Visit Newfoundland and Labrador

Welcome To The Labrador Region

Stretching from the Strait of Belle Isle, The Labrador Region boasts towering mountains and many cultural activities. Welcome To The Labrador Region, A Hidden Gem of Natural Wonders and Rich Heritage.

The Labrador Region in Newfoundland stands as a picturesque and unexplored gem. Its breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and fascinating history have become popular for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Q: Where is the Labrador Region located?

A: The Labrador Region is in the eastern part of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. It occupies the mainland part of the province, sharing a border with the province of Quebec.

Q: What are the main attractions in the Labrador Region?

A: The Labrador Region boasts an array of natural wonders, including the Torngat Mountains National Park, Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve, and the iconic Labrador Coastal Drive. Additionally, the region is known for its rich indigenous culture, exemplified by places like Red Bay National Historic Site and the Labrador Interpretation Centre.

Q: How can I access the Labrador Region?

A: The Labrador Region is accessible by air, land, and sea. Significant airports in Goose Bay and Churchill Falls serve as entry points for air travel, while the Trans-Labrador Highway provides a scenic road trip experience. Ferries connect the region to Newfoundland’s island portion.

Q: What makes Torngat Mountains National Park unique?

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A: Torngat Mountains National Park is known for its remote and rugged beauty. It offers unparalleled opportunities for wilderness adventures, including hiking, wildlife viewing (such as polar bears and caribou), and glimpses into Inuit culture.

Q: Is the Labrador Region suitable for outdoor activities?

A: Absolutely! The Labrador Region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and fishing to kayaking and camping, the area offers many activities for nature lovers.

Q: When is the best time to visit the Labrador Region?

A: The best time to visit the Labrador Region is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is milder and conducive to outdoor exploration. However, remember that temperatures can vary, so it’s essential to be prepared for diverse weather conditions.

Q: Are there any endangered species in the Labrador Region?

A: Yes, the Labrador Region is home to several species listed as threatened or endangered, including the Torngat Mountains caribou herd and the Atlantic salmon. 

Q: Can I experience indigenous culture in the Labrador Region?

A: Absolutely! The Labrador Region celebrates its indigenous heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in the traditions and customs of the Inuit and Innu peoples by participating in cultural events, visiting historical sites, and engaging with local communities.

Q: What is the significance of the Labrador Coastal Drive?

A: The Labrador Coastal Drive is a scenic drive that stretches along the eastern coastline, offering breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and picturesque fishing villages. It’s an excellent way to experience the natural beauty and tranquillity of the region.

Q: Are there any guided tours available in the Labrador Region?

A: Various tour operators offer guided experiences tailored to different interests. Whether you seek wildlife encounters, cultural insights, or outdoor adventures,  tours are available  to suit your preferences.

Q: Is camping a popular activity in the Labrador Region?

A: Camping is immensely popular in the Labrador Region due to its vast wilderness and spectacular landscapes. Camping enthusiasts can choose from various campsites, from basic to more developed facilities.

Q: Can I see the Northern Lights in the Labrador Region?

A: The Labrador Region offers excellent opportunities to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) during the fall and winter. Its remote location and minimal light pollution make it an ideal spot for stargazing.

Q: How can I learn about the history of the Labrador Region?

A: The Labrador Interpretation Centre and Red Bay National Historic Site provide fascinating insights into the region’s history. These sites showcase artifacts and exhibits related to indigenous culture, European exploration, and early industries like whaling.

Q: Are there any unique geological formations in the Labrador Region?

A: Yes, the Mealy Mountains in the Labrador Region feature unique geological formations, including fjords, glacial valleys, and coastal cliffs. These natural wonders are a delight for geology enthusiasts and photographers.

Q: Can I spot marine wildlife along the Labrador coast?

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A: Yes, the Labrador coast offers opportunities to spot various marine wildlife, such as whales, seals, and seabirds. Boat tours are available for those who wish to experience marine life up close.

Q: Is the Labrador Region a year-round destination?

A: While the summer months are the most popular for tourism, the Labrador Region has a distinct charm in every season. Winter offers snowmobiling and ice fishing opportunities, making it an alluring destination for adventurous travellers.

Q: What precautions should I take while exploring the Labrador Region?

A: The Labrador Region’s remote and wild nature demands some precautions. Travellers should be prepared for varying weather conditions, carry sufficient supplies, and be aware of potential wildlife encounters.

Q: Can I visit the Labrador Region and Newfoundland Island during one trip?

A: Combining visits to the Labrador Region and Newfoundland Island is possible. Ferries connect the region to the island, providing an opportunity for a diverse and enriching travel experience.

Q: What accommodations are available in the Labrador Region?

A: Accommodations in the Labrador Region range from hotels and motels to lodges, cabins, and campgrounds. Visitors can choose options that suit their preferences and budget.

Q: Is photography allowed in the Labrador Region’s national parks and historic sites?

A: Photography is generally allowed in the Labrador Region’s national parks and historic sites. However, following guidelines and respecting the privacy of local communities and cultural practices is essential.

The Labrador Region in Newfoundland is a treasure trove of natural wonders, rich heritage, and adventure. From the majestic Torngat Mountains to the serene Labrador Coastal Drive, this region offers a truly unforgettable experience for travellers seeking a genuine connection with nature and indigenous culture. By respecting the land and its inhabitants, visitors can immerse themselves in the wonders of the Labrador Region, leaving with memories that will last a lifetime.

Exploring the Enchanting Beauty of Labrador: 10 Must-Visit Popular Places

We will take you on a journey to Labrador top 10 popular places. We will look into each location’s unique features so you can experience what it feels like to visit.

Red Bay National Historic Site:

Red Bay is a Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into the region’s Atlantic past. It was once a bustling Basque whaling station, and visitors can explore the archaeological remains, learn about whaling history, and admire the scenic coastal views.

Official Website:  Red Bay National Historic Site (canada.ca)

Torngat Mountains National Park:

Torngat Mountains National Park is a haven for adventure seekers on the Labrador Peninsula. This remote and rugged wilderness is home to polar bears, caribou, and other fascinating wildlife. Hiking through the Torngat Mountains offers unparalleled views and a chance to experience Inuit culture.

Official Website:  Torngat Mountains National Park (canada.ca)

Battle Harbour Historic Site:

Step back to Battle Harbour, a restored fishing village that once thrived during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, it serves as a living museum for visitors to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the Labrador fishing industry.

Official Website:  Battle Harbour, Labrador | Historic Trust

Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve:

Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including pristine lakes, fjords, and dense forests. Hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints, making it a paradise for nature photographers.

Official Website:  Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve (canada.ca)  

Labrador Coastal Drive:

For a scenic road trip, the Labrador Coastal Drive is a must-visit. This picturesque highway offers captivating views of rugged cliffs, sparkling waters, and charming fishing villages, providing an authentic taste of Labrador’s coastal beauty.

Okak Archaeological Site:

History buffs will be fascinated by the Okak Archaeological Sites, which shed light on the lives of the Inuit people who lived here centuries ago. The well-preserved sites offer a captivating glimpse into their daily activities and cultural practices.

Official Website:  Parks Canada – Okak National Historic Site of Canada (pc.gc.ca)

Red Bay Basque Whaling Museum:

Learn more about Labrador’s whaling heritage at the Red Bay Basque Whaling Museum. This modern facility houses artifacts and exhibits related to the Basque whalers’ life, their ships, and the whaling industry’s impact on the region.

Official Website:  Red Bay National Historic Site – Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada (newfoundlandlabrador.com)

Wonderstrands:

Located within Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve, the Wonderstrands are vast, sandy beaches stretching endlessly along the Labrador coast. These secluded and picturesque shores offer a serene and meditative escape.

Point Amour Lighthouse:

Standing proudly as one of the tallest lighthouses in Canada, Point Amour Lighthouse offers a captivating Atlantic history exhibit and a spectacular view of the Strait of Belle Isle.

Official Website:  Parks Canada – Point Amour Lighthouse (pc.gc.ca)

The Labrador region in Newfoundland is captivating, offering historical sites steeped in Atlantic history to pristine natural wonders that will inspire you. Whether you seek adventure in the untamed wilderness or a journey through Labrador cultural past, each destination in this list promises an unforgettable experience. As you explore these famous places in Labrador, take the time to appreciate the region’s raw beauty and rich heritage, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Exploring the Pristine Beauty of Labrador: A Guide to Hiking and Walking Trails

The Labrador region in Newfoundland is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an abundance of hiking and walking trails that lead through breathtaking landscapes, from rugged mountains to pristine coastlines. Labrador Trails caters to all skill levels, whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual stroller. 

Pinware River Provincial Park Trail:

The Pinware River Provincial Park Trail is famous for hikers seeking a peaceful and scenic experience. The trail follows the serene Pinware River, offering opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife encounters. It is an ideal spot for nature lovers to immerse themselves in Labrador’s pristine wilderness.

Official Website:  Pinware River Provincial Park – ParksNL

Labrador Pioneer Footpath:

The Labrador Pioneer Footpath is a challenging long-distance hiking trail spanning over 14 kilometres across Labrador’s wild and remote landscapes. It offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventurous hikers, providing an opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form.

Point Amour Lighthouse Coastal Trails:

The Point Amour Lighthouse Coastal Trail offers a delightful mix of history and coastal beauty. This easy-to-moderate walking trail leads to the historic Point Amour Lighthouse, providing panoramic views of the Strait of Belle Isle.

Red Bay National Historic Site – Saddle Island Trail:

Embark on a journey through time on the Saddle Island Trail, located within the Red Bay National Historic Site. The trail takes hikers to the ancient Basque whaling station site, offering insights into Labrador’s rich Atlantic history.

The Labrador region’s hiking and walking trails invite explorers to visit breathtaking Canadian landscapes, unspoiled beauty and rich heritage. From the serene Pinware River to the rugged terrain of the Mealy Mountains, each trail promises a unique and unforgettable experience. As you set foot on these paths, take a moment to breathe in the pristine air, admire the inspiring scenery, and embrace Labrador’s spirit of adventure.

Unravelling the Rich Cultural Tapestry of Labrador: Top Cultural Attractions to Explore

The Labrador region in Newfoundland is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also a treasure trove of cultural attractions that showcase the history and heritage of this fascinating Canadian land. With a blend of indigenous traditions, European influences, and Atlantic legacies, Labrador offers an immersive cultural experience like no other. 

Labrador Interpretation Centre:

The Labrador Interpretation Centre is an excellent starting point for understanding the region’s diverse cultural heritage. Through interactive exhibits and displays, visitors can delve into the traditions, art, and history of the indigenous Inuit and Innu communities, gaining valuable insights into their way of life.

Red Bay holds significant historical importance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was once a bustling Basque whaling station during the 16th century. The site’s well-preserved archaeological remains offer a captivating glimpse into the European exploration and whaling practices that shaped Labrador’s Atlantic history.

Them Days Archive:

For those seeking a deeper understanding of Labrador’s past, the Them Days Archive is a treasure trove of historical records, photos, and stories. This unique cultural attraction offers a window into the lives of Labrador early settlers and indigenous peoples.

Labrador Heritage Museum:

Located in North West River, the Labrador Heritage Museum showcases a collection of artifacts and displays that highlight the region’s history and traditional ways of life. Visitors can learn about Labrador fur trade, fishing industries, and indigenous art forms.

Labrador Friendship Centre:

The Labrador Friendship Centre celebrates the diverse indigenous cultures of Labrador through various events, workshops, and activities. It offers a platform for locals and visitors to unite and foster cultural understanding and appreciation.

The Labrador Straits Historical Museum:

Situated in L’Anse-au-Loup, the Labrador Straits Historical Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The museum’s exhibits detail the lives of early settlers and showcase the region’s solid Atlantic connections.

Great Caribou Studio & Cafey:

For an authentic taste of Labrador’s local artistry, visit the Great Caribou Studio & Cafe. This studio features traditional crafts, artwork, and souvenirs.

Battle Harbour Historic Properties:

Step back at Battle Harbour, an authentic restored fishing village from the 19th century. This living museum offers guided tours, showcasing the region’s fishing heritage and traditional way of life.

The Labrador Region is a cultural mosaic that weaves indigenous traditions, European history, and Atlantic legacies together. Each cultural attraction offers a unique glimpse into Labrador rich heritage. Whether you’re intrigued by indigenous art, historical records, or immersive living museums, Labrador cultural attractions have something to offer every visitor. By exploring these cultural gems, you’ll better appreciate the traditions and stories shaping this remarkable Canadian region.

Looking to book your trip to Newfoundland and Labrador? Use these resources that are tried and tested by other travellers like you who vacation in Newfoundland and Labrador. Bookmark these links. Save them for future reference.

Booking Flights, Hotels or B&B: Start planning your next vacation trip by finding the best flight, hotel or B&B deals.  Book Here

Finding  things to do  in Newfoundland and Labrador on  TripAdvisor  and  Viator  is not hard. Enjoy boat tours, whale watching, iceberg watching, kayaking and other activities.

You can also find low prices on hotels, B&B and cabins with these two providers. If you are located in Canada, the USA, the UK or Europe, use  Booking.com , and if you are in Canada, the USA or anywhere else, use  TripAdvisor .

Car Rental: Here is what we recommend:

When you book with  Rentalcars.com , you can compare prices and find the best vehicle for your trip.  Economybookings.com  Display all their vehicle on the website with a detailed description. They display high-quality photos and a user rating as well.  Qeeq.com  serves road trip travellers like you from different countries by working with car rental companies worldwide.

Get compensated if your flight is delayed or cancel

AirHelp  and  Compensateair  will help you with flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding. All you need to do is submit your flight details, and they will handle the claim process on your behalf. They will handle all the paperwork, airline negotiations, and legal proceedings.

Do you need more help planning your trip? Check out our  Resources Page , where we highlight all the resources and companies you can use to assist with your planning.

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Newfoundland and Labrador

travel labrador canada

  • 2 Towns and cities
  • 3 Other destinations
  • 4.1 History
  • 4.3 Traditions
  • 4.4 Visitor information
  • 5.1 By plane
  • 5.4 By train
  • 5.5 By boat
  • 6.2 By boat
  • 6.4 By plane
  • 12 Stay safe

Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) is the largest of Atlantic Canada 's four provinces. Newfoundland is an island; Labrador is an adjoining mainland coastal region which abuts Quebec . The beauty of Newfoundland can be found on the rocky coasts of the island and the relatively new, and stunningly beautiful East Coast Trail, but this is a truly coast-to-coast kind of place. There's much to see in the Tundra of Labrador (often called "the Big Land"), the "mini-Rockies" of the West Coast's Long Range Mountains and Lewis Hills, the historic Avalon Peninsula, home to the capital of St. John's . Also don't underestimate the power of the largely uninhabited Newfoundland interior. There is a raw, untouched quality to the entire place, especially where water meets rocks.

From northwest to southeast:

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Towns and cities

  • 47.5675 -52.707222 1 St. John's — the provincial capital and largest city in Newfoundland. The city is known as the one of the oldest in North America and has one of the most lively City Councils in the world. The city is notable for the natural harbour which has provided shelter from the North Atlantic for more than 500 years.
  • 47.507431 -52.995139 2 Conception Bay South — C.B.S., the largest town in Newfoundland, on the shore of beautiful Conception Bay.
  • 48.95 -57.95 3 Corner Brook — the pulp and paper centre of Newfoundland and a major transportation hub for the region.
  • 48.956944 -54.608889 4 Gander — this town grew up around Gander International Airport which developed into one of the most import airfields in the world during the Second World War.
  • 48.936944 -55.645 5 Grand Falls-Windsor — home of the Salmon Festival, Grand Falls-Windsor is Central Newfoundland's largest town.
  • 53.301944 -60.416667 6 Happy Valley-Goose Bay — one of the few remaining military bases in the province. Established in the World War II era (Goose and Gander were refuelling stops for warplanes en route to Europe from Canada and the US), it had a little-known population of 10,000 U.S. citizens at the height of the Cold War and was home to large numbers of aerial refuelling tankers of the United States Air Force. International NATO training activity at Goose Bay ended by 2006, but a hundred troops remain stationed here.
  • 52.944931 -66.910519 7 Labrador City — home to the largest open pit iron ore mine in Canada. Vast wilderness surround this modern, booming town. With its twin town Wabush, it makes up the Labrador West region of the province.
  • 47.518839 -52.807439 8 Mount Pearl — the second largest city in Newfoundland which has grown up on the western edge of St John's.
  • 49.648219 -54.763519 9 Twillingate — two islands that make up a scenic fishing town in Notre Dame Bay north of Lewisporte and Gander.

Other destinations

  • 53.4 -59.3667 3 Mealy Mountains National Park - a national park with Mountains, Fjords and expansive landscapes
  • 48.530556 -53.928056 6 Terra Nova National Park — a place where sheltered Atlantic fjords stretch inland to touch the boreal landscape
  • 59.435833 -63.696389 7 Torngat Mountains National Park - a remote national park in northern Labrador with some of Canada's largest mountains east of the Rockies

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There are many extraordinary things about Newfoundland: the rugged natural beauty of the place, the extraordinary friendliness and humour of the local people, the traditional culture, and the unique dialect. Newfoundland is fairly lightly populated, but Labrador is extremely sparsely populated. Newfoundland and Labrador had a long history before it joined Canada in 1949. Adventure racer Mats Andersson has described it as a mix of "Patagonia, Sweden , New Zealand and other countries from all around the world."

As for the people, everyone talks to everyone; indeed, everyone helps everyone, and everyone knows everyone (people often can tell what part of the island someone is from by their last name).

