Visiting Canada in April: What to expect and do
Visiting Canada in April can be a great experience, as there are many things to see and do. The weather is usually mild, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius, so it’s comfortable to explore outdoor attractions with little care.
There are also several events that take place in April, so you can enjoy a variety of activities. Some of the main attractions include maple syrup festivals, music, and sporting events.
You can also expect to see beautiful scenery, as the country is known for its lush forests and towering mountains. There are many hiking trails to explore, as well as rivers and lakes that offer opportunities for fishing, and more.
Canada is a big country, so there is a lot to see, including a variety of landscapes and cultures. From the cosmopolitan city of Toronto to the majestic Rocky Mountains, there is something for everyone in Canada.
Visiting Canada in April: What to expect
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What season is April in Canada?
The month of April is the spring season in Canada.
Canada seasons: Canada has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. The monthly breakdown is as follows
- Spring: March, April, May
- Summer: June, July, August
- Fall: September, October, November
- Winter: December, January, February
Canada in April weather and temperatures
April is a tricky time to visit Canada mainly due to the weather. The positive side of things is that temperatures are still mild (from a Canadian standard) and the hours of daylight are long.
Average Canada temperature ranges from 0 degrees to 15+ degrees Celsius.
By April, the temperatures are generally warm to head outside for a walk or a hike. Snow would have melted from most cities, and particularly on the west coast (Victoria and Vancouver), spring has arrived (in full swing).
In other cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary, you may find some snow (mostly slush here and there). If you wish to go skiing, you can still do so in Whistler and Banff National Park.
Overall, remember April is a transition month, and probably one of the most unpredictable ones (like March and November).
The weather across the country gets sun, rain, and snow (and slush!). Rain is common (10-15 days of the month) in places like Vancouver, and Halifax.
In terms of wind, it blows at an average speed of 19.7 mph (31.7 kph).
Below you will find average temperatures for provinces and popular cities.
The temperature in Canada in April in celsius, for different provinces,
- Alberta: The average temperature in Alberta in April is around 10-15 degrees Celsius.
- British Columbia: British Columbia is around 11-15 degrees Celsius.
- Saskatchewan: The average temperature in Saskatchewan in April is around 10 degrees Celsius (ranges 5 to 15 degrees Celsius).
- Manitoba: Average temperatures in Manitoba in April range from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius.
- Ontario: The average temperature in Ontario in April is around 10 degrees Celsius.
- Quebec: Same for Quebec in April is around 10 degrees Celsius.
- Nova Scotia: The average temperature in Nova Scotia in April is around 8 degrees Celsius.
- New Brunswick: 8 to 12 degrees Celsius.
- Newfoundland: 3 to 7 degrees Celsius.
Compare Canada Weather in April: By popular cities (averages)
| Place | Average High | Average Low | Average Rainfall (days) |
| Toronto | 11 C 51.8 F | 4 C 39.2 F | 8 |
| Vancouver | 13 C 55.4 F | 6 C 42.8 F | 8 |
| Victoria | 14 C 57.2 F | 7 C 44.6 F | 8 |
| Calgary | 11 C 51.8 F | – 2 C 28.4 F | 5 |
| Edmonton | 11 C 51.8 F | – 1 C 30.2 F | 3 |
| Banff National Park | 9 C 48.2 F | -3 C 26.6 F | 5 |
| Quebec City | 8 C 46.4 F | 0 C 32 F | 13 |
| Montreal | 9 C 48.2 F | 1 C 33.8 F | 10 |
| Saskatoon | 4 C 39.2 F | -2 C 28.4 F | 4 |
| Halifax | 8 C 46.4 F | 1 C 33.8 F | 11 |
| Charlottetown | 7 C 44.6 F | -1 C 30.2 F | 10 |
Weather data source: Weather Spark
What to pack for a trip to Canada in April?
April is typically a time of transition, with the winter weather slowly starting to give way to warmer days. This means that visitors can enjoy a mix of both winter and spring activities in Canada during April.
Items to include in your Canada packing list are
- One warm coat or jacket (outerwear)
- One waterproof jacket with fleece or warm lining
- Waterproof booties
- Comfortable shoes for walking or hiking boots
- A scarf
- And of course, t-shirts, pants, merino wool socks, etc.
Overall, Canada in April is a good time to visit as you can enjoy both winter and summer-like activities.
The weather is milder than in the winter, but not yet as hot as summer, so it’s a perfect time to explore all that Canada has to offer.
Read: Best places to visit in Canada in winter
What can you expect to see in Canada in April?
As the weather starts to warm up, many people start to think about vacationing in Canada. And for good reason – there are so many things to see and do here!
For starters, the landscapes in Canada are incredibly varied. You can find everything from soaring mountain ranges and lush forests, to tranquil lakes and sandy beaches.
April is not a peak tourist season, so this is a great time to visit Canada before summer hits.
If you have the Canadian Rockies on your bucket list or the Niagara Falls – you can surely beat the crowds, find a nice accommodation deal, and get discounted day tours!
