Their counters are located inside the island terminal, near Arrivals and baggage claim, so you can handle paperwork shortly after collecting your luggage. Rental cars are parked right at the airport in an adjacent parking lot. You simply follow the clearly marked Rental Cars signs to reach the pick-up area on foot. This on-site setup allows you to avoid off-airport shuttles and start driving just minutes after landing.

The airport also offers free Wi-Fi, lounges (including Porter lounge areas and premium seating zones), business-friendly workspaces, and basic dining and shopping options. On the mainland side, there is a complimentary shuttle to downtown (near Union Station), convenient connections to TTC streetcars and buses, and easy pedestrian access to the waterfront path network. These options make Billy Bishop a flexible starting point for exploring Toronto.

However, if your plans extend beyond the central core—to suburban business parks, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Niagara Falls, wine country, or cottage regions—a rental car from Toronto City Airport gives you the freedom to design your own itinerary. With a rental car, you leave the terminal, cross back to the mainland via tunnel or ferry as directed, and in just a few minutes you can be on Lake Shore Blvd W or the Gardiner Expressway, heading toward downtown neighborhoods or out-of-town highways. Whether you are here for back-to-back meetings, a family vacation, or a road trip through Ontario, starting your journey at YTZ puts you very close to the heart of the city and within easy driving distance of major attractions.

Why rent a car at the airport

Because Billy Bishop is almost in downtown Toronto, you have several ground transportation choices. Deciding whether to book a car rental at the airport depends on how you want to balance convenience, time, and flexibility.

Strategic advantages of renting at YTZ

Immediate access to downtown and regional routes

From the island terminal, you cross to the mainland via the pedestrian tunnel or ferry and quickly connect to key routes such as Lake Shore Blvd W, Bathurst Street, and the Gardiner Expressway. If your itinerary includes meetings in the Financial District plus visits to clients in Mississauga, Vaughan, Markham, or other GTA suburbs, a rental car lets you move between appointments on your schedule instead of piecing together multiple transit lines or paying separate taxi and rideshare fares throughout the day.

On-airport convenience vs. downtown branches

Car rental counters at YTZ usually involve airport-related fees, while some downtown branches may show slightly lower base rates. However, downtown offices can have more limited hours, and getting there may require a taxi or rideshare from the airport. You may also need to navigate unfamiliar downtown streets with your luggage. At Toronto City Airport, the experience is streamlined: you land, collect your bags, walk to the car rental counter in the terminal, and then a short walk takes you directly to your rental car. For travelers who value a simple, predictable arrival, this walk-off, walk-on convenience is a strong advantage.

Flexible regional travel

If your plans include destinations beyond the city center—Niagara Falls, wineries in the Niagara Peninsula, ski areas north of the city, or lakeside cottages—a rental car gives you a high level of independence. Public transit to many of these places can be slow or require multiple connections, and long-distance taxis or rideshares can quickly become costly. With a rental car, you can leave early, make spontaneous stops, and adjust your plans as you go.

When a rental car makes the most sense

Business travelers

• Have several client visits across the GTA in a single day.

• Need to reach suburban offices, industrial zones, or distribution centers that are not well served by public transit.

• Plan to combine meetings in Toronto with visits to nearby cities such as Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo, Burlington, or Oshawa.

Families

• You can pre-book child seats through the car rental provider for safer travel with children.

• You can plan stops for naps, snacks, and sightseeing at your own pace.

• You have a direct way to reach attractions such as the Toronto Zoo, Canada’s Wonderland, Niagara Falls, and regional resorts without transferring between multiple transit lines.

Leisure travelers and friends’ trips

• Combine a downtown hotel stay with day trips to vineyards, small towns, or provincial parks.

• Head to cottage country with friends and luggage in a single vehicle.

• Explore neighborhoods, restaurants, and cultural spots that are not as easily reached by public transit.

When you might not need a rental car

If your entire stay is focused on central Toronto—within walking distance of the Financial District, Entertainment District, or waterfront—you may prefer to skip a rental car for those days. You can rely on:

• The free Billy Bishop–Union Station shuttle.

