Saskatoon

Saskatoon, picturesquely situated on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River, is often referred to as the "Paris of the Prairies" for its beautiful bridges and rich cultural life. If you are planning a trip to Saskatoon, it will be useful for you to know that this dynamic city in the centre of Canada boasts a well-developed transport infrastructure. You can reach this destination in various ways: from a quick flight to an exciting journey by car or train across the endless expanses of the province.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the city is to fly into Saskatoon International Airport (YXE). This modern aviation hub receives regular flights from major North American cities and is located just a few minutes' drive from the central districts. The airport is excellently connected to the city, allowing tourists to begin their holiday without unnecessary delays.

If direct tickets are unavailable, a convenient alternative would be a flight to neighbouring cities, such as Regina or Prince Albert. From there, you can reach your final destination via ground transport, enjoying the scenic views of the Saskatchewan province.

For those who appreciate the charm of rail travel, there is an option to reach Saskatoon on a VIA Rail train. The famous transcontinental route The Canadian, connecting Toronto and Vancouver, makes a stop at the station located on Chappell Drive, on the outskirts of the city.

However, it is worth noting that passenger trains do not run daily, but only a few times a week. Therefore, travellers need to check the schedule in advance and book tickets to properly plan their trip to this corner of Canada.

Bus services provide a reliable and budget-friendly way to get to the city, connecting it with key settlements in the region. A trip from Prince Albert will take about 2.5 hours (distance ~150 km), while a journey from Lloydminster will require approximately 4.7 hours of travel time.

The route from the provincial capital, Regina, is also popular among tourists. Modern bus operators cover this distance (about 274 km) in an average of 3–4 hours, making the trip quite comfortable and untiring.

Travelling by car is an ideal option for those who wish to enjoy the vastness of the prairies and independence on the road. The drive from Prince Albert will take just about 1.4 hours, covering a distance of 138 km, while the trip from Lloydminster will require approximately 2.5 hours of driving.

If you are departing from Regina, expect to spend about 2.6 hours behind the wheel on a direct and high-quality highway. Taxi services for such long distances can be expensive, so renting a car often becomes a more beneficial solution for tourists.

Saskatoon is a hospitable and safe city, but a little preparation will make your stay here as comfortable as possible. Here are a few practical recommendations that will be useful for every traveller.

1. Clothing and Weather: The climate here is continental and changeable. In winter, a warm parka, hat, and thermal underwear are mandatory (temperatures often drop below -20°C), while in summer, light clothing and sunscreen are useful, as days can be hot and sunny.
2. Transport: The city is quite spread out, so the most convenient method of movement is a rental car. Public transport exists, but it may not cover all interesting outlying areas.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Bank cards are accepted everywhere, but carrying a small amount of cash for minor expenses and gratuities is always useful.
4. Health and Safety: Saskatoon is safe for tourists and families, but do observe standard precautions at night. The unified number for emergency services is 911; tap water is clean and suitable for drinking.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is English. Local residents are known for their friendliness and readiness to help, so do not hesitate to ask for directions.
6. Local Etiquette: Politeness and punctuality are valued in Canada. In restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% of the bill amount if you enjoyed the service.
7. What to Avoid: Do not underestimate winter weather conditions. If you plan to drive out of the city during winter, strictly check the forecast and road conditions.
8. Insider Tip: Be sure to set aside time for a walk along the Meewasin Valley trail — this is the best way to see the city's famous bridges and enjoy nature within the metropolis.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the beauties of the "Paris of the Prairies".