Newfoundlanders pronounce Newfoundland to rhyme with 'understand,' placing emphasis on -LAND, not New or found-. It sounds something like "newfin-LAND." Canadians outside of the Atlantic provinces and tourists are noted for their pronunciation of Newfoundland as "new-FOUND-lind", "NEW-fin-lind" or "NEW-found-lind."

Newfoundland was the home of the now-extinct Beothuk indigenous people, while Labrador is still home to the forest-dwelling Innu and the barren-dwelling Inuit, who are not related. Newfoundland was first discovered by Europeans in about 1000 AD by the Vikings , who settled briefly but soon moved on. In 1497 Italian explorer John Cabot may have discovered Newfoundland, and claimed it for England. Both Newfoundland and Labrador soon became popular places for European fishermen and whalers exploiting the Atlantic coast to come ashore for supply and rest. Newfoundland was the first overseas outpost of the British Empire: Sir Humphrey Gilbert landed in St John's in August 1583, and took possession of the island for the British, who were slow to populate the island, however. The small French presence on the island was mostly eliminated by 1760. During the 19th century, Newfoundland received an influx of Irish settlers, adding another layer to the present-day character of the island in terms of its unique regional accents and musical traditions. Newfoundland chose not to join the Canadian Confederation in 1867, and became a self-governing colony, and by 1907 a dominion, legally equivalent to Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Newfoundland was devastated by huge losses of young men during the First World War and an economic crisis during the Great Depression, and voluntarily gave up its independence to Britain in 1934 in exchange for a debt bailout. This situation ended in 1949 when Newfoundlanders and Labradorians narrowly voted in a referendum to join Canada as the tenth province. Newfoundland experienced another economic crisis in the later 20th century. Stocks of the all-important cod fish collapsed and the Canadian government declared a moratorium on fishing for that species in 1992, ending the province's largest and oldest industry overnight. Likewise the seal hunt, another major industry, has been under threat due to anti-fur boycotts in Europe and elsewhere. Newfoundlanders have been emigrating to mainland Canada in large numbers for generations. But offshore oil and gas drilling, inland mining and hydroelectricity, and tourism have taken on a greater role in the economy, making Newfoundland and Labrador a net payer into the Canadian interprovincial transfer system for the first time ever in 2008.

Newfoundlanders are known for their distinctive manner of speech. Believe it or not, they speak dialects (that's right, not accents) that are sometimes unintelligible to "mainland" Canadians — especially in outports such as Burgeo . Its roots (while still North American English) are mainly Irish, English and French, and the language has evolved and developed in semi-isolation for about 500 years. The Dictionary of Newfoundland English is about the size of a standard English dictionary. It is immediately noticeable to most visitors, or "Come-From-Aways" as they are occasionally called, that the syntax and grammar varies slightly. As for the accent, it varies from district to district in the province. As Canadian author Douglas Coupland puts it in Souvenir of Canada , Newfoundlanders "speak in a dialect that can rival Navajo for indecipherability - that is, when they really ham it up...."

Two tourist traditions persist with a visit to Newfoundland—kissing the cod and the "screech-in." (Both were enacted by Ben Mulroney in the Canadian Idol television show while he visited Newfoundland, demonstrating how widespread these activities are thought to be.) These so-called traditions are little more than tourist gimmicks invented by locals for a laugh. The tourists found them enjoyable, and now they are very common. Commercial tours will often include these activities, concluding them with a certificate proclaiming the participant an honorary Newfoundlander.

  • The "Screech-in": The most famous of newcomer traditions, mainlanders and visitors to the isle must drink a shot or glass of screech (a variety of Jamaican Rum famous to Newfoundland). Take this all in good humour, but don't be surprised if you don't like the taste; the name has good meaning.
  • Kissing the Cod: As well as being "Screeched in", occasionally visitors will be coaxed into "Kissing the Cod". The visitor must kiss a codfish, emblem of the historic fishing industry, after arrival. While this does happen occasionally, it is usually a humorous part of a guided tour or similar event. The use of an actual fish is rare, though, especially since the introduction of the cod moratorium. Kissing a real codfish is discouraged by many, not to mention possibly unhygienic, so an imitation cod, made of wood, plastic, or rubber is used.

Genuine traditions practised in Newfoundland include celebrations of: "Bonfire Night", with roots in the English "Guy Fawkes Night"; and "Old Christmas Day" which is the twelfth night of the Christmas season. The latter of these is also associated with the tradition of "Mummering" or "Janneying" which is still practised in several other parts of the world as well.

Visitor information

  • Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism website

travel labrador canada

Flights from major centres in Ontario , Quebec and the other Atlantic Provinces arrive at St. John's International Airport ( YYT  IATA ) several times per day.

Flights to Stephenville from Toronto are available during the summer months and allow easy travel to the nearby city of Corner Brook . Stephenville also has daily service within the province.

Flights to Deer Lake from mainland Canada allow easy access to Corner Brook. From Deer Lake, you will need to rent a car, or catch the bus or taxi to reach Corner Brook .

Daily flights to Wabush and Goose Bay (Labrador) and to Gander are also available.

In the summer season, there are daily flights between St. John's and London Heathrow on Air Canada, and to Dublin on WestJet, probably the shortest Trans-Atlantic regular flights available.

Air St-Pierre connects St John's to the nearby French islands of St-Pierre and Miquelon. Canadian citizens may enter with photo ID and proof of citizenship. US and EU citizens will require passports. Americans require their passports to enter France and Europeans require theirs to pass through Canada.

The only outside road to reach the province overland runs from Quebec into Labrador; north of Baie-Comeau and Manicougan's "Manic 5" hydroelectric development a long, isolated gravel road ( Quebec Route 389 ) leads northeast to Labrador City and the Trans-Labrador Highway . The road from Labrador City through Churchill Falls to Goose Bay was completely paved by 2015. Gravel highway onward to Cartwright and Port Hope Simpson opened in 2009; the 1100 km Trans-Labrador mainline was fully paved by 2022 but there are no services (or fuel) for more than 400 km on this road. One may continue to drive all the way to Blanc Sablon, Quebec and take the 2-hour ferry crossing to the island.

If the island is your destination, you must take a ferry. From Port aux Basques to Corner Brook , it's just over 200 km of driving, while the drive to St. John's is a trek of over 900 km. In the summer, a drive from Argentia to St. John's will take you through about 130 km of the province.

It is not possible to reach Blanc Sablon , Quebec (the border town near Forteau, Labrador) on any direct overland path from Sept-Îles as the roads simply do not exist in that section of the province. There is a coastal boat from Rimouski-Sept-Îles-Anticosti but its route stops in every outport and takes half a week.

There is no intercity bus service available into Newfoundland and Labrador. Intercity bus travelers can transfer to the ferry connecting North Sydney , Nova Scotia and Port aux Basques , as intercity bus services connect to both of those ferry terminals.

A train on the Quebec, North Shore and Labrador line ( Sept-Îles - Schefferville , Quebec ) makes one stop in Emeril, Labrador. This isolated line is not connected to the main North American rail network.

Elsewhere, train is no longer an option. The sarcastically-named "Newfie Bullet", a narrow-gauge line across the island, ended its long career in 1988 with the rails removed and the right of way converted into the T'Railway Provincial Park, part of the Trans Canada Trail . Its route was largely paralleled by the later Trans-Canada Highway .

In general, Marine Atlantic Ferries cater to your every whim, carrying food, alcohol, gift shops, cinemas and sleeping accommodations. There will be lots for you to do.

A ferry links St. Barbe (on Newfoundland's Great Northern Peninsula ) and Blanc Sablon (on Quebec 's border with Labrador) ( ☏ +1-866-535-2567 ). In winter, the southern terminus of this ferry is Corner Brook .

A passenger and vehicle ferry links Fortune , Newfoundland & Labrador to Saint Pierre and Miquelon ( France ).

A car is generally the best way to travel the province. Public transportation options are usually limited, especially away from the larger centres, and having a personal vehicle will allow you to reach the nooks and crannies that really make the Newfoundland & Labrador experience an amazing one. Except for the Trans-Canada Highway (Port Aux Basques–St. John's), roads in Newfoundland & Labrador are among the worst in Canada, so watch out for potholes and heaved pavement.

If Labrador is your destination, bring an extra can of fuel, a survival kit, food and supplies. The Trans-Labrador Highway is the most challenging stretch of road in the province, and you will need to rely on your own ingenuity if you run into trouble hundreds of kilometres from the nearest settlement, with no mobile telephone coverage anywhere outside Labrador City, Churchill Falls and Goose Bay. Ensure that your vehicle is in tip-top shape and be prepared to wait several hours in sub-Arctic conditions for assistance in an emergency.

With the exception of the northern territories, fuel in rural Labrador is the most expensive in Canada.

Newfoundland was established as a series of outports - coastal subsistence fishery villages reachable primarily by sea. Many are now accessible from the Trans-Canada Highway or Trans-Labrador Highway . Hundreds more were abandoned in the post-World War II era or became ghost towns , but some remain viable and reachable only by ferry. Many are islands or are in remote locations where the cost of road-building is prohibitive.

Newfoundland and Labrador Marine Services , toll-free: +1-833-616-5511 . Operates ferries connecting communities in Newfoundland and Labrador . ( updated May 2022 ) Operates most ferries connecting communities within Newfoundland and Labrador, including the ferry between Newfoundland to Labrador . The ferry between Newfoundland and Labrador runs between Newfoundland (from St Barbe on the Great Northern Peninsula for most of the year and from Corner Brook during portions of the winter) and Blanc Sablon , Quebec .

There's also a Labrador coastal ferry which runs seasonally from Lewisporte to a long string of tiny communities as far north as Nunatsiavut :

  • Nunatsiavut Marine ( Northern Ranger ), toll-free: +1-866-535-2567 . The Goose Bay - Cartwright - Lewisporte continues to supply some very remote Labrador outports with no road. ( updated Aug 2022 )
  • Norpen Bus Service runs a shuttle from Corner Brook and Deer Lake to St. Anthony Airport on Tuesdays & Fridays ( ☏ +1 709 457-2024 or ☏ +1 709 457-7197 ).

Intraprovincial flights are provided by Air Canada , Provincial Airlines and Air Labrador .

travel labrador canada

In the St. John's area , be sure to visit the historic Signal Hill fort and walking trail, and watch the sun come up over the ocean. The other main sites in the capital are the Battery, which is the oldest part of St. John's, the colourful downtown row houses, and the natural harbour of St. John's. Nearby Cape Spear, the most easterly point in North America, is very scenic, and windy too!

travel labrador canada

Going " Around the Bay " is a term Newfoundlanders use to talk about travelling around the numerous outport communities. Often this is limited to those on the Avalon Peninsula in the area between Conception Bay and St. John's. Points of interest, historical and aesthetic, along the way: Bay Bulls, Roaches Line, Brigus, Cupids, Bay Roberts, Harbour Grace (the original capital of the island), Carbonear, Victoria — the new highway runs around the townships, making access to Bay Roberts and even as far as Carbonear faster and easier, but you will miss out on some interesting scenery and historical places by taking the highway.

After you go Around the Bay, and end up in Carbonear or Victoria, spend the night at a local inn. Get up the next day go " Around the Belt ", a term Newfoundlanders use to describe travelling down the shore, up north around the tip of the peninsula, down the other side, and across the Heart's Content Barrens. Points of interest along the way: Spout Cove, Bradley's Cove, Western Bay, Northern Bay, Flambro Head, Lower Island Cove, Caplin Cove, Bay de Verde, Grate's Cove, Daniel's Cove, Winterton, Heart's Content.

The provincial tourism agency markets this route around the bay and belt as the Baccalieu Trail , and provides maps and driving instructions on its website.

Around the province, there are fishing stages, wharves, and other remnants of the province's long history of fishing . The Wooden Boat Museum in Winterton north of Dildo , focuses on local wooden boat history and its contribution to the province's economy and way of life. Visit St. Lawrence to see the site of the shipwrecked USS Truxtun and USS Pollux.

In the centre of the island, Gander 's international airport, once the refueling stop for nearly all international flights from Europe to North America, is worth a visit for fans of architecture and design for its well-preserved 1950s look.

Gros Morne National Park , in the west of the island, is one of the highlights for many visitors because of its varied landscapes and stark beauty. Be sure to visit Western Brook Pond, a landlocked fjord in the park.

The L'anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, on the tip of the Great Northern Peninsula on the island, is the site of the only confirmed Viking settlement in North America and believed to be the landfall site of Leif Eriksson as related in the Vinland sagas. It is one of three UNESCO World Heritage sites in Newfoundland and Labrador; the others are Gros Morne and the Basque Whaling Station in Red Bay.

Visitors who make the effort to visit remote Labrador region will be rewarded with the historic Basque Whaling Site in Red Bay , and many small communities along the Labrador coast. Battle Harbour, a National Historic Site on an island near Mary's Harbour , is a restored ghost town that was the historical hub of the Labrador salt fish industry.

You'll find wildlife such as puffins, whales, caribou, moose, eagles, and otters all over the province. NL Nature is a good source for finding out who is where.

Being so focused on the sea, it is appropriate that boat tours are a popular way of experiencing Newfoundland and Labrador. Look for whale watching tours in many coastal towns, and iceberg boat tours at Twillingate, northwest of Gander, where there is much better viewing than from Avalon Peninsula. You can take a ferry to visit the Southern Communities of the province not accessible by road.

Hikers will find lots of great trails in Gros Morne National Park and Terra Nova National Park . The East Coast Trail is a stunningly beautiful rugged hiking trail, on which you can hike and camp for days along cliffs and through forests. You can also hike the Trans Canada Trail in Newfoundland, following the former CN "Newfie Bullet" narrow-gauge line across the island. Even in St. John's, there is a great hiking. Hike around the Signal Hill trail, a rugged, terraced path that leads through the old Battery village and around Signal Hill, up to Cabot tower and back to the former Battery Hotel, giving a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean, St. John's harbour, and the city.

Biking or driving the 490-km Viking Trail will take you to a place of austere, unspoiled beauty up the west coast of the island.

There is downhill skiing at Marble Mountain or cross-country skiing at Blow-Me-Down.

Take a driving tour of the other colourfully-named outports like Joe Batt's Arm, Leading Tickles, and Little Burnt Bay.

In winter, snowmobiling is popular: Stephenville is Newfoundland's main hub for this activity.

  • July 1, Canada Day , is the nation's birthday for Canadians marking the day in 1867 that three British colonies formed a federation; in Newfoundland it's not quite so simple. Newfoundland suffered crippling military losses at the Battle of Mount Hamel (part of the Battle of the Somme in the Great War ) on July 1, 1916 so this day remains a war memorial. Paradoxically, solemn war remembrance and national birthday celebration take place simultaneously.
  • If visiting in mid-July, don't forget to party in Grand Falls - Windsor at the Exploits Valley Salmon Festival , an annual festival including a salmon dinner, a Newfie Night dance, and the Splash Concert.
  • If visiting in August, go to the Royal St. John's Regatta at Quidi Vidi Lake in the city, the oldest sporting event in North America (160 years and counting). It is traditionally held on the first Wednesday in August or the first good weather day after. On this day, most of St. John's shuts down, and an average crowd of 50,000 people go to see the races and partake of the many concession stands.

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Rural Newfoundland is known for its seafood and its working-class roots. Rural restaurants offer an over-abundance of "golden foods" (deep fried) and classically simple fare. Vegetarians will be hard pressed to find anything without meat in it, and vegans might want to pack a lunch. But if you're a fish and chips lover, you'll "fill your boots". Mainly you will see battered cod, "chips dressing and gravy", dressing being a savory-laced stuffing mixture, fish-and-brewis (pronounced "fish and brews", salt cod mashed up with a boiled rock-hard sailor's bread, pork scrunchions, and traditionally drizzled with blackstrap molasses). Ches's or the Big R in the greater St. John's area are good choices here (locals have strong opinions about which is better.) Jigg's dinner (also known as corned beef and cabbage) is a traditional one pot meal consisting of salt beef, root vegetables such as carrot, turnip, parsnip and potato, and cabbage. Also thrown in the pot is a muslin bag of yellow split peas (known as pease pudding), burgers and fries, and seafood chowder.

But if you're nice, and lucky, someone might invite you in to their home for a homemade moose stew, rabbit pie, seal flipper, caribou sausage, partridgeberry pie or a cuppa tea with home-baked bread and homemade bakeapple jam. All of these are very interesting and delicious. A big traditional meal is often referred to as "a scoff", and as Newfoundlanders also love to dance and party, an expression for a dance and a feed is a "scoff and scuff", which might be accompanied by accordion, guitar, fiddle, a singalong, and a kitchen party. Kitchen socials are so much a part of Newfoundland culture that even today, many houses are better equipped to receive visitors through the back door (leading to the kitchen) than through the front.

Fish has always been at the heart of Newfoundland culture and even with the collapse of the commercial fisheries, you will find seafood dishes almost everywhere. Cod, halibut, flounder, crab, lobster, squid, mussels, and capelin (a small fish similar to smelt or grunion) are all well represented. So too are other animals supported by the ocean system - seal, turr (murre) and the like.

A lot of Newfoundlanders habitually drink tea with evaporated or "canned" milk (a popular brand being Nestle Carnation milk). If you prefer "regular" milk, you usually ask for "tea with fresh milk" and this is, in fact, a good way to spot a Newfoundlander (or at least an Atlantic Province native) in other parts of the country. An easy excuse to have a friendly chat is to invite someone in for a "cuppa tea".

In "town", i.e. St. John's (and the other city centres of Newfoundland), there are many good restaurants for the picking, and several vegetarian and vegan friendly spots.

