If nothing else, the weather in Canada is always a conversation topic. The world's image of Canada is as a cold place. While this is true—it can and does get very cold in Canada—temperatures vary throughout the year, and Canada is just as much about long, hot summer days as it is about bitter cold. Besides, the cold weather brings phenomenal winter sports and leisure opportunities, from world-class skiing, to dog sleighing and snow shoeing.

Towns and cities are well equipped for the low temperatures, as cultural and recreational activities abound despite the cold. In the larger metropolises, it is not necessary to venture outdoors, as many downtown buildings are connected by walkway systems.

Spring is always an exciting time in Canada, with the renewal of the vegetation, migratory birds flying back to nest, and the promise of warmer weather and longer days. Summer is usually warm and sunny, even hot in many areas. There is a huge range of summer activities available in Canada. Stroll around Canada's historic towns, cities and cultural sites in the warm sunshine, or enjoy outdoor shopping in the many markets.

Take part in the wide variety of outdoor festivals—from jazz to Shakespeare. With so many lakes and so much ocean coastline, water sport opportunities in Canada are tremendous. Fall is cooler and more comfortable to many. All over the country the autumn leaves provide a truly natural spectacle. Whatever the season, Canada has a vast selection of destinations and activities to suit any desire.

With average humidity the following is an approximate estimate of how certain metric measurements feel. In summer higher humidity makes heat more oppressive, and in winter higher humidity makes the cold more penetrating. Humidity varies from the dryness of Alberta to the more humid regions that are by large inland lakes or the ocean.

• 40°C (104°F) - a heat wave - very rare to get this sort of heat anywhere in Canada.
• 30°C (86°F) - a hot day - perfect for watersports in one of Canada's many lakes or on an ocean beach.
• 20°C (68°F) - room temperature - very comfortable for sightseeing and hiking.
• 0 °C (32°F) - water freezes - but let it get considerably cooler before skating on a pond, lake or river.
• -10°C (14°F) - a pleasant winter day - dress warm to enjoy the many winter activities Canada is famous for.
• -25°C (-13°F) - a cold winter day - Canada has plenty of indoor activities of all kinds.
• -40°C (-40°F) - exposed skin will freeze in seconds, very rare except in the far north

Please note that temperatures are very relative, and comfort level depends as much on the humidity level and wind chill as on the temperature.