Summary
January in Montreal often feels like a cabin-fevered slowdown of inactivity. Granted, I’ll be the first to admit it’s coooold out there. However, Montreal in January is more action-packed than you think.
Don’t be fooled by the temperature dip. There are plenty of things to do this month. Think outdoor dance parties, two mini restaurant weeks that last a month, weekend after weekend of winter sports, a little light therapy, and every shopaholic knows January is a prime month for deals and steals. Make the best of the wind chill, and read on.
January Festivals and Highlights
If you ask me, it’s a fantastic month to be in Montreal. January features guided forest treks under the stars, Old Montreal’s restaurant week followed by another restaurant bill-slashing event, the best of the Banff Film Fest, one of the largest bridal exhibits in Canada, and the city’s craziest dance event of the season.
January Weather
Welcome to winter in Montreal! January is statistically the coldest month, meaning you’ll soon discover that beautiful sunny days are often accompanied by bone-chilling cold. In contrast, a gray, cloudy day might provide a “warmer” outdoor experience, likely enhanced by snowfall.
Knowing what to wear significantly influences your comfort outdoors. Read on to learn how to dress appropriately for January in Montreal.
Visiting Montreal in January
Save yourself the trouble of trudging through snow or getting caught in a cold spell. These Montreal winter hotels are perfect for the season since all of them are connected to the underground city, allowing travelers to navigate the city indoors without venturing outside if they prefer.
However, those attending Igloofest might enjoy staying in Old Montreal due to its proximity to festivities in the Old Port.
If budget is not a concern, consider exploring Montreal’s most luxurious hotels for a memorable stay. Alternatively, for more affordable yet posh and stylish accommodations, consider Montreal’s top-rated boutique hotels.
This Weekend in Montreal
Even in January, there’s always something happening in Old Montreal. Therefore, plan for the perfect weekend. You can discover must-see events and activities you won’t want to miss.
What’s Open New Year’s Day in Montreal
Partied like mad on December 31st? Take it easy at the restaurants open New Year’s Day in Montreal and check out what else is accessible throughout the city.
Winter in Montreal
Montreal in the winter is loads of fun if you know where to go and what to do. Discover must-try winter activities, Montreal’s hottest winter events, and the season’s creature comforts to make the most of your visit.
Hit the Slopes
Alpine skiing, winter’s most exhilarating sport, is accessible in abundance just outside of Montreal, with the Laurentian mountains to the North and the Appalachian range to the east. This guide to downhill skiing in Quebec details the unique characteristics of the province’s three main ski regions and identifies the top ski hills, along with exclusive season deals for skiers planning multiple visits.
