Choosing the best time of year to visit Toronto depends on what you want to do during your trip. The city has four seasons, and each one offers different conditions. Summer is the busiest, with outdoor events, lakefront activities, and long days. Winter is colder but has indoor attractions, ice skating, and holiday events. Spring and fall are quieter, with mild weather and often lower travel costs. In this article, you'll find clear information on what each season brings, so you can plan your visit based on weather, activities, and your personal travel style.

When is the Best Time to Visit Toronto?

The best time to visit Toronto is from late April to May and from September to October. During these months, the temperatures are generally comfortable for walking and visiting outdoor places. These times also fall outside the peak summer season, so tourist areas are less busy and travel costs like flights and hotels are often lower. Summer, from June to August, has the most events but is also the most crowded and expensive period. Spring and early fall are better suited for travelers who prefer quieter conditions and more steady prices.

Tourist Seasons in Toronto

High Season (June to August)

• Daytime temperatures are usually between 25°C and 30°C. Some days may be humid.

• This is when many public events take place, such as the Toronto Caribbean Carnival and outdoor concerts.

• Tourist areas are often crowded, and lines at attractions can be long.

• Flight and hotel prices are higher, and early reservations are often needed.

Tips: Toronto recorded nearly 9 million visitors in 2024, reflecting steady tourism activity outside the peak summer season. This shows that the city continues to attract travelers year-round, thanks to its indoor attractions, cultural events, and business-related visits. [1]

Shoulder Season (April to May & September to October)

• In spring, temperatures slowly rise, and trees begin to bloom.

• Fall brings cooler air and leaves changing color, especially in large parks.

• Tourist numbers are lower, which makes it easier to visit places without waiting.

• Travel and accommodation costs are usually more affordable than in summer.

Off Season (December to February)

• Temperatures often stay below 0°C, and snow is common.

• Winter activities include ice skating and visiting indoor attractions.

• Hotels and flights are generally cheaper due to lower demand.

• Some outdoor places may be closed or have limited access.

Note: Toronto welcomes over 26.5 million visitors each year. In 2023, visitors spent $8.4 billion, generating a total economic impact of $12.6 billion across key sectors like accommodation, food, and entertainment. [2]

Seasons in Toronto

Winter (November to February)

Toronto winters are cold and snowy. Although it’s not a popular time for tourism, indoor venues and seasonal events remain available.

Weather: Temperatures typically range from −10°C to 0°C. Snow is common, and wind chill can make conditions feel colder.

Price: Hotels and flights are more affordable during this period, except for late December when holiday demand causes a temporary increase.

Crowds: Tourist activity is low. Most indoor attractions are open and easy to access without long waits.

Key Events:

• Cavalcade of Lights: A lighting ceremony in late November that marks the beginning of the holiday season at Nathan Phillips Square.

• Toronto Christmas Market: A seasonal market in the Distillery District featuring local vendors, food, and live performances throughout December.

• Winterlicious: A citywide food festival in February offering prix fixe menus at dozens of restaurants.

• Holiday Magic on Bloor-Yorkville: A holiday lights event with live music and seasonal displays starting in late November, held in the Bloor-Yorkville neighborhood.

• Toronto International Boat Show: Held in January at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, this is Canada’s largest indoor boat show, attracting boating and water sports enthusiasts.

Spring (March to May)

Spring marks the transition into warmer weather. Nature begins to bloom, and visitor numbers start to grow.

Weather: Temperatures rise from around 5°C in March to 18°C by late May. Rain is frequent in April, and cherry blossoms appear in late April or early May.

Price: March and April are generally affordable. Prices increase in May as more events take place and the weather improves.

Crowds: Tourist numbers are low early in the season but increase gradually toward May. Attractions remain accessible.

Key Events:

• Canada Blooms: Late April to early May, High Park becomes a popular spot for viewing blooming cherry trees.

• Hot Docs Festival: North America’s largest documentary film festival, held in late April and early May at multiple venues across the city.

• Toronto Comicon: Held in March at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, this event features panels, cosplay, celebrity guests, and comic book vendors.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is Toronto’s peak season, with warm weather and a full schedule of public events and outdoor activities.

Weather: Temperatures usually range between 25°C and 30°C. Humidity is common, and brief thunderstorms can occur.

Price: This is the most expensive season for both flights and hotels. Early booking is recommended.

Crowds: Tourist areas are busy throughout the day. Long lines are common at popular sites and during large festivals.

Key Events:

• Toronto Caribbean Carnival (Caribana): A multi-week celebration from mid-July to early August, ending with a major parade featuring music and cultural performances.

• Canadian National Exhibition (CNE): Held in late August, this fair includes amusement rides, food vendors, games, and exhibitions.

• Summerlicious: A restaurant promotion in July where selected restaurants offer fixed-price menus for lunch and dinner.