While in Newfoundland, particularly St. John's, do try to sample some of the candy and sweets from Purity Factories, an island fixture for many years and makers of several traditional-style confections. For many Newfoundlanders, Christmas would not be the same without a bottle of Purity Syrup, and breakfast without some of their partridgeberry and bakeapple jam wouldn't be right. (Note: bakeapples and partridgeberries are referred to elsewhere as "cloudberries" and "lingonberries", respectively.)

Newfoundland is where fried chicken chain Mary Brown's Chicken (a Canadian equivalent of KFC) was founded. The first Mary Brown's opened in St. John's at the Avalon Mall in 1969, and the chain has since expanded with locations in most areas of Canada, except in Quebec. Many cities and towns in Newfoundland will have a Mary Brown's location, with multiple locations in the St. John's and Corner Brook areas. The chain's specialty items are fried chicken and taters.

You will be in for a "time" (a social gathering) with lots of cheer. This is a province that consumes per capita more alcohol than any other in Canada. The legal drinking age in the province is 19. You will find nearly all the alcohol you desire in a Newfoundland bar. George Street in St. John's, Newfoundland has a reputation for having the most bars per capita in North America. Its largest celebration, George Street Festival, starts in early August and finishes on the Tuesday before Regatta Day.

Newfoundland & Labrador has a wonderful set of regional beers that you cannot find outside of the province. While a number of these are now brewed by the large macrobreweries (Labatt and Molson), some of them are not. Depending on where you are, you will be able to locate brews with names like Kyle, Killick, Rasberry Wheat Ale, Hemp Ale, India, Black Horse, Jockey Club, Dominion Ale, Quidi Vidi 1892, and Blue Star. Something you may notice while drinking beer in the province is the tendency for the breweries to advertise that their beers are union-made "right here" in Newfoundland. Beer is commonly found in convenience stores with a liquor licence and from the Newfoundland Liquor Corporation (NLC). The NLC is a government-owned monopoly and, much like most of Canada, there is a better selection of local and foreign beers than there are provincial beers. Inter-province trade in beer tends to be limited to the major brands, with no attention paid to the many excellent craft breweries in other regions.

While in Newfoundland, you will also encounter Screech. Screech, a Jamaican-style dark rum, is historically a result of trade between Newfoundland and Jamaica. Jamaica got the salt cod, Newfoundland got the rum. In all honesty, the rum has been tamed to conform with contemporary liquor laws, especially compared to its much more potent ancestor. Hard liquor is usually found only at the Newfoundland Liquor Corporation in urban areas; local businesses (such as convenience stores) will be designated as "agency" locations to sell spirits (as a sideline) in small rural villages.

Newfoundland has a quiet but strong tradition of berry wines. Blueberry wine, for those in the know, is as closely associated with Newfoundland tastes as Screech, and for many, may be a far more palatable first experience. Also be sure to look for partridgeberry, blackberry, cloudberry, and rhubarb wines. All of these can often be found in NLC outlets. The NLC retains the distinction of being the only liquor control board in Canada which still directly manufactures and bottles several of its hard liquor products (Screech, notably, but also gin, brandy and two vodkas), to retain the strong provincial association.

Much of Newfoundland and Labrador is still very much off the beaten path; there are still many outports only reachable by sea using coastal ferries.

While Bell offers adequate UMTS (WCDMA) coverage of most of Newfoundland island (Trans-Canada Highway, Great Northern Peninsula and Burin Peninsula ), as of 2014 cellular coverage of any kind does not exist on the Trans-Labrador outside Labrador City , Churchill Falls and Goose Bay .

There is little GSM coverage on Newfoundland and nothing in Labrador as Rogers (Canada's only remaining GSM carrier) covers just Corner Brook and a small fragment of Trans-Canada Highway on the Avalon Peninsula in and around St. John's .

The only dangers of which tourists should be mindful are related to nature and not to crime. Newfoundland is one of the safest parts of Canada and locals are very helpful to lost or confused tourists.

  • Watch out for moose on any highway in Newfoundland. There is a large moose population and no fencing or barricades to keep them off the road. Moose collisions can lead to death or serious injury, and usually result in the car being destroyed. Be especially alert on rural highways off of the Trans-Canada Highway, which may have thick brush or trees right on the side of the road. Take special care when driving at night on all highways. May-November is the peak season for collisions. The Newfoundland and Labrador government maintains a page on highway moose safety.
  • Fog can move in on highways in coastal areas very quickly and produce an almost whiteout effect. Drive according to weather conditions!
  • Do not pass beyond marked barricades at tourist destinations on the coast. Tourists have fallen to their deaths (particularly at Cape Spear and Twillingate isle) by going too close to the edge of the rocky cliffs.
  • Newfoundland is known for its severe snowfalls in wintertime. The western coast (facing the wide-open Gulf of St. Lawrence) and sub-Arctic Labrador are particularly vulnerable. Some sections of Trans-Labrador Highway may be closed for up to a week in adverse weather, with portions which closely skirt the Atlantic coastline being most exposed. Pack for an extended stay if arriving in winter.
  • The "Newfie" (also "Newf") stereotype : in Canada, this figure is similar to the hillbilly stereotype or the rural hick stereotype. As with both of those cases, it is rooted in discrimination. While some Newfoundlanders may call themselves "Newfies", it may be wise to refrain from calling the province's residents as such yourself, as many see this as a slur or putdown when it comes from a non-native. Like "Canuck", which began as a slur against Canadians, the word "Newfie" is acceptable to some, but err on the side of caution and use "Newfoundlander" instead.
  • While Newfoundlanders are generally easy-going people who do not take themselves too seriously, criticism or jokes about the province's culture will not be welcomed. Newfoundlanders are proud of their history and distinct culture.
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10 best newfoundland small ship cruises for 2024-2025, greenland & wild labrador, newfoundland circumnavigation, newfoundland and wild labrador: a torngat mountains adventure, ocean voyage: helsinki - saint-pierre and miquelon, fabled lands of the north: greenland to newfoundland, the canadian maritimes and newfoundland, sable island, cape breton, newfoundland, and the magdalen islands: atlantic island odyssey, canadian arctic & northern lights, southern greenland discovery, expedition along saint lawrence, 10 best newfoundland luxury small ship cruises for 2024-2025, from the st lawrence to greenland, the last moments of winter, 6 top-rated newfoundland small cruise ships for 2024-2025, newfoundland & labrador travel guide, newfoundland & labrador culture and history, wildlife guide to polar regions, arctic cruise: when to go.

  • Silversea Cruises   - feature an inspiring voyage from Reykjavik to New York, visiting Corner Brook, gateway to some of the wildest wonders of Newfoundland's West Coast.  Silver Whisper  offers charms of a stylish boutique hotel with amenities of a grand resort, including four restaurants and many suite options, pampering, fine dining, and spaciousness throughout.  
  • Adventure Canada   - offers a spectacular circumnavigation of Newfoundland that includes visits to picturesque villages, Viking archaeology, Basque whaling history, and hiking in Gros Morne National Park. The spacious, ice-strengthened  Ocean Endeavour  features twenty Zodiacs, advanced navigation equipment, and stabilizers.
  • Lindblad Expeditions    - embark on a satisfying circumnavigation of Newfoundland aboard  National Geographic Explorer   and sail into Eastern Canada's breathtaking natural beauty.

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The province of Newfoundland and Labrador only joined Canada in 1949, a controversial move supported by just 52.3 percent of the population at the time. Even now, parts of Newfoundland seem like an entirely different country. The island’s remarkable family of dialects, in essence an eclectic mix of old Irish and English, developed because the outports – ancient fishing settlements that were home to the first Europeans – could only be reached by boat. Today almost all are connected to the skein of side roads that plugs into the Trans-Canada Highway, but most of the interior remains an untouched wonderland of snow-capped mountains, fish-filled rivers and mesmerizing fjords.

Moose danger

Newfoundland time zones.

Newfoundland’s natural and historic charms are considerable, yet, astonishingly, the island rarely seems busy or crowded. Most visitors fly straight to St John’s , which provides the best introduction to island life, not least for its museums, enticing restaurants, bars and flourishing folk music scene. The city is also within easy striking distance of the whale-watching at Bay Bulls , the lighthouses of Cape Spear and the East Coast Trail , providing opportunities for everything from a short ramble to a full-scale expedition.

Newfoundland’s attractions don’t end on the Avalon Peninsula though. Tiny Trinity , on the Bonavista Peninsula, is perhaps the most beguiling of all the old outports, though Twillingate comes a close second and Fogo Island remains one of the most traditional. Gros Morne National Park , 700km west of St John’s, features wondrous mountains and glacier-gouged lakes, while another 350km north of the park, at L’Anse aux Meadows , lie the scant but evocative remains of an eleventh-century Norse colony, as well as a remarkable hotel in the old lighthouse on Quirpon island. The southern coast of Newfoundland chips in with the wild and windswept Burin Peninsula, which is a quick ferry ride from French-speaking St-Pierre et Miquelon , a tiny archipelago that is – as an imperial oddity – a département of France.

Labrador , though part of mainland Canada, has been tied to the island of Newfoundland since the 1760s, yet here too you’ll find a strong sense of identity, one that blends recent arrivals with ancient Inuit and Innu traditions. Iron ore mines and hydroelectric schemes drive the economy, but these industrial blemishes are mere pinpricks in the barely explored wilderness that defines this part of the province. Unimaginably vast, Labrador boasts some of Canada’s highest mountains, a jaw-dropping national park, a spectacular shoreline and a forested hinterland teeming with wildlife. A trip here is a true adventure.

A word about the moose : Newfoundland has thousands of them and they present a real danger to the motorist at dawn and dusk and to a lesser extent at night – so much so that many locals prefer not to drive at these times. The problem is that this large and powerful animal is drawn to vehicle headlights as if hypnotized and the results of a collision can be devastating for beast and human alike: on impact, cars typically knock the moose’s legs away, leaving the animal’s body to come barrelling through the windscreen.

All of Newfoundland, as well as the Labrador coastal communities south of Cartwright (from L’Anse au Claire, on the Québec border, to Norman Bay), is on Newfoundland Standard Time (3hr 30min behind GMT, and 1hr 30min ahead of Eastern Standard Time). Most of Labrador (Cartwright, Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Labrador West), as well as the Maritime Provinces, is on Atlantic Time , half-an-hour behind Newfoundland time. St-Pierre et Miquelon also has its own time zone – half-an-hour ahead of Newfoundland Time.

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  • The Avalon Peninsula
  • The Bonavista Peninsula
  • Central Newfoundland
  • Gros Morne National Park
  • The Humber Valley
  • The Northern Peninsula
  • St-Pierre et Miquelon

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Newfoundland and Labrador

Places to go

Where the welcome is wild

The most easterly point of North America, this is where the sun rises and the colours are more vibrant. With its dramatic natural beauty, serene seaside villages, miles of untouched coastline and giant icebergs that make an annual appearance, it won’t take long to see why Newfoundland and Labrador lures visitors time and time again. There are three distinct Indigenous groups in Newfoundland and Labrador — the Inuit, Innu, and the Mi'Kmaq. From listening to stories that offer a glimpse into its history, to participating in traditional crafts workshops, to learning fishing techniques passed down through generations, there are no shortage of ways to connect with local cultures in Canada’s easternmost province.

St. John's

A row of colourful houses on the bay in St. John's

As Canada’s most easterly city, St. John’s rainbow-hued row houses and weathered fishing piers rise up and line the rugged slopes and rocky shores of the mercurial Atlantic Ocean.

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Newfoundland and Labrador food dishes

Five foods you have to try in Newfoundland and Labrador

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The most stunning views in Atlantic Canada

St. John’s Cityscape, Avalon

Exploring St. John’s

Iceberg Alley

Ancient giants: iceberg viewing in Newfoundland & Labrador

Ferry Island Lighthouse Newfoundland

Newfoundland and Labrador's coast: 10 spectacular lighthouses

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Whale watching off the coast of Newfoundland

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Don’t miss the iconic spots and hidden gems. No matter where you go in Newfoundland, there are amazing itinerary ideas for you to explore.

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Signal Hill

From St. John's to Deer Lake    External Link Title

From CAD $4,263 per person

11 days / 10 nights

The beauty of Newfoundland and Labrador on Canada’s east coast is a definite must-see!

City view of the colourful houses in St John's Newfoundland

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From CAD $4,995 per person

10 days / 9 nights

Be amazed as Newfoundland proudly shares its rugged geography, dramatic history, distinct culture, and world-famous hospitality. Experience natural wonders and enjoy the local flavours of “The Rock”.

Point Amour lighthouse in Labrador

Sleepy Coves and Charming Lighthouses    External Link Title

From CAD $5,795 per person

12 days / 11 nights

The rugged beauty of “The Big Land” is breathtaking, and in Newfoundland even the rocks have stories to tell! Here, accordions compete with ugly sticks and the kindness of the people is unforgettable.

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Colorful houses along the waterfront

New Brunswick

A bridge over the Saint John (also known as Wolastoq) River

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The lighthouse at Peggy's Cove

Nova Scotia

Argyle Street in downtown Halifax

Prince Edward Island

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Book now, sleep easy

To bring this itinerary to life be sure to make your travel reservations well in advance as demand is high during the peak season. This will help you avoid disappointment and give you the freedom to travel as you’ve planned.

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1. Book your way here

Newfoundland and Labrador can be reached via popular national and international connections.

  • +1 (888) 247 2262
  • www.aircanada.com/newfoundlandlabrador
  • +1 (888) 937 8538
  • www.westjet.com
  • +1 (888) 619 8622
  • www.flyporter.com
  • www.newfoundlandlabrador.com/PlanYourTrip/LocalTransportation

Travellers can reach Newfoundland and Labrador via Marine Atlantic ferries which operate between North Sydney, Nova Scotia and the island of Newfoundland. These super ferries carry hundreds of vehicles and passengers to two entry points – Port aux Basques and Argentia

  • +1 (800) 341 7981
  • www.marine-atlantic.ca
  • www.tw.gov.nl.ca/ferryservices

2. Book your car rental

Summer is the height of travel and convention season and demand for rental cars is high. With so much to explore in this this place — be sure to book car rentals early.

  • www.newfoundlandlabrador.com/plan-and-book/transportation-and-information

3. Reserve your accommodations

As with car rentals, accommodations are in high demand during the summer months, so it’s important to book at least some in advance.

  • www.newfoundlandlabrador.com/plan-and-book/accommodations

4. Confirm details and reserve your space

For many activities, attractions, and restaurants it’s a good idea to touch base and confirm hours of operation,reservations & other details.

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If you’re interested in bringing this itinerary - or one similar to it - to life without having to worry about the details, there are many package tour operators that can take care of the arrangements for you. Whether you want to book everything at once - be it travel, accommodations, and attractions - or you just want to book a local package for the length of your stay (and book your own flight/ferry crossing), the choice is yours.

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Explore With Lora

How to Plan a Newfoundland Road Trip Itinerary

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: March 28, 2023  - Last updated: June 4, 2024

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Planning a Newfoundland road trip? I grew up in Newfoundland and have driven across the province more times than I can even count! In this guide, I’m sharing everything you need to know about planning a road trip to Newfoundland.

If chasing icebergs, hiking coastal trails, and watching whales breach sounds up your alley, then you will love visiting Newfoundland.

Located on the easternmost tip of North America, Newfoundland isn’t the most accessible destination to reach in Canada, but it’s certainly one of the most rewarding.

While planning your Newfoundland itinerary, it’s important to remember that Newfoundland and Labrador is a BIG province.

Even though I grew up here and spent the better part of summer 2020 exploring the island, there are still places I haven’t seen. Not to mention Labrador!

Although we are one province, Newfoundland and Labrador are quite different. Going to Labrador is a whole adventure on its own (which I hope to write about someday).

If you want to travel around Newfoundland properly, it will take you at least three weeks. Unfortunately, most people don’t have that much time, so you’ll have to pick and choose where to go.

This travel guide highlights all the best places to visit in Newfoundland so that you can plan a fantastic road trip itinerary.

Book your car rental in Newfoundland ahead

If you aren’t taking your own vehicle for the road trip, make sure to rent a car in advance, as car rentals can get booked up early in the summertime (especially in Newfoundland).

car on road

BEST CANADA CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS

When booking your Canada car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They search both international and local Canadian companies, so you get the best price.

All the airports have car rental agencies inside them, so this is the easiest option if you’re flying into one of the provinces from the mainland or abroad.

To find the best prices on car rentals, search Discover Cars. They will search all the main car rental agencies (Enterprise, Hertz, etc). so you can easily compare rental prices.

Bucket List Newfoundland Experiences

whales in newfoundland

Go whale-watching! This is one of my absolute favorite things to do in Newfoundland.

Over 22 species of whales live in the ocean surrounding the island, including an abundance of humpbacks that migrate here every summer. It’s one of the best places to go whale-watching in the world!

The best time to see them is during July and August when the Capelin are rolling onto shore.

puffins newfoundland

Look out for puffins. Newfoundland is home to thousands of puffins that nest on the cliffs every summer. It’s one of the best places for puffin spotting in North America !

Elliston on the Bonavista Peninsula is one of the best places to see puffins.

icebergs newfoundland

Chase icebergs . Every spring, hundreds of icebergs make their way from Greenland, often getting stuck in the bays around Newfoundland.

Visit Iceberg Finder to see where they are this year. Trinity, Twillingate , and St. Anthony are popular spots for iceberg spotting.

The best time to see icebergs is in the spring from April-June (although sometimes they can last until July). Boat tours can take you up close, although icebergs can also be enjoyed from shore.

east coast trail

Go hiking along the coast . With over 29,000 km of coastlines to explore, Newfoundland is a paradise for hiking trails.

