How To Plan 4 Days In St. John's - A Newfoundland Itinerary (2024)

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Newfoundland & Labrador is one of the most astonishing places in North America. One second, you’ll think you’ve arrived in Denmark with the colorful houses and narrow streets, the next second, you’ll be amazed by the rugged landscapes, drifting icebergs, and breathtaking coastlines.

Because the island is so vast, deciding what to do and see can be overwhelming. Do you want to road trip to Gros Morne National Park? Explore the historic city of St. John’s? Watch whales and puffins on a boat tour? Luckily, with four days in St. John’s as your base, you can experience a little bit of everything!

After exploring Canada’s most easterly city, we knew we needed to share our experiences so that others could enjoy them, too. So here is our ultimate four-day St. John’s Newfoundland itinerary!

How to Spend 4 Days in St. John’s Newfoundland

The Newfoundland & Labrador Travel Basics

What is the Newfoundland Region?

Newfoundland and Labrador is the easternmost province of Canada and is made up of two main regions—Newfoundland Island and Labrador. St. John’s, the capital city, is located on the island portion.

The region is known for its rugged coastlines, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture heavily influenced by its Irish and Scottish heritage. Seriously, the polite Canadian accent quickly gives way to a thick Irish lilt as you head further east. It’s quite the culture shock.

St. John’s is also the oldest city in North America, and some parts of the city still seem to be stuck in time with its colorful row houses and narrow streets. You will constantly find yourself forgetting you’re in Canada and not the UK or Ireland.

The facts

• Electricity – 120 volts, 60Hz.
• Currency – Canadian Dollars (CAD).
• $1 CAD = $0.76 USD.
• ATMs can be found all over and credit cards are accepted in most places.
• SIM – The two affordable options are to get a local SIM or get a wifi hotspot option such as SkyRoam (read my full review).
• Unit of Measure – Meter.
• Tipping – Average expectation is 15%.
• Language –The official languages are English and French (spoken predominantly in Quebec).

Getting there

The primary international airport for Newfoundland is the St. John’s International Airport (YYT), and it is serviced daily by Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines.

Direct flights to St. John’s come from Halifax, Toronto, London, and Dublin.

While St. John’s is the main international hub for Newfoundland and Labrador, there are airlines flying from Toronto and Halifax to Deer Lake and Gander on a daily basis.

You can also get to Newfoundland and Labrador by Ferry, take the Marine Atlantic ferries from North Sydney or Nova Scotia to the island of Newfoundland. The ferries are for both foot passengers and vehicles and arrive at either Port aux Basques or Argentia.

Getting around Newfoundland

It should be no surprise that a rental car is absolutely mandatory when coming to Newfoundland. You’re coming out here to road trip and so when you land in St. John’s, make sure you grab a car at any one of the major companies. When you do, just make sure you save money by using one of the many coupon codes that I’ve consolidated. I tend to go with Discover Cars and RentalCars to search for the best deals and they’ve not let me down so far!

Where to stay

If you’re like us, the easiest place to start your adventures in the province is in St. John’s and when limited on time, you’ll undoubtedly be looking for a place to stay in the city. Personally, we stayed at the JAG Boutique Hotel and it is somewhere we’d highly recommend to anyone looking for a new, quality, clean, and convenient hotel in the city.

Make sure to watch our video walkthrough of the property to get a feel for this rock-inspired property.

Best time to go

Newfoundland gets pretty cold in the winter and the winters are long. As a result, the window for good weather ends up being small but when you’re able to go, you’ll be kicking yourself for not going earlier.

July – September

This is the best time to go because the temperatures rise up to the mid-20s (Celsius/70F) and this is also the time when wildlife and iceberg sightings are the most active. This means you’ll have a really good chance of seeing puffins, whales, and these small fish called capelins that roll onto the beaches. Summer is also when all the locals come out and there are a ton of great festivals to go to.

May – June and October – November

These are considered to be the shoulder seasons for Newfoundland, and there are still great opportunities to explore the province, but the weather gets a little iffy before the snow hits. What’s great about coming this time of the year is that it’ll be low seasons. Therefore there won’t be crowds anywhere, hotels will be cheaper, and you won’t have to worry as much about booking things in advance. On the other hand, many of the summer attractions that are away from St. John’s may or may not be closed for the season.

