St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador

There is a reason that people have been visiting St John’s in Atlantic Canada for over 500 years. Walk in the footsteps of Canadian and American soldiers at Cape Spear, known as the ‘Far East of the Western World’, as you step inside the restored lighthouse - an iconic symbol of Newfoundland and Labrador's mariner history.

For outdoor enthusiasts, embark on the epic East Coast Trail and take in the spectacular landscape as you walk along coastal paths before taking a trip up Signal Hill to enjoy panoramic views of the historic port city and Atlantic Ocean. This area of Canada is home to the world's largest population of humpback whales. Spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat and capture them on camera amongst icebergs – a picture postcard opportunity.

With so many activities on offer, there is no doubt that your evenings on holiday will be spent relaxing in one of St John’s 250 restaurants. Set on the slopes of a harbour, it comes as no surprise that seafood is a speciality with everything from fresh lobster cooked at a roadside location to contemporary restaurants offering fine-dining experiences overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Here in St John’s, the local people are keen to share the city’s history with you, ensuring you will remember this destination for all the right reasons.

Popular things to do in St John's

After just a six hour flight from London, you will find yourself in the most easterly city in North America. It's one of the major hubs of the stunning Atlantic Canada region of Canada. Over 500 years old, St John’s is full of character with a bustling harbour and narrow, criss-crossing streets which take you on a historical journey.  As you explore, stop at the many art galleries, heritage sites, museums and fine boutiques and if you’re feeling active - climb one of the steep hills which offer unrivalled views of the city.  St John’s also offers plenty of contemporary cafes, restaurants, pubs and bars, so there are plenty of places to unwind in the evenings.  A gateway to exploring the surrounding province of Newfoundland and Labrador, a holiday in St John’s offers a wide range of historical, culinary and outdoor experiences.

Browse our amazing range of holidays in St John's

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  Delta Hotels by Marriott St. John's Conference Centre

  from £60

  The Delta Hotels by Marriott St John’s Conference centre is in a great central location, close to the entertainment districts of the city and ...see more

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  Fairfield Inn &Suites St.John's

  from £83

  The Fairfield Inn & Suites is a good hotel with a convenient location between the international airport and downtown St. John’s.

  Rooms ...see more

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  Murray Premises Hotel

  from £84

  The Murray Premises Hotel enjoys a great location on the waterfront in the heart of downtown St. John, within walking distance of shops, restaurants ...see more

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  Super 8 St John's

  from £63

  Five minutes from St John’s International Airport, the Super 8 Motel is in a convenient location and still close to the area’s best attractions.

  Guest ...see more

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  St. John’s & Toronto Short Break

  from £1,267

  The perfect combination of big-city luxury and traditional small-town charm. The vibrant city which sits on Canada’s most eastern edge, is a wild ...see more

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  St.John's City Break

  from £1,161

  Discover one of North America's oldest cities, the perfect combination of big-city luxury and traditional small-town charm. During the day be camera ready ...see more

St John’s is a charming city and one full of character. Outdoor enthusiasts have a wealth of adventurous walking trails to choose from whilst visitors seeking a more relaxing pace can sit in one of the city’s seafood restaurants overlooking the historic harbour.

To help you plan your holiday, here are some of our top tips for an amazing holiday to St John’s - from spotting whales and puffins in the city’s beautiful bay, to embarking on ambitious or more moderate hikes down river paths and downtown sidewalks.

Top tips for visiting St John's

Top Tip 1

• The best way to explore St John’s is by foot as you wander through the criss-crossing streets created by horse and carriage over 100 years ago. As you make your way down to the working harbour of the waterfront, be sure to photograph the colourful houses that line the sides of hills and hidden alleyways.

Top Tip 2

• After this leisurely start to the day, hike up Signal Hill, where small wooden homes cling to the cliff-sides. Upon reaching the top, you will see the iconic Cabot Tower, where military men guarded the shores throughout the 1700s and Guglielmo Marconi received his first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901. Be transported back to 1812 as guides dressed in period costumes provide tours.

Top Tip 3

• Not many museums offer the chance to see a giant squid, but The Rooms is the all-in-one historical museum, art gallery and archives for St John’s at the top of Signal Hill. A short walk away sits the picturesque village of Quidi Vidi, home to the oldest cottage in North America - Mallard Cottage. Whilst here, sip a pint at Quidi Vidi Brewery - we recommend trying the ‘Iceberg’, made with water from harvested iceberg ice.

Top Tip 4

• Constructed in 1836, Cape Spear Lighthouse is another must-see historical site as it represents the unique architecture of lighthouse construction during this era. Stand with your back to the sea and North America is to the west – turn around and the next stop east is Ireland. Whilst here, walk in the footsteps of Canadian and American soldiers as they guarded St. John's during World War II.

Top Tip 5

• For wildlife enthusiasts, embark on a 90 minute catamaran cruise from Bay Bulls to Witless Bay. Spot humpback whales in their natural habitat and in the right season (late May - early July), you will also have the opportunity to photograph spectacular icebergs.

Top Tip 6

• Pippy Park offers an oasis of tranquillity and spectacular views of St John’s and the Atlantic Ocean. Located in the north of the city, the Park’s hundreds of kilometres of scenic trails offer walks through forests, wetlands, rivers, up hills and across parklands to suit all abilities.

Top Tip 7

• With so much to see and do, don’t forget to take a moment to look out over the city’s picturesque harbour or to enjoy some of St John’s local delicacies. Seafood lover or not, we recommend eating at Blue On Water with its inventive dishes including cod tongues and maple salmon.

Top Tip 8

• The days do not end after a delicious meal. Head to George Street and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife with numerous clubs, pubs and bars to choose from which are all ablaze with energy. Be sure to look at http://www.georgestreetlive.ca/ which is updated with upcoming events such as the iconic George Street Festival – five days and nights of dynamic musical entertainment (30th July – 4th August 2015).

Top Tip 9

• It is worth remembering that St John’s is a gateway to the surrounding Newfoundland and Labrador province, opening up a new world of opportunities. Take a day to visit the Terra Nova National Park and kayak along pristine lakes and rivers. Spend the night there and camp under the stars before returning to St John’s the following day.

Top Tip 10

• The East Coast Trail is a coastal hike that takes you past towering cliffs and headlands and deep fjords providing opportunities to see ecological reserves, seabird colonies, whales, icebergs, a 50-metre suspension bridge and many more attractions. There are plenty of places to stop along the way so don’t forget to visit Lighthouse Picnics first to collect your delicious sandwiches and freshly baked scones.

If you’d like more information about booking your holiday to St John’s call one of our dedicated team of experts who will help you plan the trip of a lifetime!

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