Montreal in September

September weather, activities, events & insider tips

September Weather in Montreal

20°C (69°F) High Temp

10°C (51°F) Low Temp

89 mm (3.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is September Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect fall foliage season - maple leaves peak in late September with impressive reds and golds throughout Mount Royal Park and the Dakar
Ideal weather for walking - comfortable 15-18°C (59-64°F) afternoons perfect for exploring Old Montreal's cobblestone streets without summer's humidity
Festival season continues with Nuit Blanche and early Oktoberfest events, plus outdoor terrasses still operating before winter closure
Shoulder season pricing on hotels - typically 30-40% less than peak summer rates while still enjoying warm weather and full attraction hours

Considerations

Unpredictable weather requires layering - morning temperatures of 10°C (51°F) can jump to 20°C (69°F) by afternoon, making packing challenging
Rainy days increase to 10 per month, often disrupting outdoor market visits and terrace dining plans
Tourist attractions begin reducing hours after Labour Day - some outdoor activities close entirely by month's end

Best Activities in September

Mount Royal Park Foliage Tours

September is Montreal's prime foliage season with sugar maples turning brilliant red and orange by mid-month. The 15-18°C (59-64°F) afternoon temperatures are perfect for hiking the 3.2 km (2 mile) loop trail to the summit. Morning fog often lifts by 10am, creating dramatic photography conditions locals call 'sugar season magic.'

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but guided nature walks typically cost CAD $25-35. Book weekend tours 1-2 weeks ahead as locals flock here in late September. Best viewing is 2-4pm when afternoon light hits the canopy. See current guided tour options in the booking widget below.

Old Montreal Walking Tours

September's cool mornings and warm afternoons create perfect conditions for exploring 400-year-old cobblestone streets. The humidity drops to comfortable 70% after summer's oppressive levels, making 2-3 hour walking tours actually enjoyable. Stone buildings retain morning coolness, providing natural air conditioning.

Booking Tip: Historical walking tours range CAD $20-40 and run multiple times daily. Private group tours cost CAD $200-300 for up to 8 people. September weather allows for longer 3-4 hour complete tours that would be uncomfortable in summer heat. Check current tour schedules in the booking section below.

St. Lawrence River Cruises

September offers the last comfortable weeks for river cruises before autumn winds pick up. Water temperatures remain warm from summer at 18°C (64°F), while air temperatures create perfect conditions for deck viewing. Fall colors reflect dramatically in the water, and whale migration activity peaks near Quebec City extensions.

Booking Tip: Sunset cruises typically cost CAD $35-55, dinner cruises CAD $80-120. Book at least 5-7 days ahead for weekend departures. Bring a light jacket for evening return trips when temperatures drop 8-10°C (14-18°F). Most operators reduce schedules after September 30th. Current cruise options available in the booking widget below.

Underground City Shopping Tours

September's variable weather makes Montreal's famous Underground City (RESO) essential knowledge. With 10 rainy days expected, knowing the 32 km (20 mile) underground network connecting malls, metros, and attractions becomes crucial. Locals use September to practice winter navigation routes.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free with metro access, but guided underground tours cost CAD $15-25. Shopping tours including local boutique stops range CAD $40-60. September is ideal timing before holiday crowds but after summer tourist peak. See current underground tour options in the booking section below.

Jean-Talon Market Food Tours

September is harvest season for Quebec produce - apples, pumpkins, and late-season berries reach peak flavor. The covered portions of Jean-Talon Market provide shelter during the month's 10 rainy days, while cooler temperatures make hot foods like tourtière and maple treats more appealing than in summer heat.

Booking Tip: Food tours typically cost CAD $45-70 and run 2-3 hours. Private tastings range CAD $150-250 for small groups. September offers the year's best seasonal produce selection. Book weekend tours 1 week ahead as locals increase market visits during harvest season. Current food tour options available in the booking widget below.

Lachine Canal Cycling

The 14.5 km (9 mile) Lachine Canal path offers spectacular September cycling with comfortable temperatures and reduced summer crowds. Fall colors line the waterway, and the protected path provides wind shelter during the month's variable weather. Bike rental shops extend hours through September before winter closures.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals cost CAD $25-40 per day, guided cycling tours CAD $35-55. Electric bike options available for CAD $45-60 daily. September weather allows for leisurely 3-4 hour rides that would be too hot in summer. Most rental shops close by mid-October. Current cycling tour options in the booking section below.

September Events & Festivals

Late February (Note: Major all-night arts events typically occur in February/March - September cultural events focus on harvest festivals and Oktoberfest celebrations)

Nuit Blanche Montreal

All-night arts festival transforming Montreal into an outdoor gallery with free installations, performances, and exhibitions running sunset to sunrise. Over 200 cultural venues participate with extended hours and special programming.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layering system essential - pack t-shirts, long sleeves, and a warm jacket for 10°C (18°F) temperature swings between morning and afternoon

Waterproof jacket or umbrella - September averages 10 rainy days with quick afternoon showers lasting 30-45 minutes

Comfortable waterproof walking shoes - cobblestone streets in Old Montreal become slippery when wet, and you'll walk 8-12 km (5-7.5 miles) daily

Light scarf and hat - morning temperatures of 10°C (51°F) feel chilly, especially with 70% humidity creating wind chill

Sunglasses and SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index of 5 still requires protection, especially with sun reflection off St. Lawrence River

Small backpack or crossbody bag - essential for carrying layers as you add/remove clothing throughout temperature changes

Phone battery pack - shorter daylight hours mean more indoor time using maps and translation apps in French-speaking areas

Cash in small bills - many outdoor markets and street vendors prefer cash, especially during harvest season at Jean-Talon Market

Insider Knowledge

Locals call late September 'sugar season' - this is when maple trees peak for color and local cabanes à sucre (sugar shacks) offer the year's best maple treats before winter production begins

Montreal's outdoor restaurant terrasses close for winter between October 1-15, so September is your last chance to experience the city's legendary patio culture

The STM (metro system) switches to winter schedules after Labour Day - trains run slightly less frequently, but service remains excellent and it's essential during September's 10 rainy days

September is when Montrealers return from summer cottages - locals increase their city activities, making it an authentic time to experience the city as residents do rather than as a summer tourist destination

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating temperature swings - tourists pack for either cool or warm weather, not both, then suffer in 10°C (51°F) mornings or 20°C (69°F) afternoons

Assuming summer restaurant hours continue - many outdoor patios and seasonal attractions reduce hours after Labour Day, catching visitors unprepared

Forgetting French language basics - September marks the return of local routine, and while most speak English, basic French phrases become more important than during tourist-focused summer months