How to get to St. John's

Sprawling along the rocky coast of the Atlantic, St. John's is the oldest city in North America, attracting tourists with its rich maritime history and vibrant architecture. If you are looking for information on how to get to St. John's, there are several options to consider: the majority of travellers arrive here by plane, although adventure lovers may choose a combined route by car and ferry. When planning a trip to this colourful corner of eastern Canada, you will be able to enjoy picturesque views whilst still on the way.

For most travellers, flying remains the fastest and most convenient way to reach this picturesque corner of Canada. The city is served by St. John's International Airport (IATA code: YYT), which acts as the main air gateway to the region. Flights regularly arrive here from major Canadian hubs such as Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax, and seasonal flights are also operated from select international cities.

The airport is located just a few kilometres from the centre, so the journey to your hotel will not take much time. The modern terminal ensures a comfortable arrival, and you can reach St. John's itself by taxi or rental car. During the descent for landing, passengers are often treated to breathtaking views of the rocky Atlantic coastline and the city's surroundings.

There is no direct railway connection to the city, as there is no active train station in St. John's. Passenger rail services on the island of Newfoundland were discontinued in the last century, and now the former tracks often serve as scenic routes for hiking and nature explorers.

Therefore, it is not possible to get here exclusively by train, even if you are travelling across mainland Canada. Tourists have to choose alternative methods of transport, combining flights or car trips with ferry crossings to reach this amazing land.

Bus travel across the island of Newfoundland is a wonderful opportunity to leisurely enjoy the rugged beauty of nature on the way to the provincial capital. Regular services connect St. John's with key points in the region: for example, the journey from Gander takes about 3.5–4 hours, covering a distance of approximately 330 kilometres. The trip from Grand Falls-Windsor, located 425 kilometres to the west, takes slightly longer, about 5 hours, allowing tourists to comfortably cross a significant part of the island via the Trans-Canada Highway.

Of particular interest is the route starting from the French territory of Saint-Pierre. Although this path requires a ferry crossing to the coast of Newfoundland, the subsequent bus transfer to the city, spanning about 360 kilometres, takes around 4 hours and passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Avalon Peninsula. Such trips turn the road into a separate adventure, opening up views of endless forests and rocky Atlantic shores to travellers.

For road travellers heading from the mainland, the journey to St. John's begins with a ferry crossing from North Sydney (Nova Scotia). The most popular year-round route leads to Port aux Basques: from here, you will have to cross the entire island of Newfoundland along the Trans-Canada Highway. This massive journey of about 900 kilometres will allow you to see the full diversity of local nature, from misty mountains to endless forests.

In the summer period, a more convenient option is available — the seasonal ferry to the port of Argentia, which is located just an hour and a half drive from the provincial capital. This is an excellent way to save time and energy on the road. For those arriving on the island by air, renting a car directly at the arrival airport is recommended: having a car will provide the freedom of movement and the opportunity to visit the most remote and beautiful corners of the coast.

Preparing for a trip to St. John's requires attention to detail, especially considering the changeable island climate. Here are some useful recommendations that will help you feel confident and comfortable during your journey.

1. Clothing and Weather: The weather here changes rapidly, so the principle of layering is your best friend. Be sure to bring a windproof jacket, waterproof shoes, and a warm sweater even in summer, as winds from the Atlantic can be piercing.
2. Transport: Although the historic centre is convenient for walking and Metrobus buses circulate around the city, it is better to rent a car for a full exploration of the region. This will give you the freedom to visit picturesque capes and remote fishing villages where public transport rarely goes.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, from restaurants to souvenir shops, but keeping some cash notes for small expenses or tips will be useful.
4. Health and Safety: The city is considered very safe for tourists, and the standard of medical care is high. Pharmacies are easy to find in shopping centres and supermarkets; the single number for emergency services is 911.
5. Communication: The main language is English, however, locals speak a colourful dialect with a distinct accent and slang. Do not hesitate to ask again: Newfoundlanders are famous for their incredible friendliness and are always ready to help.
6. Local Etiquette: It is customary here to be polite, hold doors open, and greet staff. In restaurants and bars, tipping 15–20% of the bill amount is considered standard, as it is usually not included in the bill.
7. What to Avoid: Do not underestimate the ocean: avoid walking on wet dark rocks near the water ("Black Rocks"), as sudden waves can be dangerous to life. Also, do not plan trips with tight timing, as fog can make adjustments to the schedule.
8. Local Tradition: To feel like one of the locals, participate in the "Screech-in" ceremony. This is a cheerful ritual of initiation into honorary Newfoundlanders, involving a tasting of local rum and a symbolic kissing of a cod, which is often conducted in city pubs.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor troubles and focus on the main thing — the unique atmosphere and rugged beauty of this land. May your journey to Canada leave only the brightest and warmest memories.