Along with hotels and tours, you might also get cheaper flights to Canada (or within the country). Since it’s not peak season, it is easy to find good tickets.
April is also a great time to enjoy some of the country’s festivals and events. Canada is known for its many cultural celebrations, and there’s usually something going on in April.
- Maple Syrup Festival: There are many maple syrup festivals taking place in Ontario and Quebec in late March to early April. You can visit a shack and enjoy the sights and delicacies. Top festivals include Elmira (ON), Sugarbush (ON), Sunderland (ON), Festival Beauceron (QC)
- Niagara Falls Elvis Festival: This music fest takes place in the Niagara Falls area near Toronto. You can meet Elvis Presley in action and enjoy a day of rock and roll!
- Canadian Music Week: This event takes place in Toronto for a week (5 nights). It is one of the largest music festivals in Canada, boasting over 900 bands playing in over 60 venues.
- Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival: This event takes place on a weekend at the VanDusen Botanical Garden where music and tea ceremonies await you amongst cherry trees blossoming everywhere.
- St. George’s Day: This festival is celebrated in Newfoundland on a Monday (around April 23).
- Easter and Good Friday: Depending when Easter falls on (March or April) you can also participate in these festivities. Kids can also enjoy easter egg hunting events.
In April, most of the hiking trails in popular parks will be open.
For camping and backcountry sites, they will be open from May to June onwards. Spring skiing is a possibility in April (in places like Whistler, or Jasper in the early days).
Why should you visit Canada in April?
Springtime in Canada is a beautiful time of year to visit. The temperatures are starting to warm up, but the country is not yet crowded with tourists. This means you can enjoy the scenery and attractions without having to deal with large crowds.
April is a great time to visit Canada because the weather is still mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
You can also enjoy some of the country’s beautiful parks and gardens without having to worry about dealing with extreme temperatures.
Although rains are a possibility, you can still enjoy the outdoors by packing right (waterproof clothing).
If you’re looking for some cultural experiences, April is a great time to visit Canada. There are many festivals and events taking place throughout the month, so you can enjoy everything from music and art to food.
Finally, April is a great time to visit Canada because the prices for flights and hotels are often cheaper than they are during the summer months. This can be a great way to save some money on your trip.
Best places to visit in Canada in April
Canada is a large and diverse country with plenty to offer tourists no matter what time of year they visit. However, if you’re looking for some specific suggestions on where to go in Canada in April, here are the top 10 great places to check out.
Toronto
Toronto is one of the most popular destinations in Canada, and for good reason – it has something for everyone. From world-class museums and attractions to a lively nightlife scene, there’s always something going on in Toronto.
The city is also located on the shores of Lake Ontario, making for some stunning waterfront views. Enjoy a stroll along the lakeside or head over to the Centre Island on a quick cruise – just remember to dress warmly.
Toronto does get a lot of rain in April, so if you are visiting on a wet day do reserve some time for visiting history museums, art galleries, malls, and a game of hockey (Rogers’ Centre). You can find accommodation for Toronto here
Read: Road trips from Toronto to take this spring
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Canada in April. This world-famous waterfall is located on the border of the United States and Canada and can be viewed from both countries.
There’s also plenty to do in the surrounding area, including shopping, dining, and sightseeing.
Accommodation: Find hotel and apartment deals in Niagara Falls
Vancouver
Another can’t-miss destination in Canada is Vancouver. This west coast city is known for its beautiful scenery, with towering mountains and lush forests all around.
Vancouver is also a major center for culture and the arts and is home to some top-notch restaurants and shopping.
The weather is a little on the damp or wetter side, so pack a waterproof jacket and shoes.
Head to Canada Place for a Flyover experience, or when the weather is pretty go for a hike at Lynn Canyon Park.
Accommodation: Find hotels and apartment deals in Vancouver
Victoria
Victoria is one of the warmest places to visit in Canada in April. The flowers are blooming, and the weather is nice and sunny. You can enjoy the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf or the harbourfront of Victoria.
Go on a sightseeing cruise, or attend a free tour of the iconic legislative building of BC – you will love Victoria!
Accommodation: Find hotels and apartment deals in Victoria
Montreal
Montreal is another great city to visit in Canada in April. This French-speaking metropolis is home to some of the country’s best restaurants, as well as a lively nightlife and culture scene.
Montreal is also located close to the gorgeous Laurentian Mountains, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers.
Accommodation: Find hotels and apartment deals in Montreal
Quebec City
If you’re looking for a city to visit in Canada in April, Quebec City should definitely be at the top of your list. There’s always something going on in this vibrant city, and the weather is usually quite pleasant in April.
You can expect to see lots of beautiful spring flowers in bloom, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy including food/dining festivals, and exhibitions. Make sure to check out the iconic Chateau Frontenac while you’re there!
Accommodation: Find hotels and apartment deals in Montreal
Calgary
If you’re looking for a city to visit, Calgary is a great option. This is also a good option if you don’t like rainy weather. Calgary is home to a wonderful downtown area with the Calgary Tower, Saddledome, and the Peace Bridge at its core.
