Toronto Weather in January

January feels cold and grey

January is Toronto's coldest stretch, with highs around 0°C and lows near -5°C. The damp air, frequent rain and heavy cloud can make a walk feel raw, even when it isn't especially windy. Daylight is short, so outdoor sightseeing can feel rushed.

You can still skate at the rink at Nathan Phillips Square, weather permitting, or duck into the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum. Long walks along the waterfront are less appealing on wet, chilly days. Save them for a brighter spell, and keep indoor stops in your plans.

Winter events and quiet streets

New Year's Day brings a public holiday, so some shops and attractions may open late or close. Toronto's Winterlicious dining event usually takes place in late winter, sometimes starting in January; check the dates before you go. The Distillery District's seasonal winter market may also run into early January.

After the holiday rush, January is generally quieter than summer and early autumn. Hotels and flights can be less costly than during Toronto's busier months, though prices vary. Families who prefer calmer galleries and museums may find this a comfortable time to visit.

Getting around on cold days

Toronto's underground PATH links office buildings, shops and transit stops downtown. It's handy when the weather turns wet, but its many entrances can be confusing. Follow the signs, or use it for a short, specific trip rather than expecting one simple route.

For a warm break, try a bowl of peameal bacon at St. Lawrence Market, which is indoors. The market is closed on Sundays and Mondays, so check its opening days before building your plans around lunch there.