What to pack for St. John’s

What to pack for a trip to St. John’s largely depends on what time of year you decide to go. Since we recommend going during the summer months, this is what we’d pack for that time of year:

• Layers – while temperature in the summer here are pretty mild, there are still some areas or activities you’ll experience chilly weather and wind. A good jacket or windbreaker is highly recommended. A beanie and a pair of gloves are good to have on hand as well.
• Shoes – You’ll be walking A LOT. Even hiking. Comfortable shoes are an absolute must.
• Electronic Devices – There are stunning sights at every turn, you won’t want to forget your camera! And considering you’ll be in a car through much of this trip, you’ll want a good car charger for all your devices batteries.
• Snacks – While there are so many great restaurants to stop at through this trip, we recommend keeping water and snacks on you or in the car, especially when driving/touring the coast.

Newfoundland & Labrador geography

We think the biggest thing we underestimated when planning our trip to Newfoundland was just the sheer size of the province. If you’re coming to Newfoundland for 4 or even 5 days, there’s simply no way you can see everything. There’s too much distance to cover and not enough time.

This should help put things into perspective. Above is a map of the primary regions of Newfoundland and Labrador. St. John’s is in the bottom right corner and belongs to the Avalon region. The world-famous Gros Morne National Park is near Deer Lake and is in between the Western and Northern regions. The drive from St. John’s to Gros Morne is 6.5 hours so basically a full day just to get there.

Where planning a St. John’s Newfoundland itinerary gets complicated is when you start looking at all the spots you can stop along the way, and when you add it all up, you’ll realize that you’d never make it all the way to Deer Lake.

Newfoundland & Labrador history

We believe to really appreciate the province, it helps to understand the history and culture of Newfoundland & Labrador. It continues to play a huge role in the architecture, the language, and the attitudes of the locals.

Newfoundland is one of the oldest settled regions in North America, with evidence of indigenous peoples dating back over 9,000 years. We can’t even imagine 100 years ago let alone 9,000. Like most places, the arrival of European explorers and fishermen in the late 15th century marked the beginning of a tumultuous history for Newfoundland & Labrador. Following colonization attempts by England and France, the land was held under British rule for many years until finally becoming a province of Canada in 1949.

This is why you’ll see so many influences from both English and French cultures throughout the province. The most popular English Colony is St. John’s, which is now known as one of the oldest cities in North America. The colorful houses and narrow streets are reminiscent of its early days as a major fishing port. But the culture isn’t as much British as it is Irish, since most early settlers were Irish Catholics, who brought their traditions and language with them. (Which is much more fun!)

In the 18th century, young Irish men would often head over to work for English merchants and planters, especially in the fishing industry. This big migration hit its peak in the 1770s and 1780s, with over 100 ships and about 5,000 men leaving Irish ports. Many made the trip back and forth annually between Ireland and Newfoundland. By 1836, a detailed census showed that the Irish and their descendants made up half of Newfoundland’s population, with most living in St. John’s and nearby areas, known as the Irish Shore.

So when you hear an accent or see a traditional Irish music session in a pub, don’t be surprised. Newfoundlanders are proud of their Irish heritage and continue to celebrate it through different cultural events and festivals, such as the annual Seamus Creagh Festival.

4 Day St. John’s Newfoundland Itinerary

If you’ve seen photos of Newfoundland, then you know exactly why you need to put this exceptional destination on your bucket list. The rugged coastlines, little puffins, and some of the most charming fishing towns will beckon you to explore more. And if there’s one city that truly embodies the essence of Newfoundland, it’s St. John’s.

Basing yourself in St. John’s is one of the best ways to visit the province when you are short on time. Full of funny little rituals to welcome you, the community is friendly, and you’ll get to experience true East Coast Canadian hospitality. In this 4 day guide, you’ll get to experience the warmth of the people while also getting out and exploring. From the Irish Loop and Cape Spear to the colorful houses of Jelly Bean Row, you’re going to thrive on this St. John’s Newfoundland itinerary.

