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Hamilton

Canada · Coast · CAD · 43.255700, -79.871100
Family friendly 6.1/10 · Rank 1507 of 2 709
Best season: June-September

Best for

Suitable for urban tourism, nature, waterfalls, families, and those seeking a quiet holiday near Toronto

Best season

June-September

Daily budget
$190.00 (≈ 15 945 ₽)
For 7 days
$1 330.00 (≈ 111 614 ₽)
Hamilton is a major city on the shores of Lake Ontario in Ontario, known as the "steel city" due to its industrial history. The city is also famous for its waterfalls, of which there are over a hundred, and its botanical gardens, which are among the best in Canada. Hamilton is the perfect place for those who want to see a combination of industrial heritage and natural beauty.
Summer
30.0°C
Winter
14.0°C
Sea
28.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

moderate

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

Friendly, hospitable, with rich cultural diversity

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Waterfall Capital of the World with 150+ cascades
  • Dundurn Castle and museums
  • Royal Botanical Gardens
  • Affordable prices
  • Good base for trips to Niagara and Toronto
  • Diverse gastronomy

Cons

  • No direct flights from Moscow
  • Temporary Resident Visa required
  • Cold winters
  • Industrial city image
  • Transport needed to get around the outskirts
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
22.5°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
30.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
30.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
-4.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
20.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
14.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
19.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
28.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
year-round, peak May-September
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
weak
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
moderate
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Horseshoe Bay Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Hamilton beaches on Lake Ontario are safe for swimming, but water can be cold. Swimming on guarded beaches recommended

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins are abundant in Hamilton Harbour and Harrington Sound. In the BAMZ touch pool, you can touch sea urchins, sea stars, sea cucumbers and other invertebrates
  • Sea urchins are a protected species in Bermuda. They do not pose a serious danger, but special swimming shoes are recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Diverse corals inhabit the waters off Hamilton (Bermuda), including massive brain corals (Diploria) over 1.5 metres wide, pink tip anemones and sea fans
  • The Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo (BAMZ) houses one of the world's largest collections of live corals, including Atlantic species
  • All soft and hard corals in Bermuda are protected by the government

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish may appear in warmer months in Lake Ontario
  • Check with locals about jellyfish

Sharks — details

  • Grey reef sharks (Carcharhinus perezi) are present in Bermuda's waters, but sightings are genuinely rare. Nurse sharks can be seen in the BAMZ aquarium
  • Sharks are a protected species in Bermuda. They do not pose a serious danger to swimmers
  • The probability of encountering a shark in Bermuda's coastal waters is very low
Attractions

Dundurn Castle

Historic Italianate castle with museum and gardens

Royal Botanical Gardens

Canada's largest botanical garden with plant collection and trails

Albion Falls

Scenic waterfall in canyon, popular walking spot

Art Gallery of Hamilton

Leading gallery with Canadian and world art collection

HMCS Haida National Historic Site

Historic warship open for visits

Best areas

Downtown

Main area with hotels, restaurants, and shops, all walkable

Locke Street

Area with restaurants, bars, and shops, popular among locals

Westdale

Area with cafes, restaurants, and university

Waterfront

Scenic lakeside area with hotels and restaurants

Must-try food

Umami Burger

Burger with umami sauce, popular in Hamilton

Poutine

Canadian national dish of french fries with cheese curds and gravy

Portuguese Seafood

Portuguese-style seafood dishes, popular in the city

Handmade Dumplings

Handmade dumplings, popular snack

Smash-Style Pizza

Thin-crust crispy pizza, popular style

Where to go next

Niagara Falls

Famous waterfall, 1 hour away

Toronto

Major city with attractions, 1 hour away

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Park with cliffs and trails, 2.5 hours away

Stratford

Town with theatres and festivals, 1.5 hours away

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
medium
Getting there
Nearest airports
John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (YHM).
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Visa
Visa requirements
required (Temporary Resident Visa)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
June-September
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$180.00
≈ 15 106 ₽
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$280.00
≈ 23 498 ₽
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$220.00
≈ 18 462 ₽
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$90.00
≈ 7 553 ₽
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽
Burger
Average price for a burger
$18.00
≈ 1 511 ₽
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$9.00
≈ 755 ₽
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$55.00
≈ 4 616 ₽
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
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Frequently asked questions
Hamilton: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is June-September. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Hamilton: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +30.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Hamilton: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +14.0°C, during the day — up to +20.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Hamilton: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +28.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Hamilton: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on year-round, peak May-September. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Hamilton: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, moderate water. The most popular beaches: Horseshoe Bay Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Hamilton: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Hamilton: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Hamilton beaches on Lake Ontario are safe for swimming, but water can be cold. Swimming on guarded beaches recommended. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Hamilton: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $190.00 (≈ 15 945 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Hamilton: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $40.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $120.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $180.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $280.00 per night, an apartment — $90.00 per night, a villa — $220.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Hamilton: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $20.00, dinner at a restaurant — $40.00, a cup of cappuccino — $4.00, a 0.5L beer — $7.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $2.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Hamilton: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $50.00, a single public transport ticket — $3.50, a short taxi ride — $15.00, car rental — $55.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Hamilton: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Dundurn Castle — Historic Italianate castle with museum and gardens; Royal Botanical Gardens — Canada's largest botanical garden with plant collection and trails; Albion Falls — Scenic waterfall in canyon, popular walking spot; Art Gallery of Hamilton — Leading gallery with Canadian and world art collection; HMCS Haida National Historic Site — Historic warship open for visits. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Hamilton: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Umami Burger — Burger with umami sauce, popular in Hamilton; Poutine — Canadian national dish of french fries with cheese curds and gravy; Portuguese Seafood — Portuguese-style seafood dishes, popular in the city; Handmade Dumplings — Handmade dumplings, popular snack; Smash-Style Pizza — Thin-crust crispy pizza, popular style. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Hamilton: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Downtown — Main area with hotels, restaurants, and shops, all walkable; Locke Street — Area with restaurants, bars, and shops, popular among locals; Westdale — Area with cafes, restaurants, and university; Waterfront — Scenic lakeside area with hotels and restaurants. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Hamilton: is a visa required?
Visa: required (Temporary Resident Visa). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Hamilton: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (code YHM). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $50.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Hamilton: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — CAD. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $190.00 (≈ 15 945 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Hamilton: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Hamilton: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as medium. There is a good choice of bars and restaurants, but without excessive noise.
Hamilton: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Niagara Falls — Famous waterfall, 1 hour away; Toronto — Major city with attractions, 1 hour away; Bruce Peninsula National Park — Park with cliffs and trails, 2.5 hours away; Stratford — Town with theatres and festivals, 1.5 hours away. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

6.1/10
Overall rank: 1507 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 926