• Frequent TTC streetcars (509/510) and nearby bus routes.

• Taxis and rideshares outside the mainland entrance.

• Walking or biking along the waterfront and through central neighborhoods.

In that case, it can be more efficient to delay your car rental until you are ready to leave the city center or to use short-term car-sharing services for isolated trips. Once your plans extend beyond the core, though—especially into the outer GTA, Niagara, or rural Ontario—the flexibility of a rental car often outweighs the costs of parking and the time lost waiting for other transportation.

Choosing the right vehicle class

Hertz, Enterprise, and National at Toronto City Airport offer a range of vehicle classes that you can book in advance. Choosing the right class for your travel profile, route, and season helps you get better value for money and a more comfortable experience.

For solo travelers and couples

Economy or compact

If you are traveling light, staying mainly in the city, and planning occasional side trips, economy and compact classes are strong options. These vehicles are easier to maneuver through downtown streets and into tight parking lots or parking garages. They also tend to be more fuel-efficient, which can lower your overall trip cost.

Midsize sedan or hatchback

For couples or solo travelers with extra luggage or longer highway segments, a midsize sedan or hatchback offers more legroom and trunk space while remaining city-friendly. This class is a good balance between comfort and efficiency, especially if you plan to visit Niagara Falls, nearby towns, or multiple GTA suburbs.

For families

Midsize or full-size sedan

Small families with 1–2 children and moderate luggage usually do well with a midsize or full-size sedan. There is typically enough room for child seats, strollers, and bags, and you still have a vehicle that is straightforward to park downtown.

SUV

If you are traveling with several children, strollers, and larger suitcases—or expecting winter conditions—an SUV gives you more cargo space and a higher seating position. Many SUVs offer all-wheel drive, which can be reassuring if you plan to drive in snow or on rural roads. When picking up your SUV at YTZ, you will find it in the clearly marked rental rows in the on-airport parking lot.

For groups of friends

SUV or 4x4/off-road

For a group heading to cottage country, ski resorts, or outdoor areas, an SUV or 4x4/off-road class can be ideal. These vehicles usually provide more space for gear and are better suited to a mix of city and country roads.

Minivan (7–8 passengers)

If you are traveling with a larger group or carrying sports equipment, camping gear, or multiple large suitcases, a minivan offers flexible seating and storage. Keep in mind that minivans are longer and taller than most sedans, so take extra care when entering downtown parking garages or tight spaces.

For business travelers

Full-size sedan

A full-size sedan is a strong choice for full days of meetings. You get more rear-seat space to host colleagues or clients and a smoother ride for phone calls and work between appointments.

Luxury/premium

If you are traveling on executive business or hosting important clients, a luxury or premium class can elevate your experience. These vehicles typically offer quieter cabins, more advanced features, and a more refined environment for working on the go.

How vehicle class affects pickup and comfort

At Billy Bishop, all on-airport vehicle classes follow a similar pickup flow:

• You complete your rental agreement at the counter inside the island terminal.

• Staff direct you via elevator, escalator, or corridor to the rental car parking lot on the island side.

• You walk to the area for your provider and class, inspect your rental car, and then follow signs to the exit route toward the ferry or mainland access.

Because the walk is short, you do not need to factor in additional shuttle time when choosing a class. Instead, consider the number of passengers, luggage volume, season, and where you plan to drive. Booking ahead increases the chances of finding the exact class you prefer at the airport rather than being redirected to a downtown location.

How to rent a car at the airport

A smooth car rental experience at Toronto City Airport starts with preparation and a clear understanding of each step, from booking to return.

1. Book in advance

Reserve your car rental before your trip, especially during peak periods such as summer, major holidays, and long weekends. When booking:

• Choose your vehicle class (economy, compact, midsize, full-size, sedan, SUV, minivan, luxury/premium).

• Confirm what is included in the rate, such as mileage, fuel policy (often full-to-full), and rules for additional drivers.

• Check cross-border permissions if you plan to drive into the United States.

• Ask about winter tires or snow tires if you are renting between roughly October and April.

Booking early helps you secure the class you want at the airport and can result in better overall value for money.