Day 1 – Welcome To Newfoundland

Welcome to St. John! Today is all about exploration and getting your bearings. St. John’s is a charming city full of colorful row houses, delicious seafood, and friendly locals, and is the perfect welcome to Newfoundland.

Start your morning bright and early with the first sunrise in North America at Cape Spear Lighthouse. This iconic landmark is just a short 25-minute drive from downtown St. John’s and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is also the most easterly point in Canada.

After taking in the beautiful sunrise, head back to town for breakfast at one of the local cafes or bakeries. Newfoundland is known for its delicious seafood, so be sure to try some cod cakes or fish and chips.

Getting out of town will give you the freshest breath of air (or the fishiest, ha!) and some incredible views of St. John’s from the water. So hit the road on the Irish Loop, a scenic drive that will take you along the rugged coastline and through quaint fishing villages.

Make your way to Bay Bulls to join the Obriens Whale and Bird Tour, where you can see the majestic humpback whales and playful puffins. It’s legit one of the coolest things we’ve done! From the icebergs floating in the Atlantic to the playful whales, this tour is a must-do in Newfoundland.

Hit the road again after your wildlife adventure and stop at Petty Harbour, the most photogenic little fishing community where you can chat with locals and some of the freshest fish around. Then, continue onto Quidi Vidi, a charming village with one of the best breweries (Quidi Vidi Brewery) on the island.

Finish the day back in St. John’s at one of the local hangouts. We’re sure you’ll quickly be initiated into Newfoundland by being screeched in. It’s a fun and silly tradition that involves drinking some Newfoundland Screech, kissing a cod (yes, really), and reciting the local oath. It may sound strange, but it’s all part of the charm and spirit of Newfoundland.

For the full details of the day, we have it broken down for you into a whole other detailed post, so head over to the 1 day itinerary from St. John’s.

Day 2 – Wandering St. John

After the full first day, you may want to take things a bit slower on your second day in St. John’s. Spend the morning exploring the colorful streets of the city, taking in the vibrant culture and friendly locals. You will also want to stay flexible as the weather can be pretty unpredictable here, so be prepared to adjust your St. John’s Newfoundland itinerary accordingly.

Start your morning with a yummy cup of coffee from Coffee Matters, the apple Danish is a must-try, it’s so warm and flaky. After you’ve had your fill, head up to Signal Hill, one of the most iconic stops in St. John’s. Here, you can take in the stunning views of the city and even visit Cabot Tower for a small entrance fee.

From the top, you can also get a view of Jelly Bean Row, but we will also be heading there later on in the day for a closer look. After spending some time at Signal Hill, head back down and walk along Water Street, the oldest street in North America. Here, you will find lots of quaint shops and boutiques selling local goods such as traditional Newfoundland jams and crafts.

Stop in at Newfoundland Chocolate Company for some melt-in-your-mouth treats, including their famous Row House Bars (these also make great souvenirs). Once you’ve had your sugar fix, take a stroll along the harbor front and check out the many colorful fishing boats and docks. You may even see some local fisherman bringing in their catch of the day.

Walk off your lunch at Jelly Bean Row, a row of colorful houses that will make the perfect backdrop for your Instagram photos. They are very touristy, but when you see them in person, you’ll understand why. You’ll see cute little gardens and unique architecture that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.

Afterward, hop in the car and head to Pouch Cove which is near the most northern tip of the peninsula that St. John’s is on. This scenic drive will take you through quaint fishing villages that are perfect for snapping some photos and enjoying the untouched beauty of Newfoundland.

Day 3 – Day Trip to Bonavista

Bonavista is a must-visit destination when in Newfoundland. It’s a small town located on the North Eastern coast of the island and is known for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and historical sites.

However, this is a big day trip for most people and will take 3 1/2 hours each way. So be prepared for a long day, but trust us, it’s worth it. (If you have more time we recommend staying a night in Bonavista to fully experience the charm of this town).

The drive is absolutely stunning, with fishing villages dotting the coastline and rolling hills of green. The further north you go, the more like Ireland it quickly starts to look, and it’s pretty epic just how rugged it can get.