You can find trails throughout the province, but some of my favorites are the East Coast Trail in St. John’s, the Discovery Trail in Bonavista, and the hiking trails in Gros Morne , one of two national parks in Newfoundland.

tablelands gros morne

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Newfoundland and Labrador is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites (pretty impressive, considering there are only 20 in Canada ).

These include Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve on the Irish Loop , L’anse Aux Meadows on the Northern Peninsula , Gros Morne National Park , and Red Bay in Labrador. They are all spectacular and deserve a spot on your Newfoundland vacation itinerary!

lobster in newfoundland

Enjoy the fantastic seafood . Maybe I’m biased, but I truly believe we have the best seafood in the world

Enjoy freshly caught cod, lobster, shrimp, and so much more. We also have some pretty talented chefs and notable restaurants here. In fact, three of Canada’s top 100 restaurants are in Newfoundland!

How to Get to Newfoundland

fishing village in newfoundland

Planning a road trip to Newfoundland isn’t as easy as the rest of Canada because it’s an island only accessible by ferry or airplane. Most people don’t realize just how far away it is from the mainland!

Travel to Newfoundland by Ferry

The ferry from Sydney (in Cape Breton Island , Nova Scotia) takes about seven hours to reach Port Aux Basque on Newfoundland’s west coast.

There is also a longer ferry (16 hours+), which goes to Argentia on the East Coast. You can tour Newfoundland by car via these ferries or go on as a walk-on passenger.

Travel to Newfoundland by Plane

Newfoundland doesn’t have the best international connections. If you’re coming internationally, you’ll likely have to connect via Toronto or Montreal. From Toronto, it’s a 3-4 hour plane ride depending on the wind.

The fact that Newfoundland is out of the way often deters people from coming here, which is a shame. It’s a unique province unlike anywhere else in the country. There’s a reason everyone who comes here falls in love!

The best way to enjoy Newfoundland is by car. It makes an excellent addition to an East Coast Canada road trip if you want to see some of the other maritime provinces like Nova Scotia , Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick.

If you’re short on time, the best option is to fly into St. John’s (east coast) or Deer Lake (west coast) and hire a rental car from there.

If you aren’t taking your vehicle for the road trip, there are multiple car rental agencies in Newfoundland to rent from. If you’re flying in, you can pick up a rental car at the St. John’s International Airport or the Deer Lake Lake airport.

Getting Around Newfoundland

small house in fogo island newfoundland

Back in the day, there was a train that went across Newfoundland that went along the coast. It’s such a shame that it doesn’t exist anymore.

Now the train across Canada only goes from Vancouver to Halifax , and from there, you can drive/take a ferry to Newfoundland.

Having a car is pretty essential for traveling around Newfoundland. There is a DRL bus that goes across the island, but it doesn’t go down the peninsulas where all the best places are.

Best Places to Road Trip Newfoundland

twilliingate coastline newfoundland

The magic of Newfoundland lies in the peninsulas.

There’s one highway that goes across the province (TCH 1), and driving across Newfoundland without detouring off the highway might not leave you with the best impression.

Sure, there are some scenic parts of the drive, but the best places to go in Newfoundland are by the ocean off the highway.

While planning your Newfoundland vacation, here are some suggestions for the best places to visit on your trip across the island. Note that this is by no means an inclusive list!

Newfoundland is full of unique small towns to see, and you could spend years exploring them all.

Eastern Newfoundland

Newfoundland road trip map

Avalon Peninsula

The Avalon Peninsula is where over half of the population lives, and it’s jam-packed with fun activities.

St. John’s and surrounding area

st. john's newfoundland

St. John’s is the capital city of Newfoundland and where I grew up. It’s a charming city with lots to see and do.

If you’re flying into Newfoundland, you’ll most likely be landing here. It makes a great place to start or end your Newfoundland travel itinerary.

Spend a couple of days wandering around the colorful streets of downtown, enjoying the nightlife and dining at Canada’s best restaurants.

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RECOMMENDED ST. JOHN’S HOTEL

One of the most beautiful places to stay in downtown St. John’s is Blue on Water. This 4-star accommodation features beautiful interior designs and is steps away from top attractions.

If you’re a come from away (aka not from Newfoundland), do a screech-in ceremony downtown on George Street to become an honorary Newfoundlander. It’s a fun time!

Even though it’s a city, it’s not hard to find nature while in St. John’s. The entire city is surrounded by a network of trails known as the East Coast Trail , a beautiful coastal 326 hiking trail broken into 26 paths that stretch across the Avalon Peninsula’s shores.

lora hiking the east coast trail in newfoundland

There are also many other hiking trails in and around St. John’s . Definitely check out Signal Hill National Historic Sites for the city’s best views.

From there is a trail you can take that goes through the Battery all the way to Quidi Vidi, a charming fishing village. Afterward, take a drive to Cape Spear lighthouse, the most easterly point in all of North America!

There are many smaller communities surrounding St. John’s, which make great day trips. If you’re a diver, one fun thing to do is join a dive with Ocean Quest Adventures around Bell Island, where you can dive with shipwrecks.

Discover more things to do in St Johns Newfoundland

witless bay newfoundland

The Irish Loop is a beautiful section of the Avalon Peninsula that you can drive as a day trip from St. John’s, or spend a couple of nights exploring.

It’s home to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, one of Newfoundland’s best places to see puffins and whales.

whale tail

RECOMMENDED WHALE-WATCHING TOUR

Departing from Bay Bulls, this whale and puffin cruise will take you to marvel at marine wildlife through the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve.

The reserve is home to over 2.5 million seabirds and one of the largest populations of whales in the North Atlantic!

It’s also home to the UNESCO world heritage site Mistaken Point , where you can see 650 million-year-old fossils.

Argentia/Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve

Following along the Trans Canada Highway 1, there are two more peninsulas you can explore on the Avalon Peninsula.

One is the turn-off for Argentia, where the ferry departs for Nova Scotia (this is the longer ferry). At the tip of the peninsula is Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve , a paradise for bird watchers.

Bay de Verde Peninsula

sign that says dildo in hills by houses

On the other side of the Avalon Peninsula is the Bay de Verde peninsula, home to Newfoundland’s most famous town: Dildo. Yes, you read that right!

Made famous by Jimmy Kimmel, Dildo is quite a cute place to stay with some great restaurants and even a brewery. It’s a great addition to your Newfoundland driving itinerary.

sunset over lake

RECOMMENDED DILDO HOTEL

Why not stay overnight in Dildo? The Dildo boathouse inn is a great choice, with stunning sea views from the rooms to soak in the spectacular sunsets.

Continue down this peninsula, and you’ll come across more charming small towns. At the tip is Grate’s Cove – I haven’t had a chance to explore it, yet but have heard great things.

Brigus and Cupids are two other small towns along this peninsula worth visiting. If you’re visiting in August, don’t miss the Brigus blueberry festival – it’s always a good time.

Burin Peninsula

I haven’t had a chance to explore this peninsula yet, but I really want to because at the bottom you can take a ferry that goes to France! Yes, you can even visit Europe while road-tripping through Newfoundland.

St. Pierre et Miquelon is a small island owned by France, which you can visit by heading down the Burin Peninsula and catching a ferry. This has been on my bucket list for so long!

Bonavista Peninsula

The Dungeon in Bonavista

The Bonavista Peninsula is one of the most beautiful parts of Newfoundland. Full of adorable small towns, gorgeous hiking trails , epic whale watching, puffin spotting, and iceberg-chasing opportunities.

The two best towns to stay here are Trinity and Bonavista, about 40 minutes apart.

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RECOMMENDED TRINITY HOTEL

The Eriksen Premises is one of Trinity’s historic homes and a great place to spend the night. Antique wood décor is featured in all individually decorated rooms, and it’s next to restaurants and shops.

Be sure to stop in Port Rexton in between the two towns and hike the Skerwink Trail, one of the most famous hiking trails here. Afterward, enjoy a cold brew at the Port Rexton Brewery.

Whale Watching Tour in Trinity Newfoundland

Discover more things to do in Trinity

Central Newfoundland

I never knew how amazing Central Newfoundland was until I visited for a week during the summer of 2020.

For a long time, I just thought of it as a place to stop along the highway on your way across the province. But Central Newfoundland has so much to offer than that. Don’t miss this part of the province on your Newfoundland trip!

Terra Nova National Park

hiking in terra nova national park

Terra Nova National Park is one of two national parks in Newfoundland! You’ll drive right through it on your road trip in Newfoundland if you’re taking the TCH-1 across the province, but it’s worth detouring here if you love the outdoors. Terra Nova is an excellent place for camping as well as hiking.

Eastport Peninsula

the town of salvage on the eastport peninsula newfoundand

The Eastport Peninsula , also known as the road to the beaches (route 310), is a great side trip while on a road trip through Newfoundland.

It takes you down to one of the cutest communities and picturesque beaches in Newfoundland. Yes, we have white-sand beaches here! There’s also a great hiking trail network here called the Damnable trail.

Hare Bay – Route 320/330

whale tail in newfoundland

On the other side of Bonavista Bay is Hare Bay, one of the best places to go whale watching in Newfoundland.

We did a four-hour excursion with Hare Bay Adventures , and it was incredible to see so much marine life. The whales were jumping everywhere, and there were thousands of birds overhead.

Nearby is the town of Dover, where you can see the Dover Fault site. This is where the North American and European continents collided 150 million years ago! They have an interpretation site set up, and there’s also a small plane wreck you can see.

Keep driving on route 320/330, and you’ll reach Lumsden, which I’ve been told also has wonderful beaches.

Gander isn’t the most naturally appealing place in Newfoundland, but it does have some interesting places to visit for those interested in history.

Gander played an important role in WWII, as well as on September 11th. Made famous by the play Come From Away! There’s also an international airport here.

Twillingate and Fogo Island

twillingate newfoundland

Twillingate and Fogo Islands are quickly becoming two of the most popular places to visit in Newfoundland.

Twillingate is a magical town known for its epic iceberg-watching opportunities, hiking trails, and gorgeous coastline.

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RECOMMENDED TWILLINGATE HOTEL

With its seaside charm, Twillingate is the perfect place to spend a night or two on your road trip. I recommend the Salt Box Co. , so you can experience what it’s like to stay in a traditional saltbox house.

Fogo Island has seen a boom in tourism thanks to the Fogo Island Inn, attracting celebrities and artists worldwide.

fogo island newfoundland

Be sure to hike Brimstone head to visit one of the four corners of the flat earth, and join Al’s walking tour here to take you around the historic town of Tilting. Afterward, Stop in Bang Belly for lunch for a delicious lunch.

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RECOMMENDED FOGO HOTEL

We all wish we could stay at the Fogo Inn, but it’s not in most people’s budget. Instead, stay at one of The Old Salt Box Co. locations and enjoy sunsets over the ocean from your room.

There are also the Change Islands , where the boat will stop on the way to Fogo Island. Although not nearly as popular, I’ve heard great things about these islands. There’s a Newfoundland Pony sanctuary there!

Grand-Falls Windsor

river rafting in grand falls

Grand Falls is another place right off the highway that most people use as a place to sleep, as it’s about halfway across the province. However, it does have some fun activities to offer. For example, it’s home to the Exploits River, where you can go river-rafting!

Fortune Harbour & Bay of Exploits

bay of exploits newfoundland road trip

This is one of my favorite places in Central Newfoundland. The Bay of Exploits is hands down the best place for sea kayaking in Newfoundland .

Fortune Harbour is just a small community nearby but makes an excellent base to stay in if you are joining a day kayaking tour with Adventures Newfoundland.

Kings Point

alexander murray hiking trail kings point

Another great stop in Central Newfoundland right off the highway is King’s Point, near Springdale.

It’s not only a great place to go whale watching but also for hiking. It’s home to the Alexander Murray Hiking Trail, a gorgeous three-hour hike that brings you to one of the best viewpoints in Central.

road trip in newfoundland

Western Newfoundland

Western Newfoundland is incredible. It’s got a completely different landscape than the rest of the province, with gorgeous mountain ranges.

Following the TCH-1 from King’s Point, it’s about an hour and a half until you reach the town of Deer Lake.

There are hotels here if you need a place to spend the night, but it’s also the turn-off for Highway 430, which takes you to Gros Morne National Park and the Viking Trail. There’s also an airport in Deer Lake, so you can fly here from St. John’s if you’re short on time.

Gros Morne National Park

two tourists in red chairs looking at ocean in gros morne national park

Gros Morne National Park is a must while road-tripping around Newfoundland. Just driving in Newfoundland through the national park is an activity in itself; the landscapes are stunning.

houses in rocky harbour at sunset

RECOMMENDED GROS MORNE HOTEL

Rocky Harbour is the most convenient place to stay in the park if you aren’t camping. I recommend Bambury’s Hillside Chalets, cute saltbox homes with a 9.5+ rating.

Be sure to check out the tablelands trails, where you can see what the inside of the earth’s mantle looks like. Gros Morne National Park was named a UNESCO world heritage site for its outstanding geological significance.

lora hiking gros morne mountain

Gros Morne is full of stunning hiking trails , but one of the best to go on is Gros Morne Mountain.

This 800m ascent is no easy feat but takes you to one of the best views in the park overlooking the long-range mountains and surrounding ponds.

Another must-do activity in Gros Morne is a boat ride down Western Brook Pond through the fjords. I felt like I had been transported to Norway; it was breathtaking.

fjords in gros morne national park

Great Northern Peninsula – Viking Trail

Route 430, known as the Viking trail , is one of the best road trips in Newfoundland.

l'anse aux meadows viking site in newfoundland

It starts after turning off for Gros Morne from Deer Lake, taking you right through the park. However, it’s worth it to keep driving around Newfoundland to St. Anthony on the Northern tip.

There you can find L’anse Aux Meadows . This UNESCO world heritage site is one of the only Viking settlements outside Greenland.

At L’anse aux Medows, you can see a reconstructed Viking village and learn about this fascinating part of history in the Parks Canada interpretation center.

Most people stay in St. Anthony for a night or two here since it takes about four hours to drive from Deer Lake. St. Anthony is also one of the best places to see icebergs and whales in Newfoundland!

st anthony coastline

RECOMMENDED ST. ANTHONY HOTEL

Grenfell Heritage Hotel & Suites is a historic hotel in St. Anthony, centrally located in town. It offers fully equipped kitchens in the apartment rooms – we stayed here for a week and loved it!

Corner Brook and Humber Valley

Corner Brook is the second-largest city in Newfoundland, although only about 30,000 people live here. Nevertheless, it’s a great base to stay in if you’re exploring the west coast with many hotels to choose from.

modern hotel room

RECOMMENDED CORNER BROOK HOTEL

If you’re staying overnight in Corner Brook, stay at the Hew & Draw hotel. This family-owned and operated, pet-friendly boutique hotel is thoughtfully curated with Newfoundland-inspired custom furnishings. Plus, they have a hot tub on the rooftop! It’s one of the best hotels in Newfoundland.

Corner Brook is home to Marble Mountain, one of the best places for winter sports in Newfoundland. In the summer, it’s got gorgeous hiking trails, especially around the Humber Valley area.

Codroy Valley

mountains in codroy valley newfoundland

Codroy Valley is a hidden gem in Newfoundland . You’ll see the mountains in the distance driving towards Port Aux Basques, but it’s worth spending some time here. Sheltered by the long-range mountains, the weather is lovely here – and so is the hiking.

Port Aux Basques

Port Aux Basque is where you take the ferry to Nova Scotia. I haven’t spent much time here outside of that, but there are some places to stay overnight .

Another place that’s high on my Newfoundland list to check out is Burgeo, on the other side of the west part of the island. I’ve heard fantastic things about this area, although it’s more off-the-beaten-path.

Newfoundland Road Trip Itineraries

colorful homes in trinity newfoundland

You could spend an entire summer exploring the best Newfoundland road trips and still not see it all (trust me, I’ve tried); I realize most people have limited vacation time.

If you only have a few days, I recommend sticking to one side of the island (East, Central, or West). Otherwise, you will spend all your time traveling. It takes about 12 hours to drive the province from East to West!

3 Week Newfoundland Itinerary

With three weeks, you could go on a fantastic road trip around Newfoundland, hitting many of the best places in Newfoundland:

  • Day 1-3: Explore St. John’s, optional day trip around Irish Loop
  • Day 3: Drive to Trinity (3 hours), optional stop in Dildo on way
  • Day 4: Explore Bonavista Peninsula
  • Day 5: Drive to Terra Nova National Park (1 hour), spend the night
  • Day 6: Drive to Eastport Peninsula (1 hour), spend the night
  • Day 7: Drive to Hare Bay (1 hour), spend the night
  • Day 8: Drive to Twillingate (2 hours), optional stop in Gander
  • Day 9: Explore Twillingate, take the ferry to Fogo Island that day
  • Day 10: Explore Fogo Island
  • Day 11: Take the ferry back from Fogo, drive to Fortune Harbour (3 1/2 hours)
  • Day 12: Explore the Bay of Exploits
  • Day 13: Drive to King’s Point (2 hours), optional stop in Grand-Falls Windsor
  • Day 14: Drive to Gros Morne National Park (2 hours)
  • Day 15-16: Explore Gros Morne National Park
  • Day 17: Drive to St. Anthony (3-4 hours)
  • Day 18: Explore St. Anthony/L’anse Aux Meadows
  • Day 19: Drive back to Deer Lake or Corner Brook (4-5 hours)
  • Day 20: Explore Corner Brook
  • Day 21: Fly or take ferry back home

As you can see, even with three weeks, it’s tight to hit all the places I’ve mentioned in this post. Depending on how much time you have, you really need to pick and choose which areas you want to see the most here!