2. Prepare your documents

Bring:

• A valid driver’s license for the main driver.

• An international driving permit (IDP) if your license is not in English or French, as required by local regulations.

• A major credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit.

• Your booking confirmation, either printed or on your cellphone.

• Any proof of existing coverage if you plan to modify or decline certain protection options.

Additional drivers must be present with their own driver’s licenses so they can be added to the contract.

3. Reaching the island terminal

Most travelers will first arrive at the mainland terminal entrance on Eireann Quay. You can get there by:

• The free Billy Bishop downtown shuttle from near Union Station.

• TTC streetcars (509 or 510) or nearby bus routes, followed by a short walk.

• Taxi, rideshare, or your own car, which you can leave in one of the airport’s parking lots.

From the mainland building:

Follow signs for Tunnel to Airport.

Take the escalator or elevator down and walk through the pedestrian tunnel (a few minutes at a normal pace).

On the island side, take the escalator or elevator up into the terminal and proceed to Arrivals and baggage claim.

If you are directed to use the ferry instead, follow ferry boarding instructions and then walk from the ferry dock to the island terminal entrance.

4. At the car rental counter

Inside the island terminal, follow Car Rental signs to the Hertz, Enterprise, or National counters near Arrivals.

At the counter:

• Present your driver’s license, credit card, and booking confirmation.

• Confirm your vehicle class and any upgrades.

• Review mileage limits, fuel policy, and any cross-border or province-specific restrictions.

• Ask about winter equipment, roadside assistance details, and toll handling.

• Add additional drivers, child seats, GPS units, or other extras as needed.

Review your contract carefully, paying attention to:

• Pick-up and return dates and times.

• After-hours return or key-drop instructions.

• Directions and stall information for both pickup and return.

5. Walking to and inspecting your rental car

After your paperwork is complete, staff will direct you to the rental car parking lot on the island side:

• Follow signs for Rental Cars and the logo of your chosen provider.

• Expect a brief walk through terminal corridors or via elevator to ground level.

At the vehicle:

Match the license plate or stall number to your rental agreement.

Conduct a thorough inspection before you drive:

• Walk around the vehicle and take photos or video of all sides, including wheels, bumpers, and roof.

• Check the interior, including seats, dashboard, and trunk or cargo area.

• Confirm that the fuel level matches your contract.

• Verify the presence of a spare tire or repair kit, jack, and any required safety equipment.

• In winter, confirm that the vehicle has appropriate winter tires or quality all-season tires.

Report any damage not listed on the form and ask staff to update the record.

6. Leaving the airport by car

When you are ready to depart:

• Follow Exit, Ferry, or Mainland signs, depending on current operations.

• Ask staff if any vehicle ferry fees apply and how they will be charged.

Once on the mainland, you can connect quickly to Lake Shore Blvd W, Bathurst Street, or the Gardiner Expressway and continue to your destination.

7. Returning your rental car

On your departure day:

Allow 30–45 minutes more than your navigation app suggests to account for traffic, wayfinding, and the tunnel or ferry crossing.

Drive back toward Eireann Quay, following airport signs for Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

Follow Rental Car Return signs or your provider’s logo to the designated return area on the island side.

Park in the indicated stall, remove all belongings, and take final photos of the vehicle’s exterior, interior, and fuel gauge.

During opening hours, bring keys and documents to the counter for check-in.

If returning after hours, follow key-drop box instructions in your contract, making sure the vehicle is locked and that you have time-stamped photos of its condition.

Walk back into the terminal and continue to security for your flight or return to the mainland via the tunnel or ferry.

For early-morning or late-night flights, confirm counter hours and after-hours procedures in advance so your return is stress-free and you avoid unexpected extra charges.

Driving tips & conditions Typical routes and traffic

From Billy Bishop, common routes include:

• Lake Shore Blvd W to travel east-west along the waterfront.

• Bathurst Street to head north into downtown or toward midtown neighborhoods.

• The Gardiner Expressway to connect to other highways toward Mississauga, Oakville, Hamilton, or the eastern GTA.