When you reach Bonavista peninsula, head to the Cape Bonavista lighthouse first, as this is where you’ll get some of the best views of the town and coastline. On a clear day, you can see for miles and spot whales or icebergs in the distance.

After taking in the views, make your way down to Dungeon Provincial Park. It looks a little like the cliffs of Moher in Ireland and is a must-visit spot for photographers. We were snapping pics left and right. The natural rock formations are truly something else, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world.

Next, visit the Ryan Premises National Historic Site to learn about the history of fishing in Newfoundland. You can explore the buildings and exhibits that showcase what life was like for early settlers and fishermen.

For lunch, stop by one of the local restaurants or cafes in town and try some traditional Newfoundland dishes like fish and chips or cod tongues.

Down the road from Bonavista, Elliston has a famous Puffin Viewing Site where you can observe these adorable seabirds in their natural habitat. It’s a great opportunity for birdwatching and getting some amazing photos. However, it’s not guaranteed you’ll see them, but it’s still a nice little adventure to have.

On your way back to St. John’s, make a stop at the town of Trinity. This picturesque village is filled with colorful houses, quaint shops, and beautiful gardens. Take a stroll around the town and visit historic sites such as the Trinity Museum and the Ryan Shop.

We recommend grabbing dinner at the Twine Loft in Trinity, which offers delicious seafood dishes and stunning views of the harbor. The cozy dining area is the perfect spot to relax and reflect on your day of exploring.

Day 4 – The Irish Loop

Today is all about exploring the little villages that you might have missed on your journeys around Newfoundland. The Irish Loop is a scenic drive that takes you through beautiful coastal towns and provides a glimpse into the history and culture of Newfoundland.

On day 1 of the St. John’s Newfoundland itinerary, you would have done 1/4 of the Irish Loop but we’re going to finish it off today. The Irish Loop is a popular route that takes you around the main part of the Avalon region where half of it follows the coastline and the other half goes inland and near the Avalon Wilderness Reserve.

One really important thing to know about the route is that you kind of need to know where to stop, as it’s not always obvious. Picture this—a stunning view of a hidden cove, but if you don’t know it’s there, you might miss it completely by sticking to the main loop. Unfortunately, there aren’t tourist signs pointing out these gems, so it’s best to know about them beforehand or be ready to explore a bit. Trust us, these little detours are usually worth it.

The best way to find these little hidden areas is by chatting with locals who will be more than happy to share their favorite spots with you.

You’ll see some familiar places, like Petty Harbour, but this is great news for those who are craving one last crispy fish and chips before you leave. Head to Chafe’s Landing in Petty Harbour. This restaurant featured in Anthony Bourdain’s (RIP) Parts Unknown is seriously out of this world. The fish is succulent with a golden crisp batter, and the portion sizes are seriously generous. Plus, with a view of the harbor right from your table, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.

But don’t fill up too much on fish and chips because there’s plenty more to see and do on the Irish Loop. Continuing to drive south on the loop, you’ll make a stop in Ferryland, which houses the town’s famous lighthouse. There are quite a number of scenic points here, so go a little off-road, and you’ll find the perfect perch to watch the waves crash against the rocky shore. (Make sure to look for some whales; you never know when they might make an appearance!)

As you continue on, here are some of the most popular stops along the Irish Loop.

Explore the rich history and natural wonders of Cape Race, where the Titanic’s distress signal was received. Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve, a UNESCO site teeming with rare fossils. Trespassey, the launch point of Amelia Earhart’s historic flight. And don’t miss St. Vincent’s, a prime spot for unforgettable whale-watching adventures!

Our Takeaways from St. John’s

After four days in Newfoundland, you will quickly realize you need about four weeks to see all the nooks and crannies of this rugged island. St. John’s is just the tip of the iceberg (Ha, see what I did there?) when it comes to things to see and do in Newfoundland.

The Irish Loop will give you some more insight into the people and culture of this province, with its small towns and friendly locals. Make sure to take your time, explore off the beaten path, and soak in all the stunning views along the way. And we’re sure if you’re anything like us, you’ll be planning your next trip back to Newfoundland before you even leave.

Frequently Asked Questions