Saint Helier

Saint Helier is the charming capital of the island of Jersey, located in the English Channel, where British traditions blend harmoniously with French charm. This cosy coastal city attracts tourists with its historical architecture, lively harbour, and atmosphere of tranquillity. You can reach the city of Saint Helier in various ways, most often by combining air travel or a car journey with a ferry crossing.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the island is by air transport. Direct flights are received by Jersey Airport (JER), which has excellent connections to the city and serves over a million passengers annually.

If direct tickets are unavailable, travellers often choose to fly to neighbouring transport hubs. For example, one can fly to the city of Saint Peter Port on the island of Guernsey or the French city of Dinard, and then continue the journey by sea or air via local airlines.

Since Jersey is an island, there is no direct railway connection to the city of Saint Helier, and there are no train stations here. Tourists who prefer trains must combine this mode of transport with a ferry.

Usually, travellers travel by rail to coastal cities in France, for example, to the city of Dinard, or use routes through the United Kingdom to then transfer to a high-speed ferry to the island. Transit via neighbouring Saint Peter Port is also possible.

Reaching the city of Saint Helier by bus is only possible as part of a composite route that includes a ferry crossing. A popular option is the trip via Saint Peter Port: the total distance is about 53 km, and the travel time will take approximately 2.5 hours, taking transfers into account.

For those travelling from continental Europe, there is a route via French Dinard. This long journey covering over 170 km may take about 17 hours due to connection schedules between buses and ferries, so this option is chosen by experienced tourists who have time to spare.

A trip by car to Saint Helier will offer you freedom of movement, but will require the use of a car ferry. If you are departing from the city of Saint Peter Port, the journey of about 54 km will take approximately 1.9 hours.

Another popular route runs through French Dinard: the distance of 75 km can be covered in roughly 2.9 hours. Please consider that travel time depends significantly on ferry schedules and the waiting time for vehicle loading.

To ensure your journey to Saint Helier is as comfortable as possible, we have prepared several important recommendations considering the specific island nature of this city.

1. Clothing and weather. The climate here is mild but changeable. Even in summer, it is worth bringing a windbreaker and comfortable footwear for walking, as a fresh breeze often blows from the sea.
2. Transport. The city is compact, and it is best to move around the centre on foot. For trips around the island, the developed network of public buses, taxis, or bicycle rentals is excellent.
3. Currency. The Jersey pound circulates on the island, which is pegged to the British pound. British banknotes are accepted everywhere, but change may be given in local currency, which is not used in the UK.
4. Connectivity and language. The official language is English, although many street names have French origins. There will be no difficulties with communication.
5. Safety. Jersey is considered one of the safest places in Europe. Nevertheless, please observe standard safety precautions and look after your personal belongings in crowded places.
6. Traffic. If you rent a car, remember that traffic here is on the left-hand side, and roads can be quite narrow and winding.
7. Local etiquette. The residents are very polite and value tranquillity. It is customary to respect queues at bus stops and in shops.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully enjoy the atmosphere of this unique island city.