Toronto
Toronto
Canada
Ready to explore?
Toronto, Canada’s largest metropolis, is a year-round destination known for its soaring skyline, diverse culinary scene, and world-class festivals. Set on the shores of Lake Ontario, the city experien...
About Toronto
Toronto, Canada’s largest metropolis, is a year-round destination known for its soaring skyline, diverse culinary scene, and world-class festivals. Set on the shores of Lake Ontario, the city experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. While many travelers prefer the warm, festival-filled summer months of June through August, the shoulder seasons of spring and early fall offer a perfect balance of mild weather and lower prices. Whether you are using Toronto as a gateway to explore nearby cities like Ottawa or Montreal, or looking for a standalone urban adventure, understanding the city's seasonal rhythms is key to a perfect trip. Peak season hits during the summer heat and the massive Toronto International Film Festival in September, while the deep winter months of January and February offer the best value for budget-conscious visitors.
Fly from Halifax, or anywhere in Atlantic Canada, and discover Toronto at its best. We'll show you when to go, what to see, and where to eat, so you can simply enjoy the journey.
March, April, May
Spring (March–May)
June, July, August
Summer (June–August)
September, October
Fall (September–October)
November, December, January, February
Winter (November–February)
What's Included
Seasonal Guide
Complete 12-month breakdown with weather, crowds & pricing
Flights from Halifax
Routes: Halifax — Toronto, or via major hubs from Atlantic Canada
Neighborhoods
5 curated areas to stay, from budget to luxury
Budget Guide
CAD (Canadian Dollar) daily budgets: $90-$120/day to $600+/day
At a Glance: When to Visit Toronto
Best Overall
May–June, September–October
Cheapest
January–February
Busiest
July–August, early September
Best Weather
June–August (for heat) or September (for mild clarity)
For Events
September (TIFF) and June (Pride)
For Families
July–August (Toronto Islands & Beaches)
For Couples
October (Fall colors) or December (Christmas Markets)
Budget Travel
January–March
From Atlantic Canada
Halifax to Toronto.
Month by month.
Everything you need to know about travelling from Canada to Toronto — the best seasons, what to pack, and how to save.
Month-by-Month Guide to Toronto
January
Cold and snowy. Temps range from -7°C to 0°C (19°F to 32°F). Approx 3 hours of daily sunshine.
“Best for budget travelers and foodies looking to enjoy the city’s culinary scene without the summer crowds.”
February
Often the coldest month. Temps range from -6°C to 0°C (21°F to 32°F). Frequent snow flurries.
“Ideal for sports fans and those who enjoy a true 'winter wonderland' atmosphere.”
March
Transition month. Temps climb slightly to 1°C to 5°C (34°F to 41°F). Mix of rain and melting snow.
“Good for those who want a spring feel without the peak prices of May.”
April
Damp and unpredictable. Temps range from 4°C to 12°C (39°F to 54°F). Frequent spring showers.
“Best for culture seekers who enjoy documentary film and indoor attractions.”
May
Spring in full bloom. Temps range from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F). Pleasant and breezy.
“One of the best months for walking tours and photography, specifically the cherry blossoms.”
June
Warm and lively. Temps range from 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F). Generally low humidity.
“Best for festival-goers and LGBTQ+ travelers wanting a high-energy atmosphere.”
July
Peak summer. Temps range from 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 81°F). Can be humid with afternoon storms.
“The ultimate month for outdoor lovers, though you should expect crowds and higher hotel rates.”
August
Hot and humid. Temps range from 17°C to 26°C (63°F to 79°F). Similar to July's weather patterns.
“Perfect for families and foodies who enjoy large-scale community fairs and street food.”
September
Crisp and clear. Temps range from 13°C to 21°C (56°F to 70°F). Humidity begins to drop.
“The premier month for film buffs and celebrities; book hotels months in advance.”
October
Cool with fall foliage. Temps range from 7°C to 14°C (45°F to 57°F). Clear blue skies are common.
“A romantic and scenic time to visit for those who love autumn colors and outdoor art.”
November
Chilly and grey. Temps range from 2°C to 8°C (35°F to 46°F). First dustings of snow possible.
“Good for travelers who enjoy the start of the holiday season without the peak December rush.”
December
Festive and cold. Temps range from -3°C to 2°C (27°F to 36°F). Snow is highly likely.
“Best for those seeking a festive atmosphere and holiday magic.”
Festivals & Events in Toronto
Winterlicious
A city-wide culinary celebration where over 200 restaurants offer three-course prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus.
Popular restaurants book up weeks in advance; city feels busy locally.Hot Docs Festival
North America's largest documentary festival, featuring hundreds of films from around the globe.