If you’re short on time, you can also fly between some cities in Newfoundland, such as St. John’s and Deer Lake. Although I do think touring Newfoundland by car is the best way to see the province.

orange flowers next to a blue house in brigus newfoundland

2 week Newfoundland Itinerary (14 days)

With two weeks in Newfoundland, you can still see a lot of the province. I would still stick to two regions (east, central, or west) and make the most of your time there, spending a week in each.

Just combine two of the one week itineraries I’ve suggested above to make a 14 day Newfoundland itinerary.

Newfoundland itinerary 7 days (one week in Newfoundland)

With 7 days in Newfoundland, it’s best to dive deep into one region of the province otherwise, you’ll spend most of your time driving. Some people fly into St. John’s, spend a few days exploring the city , then head over to Gros Morne National Park for their remaining few days.

A week in St. John’s would give you plenty of time to explore the surrounding towns as day trips, as well as visit the Bonavista Peninsula.

Alternatively, you could spend the week exploring Central Newfoundlan d. We covered Eastport, Hare Bay, Twillingate, Fogo Island, Grand Falls, and the Bay of Exploits in one week. It was magical.

If you want to explore the Viking Trail , it’s best to fly into Deer Lake and stick to the island’s west coast. Spend the week in Corner Brook and drive along the Viking Trail towards St. Anthony, stopping in Gros Morne National Park along the way.

fall colors in Newfoundland

Best Time to Visit Newfoundland

The best time to Visit Newfoundland is during the summer months (July an August), as this is when you’ll get the nicest weather for hiking, and the whales are most plentiful.

However, if you want to see icebergs, springtime from May to June is the best time to visit, although sometimes they can last until July.

Fall is also a beautiful time in Newfoundland, and pleasant weather can last well until October. However, many tour operators will start shutting down in September, so this is something to consider.

If you love winter, Newfoundland can also be lovely for skiing and winter hiking . However, the weather is very unpredictable; so you’ll have to factor in travel delays to your plans.

Renting a car in Newfoundland

highway in newfoundland

Car rentals are somewhat limited in Newfoundland, so I recommend booking ahead of your trip , as they often sell out in the busy summer season when most people are Newfoundland touring.

To find the best prices on car rentals, search Discover Cars.  They will search all the main car rental agencies (Enterprise, Hertz, etc.). so you can easily compare rental prices and find the best deal!

My favorite rental agency in Newfoundland is Enterprise, as they were fantastic to deal with when I had a car accident. The manager even came after working hours to help me sort everything out!

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Before heading out on any road trip, it’s essential to protect yourself with travel and medical insurance. You never know what can happen while you’re out on an adventure, and the last thing you want is expensive medical bills ruining your trip (because no, healthcare in Canada is not free for everyone).

As a digital nomad, I use SafetyWing travel insurance. For shorter trips, I recommend HeyMondo.

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RECOMMENDED TRAVEL INSURANCE

Don’t forget to protect your trip with HeyMondo travel insurance. Get peace of mind with:

  • 24/7 worldwide assistance (including covid)
  • Extended Stays
  • Cover for non-refundable expenses
  • Heymondo assistance app

Newfoundland Tours | Trips to Newfoundland

A Newfoundland self-drive tour is the best way to explore Newfoundland. Unfortunately, there aren’t many guided trip options that tour the entire province, but here are some individual tours you can book while on a Newfoundland driving tour.

There are some bus tours that will take you around Newfoundland, but these are pretty expensive and generally geared toward an older crowd.

Lastly, there are some cruise ships that come to Newfoundland and small ship expeditions.

FAQ: Newfoundland road trip

How long does it take to drive around newfoundland.

It takes 12 hours to drive from St. John’s on the east coast to Port Aux Basques on the west coast. However, this is all along the main highway. If you’re detouring off the peninsulas (which you should), it’s going to take you much longer to drive around Newfoundland. This post has all the info you need.

How much time to visit Newfoundland?

Newfoundland is a big province and you could spend months exploring all the quaint towns and scenic drives in Newfoundland. To make the most of your time, you’ll want at least a week.

How big is Newfoundland?

Newfoundland covers an area of over 400,000 km², so it’s a big province and takes a long time to drive through. Here’s everything you need to know about planning a Newfoundland roadtrip itinerary.

Can you drive to Newfoundland?

Yes, but you have to put your car on a ferry from Nova Scotia, as Newfoundland is an island with no bridge there.

Have any questions about visiting Newfoundland or planning a road trip here? I know this was a lot of information, but there are just so many beautiful places to visit in Newfoundland.

Even if you only see one part of the province, you’ll still have an amazing time. Between the outdoor adventures and kind hospitality, Newfoundland is easily one of Canada’s most unique places to visit!

Visiting other parts of Canada? Don’t miss these posts!

  • Where to Stay in Halifax
  • Where to stay on the Cabot Trail
  • The best things to do in Ontario in winter
  • Top Toronto fall activities

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Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

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Lora—–my wife and i looking to spend 2-3 weeks in september and had a couple of questions 1. are the best fishing eating restaurant’s still open till sept.30th? 2. we are going to rent a vehicle, should we start at St. John’s or Deer Lake does it make any difference 3. our primary purpose is to sightsee and fish meals, as we have seen whales. Icebergs in our past. —plus any tips weather/car rental or must see’s much appreciated and Thanks—dave

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hi Lora, it was nice reading your post. Planning a trip this August (as things are opening up now) I like to ask you which ones I should avoid if I do not want to hike (the strenuous and inclined ones) as I am not fit. I am taking this trip to do some photography (landscape, seascape, fishing villages and Puffins). Can you give me a hand in understanding your itinerary so that I can eliminate the ones that are not in my interest or fitness. Thanks.

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Hi Reuben. While hiking is available in all of these places there are none that you really need to avoid as they also offer opportunities for photography and more leisure activities. Bonavista is a great place to take photos of puffins!

A first-timer's guide to Newfoundland, Canada

Darcy Rhyno

May 17, 2024 • 7 min read

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Set aside four days to hike, drive and take a boat tour through the Gros Morne National Park region on the west coast © Dorian Tsai / 500px

When a northern, sea-bound island goes by the nickname “The Rock,” you already have a good idea of what to expect. Newfoundland is a place of elemental beauty where the Earth’s mantle is one of the attractions. Stiff breezes can build to roaring winds off the cold Atlantic, pushing around icebergs and tossing fishing boats, even in coves protected by jagged cliffs where clouds of seabirds nest.

The traits Newfoundlanders are known for – hardiness, hospitality, humor – grew out of generations scraping a living from this landscape. The resourcefulness and generosity of Newfoundlanders shone on 9/11 when 38 planes loaded with passengers made an emergency landing in the small town of Gander. Based on the incident, the musical Come From Away became a Broadway smash hit. You’ll find that welcoming spirit in every corner of this rugged, majestic isle.

Two kayakers paddle past icebergs in the Wolf Cove of Bonavista, Newfoundland, Canada

When should I go to Newfoundland?

May to October is the time to visit Newfoundland. Icebergs slide by the coast in spring. In the crispness of autumn, those wide open spaces seem even emptier. Prime travel season in Newfoundland is July and August when temperatures are rarely too hot or cold, and every historic site, pub, restaurant and accommodation is running full tilt, squeezing everything they can from the short season. 

On the flip side, this concentration means increased costs for hotel rooms. Unless you arrive with your own vehicle via one of the two ferries from Nova Scotia , a rental car is essential. The one exception is if you’re flying in for a quick weekend getaway to St. John’s, the small and walkable capital city. 

Winters are harsh on Newfoundland and the snow can pile feet deep. Great for skiing on its western slopes at  Marble Mountain , but winter is otherwise a no-go season.

Buildings on the side of a rocky mountain by the sea at St. Johns, Newfoundland, Canada

How much time should I spend in Newfoundland?

Spend three days dining, partying and walking around St. John’s. Set aside four days to hike, drive and take a boat tour around the  Gros Morne National Park region on the west coast. Take at least a week to experience the whole island. Follow crooked coastal roads to views that can suddenly erupt in sprawling archipelagos or towering icebergs adrift on choppy seas. Hop on a ferry to a remote location like  Fogo Island for a truly out-of-the-way excursion. 

Bottom line, Newfoundland is much larger than many assume, about the size of Cuba. It’s the fourth largest island in a country of enormous landmasses. The 680km (423-mile) drive from Corner Brook on the west coast to St. John’s on the eastern edge takes at least seven hours. Driving distance and time is exactly the same from the ferry terminal at Port aux Basques to St. Anthony at the tip of the great northern peninsula.

Is it easy to get in and around Newfoundland?

When contemplating a trip to Newfoundland, a vast and diverse island, it’s useful to ask yourself what kind of trip you prefer. Are you partial to day hikes in a mountainous landscape with an edge of the prehistoric about it? Do you prefer long, lazy drives with endless scenery, scattered villages and ancient historic sites? If so, land at Port aux Basques or fly into Deer Lake and rent a car.

Alternatively, maybe your thing is rocky coastline punctuated by sparsely populated coves and barren islands where whales, icebergs and seabirds animate lighthouse-studded scenery. Then take the 16-hour ferry crossing from Nova Scotia to Argentia on Newfoundland’s east coast or fly into St. John’s and go with a rental car.

Whichever route you choose, be warned, rental cars are difficult to find in peak season. Book far in advance of arrival.

Three puffins, two sitting in grass on rocky ledge and one flying past, in Newfoundland, Canada

My favorite things to do in Newfoundland

The balance of nature and culture draws me back repeatedly to the western fjords, ancient tabletop mountains and quiet enclave towns like  Norris Point and  Woody Point in and around  Gros Morne National Park . Take a full day to hike up  Gros Morne Mountain itself and walk around the flat summit in search of sky high views of waterways far below. Spend a few hours walking the  Tablelands , an exposed expanse of the Earth’s mantle, an eerie, Martian landscape. 

Late May and early June is iceberg season. The hulking, shiny leviathans skulk along the northern and eastern coasts, sometimes bottoming out in shallow waters. Join the  Newfoundland and Labrador Iceberg Report group on Facebook that provides current sighting locations. One of the great thrills in St. John’s is walking up to Signal Hill where  Cabot Tower overlooks the harbor mouth and, with luck, a few icebergs or even a whale spouting in the near distance. This is where Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901.

For one of the world’s great wildlife encounters, drive a couple hours south from St. John’s to the  Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve . Looking out to Bird Rock and into the skies, you can see clouds of seabirds including some of the 30,000 northern gannets, 20,000 kittiwakes and 20,000 common murres that flock here. Just 45 minutes from the capital, the  Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is home to an astonishing 620,000 nesting pairs of Leach's storm petrels, the second-largest colony in the world. And they aren’t even the main attraction. The continent’s largest colony at 260,000 pairs of clown-faced puffins nest and fish here too. You’ll need to book a boat tour at Witless Bay to see Newfoundland’s official provincial bird. 

Nearly as exhilarating is a night out on  George Street in downtown St. John’s. It’s like a party broke out in this bar-studded neighborhood in the 19th century and never ended. George Street claims to have more bars and pubs per square foot than any street in North America. Music pulsates from nearly every doorway in summer, overflowing into the street and onto the outdoor main stage. Craft beer, pounding tunes and good times are served up in equal measure.

See more of Canada on one of these classic road trips

How much money do I need for a trip to Newfoundland?

As Canadian destinations go, Newfoundland is off the beaten flight path and isolated in the north Atlantic, making it more expensive to reach than other destinations. If crossing by ferry with  Marine Atlantic to one of Newfoundland’s two terminals, you’ll first have to drive to the northern tip of Nova Scotia. A couple with a car will pay at least $400 for a return crossing to Port aux Basques and at least $700 for the return Argentia crossing. Sleeping cabins are extra. 

On the ground in Newfoundland, prices at hotels, restaurants and bars are on par with other regions of Canada . If you’re on a budget, go with a tent or stick to B&Bs where you’ll meet friendly islanders and learn a few words of the Newfoundland dialect – maybe your hosts will treat you to a scoff of Jiggs dinner.

Daily costs

  • Basic room for two: $110-350
  • Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $110-130
  • Coffee: $2-6
  • Sandwich: $5-24
  • Dinner for two: $75-100
  • Fish and chips: $18-32
  • Beer/pint at the bar: $6.75-10
  • Iceberg tour: $40-95

Frequently asked questions

What should i wear on a trip to newfoundland.

Bring lots of layers and a raincoat for changeable weather and a solid pair of hiking shoes to take full advantage of one of Newfoundland’s best assets: its trails. 

Do I need a visa to visit Newfoundland?

Many visitors don’t need a visa to visit Newfoundland, but it’s best to check entry requirements with the  Canadian government .

Is it true that Newfoundland has its own time zone?

Yes. Newfoundland operates on Newfoundland Standard Time (NST), 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Standard Time. 

Is driving safe in Newfoundland?

Drive on the right and get to know  Newfoundland’s designated scenic routes . Roads and highways in Newfoundland are rarely busy or dangerous, with one exception. Beware of driving at night when moose often wander onto roads. 

How do I prepare for a wilderness hike?

Dress appropriately: warm clothing, a waterproof layer, good footwear. Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return. Take extra water and food.

Is tipping customary in Newfoundland?

A typical restaurant or taxi tip is 15 percent, but options range from zero at a fast food restaurant to up to 25, if you’re feeling generous.

Did anyone live in Newfoundland before European settlers?

Despite its name, Newfoundland is far from new and certainly not recently found. To fully appreciate the rich human legacy of Newfoundland , read up on the Vikings who reached Newfoundland and North America hundreds of years before Columbus, archaic peoples like the Dorset Palaeo-eskimos, the extinct Beothuk and the  Mi’kmaq who still have a presence .

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Find cheap flights to Newfoundland and Labrador from $158

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the united states to newfoundland and labrador departing on 6/16. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to newfoundland and labrador.

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Good to know

Faqs - booking newfoundland and labrador flights, which airport do i fly into if i’m visiting fogo island.

The closest airport to Fogo Island is Gander International Airport, which is 53 mi (1h 10m drive) from the ferry station in Farewell. The only way to travel from the airport to Farewell Ferry is by car. Budget, Thrifty, Enterprise, Avis, and National are car rental companies with offices at the airport. The trip from Farewell to the center of Fogo Island takes about 1h 12m and costs approximately C$ 26 (around $19) for the car plus one driver.

What’s the best way to travel from the St. John’s airport to the city center?

St. John’s International Airport is about 6 mi from the city center and is well served by an efficient network of ground transportation. If you're traveling with a lot of luggage or in a large group, it's best to take a taxi from outside the arrivals area. The airport is served by one taxi company only, called City Wide Taxi, which offers a flat rate for selected accommodations in the city. A ride to any other destination is metered. For example, a ride to the closest hotel, Comfort Inn (4m), costs about C$ 12.50 ($9). Passengers who prefer to use public transportation must take Metrobus 14 from the stop on the west side of the terminal. A one-way ticket costs around C$ 2.50 (approx. $2).

I’m visiting Terra Nova National Park. Which airport should I fly into?

The closest airport to Terra Nova National Park is Gander International (40m drive). The fastest and most convenient way to travel from the airport is to rent a car onsite and drive on Trans-Canada Highway 1. If you’re looking for a flight to Newfoundland and Labrador that lands at St. John’s International Airport, then Terra Nova will be about 2h 15m by car, also on the Trans-Canada Highway 1.

Which airport is best if I’m going to Bonavista?

Bonavista, in the Eastern Region, is closest to Gander International Airport at 150 mi away (2h 40m car ride). In terms of distance from the airport, this is the best option. St. John’s International Airport has more flight options but is 195 mi (3h 20m) away. If you prefer to have more flights to choose from and don’t mind a long drive, this is the better option.

How long is the flight to Newfoundland and Labrador?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Newfoundland and Labrador takes 9h 48m, covering a distance of 1729 miles. The most popular route is Boston - St. John's with an average flight time of 6h 10m.

What is the cheapest flight to Newfoundland and Labrador?

The cheapest ticket to Newfoundland and Labrador from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $328 one-way, and $355 round-trip. The most popular route is from Boston to St. John's and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $430.

Which airlines fly to Newfoundland and Labrador?

Delta & WestJet fly the most frequently from the United States to Newfoundland and Labrador.

What are the most popular destinations in Newfoundland and Labrador?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is St. John's (83% of total searches to Newfoundland and Labrador). The next most popular destinations are Deer Lake (11%) and Gander (6%).Searches for flights to Happy Valley-Goose Bay (1%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Newfoundland and Labrador

  • Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Newfoundland and Labrador flight deals.
  • Most flights to Newfoundland and Labrador from the US require a layover at a major Canadian airport. Those layovers might include airports like Toronto-Pearson (YYZ), Montreal-Trudeau (YUL), Calgary (YYC), or Edmonton (EIA).
  • The Newfoundland and Labrador region is served by several regional airports and three main airports. The main airports are Stephenville International Airport (YJT), which is served only by flights from other Canadian destinations; Gander International Airport (YQX); and St. John’s International Airport (YYT).
  • Even though Gander International is the largest airport in the Newfoundland and Labrador region, St. John's International Airport is served by more airlines and has more flight options.
  • Passengers from Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale have nonstop seasonal flights to Newfoundland and Labrador operated by WestJet. These flights land at St. John’s International Airport.
  • If you’re planning on flying to Gander International Airport, you’ll have to catch a connecting flight at Toronto-Pearson. These flights are seasonal and are operated by Air Canada Express in addition to the low-cost Sunwing Airlines.

