Montreal Weather in April

April weather and what to do

April in Montreal feels like winter loosening its grip, not summer arriving. Highs reach about 10°C, but nights often dip below freezing, and it rains on around 13 days. Melting snow and damp streets make sidewalks messy, and the cold is the main reason this month rates only 4.3/10. If you have flexibility, September is a much better choice.

Still, you can have a good trip in April if you plan around the weather. Indoor stops like the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, cafés in Mile End, and the underground city downtown work well on wet days. A walk through Old Montreal can be pleasant between showers, but muddy paths make Mount Royal a poor pick for a long hike. Save beach days and outdoor dining for later. May is noticeably warmer, with highs near 17°C, so the weather improves quickly once spring settles in.

Events and Easter

Easter can fall in April, bringing church services and holiday closures, so your plans may need some extra thought. Quebec observes Easter Monday, though not every business closes. Check opening hours before heading to a specific shop or museum.

Blue Metropolis, Montreal's international literary festival, is another spring event that often takes place around April. Its readings and talks suit a rainy afternoon, especially if you're staying downtown or near the festival venues.

Crowds, costs and a local tip

April is quieter than Montreal's busy summer season, when festivals and outdoor terraces draw bigger crowds. You'll generally find fewer visitors around Old Montreal, and accommodation may cost less than in peak summer. Spring break and Easter can still bring busy patches, so book ahead if your dates fall around them.

Families who prefer indoor activities over long, muddy walks may find April a comfortable time to explore, even with the chilly weather.

For a useful local shortcut, follow the RESO signs to Montreal's underground city. This network links metro stations, shops and food courts, so you can cross parts of downtown without stepping back into the rain.