St John's City Guide

Signal Hill stands as the city's most iconic landmark, offering a panoramic view of the rugged Atlantic coastline and the deep blue waters of the Narrows. Visit Cabot Tower, where the first transatlantic wireless signal was received, and hike the North Head Trail for a dramatic perspective of the harbour and surrounding cliffs.

Downtown St. John’s is famous for its vibrant "Jellybean Row" houses, where brightly painted facades line steep, winding streets. For a true local experience, head to the historic fishing village of Quidi Vidi to enjoy a pint of iceberg beer by the water, or spend an evening on George Street, which boasts one of the highest concentrations of bars and pubs in North America.

No visit is complete without a trip to Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site, the easternmost point in North America. Keep an eye on the horizon for migrating whales and massive icebergs drifting past. For those seeking adventure, the East Coast Trail provides world-class coastal hiking that connects charming outports with breathtaking natural scenery.

While Signal Hill and George Street capture the spotlight, locals find their rhythm in the quieter corners of the city. A stroll through The Outer Battery offers a unique perspective on the harbor. This labyrinth of brightly colored houses clings to the cliffs, where the scent of salt air mingles with the sound of the Atlantic. It is an intimate glimpse into a community built directly into the rock, far from the polished tourist trails.

For a dose of local culture, head to Fred’s Records on Duckworth Street. Since 1972, this shop has served as the heartbeat of the Newfoundland music scene. It is where you go to discover traditional folk, local indie bands, and the stories behind the songs that define the island.

Finally, a short drive to Middle Cove Beach is a local rite of passage. Whether it is gathering for a bonfire on the smooth stones or watching the capelin roll in early summer, this beach is where the city meets the raw, unscripted power of the ocean.

St. John’s is renowned for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere and is generally a very safe destination for travelers. While it maintains a small-town feel, it is a capital city, so standard urban precautions should still be observed. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and stick to well-lit streets when walking at night. The local community is famously helpful, and you will often find residents more than willing to provide directions or assistance if needed.

When exploring the rugged coastline or wandering the city’s iconic steep streets, be mindful of the unpredictable North Atlantic weather. Sudden fog and high winds can occur, making walkways slippery, especially during the winter months. If you are driving outside the urban core, remain vigilant for moose, which are frequent hazards on Newfoundland highways at dusk and dawn. By staying aware of your surroundings and the local conditions, you can enjoy the historic charm of St. John’s with peace of mind.

Navigating St. John's is a blend of scenic walks and practical drives. The historic downtown is remarkably pedestrian-friendly, where the famous "Jellybean Row" houses are best admired on foot, provided you are prepared for some steep inclines. For broader city travel, Metrobus serves as the primary public transit system with a flat cash fare of $2.50. Ridesharing through Uber is widely available and efficient, operating alongside traditional taxi services like Jiffy Cabs, which remain a reliable staple for both locals and visitors.

Transportation costs are straightforward and manageable. A flat-rate taxi from St. John's International Airport (YYT) to the downtown core typically costs approximately $30 to $35 CAD. An Uber for the same route generally ranges between $25 and $40 depending on demand. Within the city limits, a short taxi or Uber ride between major points of interest usually falls between $12 and $20. For those looking to explore the rugged coastline or the historic lighthouse at Cape Spear, renting a car is highly recommended as these iconic spots are less accessible via public transit.

Shopping in St John's offers a delightful mix of historic charm and modern variety. The heart of the retail scene lies along Water Street and Duckworth Street, where high-end boutiques sit alongside cozy specialty shops. This is the place to search for premium Labradorite jewelry, a gemstone native to the province, or high-quality outdoor gear designed to withstand the rugged Newfoundland climate.

For those seeking authentic local craftsmanship, the Quidi Vidi Village Artisan Studios provide a unique opportunity to purchase directly from makers. Famous for hand-knit wool sweaters and intricate woodwork, these studios represent the pinnacle of local heritage. Meanwhile, budget-conscious shoppers and those looking for familiar international brands will find everything they need at the Avalon Mall, the largest shopping center in the province.

Foodies should not miss local delicacies such as partridgeberry preserves or artisanal sea salts. Whether browsing the upscale galleries downtown or hunting for bargains in the larger commercial districts, St John's ensures every traveler finds a piece of the island to take home.

In St John’s, tipping follows standard Canadian customs, where a gratuity of 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill is expected for good service in restaurants. For bars, rounding up or leaving a dollar or two per drink is common practice. Since service staff often rely on tips to supplement their income, leaving a gratuity is a warm gesture that reflects appreciation for the local hospitality found throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

Transactions are conducted in Canadian Dollars (CAD), with 1 CAD roughly equivalent to 0.74 USD. For other services, such as taxi rides or guided tours, a tip of 10% to 15% is standard. In hotels, a few dollars for the porter or housekeeping is always appreciated. While most establishments allow for tipping via card terminal, keeping some small bills on hand is helpful for smaller gestures of thanks.

The ideal window to experience the rugged beauty of St. John’s is between late June and early September. This period offers the most reliable weather for exploring the colorful houses of Jellybean Row and hiking Signal Hill, though the Atlantic breeze remains a constant companion. July and August are the peak months for whale watching and spotting Atlantic puffins, coinciding with the lively George Street Festival. Travelers eager to witness massive icebergs drifting through Iceberg Alley should aim for late May or June, though spring weather can be notoriously damp and unpredictable.

While summer brings the warmest temperatures, it also marks the height of tourist crowds and peak pricing for accommodations and car rentals. For a quieter experience with lower rates, consider a visit in September when the autumn colors begin to emerge and the summer rush subsides. Winter is reserved for the truly adventurous, offering dramatic snowy landscapes and a cozy pub culture, though many seasonal attractions and tours close during the colder months.