Top 5 airlines flying to Newfoundland and Labrador

terrible. Because I felt very unwell during the flight. How do they leave a woman alone in the middle of 2 men? an obese man who was falling on top of me.

They put me on a chair in between two men, one overweight who was almost falling on top of me, and the other was even uncomfortable because I was half falling because of what the other was pushing me. I stayed with. my feet were swollen from fluid retention and from being unable to accommodate myself. it was very uncomfortable. I asked for help but they told me that the flight was full and they couldn't help me. I got off the plane almost unable to walk due to the inflammation. and then at FLL airport I asked for help because I couldn't go to my next flight, which was a connection.

The walk from baggage claim to the taxi is very difficult for older people I will never fly into JFK again. It is physically challenging

Overall fine but both ways for this trip was delayed.

Flight was delayed by almost 5 hours. Suitcase was not loaded despite the flight being near empty (my colleagues’ suitcases did reach JFK, unlike mine). Had to argue on phone to get JetBlue to deliver the case to my hotel. Never again

The flight was excellent. The crew was welcoming and attentive.

Great! I love Jet Blue. My favorite airline! Very efficient, clean and timely.

Run out of snack choices. Why are the seats not padded for your butt? Are we sitting on blocks of wood or metal for $250-300 a pop? This ain’t spirit. Let’s get it together people

We were told that our flight would be delayed for 90+ minutes because of weather, so we went to get something to eat only to have them randomly start boarding 15 minutes after the announcement, with no warning.

Entertainment... No earphones passed out. Many including me couldn't use the TV. Legroom was good. Crew was indifferent and a bit surly. Free wifi was a nice convenience. Check in desk location was unknown. Gate number on the boarding passes was wrong.

Why does it have to be painful to fly long distances?

It is a modern tragedy that any airline expects you to travel for 14 hours in such discomfort and that the only way to add comfort is exorbitant prices. I was in pain by the time we landed. Shameful.

Original plane sidelined. Had to wait an hour for replacement.

Crew was very cooperative and professional. Passenger's first checked in bag should be free.

No real agent onsite helping you for missing luggage there. Not like the other airline next to UA desk, they have staff attending in their desk assisting answer/helping luggage issue, even after midnight.

Horrible, the flights kept delaying, so it is obvious that we won't be able to make it to the next connection. No easier/real agent on site to help you figure this out. UA agent on other counters refuse to assist you and direct us to use the QR code/call customer service. So inefficient and poor. While technology seems convenient, but it's not the best interest/experience for customers need help while there is active issue need assistance.

Food is very bad and entertint not too many options ... flight attendet service is not good

After the morning frenzy of 35 min wait through CLT security at 4;30 AM, it was nice to have a smooth pleasant boarding experience. This 6:30 AM flight was not full. We were able to get seated swiftly and took off promptly. Nice touch they distributed the old fashioned headsets with 8 mm jacks. Snacks were decent and arrival was uneventful.

My window shade didn’t work. So I missed coming into my city. ☹️

Flight was delayed in the gate by 5 hours and ultimately cancelled- rebooking service by United agents was terrible

Paid for premium economy had no tv the whole time the crew tried to reset/reboot but would not work they said they would put a trouble ticket in for it. We had 3 seats my tv was the only one that didn't work. They cancelled our flight re worked us on another that left us at airport over night on the floor I have a ten year old and a 78 diabetic mother which also had shingles and suffers from nerve pain in legs and back. Requested wheelchair service at all airports after the re route NO wheelchair service was there to help. WORST experience we have ever had. Went to American airlines assistance it was closed. I AM FURIOUS!!! I expect some sort of compensation from this traumatic experience and no need for flying points we don't plan on using American airlines again!!!!

This is by far the worst experience I have had with American Airlines. The start of this trip was a complete disaster. I purposely planned my trip so that I would weather any delays so that I could make very important meeting at the Pentagon. My flight was cancelled because of maintenance and I was put on the first flight the next day but I was late to the meeting. After a long week at the Pentagon I just wanted to go home and my flight home which was early in the day was delayed. Eventually the flight was delayed until the next day. I was not authorized a hotel room because DCA was my point of origin. So I paid for a hotel out of pocket. The flight this morning was boarded then deplaned because the aircraft was hot. The flow of information was not happening in DCA and made it worse when the news was bad. I am going to take a break from American for my next few military flights. Hopefully whatever has been going on with American Airlines will be resolved.

We had a 2 hour delay. The seats were smaller than most other airlines. The person in front of us wanted to lay back and we had to stop her because she was pressing against my girlfriend’s legs. We had to ask her to sit up and not lay back due to the lack of room.

Information when booking said the flight would be with American Airlines but the flight was actualy with British Airways. Check in from Orlando was nice and quick. I agreed to put my cabin case in the checked luggage as it was a full flight. Case came back damaged (unable to put the handle down) so will have to dispose of it. Seats were quite cramped with very little leg room, even for economy. This was the experience of both the outgoing and return flight. Cabin crew were ok and flight time was punctual.

Everything was fine once we actually got on our flight. It was more then annoying they canceled (delayed) our flight. We lost out on a day of our trip along with money on our stay. Plus we had to book another hotel. So expensive.

This flight was canceled and delayed several times without explanation. The plane was freezing cold and no wifi for messaging. Getting off the plane was terribly unorganized and felt like it took forever….

The flight was delayed several times without explanation. The seats were terribly uncomfortable and wifi isn’t included. All these make for a less than ideal flight.

The flights was delayed by hours and it was the firmest landing I have experienced in my life. My back is still sore.

Internet service was erratic. Crew service was poor and slow. My luggage on this non-stop flight was lost and not recovered

Terrible. I didn’t fly and I had an important meeting the next day.

My flight was uncomfortable and crammed. There were no pockets to store things, I couldn’t move my seat back slightly. Beverages including soda cost extra. My husband flew on another spirit airline flight, which was delayed a total of 48 hours, only to be canceled.

Two delays in less than 24hrs. They need to improve everything and restructure the whole company.

Terrible leg room, seats don’t recline, delayed flight, and even water isn’t free onboard

Flight was canceled less than 6 hours before takeoff, rebooked on a flight that was twice as long and left earlier so we couldn’t make it, when using text support option took over 2 hours to speak with someone.

Not enough help at airport during boarding process. Flight was delayed. Overall WORST flying experience I’ve ever had. Will NEVER FLT SPIRIT AGAIN

Terrible legroom, seats do not recline, tray table the size of an iPhone, delayed flight, have to pay 5$ to get a cup of water onboard.

Could have TV/Movie and some water ou soda free

Flight was good and clean but delayed over an hour on the return flight.

The non stop flight and able to go into Atlantic City airport. They could lower the prices. It starts out low but then if you want to bring luggage and pick your seat the price goes up quite a bit.

Flight got diwngraded last minute and left us stranded. I was told I’ll be given credit for my luggage and seat upgrades but haven’t got anything yet

I strongly dislike Frontier. I find them barebones, the seats not particularly comfortable, the nickel and diming is maddening, the app is TERRIBLE - super confusing to navigate, and the last 4 frontier flights I have flown have been on AVERAGE 2 hours late, one ruining a fancy night out in Vegas with reservations made well in advance, which was nodded to with a measly 5000 miles, which translates to almost nothing. At least credit a free checked bag or something.

8 hr delay. had to buy another ticket with another airline

Four and a half hour delay in total. What frustrates me most is the poor communication and disorganization.

I appreciated the upgrade to free cary-on bag and seat selection at no charge

FRONTIER SUCKS! The agent downstairs tricked me into booking, just to get to the gate. At the gate, they told me they couldn't help. I then called Customer Service. They and the gate attendants kept blaming each other. Neither side was willing to help the customer.

The agent at check-in was strident, unwelcoming, and condescending to customers ahead of me.

Flight was delay 9hrs and nothing was provided at airport, had to go and get a room to sleep in, paid for Uber back and fort with no offers until we landed back home a 1hr later for a $75 voucher for a future flight.

Didn't like anything..entire crew was very rude to everyone on the flight. Plane old and the trays fall down on you the while time you're flying. Charged more for a carry on bag than for the plane ticket itself. Did make it from point a to point b, but worth the extra money to fly with another airline

9 hours of delay!! Was not able to check my luggage that I paid for!!!

It was delayed 9 hours for operational reasons, despite the plane arriving to the airport on time.

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Nomadic Matt: Travel Cheaper, Longer, Better

Canada Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

the stunning Canadian rockies towering over western Canada

Canada is often skipped over on many round-the-world trips owing to its proximity to the US, poor flight connections, and few budget cross-country travel options.

But those people miss out on so much! Canada is one of the best countries in the world for RVing and road trips and it’s brimming with outdoor activities for all levels. Backpacking Canada is an amazing experience.

I love my friendly neighbor to the north and believe Canada is a really underrated destination. There’s a reason everyone around the world loves Canadians after all.

To top it all off, it’s also easy to get a working holiday visa here so you can stay longer and make money while you explore (there are huge seasonal industries across the country).

This travel guide to Canada can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this friendly natural wonderland!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Canada

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in canada.

The CN Tower and skyline of Toronto as seen from the island out on Lake Ontario

1. Tour Toronto

Toronto is often considered the most multicultural city in the world, as over half of the city’s population is foreign-born. It’s an awesome, hip, artsy city. Don’t miss Kensington Market for good eats and cool shops, and there are plenty of tasty eats to be found in the city’s massive Chinatown as well. If you want to play tourist, head up the CN Tower for the best views of the city. For a bit of swimming in the summer, check out some of Canada’s easily accessible beaches on Lake Ontario where you can go kayaking, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding, and more. And if you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss the nearby amusement park Wonderland.

2. Explore Jasper and the Columbia Icefield

The Icefields Parkway connects Banff and Jasper in Western Canada and is one of the most scenic drives in the country (if not the world). Stop along the way at the Columbia Icefield, an enormous icefield that feeds into eight glaciers. You can travel onto the 10,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier where you can hike around and even drink from the crystal-clear icy glacial water. If you’re not squeamish about heights, walk out to the cliff-top glass-floored Skywalk to get a spectacular panorama of the entire area. It’s easy to reach via an enormous bus or opt for a hiking tour where you can walk the glacier. There’s even a restaurant at the top that’s a bit expensive but worth at least a coffee for the view.

3. Road trip the Maritimes

Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick make up Canada’s east coast. If you want to spend your days hiking, relaxing by the ocean, and whale watching, this is the place to do it. Nova Scotia is sometimes considered the most beautiful province with rolling hills leading to lush green coastal cliffs over frothy shores. There are colorful little fishing villages like Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site considered one of the “Prettiest Painted Places in Canada.” It boasts delicious fresh seafood and friendly locals to chat with. Be sure to set aside a few days for an incredible road trip on the 298-kilometer (185-mile) Cabot Trail around Cape Breton and spend in the Highlands National Park where you can hike, camp, or fish. The east coast is stunning and sees very few tourists compared to other areas of the country.

4. Hang out in Montreal

Montreal offers a look at the French side of the country. Old Montreal is thriving with culture and a mix of old and new architecture within its European-style cobblestone streets, the Notre Dame Cathedral, museums, and river cruises. The other side of Montreal is extremely modern with an underground city and mall, funky jazz clubs, and amazing cuisine, which make this the hippest and most romantic city in the country. It’s also cheaper than most of the other large cities in Canada. Don’t forget to try the poutine and bagels when you visit!

5. Have fun in Vancouver

Other things to see and do in canada, 1. celebrate the calgary stampede.

During July, over 1 million people descend on Calgary for this multi-day rodeo, drinking festival, and carnival where everyone gets to be a cowboy. It’s a lot of fun, and you’ll meet tons of people from around the world. It’s one of Canada’s premier events so book early — prices rise and accommodation disappears fast! Also, wear cowboy boots and a hat if you want to fit in.

2. Hit the slopes

The mountains in Canada offer great skiing and snowboarding during the winter. Banff is a popular mountain town known for its excellent trails. It’s quite busy during the winter as locals and visitors alike hit the slopes, but it’s popular for a reason. While Banff is the most popular place to go, there are tons of other great skiing destinations in the country. Sunshine Village, Whistler Blackcomb, Lake Louise, Kicking Horse, and Mont Tremblant are just a few to check out (they stretch from British Columbia to Quebec so you’ve got lots of choices).

3. Discover Vancouver Island

Take a few days off from Vancouver to explore nearby Vancouver Island . Eat delicious seafood, hike, spot some whales (lots of orcas live near here), shop, and lounge on the beach. This is a place to just sit and relax. Since it is so close to Vancouver, it’s a popular getaway with the locals during the summer. Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is located on the island. It’s a quiet but gorgeous little city worth a couple days of exploring. From here you can also visit places like Tofino, where the bustling surf community has evolved into a fun hippie town. If you’d rather hike an incredible yet challenging trail, the West Coast Trail is famous for its rugged beach and rainforest trails, man-made ladders through the trees, and rare wildlife.

4. Hike the rainforest

Hike the Pacific Rim National Park for a wonderful look at some temperate rainforests on Vancouver Island. It’s one of the most popular parks in Canada, home to Western Red Cedars, Pacific Silver Firs, and tons of wildlife including deer, wolves, bears, and cougars. The Long Beach area is one of the most accessible places for hiking, but the sand dunes behind Wickaninnish Beach on the South Beach Trail are also worth the trek.

5. Explore Calgary

Often skipped over by travelers since it’s not on the coast, Calgary actually has a lot to offer when it comes to free and low-cost activities. Have a picnic in one of its many parks, go rollerblading, watch a hockey game, or head up to the top of the surrounding peaks. There’s great hiking, kayaking, skiing, water rafting, and camping here and you can easily rent a bike and explore the city via its many bike paths. Although it’s been long dismissed as an oil town, it’s one of the liveliest cities in Canada.

6. Visit the galleries of Toronto

Toronto has some of the best museums and galleries in the country, so take a day or two to admire the art of the city. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) are the two most famous art museums, but there are a plethora of smaller, specialty galleries too, like the Textiles Museum of Canada and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Galleries often offer discounts on certain days of the week, so check before you go to save some cash.

7. Take a road trip

This huge country is best explored by car or RV. It’s the ideal way to find yourself in tiny little towns, majestic mountains, amazing countryside, and plenty of off-the-beaten-track places. If you have a lot of time, this is your best and cheapest option to see the country. The Trans-Canada Highway stretches from coast to coast, making a road trip relatively easy to plan. Just keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable (especially in the winter). Of course, you’ll have to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and you’ll want to be prepared for long stretches of driving without any rest stops or gas stations. However, it’s worth it — the changing landscapes and scenic vistas are out of this world! you could easily spend weeks or months touring the country and still barely scratch the surface. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

8. Stroll the nation’s capital

Ottawa is a very easy city to explore on foot. Home to museums, art galleries, and plenty of shops, it’s a charming city worth visiting for a couple days. You can take a tour of Parliament Hill (the historic buildings where the Canadian government operates) or cross the Ottawa River and visit Quebec (the great Museum of Civilization is just across the bridge). The Canadian War Museum and the National Gallery of Canada are two must-visit museums in Ottawa. Also, don’t miss the busy Byward Market, and be sure to check out the craft breweries in Westboro. Try a beavertail (a sweet pastry with sugary toppings) when you’re here!

9. Get off the beaten path in Nova Scotia

The locals boast that Nova Scotia is home to the friendliest people in Canada. They might be right. That, combined with over 100 beaches, picturesque lighthouses, great sailing, mouth-watering seafood (this area of Canada is the main fishing region), and a marvelous coastline, makes Nova Scotia an amazing place to visit in Canada. Plus, the province doesn’t see lots of tourists so it’s far less crowded and unspoiled compared to other regions. It’s perfect for road trips and camping.

10. Admire Quebec City

Quebec City’s Old Town offers cobblestone walkways, well-preserved 17th-century architecture, and the only North American fortress, the Citadel. The historical Quartier Petit Champlain is stunning and gives you an authentic French feeling with little cheese shops, bistros, creperies, and boutiques. It’s especially magical in December as it’s fully decorated with twinkling lights, snow-covered canopies, and lined with beautiful Christmas trees. In the warm weather, you can easily lose track of time wandering the streets admiring the flowers everywhere and colorful window shutters and storefronts. Don’t forget to sample the local ice ciders, head out for drinks on Grande Allée, and explore the streets below the stunning Château Frontenac.

11. Visit Kelowna

Warm in the summer and mild in the winter, this glacial valley has some of the best weather in the entire country. It’s no wonder that this is where many Canadians spend their vacations. There’s a marina and a few golf courses, not to mention that the Okanagan Valley is home to Canada’s best vineyards and wineries (a four-hour wine tour costs around 125 CAD). In the summer, Canadians rent fancy houseboats complete with waterslides to vacation on nearby Okanagan Lake. Overall, this is just a gorgeous slice of the country that shouldn’t be missed.

12. Head north to Churchill, Manitoba

This might be a small town in the middle of nowhere, but it also happens to be the Polar Bear Capital of the World, the Beluga Whale Capital of the World, and one of the best places to view the Aurora Borealis. You can ride in a tundra buggy (a special bus raised on giant wheels to keep you out of reach from polar bears) and head out on the open plains to see polar bears in their natural habitats. Mother nature is alive and thriving here. Day tours in a tundra buggy during the summer start at around 250 CAD, including lunch.