Traffic can be heavy during weekday rush hours, typically:

• Morning: around 7:00–9:30 a.m.

• Evening: around 4:00–6:30 p.m.

Events at nearby venues and weekend activities along the waterfront can also slow traffic. When planning airport pick-up or return times, build in extra time to keep your experience calm and unhurried.

Tolls and electronic toll systems

Most roads near Billy Bishop do not require tolls. However, some routes in the region, such as Highway 407 ETR and certain private crossings, are tolled:

• Ask your car rental provider how tolls are handled.

• Check whether the vehicle has an electronic toll tag or transponder.

• Review how tolls and service fees will appear on your final bill.

Navigation apps can help you choose toll-free routes if you prefer to avoid these charges.

Parking in Toronto and at the airport

Downtown parking

In central Toronto, you will find a mix of parking garages, surface parking lots, and limited street parking:

• Always read signs carefully for no-stopping zones, rush-hour restrictions, and permit-only areas, as fines and towing are enforced.

• Many downtown hotels charge separate nightly parking fees; factor this into your budget.

Airport-area parking for your own car

If you are combining your own vehicle with an airport car rental, Billy Bishop offers several parking options on the mainland and island sides, as well as a nearby value-focused lot. Options typically include:

• P1 Express Park (mainland): Very close to the mainland terminal entrance, convenient for short stays or quick trips.

• Valet (mainland): A premium service near the entrance where staff park your car while you walk to the tunnel.

• P2 Daily Park (mainland): A larger daily parking lot operating 24 hours, usually with pay-on-foot machines that accept multiple payment types.

• P3 Priority Park (island): Accessible via the vehicle ferry, closer to the terminal and rental car rows, subject to capacity and potential ferry fees.

• P4 Value Park (nearby): A value-oriented lot about a 10-minute walk from the mainland terminal entrance, often suitable for longer trips.

Because parking near YTZ can fill quickly during busy periods, consider reserving in advance when possible and plan extra time for walking and the tunnel crossing.

Winter driving and weather

From late fall through early spring, Toronto can experience snow, freezing rain, and cold temperatures. If you plan to drive in winter:

• Ask your provider whether your rental car is equipped with winter tires or appropriate all-season tires.

• Allow extra time for trips, as snow and slush can reduce visibility and traction.

• Watch for black ice, particularly on bridges, ramps, and shaded sections of Lake Shore Blvd W and the Gardiner Expressway.

• Clear all snow and ice from the windshield, windows, mirrors, lights, and roof before driving.

• Use gentle acceleration, steering, and braking to maintain control on slippery surfaces.

For routes into more rural or northern regions, consider booking an SUV or 4x4/off-road class for greater ground clearance and stability.

Cross-border driving and mileage

Some travelers departing from YTZ plan to visit U.S. cities such as Buffalo, Rochester, or Detroit, or to use U.S. routes during extended road trips. Before leaving the counter:

• Confirm that your rental car is allowed to cross into the United States.

• Check whether your mileage is unlimited and whether that applies to both Canada and the United States.

• Ask how roadside assistance works if you experience an issue across the border.

Always carry your rental agreement, identification, and any required travel documents when crossing an international border.

Balancing car rental with public transit

Because Toronto City Airport is within the city, you can combine car rental with other transportation to create the experience that fits your plans:

• For downtown-only stays, rely on the free shuttle, TTC streetcars, buses, taxis, and rideshares, and rent a car only for specific day trips.

• For suburban or regional travel, pick up your rental car as soon as you land and keep it for the duration of your itinerary.

• For hybrid itineraries, spend a few days downtown without a car, then return to YTZ by shuttle or transit to pick up a rental car for Niagara, wine country, or cottage country.

Using navigation and local transit apps, you can compare travel times and costs and decide when a rental car gives you the most comfortable, flexible, and efficient experience.

Renting a car at Toronto City Airport brings together downtown proximity and regional freedom. With on-airport counters, clear signage, and straightforward routes into both the city core and major highways, you can shape your trip around what matters most to you—whether that is productive workdays, relaxed family travel, or exploring Ontario at your own pace.