Moderate impact; central cinemas see high traffic.Pride Toronto
One of the largest Pride celebrations in the world, culminating in a massive parade through the downtown core.
Hotels in the Church-Wellesley Village and Downtown book up 3-4 months ahead.Toronto Caribbean Carnival
Commonly known as Caribana, this is an explosive celebration of Caribbean culture, music, and food.
Huge influx of international visitors; peak flight and hotel prices.Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)
An 18-day fair featuring midways, food buildings, and agricultural shows leading up to Labour Day.
High local traffic; family-friendly hotels near the waterfront see high demand.Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
One of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, attracting A-list celebrities and global cinephiles.
Extreme travel impact; hotel rates downtown can quadruple. Book 6+ months ahead.Nuit Blanche
A free, all-night contemporary art event where the streets of Toronto are transformed into art galleries.
Moderate; huge crowds on the streets all night; transit runs 24/7.The Distillery Winter Village
A European-style Christmas market in the historic Distillery District featuring local vendors and a massive tree.
High weekend crowds; nearby boutique hotels see a surge in bookings.Budget Guide: How Much Does It Cost to Visit Toronto?
CAD (Canadian Dollar)
Daily Budget
Peak
$350-$550 per night
Off-Peak
$180-$260 per night
Prices peak in July, August, and early September (during TIFF). You can save up to 40% on accommodation by visiting in January or February. Be aware of the 13% HST (tax) and 4% MAT (hotel tax) added to most prices.
Where to Stay in Toronto by Season
Entertainment District
PremiumFall (for TIFF)
The heart of the action with theaters, nightlife, and major landmarks like the CN Tower.
The Harbourfront & Islands
PeakSummer
Perfect for families, offering easy access to the ferries and breezy lake views.
Yorkville
LuxuryWinter
An upscale neighborhood perfect for high-end shopping and cozy luxury hotel stays.
Kensington Market / Chinatown
ModerateSpring
Bohemian vibe with eclectic food and shops; very walkable when the weather is mild.
The Beaches
Moderate to HighSummer
Relaxed, resort-like feel with a boardwalk and sandy shores. Great for a slower pace.
What to Pack for Toronto
Spring
Pro tip: Think 'onion style'—layers are essential as mornings are cold but afternoons can be warm.
Summer
Pro tip: Humidity is high; moisture-wicking fabrics will keep you much more comfortable.
Fall
Pro tip: September is much warmer than October; bring a heavier coat if visiting late in the season.
Winter
Pro tip: Don't skimp on the boots—sidewalks can be salty and slushy.
FAQs: Visiting Toronto
What is the best month to visit Toronto?
September is widely considered the best month. The weather is clear and mild, the humidity of summer has vanished, and the city is buzzing with the energy of the film festival (TIFF).
When is the cheapest time to fly to Toronto?
January and February are the cheapest months for both flights and hotels, as the cold weather deters most tourists.
What is the weather like in Toronto in July?
July is hot and humid, with average highs of 27°C (81°F). It is the sunniest month but also prone to sudden afternoon thunderstorms.
Is Toronto worth visiting in winter?
Yes, especially in December for the festive markets. For budget travelers, January and February offer great value, provided you stay in the PATH and enjoy indoor museums.
How many days do I need in Toronto?
3 to 4 days is perfect for seeing the main highlights, but 5 to 7 days allows for day trips to Niagara Falls or exploring neighborhoods like Leslieville.
When can I see cherry blossoms in Toronto?
Usually between late April and early May in High Park, though the exact 'peak bloom' depends on the year's temperature.
Is Toronto or Vancouver better to visit?
It depends on your vibe. Vancouver offers mountains and milder winters, while Toronto offers a more fast-paced, 'New York-style' cultural and culinary experience.
When is the best time to see Niagara Falls from Toronto?
June to August offers the best boat tour experience, but May and September provide great views with much smaller crowds.
Also Consider: Other Destinations in Canada
Vancouver
Vancouver offers a much milder, albeit rainier, winter compared to Toronto's snowy deep freeze, making it a better choice for early spring travelers.
Montreal
Montreal provides a more European aesthetic and a world-renowned Jazz Festival in early July that rivals Toronto's summer events.
Calgary
Visit Calgary in July to catch the famous Calgary Stampede, or use it as a winter base for skiing in the Rockies, which are much closer than any slopes near Toronto.
Ottawa
Ottawa is ideal for history buffs; its Tulip Festival in May and Winterlude in February offer unique seasonal experiences you won't find in Toronto.
United Travels
Want to visit Toronto,
but still have questions?
Leave a request and our team will help you plan the perfect trip from Halifax, Atlantic Canada, or anywhere across Canada to Toronto.
UNITED TRAVELS