13. See the iconic Niagara Falls

This is one of the most visited attractions on the entire continent. You can never imagine how big it is until you see it up close (you never envision so much mist either). To see it up close, on a boat tour and head out into the waterfalls (be prepared to get soaked). Walks runs a daily boat tour that has exclusive access to the best spots and includes access to behind the falls (tours are 107 CAD). The town itself is touristy and cheesy so don’t spend more than a day or two (it’s fun for kids though).

14. Get lost in the Yukon

The Yukon is the perfect place to get your nature fix. The chances of seeing a bear, elk, or deer are incredibly high (or you can tour the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where you’re guaranteed to see them). Go hiking in Tombstone Territorial Park, soak in a mineral hot pool at the Takhini Hot Springs, or swing by the Sign Post Forest with its unique collection of over 77,000 signposts. Hardly anyone ever visits the Yukon as visitors tend to stick to the major cities in the south of the country. Because of that, you’ll find yourself surrounded by unspoiled nature.

  For more information on specific cities in Canada, check out these guides:

  • Calgary Travel Guide
  • Montreal Travel Guide
  • Nova Scotia Travel Guide
  • Ottawa Travel Guide
  • Quebec City Travel Guide
  • Toronto Travel Guide
  • Vancouver Travel Guide
  • Vancouver Island Travel Guide

Canada Travel Costs

the stunning Canadian rockies towering over western Canada

Accommodation – Rates vary a lot depending on what city you’re staying in. On average, you’ll end up paying 35-45 CAD per night for a dorm room at a hostel. Expect to pay at least 90-120 CAD for a budget hotel room. Prices rise drastically in larger cities (notably Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa).

Airbnb is available across the country, rivaling budget hotels for price and convenience. Expect to pay an average of 60-90 CAD per night for a private room, while entire homes/apartments start around 100 CAD. Keep in mind that many smaller towns won’t have many options. However, there are usually locally owned hotels or motels that are generally quite cheap. Also, Airbnb prices can double (or triple) when not booked in advance so book early.

If camping is your thing, you’ll have plenty of options across the country. Prices vary depending on the grounds but expect to pay between 25-35 CAD per night for a basic pitch for two people. Many of the major national and provincial campgrounds sell out early in the summer, so be sure to book in advance during the peak season (June-August).

Food – Overall, the food here is a collage of dishes from other cultures, owing to the country’s diverse history of immigration. On the coasts, seafood is king while the prairies have more of a meat and potatoes diet. Be sure to sample some of Canada’s famous staples like poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curds), beaver tails (fried dough with maple syrup), Canadian bacon, and the oddly tasty ketchup chips.

Overall, food can be inexpensive if you stick to cooking for yourself, eating street food, and dining at cheap fast-food places. Cheap sandwich shops and fast food are your best bet, usually costing less than 13 CAD per meal.

Pizzas cost 15-20 CAD while Asian food is usually 10-15 CAD for a main dish.

A meal out at a casual restaurant costs 20-35 CAD for a main dish and a drink. Casual fine dining costs double that.

Beer is around 7 CAD while a latte/cappuccino is around 4.60 CAD. Bottled water costs 2 CAD.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay 50-75 CAD per week for groceries. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, veggies, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Canada Suggested Budgets

How much does it cost to visit Canada? Well, it’s complicated. How much you spend largely depends on where in Canada you’re going to visit. For example, Canada’s biggest cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver are considerably more expensive than the smaller ones (like Halifax, St. John’s, and Quebec City). The rural areas are even cheaper but getting around costs more as you may need to rent a car or take expensive buses.

On a backpacking budget, you should plan to spend around 70 CAD per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all your meals, using public transportation, limiting your drinking, and sticking to free activities like hiking and enjoying nature.

On a mid-range budget of 185 CAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, take buses between destinations, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, and do more paid activities like visiting museums or taking a food or wine tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 310 CAD per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though, the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in CAD.

Canada Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Given the size of Canada, there are plenty of ways to save money when you travel, but it varies by region (as I’ve been repeating). The general tips below can help but for specific tips visit our city guides!

  • Stay with a local – As Canada is not the most budget-friendly destination owing to its inconvenient size, you’ll be able to cut down on your costs by using Couchsurfing . While not huge in smaller towns, you won’t have a hard time finding a host in the major cities. Just be sure to plan ahead during the summer as that is prime tourist season and it’s much harder to find a host then.
  • Enjoy outdoor summer festivals – Since Canadians are stuck indoors all winter, they love to make the most of hot days by packing in lots of festivals into the short summer. Many of these, like Heritage Days (Edmonton), Kits Days (Vancouver), and Caribana (Toronto), are free. Check out upcoming events online by visiting the local tourism board’s website.
  • Embrace the outdoors – A vast country with a relatively minuscule population leaves lots of potential for outdoor activities. Rent a pair of cross-country skis or snowshoes in the winter and enjoy the free use of many trails (versus expensive downhill lift passes). In the summer, you can bike, hike, kayak, or canoe. The cost of most equipment rentals is around 25-100 CAD for a day, and you can explore many areas at no further cost.
  • Take the bus – Megabus runs in Ontario and Quebec (with connections into the U.S., including NYC). You can find tickets for as little as 1 CAD if booked in advance. This is the most affordable way to get between Toronto and Montreal (or into the U.S.).
  • Use ride-sharing services – If you are going to be traveling between cities or provinces, keep an eye out for people sharing their vehicles. Craigslist, Couchsurfing, Kangaride, and Facebook all have ride-share pages for most major cities. If you can find someone traveling in your direction you can tag along and share the cost of gas.
  • Eat street food – Every major Canadian city has plenty of street vendors selling hot dogs, sausages, and veggie dogs for as little as 3 CAD. You won’t find a cheaper lunch!
  • Take a free walking tour – Most major cities in Canada offer free walking tours. They are a great way to explore and get a feel for each location and its history. Most last a couple of hours and don’t need to be booked in advance. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
  • Buy gas on native reserves – If you are driving around the country, keep your eyes peeled for native reserves — they are the cheapest places to buy gas in Canada. With lower taxes, you’ll find gas prices significantly cheaper than anywhere else. They are also great places to stop and experience the vibrant cultures of Canada’s First People.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Canada

Hostels are not that plentiful across Canada, but generally, they’re high quality and clean. Here are my suggested places to stay in Canada:

  • The Only Backpacker’s Inn (Toronto)
  • The Parkdale Hostellerie (Toronto)
  • Cambie Hostel Gastown (Vancouver)
  • Samesun Vancouver (Vancouver)
  • HI Calgary City Centre (Calgary)
  • HI Lake Louise (Banff)
  • HI Montreal Hostel (Montreal)
  • Alexandrie-Montréal (Montreal)

How to Get Around Canada

A person in a small kayak on the calm waters of Lake Louise near Banff, Alberta

Public transportation – Within city limits you’ll find great public transportation networks. Toronto and Montreal are the only two cities in Canada with subway systems (although Vancouver has SkyTrain), but even the smallest Canadian cities have extensive bus routes. It usually costs about 3.25 CAD for a one-way ticket.

Larger cities have passes designed for tourists to make the most of the metro system. For example, Toronto has a daily pass for unlimited travel for 13.50 CAD.

Bus – There’s no singular country-wide bus system here. Instead, regional operators vary per location. Megabus is the cheapest option when it comes to traveling between cities in Ontario and Quebec. Fares can be as low as 1 CAD if booked in advance. Red Arrow is primarily an Alberta coach line. On the east coast, Maritime Bus is the main coach company (except in Newfoundland where it’s DRL Group).

Toronto to Ottawa costs about 30-50 CAD with Flixbus, while Ottawa to Montreal is around 35-50 CAD. A longer ride — like the 13-hour drive from Calgary to Vancouver — costs around 125-165 CAD.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – There is a train service (VIA Rail) that runs from coast to coast and is very scenic, albeit not cheap. Many train routes are currently suspended or running with limited space due to COVID-19, meaning that journeys take even longer. It takes over 24 hours to get from Halifax to Ottawa, costing about 150-170 CAD. On the other hand, shorter routes like between Montreal and Quebec City (a 3.5-hour journey) are more affordable and start at 36 CAD.

Flying – As your last alternative, you can fly, but since the country has only two major airlines (WestJet and Air Canada) prices are often high. Round-trip flights from Toronto to Vancouver usually start at around 200 CAD when booked early but they can easily cost triple that price. Round-trip from Ottawa to Calgary is around 270 CAD, but again, this is when booked in advance. Expect to pay at least double that price if you don’t book early.

Overall, flying is worthwhile only if you want to see specific cities and have limited time. For shorter routes (like Montreal to Ottawa) you’ll save a lot of money if you just take the bus or train.

Car Rental – If you’re going between provinces or staying a while in the country, consider renting a car for 35-50 CAD per day. This is one of the best, most convenient ways to get around the country — especially if you’re interested in getting out of the cities and into Canada’s wilderness (ideally if you have someone to share the cost with too).

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

Ridesharing – If you are traveling between cities or provinces, keep an eye out for people sharing their vehicle. Check these websites for rides:

  • Couchsurfing

When to Go to Canada

Since Canada is such a large country, climate and temperature vary drastically from coast to coast. Canada has very defined seasons, and winter can be harsh and long in some places. For example, winters in the Northern Territories begin early and end late, and places like Newfoundland and Labrador can experience snow until late May.

On the other hand, winter in the Canadian Rockies is epic and people from all over the world flock to British Columbia and Alberta to hit the slopes around Whistler, Banff, and Revelstoke. Prepare for cold temperatures, though. In some places, like on the prairies, it can get as cold as -40°C (-40°F). In short, only visit in the winter if you’re planning to do winter sports.

Summer in Canada is beautiful, but it’s also the busiest time of year. June to the end of September is the main tourist season, with inflated prices and large crowds. On the other hand, the temperatures are lovely during this time, often in the high 20s°C (70s°F). There are music festivals galore and it’s a great time to hike, bike, and explore the Great Lakes.

Shoulder season is also a fantastic time to visit Canada, although spring (March-June) can be quite wet. Fall (September-October) is highly recommended, as temperatures are still warm enough and the autumn foliage is really something special. Quebec and the Atlantic Provinces are well worth an autumn trek.

How to Stay Safe in Canada

Canada is a safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent attacks are rare and tend to be confined to certain areas (generally where drug and gang violence are a problem). You may encounter petty crime, like theft, around popular tourist landmarks, though that isn’t super common. Nevertheless, always keep an eye on your belongings, especially while taking public transportation, just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If visiting in the winter, dress warmly. It gets so cold here that people literally freeze to death so take precautions and always keep an eye on the forecast.

If you’re going out hiking, always check the weather beforehand and ensure you have enough water. Bring sunscreen and a hat too. It can get humid here!

Canada’s cannabis legalization has a whole lot of rules and restrictions. The CBC has a great outline on everything you need to know if you’re thinking of consuming cannabis while in Canada.

Scams here are rare, but it never hurts to be prepared. Read about common travel scams to avoid here if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Canada Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Canada Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Canada travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Toronto

The 6 Best Hotels in Toronto

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

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  • Booking Resources
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10 Historic Towns In Canada You Should Visit

  • Canada offers a wide array of historical towns with heritage sites and landmarks to explore, such as Hudson, Goderich, and Jasper.
  • These historical towns offer charm and attractions like turn-of-the-century homes, beaches, and trading posts.
  • Each town has its own unique history and attractions, such as bird-friendly certification, cultural events, and stunning basilicas.

Canada is the world’s second-largest country and an enchanting destination, offering stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse activities. Its first significant official settlement was the city of Québec in 1608, home to the Citadelle, the largest British Fort in North America .

As such, history buffs have a wide array of heritage sites and landmarks to explore within the 13 Canadian provinces, from the Little Chapel in Tadoussac, the oldest on the continent , to Boucher de Niverville Manor , erected in 1668.

While old cities like Montréal, Halifax, Winnipeg, and St. John’s have a lot to offer, they lack that quaint charm that can be found in the following historical towns, which also warrant a closer look.

Related: 16 Beautiful Towns In Alberta That Give Banff A Run For Its Money

Hudson, Québec

Officially founded in 1865 , though greenwood centre dates back to 1732.

Bordered to the north by Lake of Two Mountains and once a remote village of Scottish and English farmers, Hudson is only a 45-minute drive from Montréal. It's dotted with many turn-of-the-century homes and offers lovely lakeside views. The Hudson Village Theatre , formerly a train station built in 1890, attracts musicians and artists from all over the country.

  • Year Founded: 1865
  • Area: 8.398 mi²
  • Population: 5,614
  • Best Time To Visit: June to August
  • Historical Attractions: Greenwood Centre for Living History (mid-June to early September; 10 am to 4 pm Wednesday to Saturday; 12 am to 4 pm Sunday; free entry to house tours; $26/person for membership); St. James (built in 1842); St. Mary (built in 1867)

Hudson received a certification on November 17, 2023, as a bird-friendly town.

Goderich, Ontario

Founded by john galt and william dunlop of the canada company in 1827.

Anyone visiting Ontario should check out the HMCS Haida and discover the heritage of the Royal Canadian Navy and its role in WW2 ; but Goderich, a small coastal and walkable town overlooking Lake Huron , is another worthwhile historical stop. It offers three public beaches, fine fish-and-chips meals, and cultural events all year round.

  • Year Founded: 1827
  • Area: 3.336 mi²
  • Population: 8,454
  • Best Time To Visit: September through November
  • Historical Attractions: Menesetung Bridge (1907); Huron Historic Gaol (jail museum from 1841; March to October; 1 am to 4 pm; from $4.5/adult); Goderich Lighthouse (1847)

There are picnic tables in the park surrounding the lighthouse.

Jasper, Alberta

Jasper house, a provision depot, was built by the north west company in 1813.

Jasper is a small town in the middle of Canada’s largest Rockies National Park that is home to many indigenous peoples, including Stoney, Tsuu T’ina, Secwépemc, and Aseniwuche Winewak. Once a trading post run by the Hudson’s Bay and North West Companies, it was named after Jasper Haws, the post and depot’s manager. Today, it’s synonymous with both wild outdoor adventures and cozy town charm.

  • Year Founded: 1813
  • Area: 355.9 mi²
  • Population: 4,113
  • Historical Attractions: Jasper Park Information Centre (1914); Maligne Lake Chalet (1927); CIBC Bank (1928); Jasper Fire Hall (1914)

In the summer, Tourism Jasper offers information, pamphlets, and souvenirs at the old Fire Hall, located at 411 Patricia St.

Related: 10 Things To Do In Canada On A Backpacker's Budget

St. Andrews, New Brunswick

Settled in 1783 by penobscot loyalists.

Located in Charlotte County, St. Andrews has the allure of a typical 18th-century British colonial settlement and is a charming seaside resort destination offering whale and seal-watching opportunities along Passamaquoddy Bay. It was established by United Empire Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution, and its historic Water Street makes for a pleasant and colorful stroll through time.

  • Year Founded: 1783
  • Area: 3.22 mi²
  • Population: 1,715
  • Best Time To Visit: May to September
  • Historical Attractions: The Algonquin Resort (1883; from $134/night ); Sheriff Andrews House (1820; free admission); Church of England Cemetery (1794)

Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia

The home of the indigenous mi'kmaq was settled in 1754 by european protestants.

Nova Scotia is dotted with numerous quaint towns and picturesque fishing villages , and Mahone Bay, in Lunenburg County , is a prime tourist destination with its stunning three-church photo spot and diverse marine and bird life. Prior to the arrival of European settlers, it was the land of the Mi’kmaq for over 13,000 years.

  • Year Founded: 1754
  • Area: 1.205 mi²
  • Population: 1,016
  • Best Time To Visit: Late August to early September
  • Historical Attractions: St. James Anglican Church (1885); 680 Main Street (1885)

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Founded in 1753, it's the best example of a planned british colonial settlement in north america.

Lunenberg is another historic Canadian town , one of the earliest British attempts to settle Protestants in the Nova Scotia province. It was named in 1753 after the Duke of Braunschweig-Lüneburg, who became King George II of Great Britain. The Old Town is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site , offering colorful, well-preserved colonial buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as waterfront restaurants and distilleries.

  • Year Founded: 1753
  • Area: 1.56 mi²
  • Population: 2,339
  • Best Time To Visit: July and August
  • Historical Attractions: Ashlea House B&B (1886; from $166/night ); Central United Church (1883); 49 Cornwallis Street (1829); Lunenburg Academy National Historic Site of Canada (1895)

Its original Mi’kmaq name was seedk, meaning clam-land.

Related: 10 Most Scenic Mountain Resorts In Canada You Should Book In November

Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, Québec

The oldest pilgrimage site in north america started as a shrine to the patron of sailors in 1650.

The small monastery town of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré is located on the banks of the Saint Laurent River, and its main religious and historical attraction is the stunning titular basilica, drawing 1.5 million Catholic pilgrims yearly from all over the world. The first shrine was built by French sailors to protect them on their way upriver to Québec City.

  • Year Founded: 1650
  • Area: 26.29 mi²
  • Population: 2,974
  • Historical Attraction: Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica (7:30 am to 4:30 pm Sunday; 8:30 am to 4:30 am Monday to Friday; 8:30 am to 5 pm Saturday); Drouin House on the Isle of Orléans (1729)

Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia

Founded in 1605, called port royal until the british seized it in 1710.

Annapolis Royal is a seaside town with a rich history woven by the Mi’kmaq community and later French, English, and Scottish settlers. It boasts scenic waterfront shopping and dining venues, a lively art scene, and 135 registered heritage properties. Fort Anne, formerly Charles Fort, was constructed by the Scottish in 1629 and is Canada’s oldest extant fort and its very first National Historic Site.