In April, you will love the weather for a walk outdoors – by the riverside or hit the zoo and outdoor museums like Heritage Park and Calgary Fort. Find out more things to do in Calgary
Accommodation: Find hotels and apartment deals in Calgary
Banff National Park
If you’re looking to explore Canada’s natural beauty, there are few better places to visit than Banff National Park.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Canadian Rockies and is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery and abundance of outdoor activities.
In April, you won’t be able to camp, but the weather is nice for hikes. Be sure to pack your hiking boots to enjoy the trails. More Banff hikes information here
Hot springs and Banff townsite museums and restaurants will be open (late April). The Sulphur Sightseeing Gondola will be taking in visitors as well.
The benefit of exploring the Canadian Rockies in April is fewer crowds and better accommodation deals.
When visiting Lake Louise, it is possible that the lake is slightly frozen and you may not see it in its pristine (turquoise color).
Nor can you ice skate as the temperatures are warm, but the lakeside access is open all year round.
In April, you can also embark on a Canadian Rockies Road trip, without having to worry about route conditions.
Accommodation: Find hotels and apartment deals in Banff National Park
Edmonton
If you wish to skip the rainy weather, head to Edmonton and spend time exploring the downtown and the Strathcona area.
The temperatures in April are starting to warm up, but it’s not too hot yet, so it’s perfect for sightseeing and exploring all that Edmonton has to offer.
Go on a segway tour in the River valley, visit museums and indoor farmer’s markets.
There are a number of events and dining festivals that take place in the city in April, so you can always find something fun to do. Into sports? Watch a game of hockey at Roger’s Place.
Edmonton is also home to the largest mall in Canada – head there to shop from over 800 retailers and enjoy a meal at Bourbon Street.
And of course, no visit to Edmonton is complete without checking out some of its iconic landmarks, like the Legislature Building and the Royal Alberta Museum.
Accommodation: Find hotels and apartment deals in Edmonton
Halifax
Halifax is a major port city in Canada, and it’s a great place to visit in the month of April. The weather is usually mild at this time of year, and you can expect to see some beautiful flowers in bloom.
There are also plenty of things to do in Halifax, from sightseeing to shopping to dining out. You can visit Peggy’s Cove. This charming coastal village is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the area, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops in the village itself.
Don’t forget to take a walk or bike ride along the Halifax Waterfront. This beautiful promenade offers amazing views of the harbor and the city skyline.
Citadel Hill is another must-visit. This historic fortress is one of Halifax’s most popular tourist destinations. It offers great views of the city and the surrounding area, and there are plenty of exhibits and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Accommodation: Find hotels and apartment deals in Halifax
More Canada Travel Tips for April /spring visit
April is a good time for us in Canada, as we start venturing outdoors (with fewer layers). The days are nice and patio dining is a possibility! This month brings in a lot of travel deals – flights, tours, and hotels – so don’t miss out.
This is also the time to reserve campsites for the summer (reservations open in April). Having said that you can still enjoy hikes and day camp in many areas.
With the snow melting, you can expect slushy areas or muddy conditions in many cities and parks. As rain is a possibility, do pack warm and waterproof clothing.
Easter (and in some cases Good Friday) are the only days where businesses and restaurants might be operating on holiday hours, so keep that in mind when visiting Canada in April.
Here are some more answers for your Canada trip,
April is a great time to visit Canada because the weather is starting to warm up but it’s not quite as hot as summer yet. This means that you can enjoy the great outdoors without feeling too hot and can take advantage of some amazing views.
As rains are a possibility (including slush and muddy conditions), remember to pack a waterproof jacket and shoes.
The answer to this question really depends on where in Canada you are planning to visit. The farther north you go, the colder it will be; but even southern Canada can be chilly in April, especially with the rain.
So if you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, make sure to bring a jacket, scarf, and gloves!
Well, there are plenty of activities to choose from! If you’re a nature lover, then you’ll want to visit some of the country’s stunning parks and gardens.
There are also plenty of events happening in April, including music festivals, food festivals, and cultural events.
If you’re looking for some shopping or dining opportunities, be sure to check out cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal. They are also home to parks nearby so you can enjoy nature at your fingertips!
The weather in Toronto can be quite unpredictable in April, so it’s important to pack for slightly cooler weather.
The average temperature is around 12 degrees Celsius, but it can get as cold as 3 degrees or as warm as 24 degrees (during the day). So make sure to bring a jacket, boots, and a hat just in case!
There are beautiful cherry blossom trees all over Toronto, and the tulips are starting to bloom too. If you’re interested in nature and photography, then you’ll definitely want to take advantage of the scenery this month.
Aside from the beautiful landscapes, there are also plenty of things to do in Canada in April. Toronto is home to a variety of museums and art galleries, including the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario.
There are also plenty of parks and green spaces to explore, as well as festivals and concerts happening throughout the month.
So you see, April is a great time to visit Canada. The weather is great, and there are many events happening in the country. Plus Canada is a big country, so you have a ton of options to choose from, from cities to parks.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax and take in the beauty of nature, Canada is the perfect destination in April.
Pin: April Canada Guide: From travel tips to event guide & more
