Known for its colorful row houses and natural harbor, St. John’s is nestled on Newfoundland island off Canada’s Atlantic Coast. Explore its cultural sites, including museums, historic landmarks and cathedrals, or admire natural attractions, such as Avalon Peninsula.

Things to do

Stroll Water Street, one of the oldest streets in North America, dotted with souvenir shops, bakeries and restaurants. George Street pumps out live entertainment in the evening, from Turkey Joe’s with its live DJs to local musicians at The Fat Cat.

Marvel at the ornate gilded ceiling and 46-meter-tall twin towers at the Basilica of St. John the Baptist and see the statue of Our Lady of Fatima, a gift from Portuguese sailors. Have dessert in the tearoom at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, which showcases one of the finest examples of neo-Gothic architecture in North America.

For the best view in town, visit Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site to admire its dramatic cliffs and two lighthouses. Learn about local history at the museums at The Rooms, then see a 550-million-year-old rock bed and geological exhibits at the Johnson GEO Centre.

Stretch your legs on the East Coast Trail, a 540-kilometer-long trail along the East Coast of Newfoundland. It offers a variety of access points near St. John’s where you can soak up the region’s natural beauty as you spot whales and puffins and admire the rugged landscapes of the Avalon Peninsula.

Getting around

St. John's International Airport is 10 kilometers from the downtown area of St. Johns, while several ferries connect to the island from North Sydney. You can walk or catch public buses around the town center but will need a vehicle to explore further.