  • Year Founded: 1605
  • Area: 0.79 mi²
  • Population: 567

Best Time To Visit: June to September

  • Historical Attractions: Historic District of Annapolis Royal (buildings from the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries); De Gannes-Cosby House (1708); Annapolis County Court House (1837)

De Gannes-Cosby House is the oldest wood-framed building in Canada.

Trinity, Newfoundland And Labrador

An active settlement since at least 1588.

Trinity can trace its history back to the 16th century and the first English attempts at a permanent fishing settlement. In the 18th century, it became an important trade center on the northeast coast of Newfoundland, mainly for the export of dried cod. Today, many of its buildings are Provincial Registered Heritage Structures.

  • Year Founded: 1588
  • Area: 4.988 mi²
  • Population: 158
  • Best Time To Visit: July to September
  • Historical Attractions: Green Family Forge (1895; mid-May to October 6 from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm; $15/adult, includes Visitors Centre, Lester-Garland House, and Trinity Museum ); St. Paul’s Anglican School (1910); Trinity Courthouse (1903)

Related: 10 Least Crowded, But Still Scenic Towns To Visit In Virginia

Harbour Grace, Newfoundland And Labrador

A major harbour for european fishers from the mid-1500s.

Located on the northeast coast of Avalon Peninsula, Harbor Grace was founded in 1517 by the French King Francis I. It was named after the French seaport of Le Havre-de-Grâce and became a major fishing center, as well as the home of a few privateers. Today, the Harbour Grace Islands attract birdwatchers and hikers, and the Salmon River is a popular fishing spot. Its most anticipated yearly event is the Harbour Grace Regatta, held every August with live music and a food market.

Year Founded: 1517

Area: 13.02 mi²

Population: 2,886

Historical Attractions: Conception Bay Museum (1870; 10 am to 5 pm; $7.5/adult); Ridley Hall (1834)

10 Historic Towns In Canada You Should Visit

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Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada

Most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada - not both. Some people may only need their valid passport. Answer a few questions to see what's right for you.

See all entry requirements by country/territory

Sample passport information page highlighting three letter country code

You can find the country code on your passport. Be careful when you select your country. Some countries have multiple options and codes are quite similar.

Answer yes if you’re a citizen of Canada and another country.

travel labrador canada

Look on the front cover of your passport for the symbol of a rectangle with a circle in the middle. If you see this symbol, you have an electronic passport.

Answer: You need a visitor visa

For visits of up to 6 months for most purposes. Cost: CAN $100

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Answer: You need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

For visits of up to 6 months or to transit via a Canadian airport. Cost: CAN $7

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Answer: You need a valid Canadian passport

You need a  valid Canadian passport  to travel to Canada by air (board your flight).

Exception: If you’re an American-Canadian dual citizen with a valid U.S. passport, you don’t need a Canadian passport to fly to Canada. However, you still need to  carry proper identification Opens in a new tab  and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada Opens in a new tab .

Get details about travelling as a dual Canadian citizen Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid passport or travel document to travel to Canada by car, train, bus or boat

If you decide to fly to a Canadian airport instead, you'll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Learn about documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need official proof of status in the U.S.

Lawful permanent residents of the U.S. must present these documents for all methods of travel to Canada:

  • a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document ) and
  • a valid green card (or equivalent valid proof of status in the United States)

Answer: You need a transit visa 

To connect between 2 international flights, in less than 48 hours. Cost: Free

Note: If you have more than 48 hours between international flights OR if you decide to visit Canada, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about transit visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You can apply for a parent and grandparent super visa to visit for more than 6 months

  • The super visa is for visits of 5 years at a time .
  • a letter from your child or grandchild with a promise to financially support you for the duration of your visit in Canada.
  • More information on approved insurance providers outside of Canada will be available in the coming months.
  • be valid for at least 1 year from the date of entry to Canada
  • provide at least $100,000 in emergency coverage.
  • You must apply for a super visa from outside Canada.
  • Cost: CAN $100

Note : If you don't meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about super visa Opens in a new tab

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA). An eTA allows for visits of up to 6 months.

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with a valid identity document. Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with

  • a valid passport from your country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document Opens in a new tab ) and
  • official proof of lawful permanent resident status in the U.S., such as a green card

Answer: You need a valid identity document

Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

Learn about the documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa

  • You don’t need to submit a separate application for a visitor visa.

When you travel to Canada, bring your

  • letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved, if you received one
  • valid passport that has your visitor visa stuck to one of its pages

Learn about studying in Canada Opens in a new tab

Answer: You should already have a valid visitor visa

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first study or work permit.

If you leave and return to Canada,  you must travel with:

  • your valid study or work permit
  • If you don’t have a valid visa when you check-in for a flight, it may result in travel delays (or a missed flight).
  • your valid passport

Exception : If you return directly from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

If your visa has expired or was only valid for a single entry to Canada

You need to  apply for a new visa Opens in a new tab .

  • A visa costs CAN$100.
  • It’s valid for up to 10 years.

If your study or work permit will expire soon, you must extend it before you can apply for a new visitor visa.

You need a visitor visa to leave and return to Canada.  Apply for your visa before you leave.

You can apply for a visitor visa from inside Canada if you meet all the conditions below:

  • you’re already in Canada
  • you hold a valid study or work permit
  • you want to  leave and return to Canada  in the near future
  • your existing  visitor visa Opens in a new tab  is expired or was valid for only one entry

Exception : If you return  directly  from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing times  don’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa Opens in a new tab

You need a  visitor visa  to travel to Canada.

A visitor visa:

  • is a sticker we put in your passport
  • costs CAN$100

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a study permit

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a study permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa for you

  • letter of introduction that says your work permit application is approved, if you received one

Learn about working in Canada Opens in a new tab

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first work permit.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics)  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a work permit

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a work permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA)

  • You don’t need to submit a separate application for an eTA.

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Answer: You need an eTA to leave and return to Canada

Your study permit lets you study in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

What you need depends on your travel plans.

travel labrador canada

If you re-enter by a Canadian airport (fly back to Canada)

You must have:

  • the passport that’s linked to a valid eTA and
  • your valid study permit
  • costs CAN $7
  • is electronically linked to your passport

If you received your current study permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

If you don’t have an eTA or yours has expired, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA.

Apply for an eTA Opens in a new tab

travel labrador canada

If you re-enter Canada by car, boat, bus or train

  • a valid passport and

Answer: If you fly to a Canadian airport, you need an eTA

  • costs CAN$7

Most applicants get their eTA approval (via an email) within minutes. However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you drive or arrive by train, bus or boat

You just need a  valid passport or travel document Opens in a new tab  to get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat.

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA) for you

  • valid passport that you used to apply for your work permit

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Your work permit lets you work in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

  • your valid work permit

If you received your current work permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

  • your valid work or study permit

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

  • valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work or study permit

When you travel to Canada, you must bring your:

  • letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

If you’re driving or arriving by train, bus, or boat.

You just need to  bring the right travel documents Opens in a new tab .

If you fly to or transit through a Canadian airport

You just need to travel with your valid U.S. passport if you fly or transit through a Canadian airport.

  • valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit
  • valid work or study permit

Answer: Your permit is not an eTA or a visa

When you extend your study permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

  • the passport that’s linked to your valid eTA  and
  • a valid visitor and

Apply for visitor visa Opens in a new tab

When you extend your work permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

  • a valid visitor visa and

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

You can apply for an  eTA  if you travel to Canada  by air only .

  • is only valid when flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport

Most applicants get their eTA approval within minutes (via email). However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa  you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If your travel plans change

You need a  visitor visa  (not an eTA) if you decide to  get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat  instead.

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

  • valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit and
  • official proof of U.S. lawful permanent resident status

Answer: You need valid proof of lawful permanent resident status of the U.S. to leave and return to Canada

  • valid study permit,
  • valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit, and

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

  • valid passport or travel document and

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

  • valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit and
  • valid work permit
  • valid work permit,

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa , you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If you transit through Canada to or from the United States

You  may  be able to  transit through Canada without a visa or eTA if you meet certain eligibility requirements.

You need an official proof of status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., such as one of the following:

  • valid permanent resident card (Form I-551)
  • foreign passport with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (also known as an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication [ADIT] stamp)
  • foreign passport with a temporary I-551 printed notation (“Upon endorsement serves as temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year”) on a machine-readable immigrant visa upon endorsement with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection admission stamp
  • expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) or Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status)
  • expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card [Green Card])
  • valid re-entry permit (Form I-327)
  • Form I-94 with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp) and a passport-style photo

Important note:

This tool provides information only. It was created to assist you as you decide what travel document you may need to travel to Canada. This tool may not provide information on all travel documents or your particular situation. If you choose to apply, we will assess your application in accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and its related Regulations. Read our complete terms and conditions (opens in a new tab) .

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Port Saunders, Newfoundland and Labrador

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Max UV Index 8 Very High

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IMAGES

  1. 5 Best Places to Visit in Newfoundland and Labrador

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  2. Visit Newfoundland and Labrador: 2023 Travel Guide for Newfoundland and

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  3. The Most Beautiful Places in Canada

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  4. Guided Hiking Tour in Labrador Mountain I Adventures.com

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  5. The Untamed Wilderness of Labrador's Torngat Mountains

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  6. 5 reasons to visit St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada

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COMMENTS

  1. Welcome to Newfoundland and Labrador

    Travelling here by plane is a popular option, and airlines fly into St. John's, Gander, Deer Lake, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, and Wabush. Flying times for direct flights to St. John's are about 3.5 hours from Toronto, 6 hours from Edmonton / Calgary, and 5 hours from London. Other international routes are available into the region via Halifax.

  2. Labrador Region

    Battle Harbour. Forteau and L'Anse-Amour. Labrador is home to pristine rivers set against a rugged landscape, plenty of breathing room, and an abundance of trophy-sized fish. Whether you're fishing for wild Atlantic salmon, trophy brook trout, northern pike, whitefish or large Arctic char, you've come to the right place.

  3. Welcome To The Labrador Region

    We drove to Labrador, Canada. The Labrador Region in Newfoundland is a treasure trove of natural wonders, rich heritage, and adventure. From the majestic Torngat Mountains to the serene Labrador Coastal Drive, this region offers a truly unforgettable experience for travellers seeking a genuine connection with nature and indigenous culture.

  4. Labrador travel

    Labrador. Canada, North America. Welcome, to the 'Big Land': an undulating expanse of spruce woods, muskeg, bog and tundra that stretches from St Lawrence to the Arctic Circle and back again. The vast landscape contains military bases, little towns, Inuit and Innu villages, and some of the world's oldest geologic formations, the latter a most ...

  5. Newfoundland & Labrador travel

    Newfoundland & Labrador. Canada, North America. They call Newfoundland 'the Rock', a fitting name, as this is an island of thoroughly elemental attractions and aesthetics. The muskeg and cliffs are barren and salt-drenched. The trees give off the smell of spruce like the air was spiced. The ocean roils, flecked with icebergs and spouting whales.

  6. Labrador

    Labrador is part of the Canadian mainland while Newfoundland is an island in the Atlantic Ocean. The Trans-Canada Highway to St. John's on the island is beaten-path while Labrador is remote and isolated, a collection of wide-open spaces, small native communities, abundant wildlife and the occasional incursion of small-town commerce to support remote mining, hydroelectric and resource exploration.

  7. Newfoundland and Labrador

    Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) is the largest of Atlantic Canada's four provinces. Newfoundland is an island; Labrador is an adjoining mainland coastal region which abuts Quebec.The beauty of Newfoundland can be found on the rocky coasts of the island and the relatively new, and stunningly beautiful East Coast Trail, but this is a truly coast-to-coast kind of place.

  8. Newfoundland and Labrador

    Get information on Newfoundland and Labrador Travel Guide - Expert Picks for your Vacation hotels, restaurants, entertainment, shopping, sightseeing, and activities. Read the Fodor's reviews, or ...

  9. Travel to Newfoundland and Labrador

    With its dramatic natural beauty, serene seaside villages, miles of untouched coastline and giant icebergs that make an annual appearance, it won't take long to see why Newfoundland and Labrador lures visitors time and time again. There are three distinct Indigenous groups in Newfoundland and Labrador — the Inuit, Innu, and the Mi'Kmaq.

  10. Labrador

    Rough Guides® is a trademark owned by Apa Group with its headquarters at 7 Bell Yard London WC2A 2JR, United Kingdom. Plan your visit to Labrador, Canada: find out where to go and what to do in Labrador with Rough Guides. Read about itineraries, activities, places to stay and travel essentials and get inspiration from the blog in the best ...

  11. 26 Best Newfoundland & Labrador Canada Cruises, Tours & Trips for 2024

    Build your ideal Newfoundland & Labrador trip. Call 1.406.541.2677. Start Planning My Trip. Welcome to the easternmost coast of North America, in Canada's frigid north in Newfoundland & Labrador. Traverse the same territory where Leif Erikson is believed to have led his Viking exploration in the 10th century, and check out L'Anse aux Meadows ...

  12. Newfoundland and Labrador Travel Guide

    Newfoundland and Labrador Travel Guide. Photograph by Turner Forte, Nat Geo Image Collection. Featured Story. ... 4 wild and wonderful places for outdoor adventures in Canada. Travel;

  13. Newfoundland and Labrador Travel Guide

    Newfoundland and Labrador Travel Guide. Book your individual trip, stress-free with local travel experts. The province of Newfoundland and Labrador only joined Canada in 1949, a controversial move supported by just 52.3 percent of the population at the time. Even now, parts of Newfoundland seem like an entirely different country.

  14. Travel to Newfoundland and Labrador

    Travel packages. Great regional escapes View packages. From St. John's to Deer Lake From CAD $4,263 per person. 11 days / 10 nights. The beauty of Newfoundland and Labrador on Canada's east coast is a definite must-see! Breathe The ...

  15. Travel Itineraries

    3 Days. Parks, Beaches, and Islands. 3 Days. River Rafting & Coastal Waves. 2 Days. Two Days in Trinity. 2 Days. The South Coast Tour. We've created an itinerary planner that will allow you to plan the perfect trip to Newfoundland and Labrador, and customize your days to focus on the experiences you're looking for.

  16. 14 Days of Adventure, Coast to Coast

    It is a trip into the past that comes with the benefits of great food and a spa. When travelling by Labrador Marine ferry it's important to plan in advance. Schedules can vary. 1-866-535-2567 (within Newfoundland and Labrador) 1-709-535-0810 (outside the province) www.labradormarine.com. Add a note.

  17. How to Plan a Newfoundland Road Trip Itinerary

    3 Week Newfoundland Itinerary. With three weeks, you could go on a fantastic road trip around Newfoundland, hitting many of the best places in Newfoundland: Day 1-3: Explore St. John's, optional day trip around Irish Loop. Day 3: Drive to Trinity (3 hours), optional stop in Dildo on way.

  18. Guide to Newfoundland

    When a northern, sea-bound island goes by the nickname "The Rock," you already have a good idea of what to expect. Newfoundland is a place of elemental beauty where the Earth's mantle is one of the attractions. Stiff breezes can build to roaring winds off the cold Atlantic, pushing around icebergs and tossing fishing boats, even in coves protected by jagged cliffs where clouds of ...

  19. 35-Day Expedition Across Labrador

    Boreal to Barrenlands: Crossing Labrador is a documentary on an unprecedented canoe journey that takes four friends 670 kms through Labrador's interior to cr...

  20. Newfoundland Vacation

    Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you. Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

  21. Cheap Flights to Newfoundland and Labrador from $174

    The fastest and most convenient way to travel from the airport is to rent a car onsite and drive on Trans-Canada Highway 1. If you're looking for a flight to Newfoundland and Labrador that lands at St. John's International Airport, then Terra Nova will be about 2h 15m by car, also on the Trans-Canada Highway 1.

  22. Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

    The land, air, and sea travel centre for all of Labrador, 42 km one-way. North Coast (5 days round trip by boat) A boat ride like no other: from central Labrador to the Inuit and Innu communities of the north coast. Expedition 51°: West (534 km) Discover the Big Land along the Freedom Road and beyond, 534 km one-way.

  23. Canada Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    Since Canada is such a large country, climate and temperature vary drastically from coast to coast. Canada has very defined seasons, and winter can be harsh and long in some places. For example, winters in the Northern Territories begin early and end late, and places like Newfoundland and Labrador can experience snow until late May.

  24. 10 Historic Towns In Canada You Should Visit

    Harbour Grace, Newfoundland And Labrador A major harbour for European fishers from the mid-1500s. Located on the northeast coast of Avalon Peninsula, Harbor Grace was founded in 1517 by the French ...

  25. Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada

    Answer: You can apply for a parent and grandparent super visa to visit for more than 6 months. The super visa is for visits of 5 years at a time.; You must meet all eligibility criteria to qualify for a super visa. Key criteria include:

  26. Travel Around

    Highways. The Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) spans the island of Newfoundland from Port aux Basques to St. John's - 905 kilometres. All highways off Route 1 are paved. Most coastal roads are paved with posted speed limits of 60-100 kilometres per hour. The first 533 kilometres on Route 500 between Labrador City and Happy Valley-Goose Bay ...

  27. Marine Forecasts and Warnings for Canada

    Government of Canada / Gouvernement du Canada. Search. Search website. Search. Menu ... Labrador: Atlantic - Newfoundland: Great Lakes - Lake Erie and Lake Ontario: Great Lakes - Lake Huron: ... Travel and tourism ; Business ; Benefits ; Health ; Taxes ...

  28. Weather Tomorrow for Port Saunders, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

    Everything you need to know about tomorrow's weather in Port Saunders, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. High/Low, Precipitation Chances, Sunrise/Sunset, and tomorrow's Temperature History.