• North by Northeast Festival (NXNE): A music and arts festival in June that features new and emerging artists at venues across the city.

• Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival: Held in June on Toronto Islands, featuring local and international dragon boat teams.

• Toronto Jazz Festival: Takes place in late June through early July, offering live jazz performances at indoor and outdoor venues.

• Toronto Fringe Festival: An independent theatre festival in early to mid-July, showcasing plays, performances, and experimental productions.

Fall (September to October)

Fall brings cooler temperatures, colorful parks, and important cultural events. It’s a calmer alternative to summer.

Weather: Temperatures start around 20°C in early September and drop to about 10°C by late October. Skies are generally clear, and conditions are good for walking.

Price: Travel and hotel prices drop after the summer peak, though certain events may cause short-term increases.

Crowds: The city is moderately busy. It is easier to move around than in summer, but festivals still attract visitors

Key Events:

• Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF): Held in early to mid-September, this event draws filmmakers and audiences from around the world.

• Nuit Blanche: An overnight art event in early October, where large-scale installations are displayed in public spaces across the city.

• Art Toronto (Toronto International Art Fair): A major art fair held in late October, featuring modern and contemporary galleries from across Canada and internationally.

What to Pack for Toronto

Clothing

• Layered clothing: Weather can change quickly, especially in spring and fall. Bring clothes you can layer, such as T-shirts, sweaters, and a light jacket.

• Warm coat and winter gear (for November to March): A heavy coat, gloves, scarf, and hat are essential during the colder months. Temperatures often fall below freezing.

• Comfortable walking shoes: Toronto is a walkable city with many urban parks and neighborhoods. Choose weather-appropriate shoes, ideally waterproof in rainy or snowy seasons.

• Umbrella or rain jacket: Rain is common in spring and fall, so pack something to stay dry.

• Sunscreen and sunglasses (for summer): UV levels can be high in July and August, especially during outdoor festivals and waterfront visits.

• Swimwear (for summer): Toronto has public pools and beaches, especially near the Toronto Islands and Lake Ontario.

Accessories and Daily Use

• Reusable water bottle: Tap water in Toronto is safe to drink, and many public places have refill stations.

• Daypack or small backpack: Useful for daily activities, whether visiting museums, shopping, or exploring parks.

Electronics

• Power adapter (if needed): Canada uses Type A/B plugs and 120V electricity. Visitors from Europe or Asia may need an adapter.

Documents

• Travel documents and health insurance: Always carry valid ID, visa (if required), and proof of travel insurance.

Roamless eSIM for Your Toronto Travel

If you're planning to travel across Toronto, using a Global eSIM like Roamless is a smart way to stay connected without dealing with local SIM cards. Whether you're navigating city streets, confirming hotel reservations, or staying in touch with family, Roamless helps you stay online with minimal effort.

Why choose Roamless for Toronto?

• Reliable connection across regions: Roamless connects to multiple networks, so you have stable internet in cities, islands, or rural areas.

• Quick setup: You can install and activate your eSIM before your flight, avoiding last-minute stress.

• Flexible data options: Plans are available in different sizes to match short stays or longer trips.

• No physical SIM needed: All digital. No need to visit a store or swap SIM cards.

• Supports dual SIM devices: Use Roamless for data while keeping your home number active for calls and texts.

• Compatible with most new phones: Works on eSIM-ready iPhones, Androids, and tablets.

• Lower costs than roaming: Use local network rates and avoid high international charges.

• More sustainable: eSIMs reduce waste compared to traditional plastic SIM cards.

Before you fly, you can also check our dedicated page on eSIM Canada for detailed comparisons and recommendations. You can also read our guides on roaming charges in Canada and the best eSIM for Canada to help you choose the right plan before your trip.

Worst Time to Visit Toronto

The worst time to visit Toronto is typically from January to February. During this period, temperatures often drop below −10°C, and wind chill can make it feel even colder. Snowfall is frequent, and some outdoor attractions are closed or limited. While indoor sites remain open, the weather can make getting around less comfortable. Unless you're visiting for winter events, this is the least convenient time for most travelers.

Toronto’s seasons each offer something different, and the best time to visit depends on what you want from your trip. Summer is ideal for events and outdoor activities, while spring and fall offer fewer crowds and milder weather. Winter is less suitable for general sightseeing but still has value for those interested in seasonal festivals and indoor attractions. Planning around your needs helps you make the most of your visit.

Sources:

[1] Destination Toronto. (2024). 9 million visitors spent a record $8.8 billion in Toronto in 2024. https://www.destinationtoronto.com/media/media-blog/post/9-million-visitors-spent-a-record-88-billion-in-toronto-in-2024/

[2] City of Toronto. (2024). Tourism industry support and economic impact. https://www.toronto.ca/business-economy/industry-sector-support/tourism/