Planning Your Perfect Trip to Newfoundland Use Expert Advice
Planning Your Perfect Trip to Newfoundland Use Expert Advice.
Where is the best place to have a local Jiggs dinner and a traditional NL-Cold plate? St. John’s: O’Reilly’s Pub is a popular spot for Jiggs Dinner, especially on weekends. The Big R also serves this dish, and Rustler’s Family Restaurant is another option. Mount Pearl: The Mount Pearl Big Stop Restaurant is another location where Jiggs Dinner can be found.
- O’Reilly’s Pub (Friday-Sunday)
- Caine’s Grocery & Deli (takeaway)
- The Big R
- Rustler’s Family Restaurant (Sunday)
- Mount Pearl Big Stop (Sunday)
- Smitty’s Family Restaurant
What are the top four-day outdoor activities in Newfoundland in November?
November is a special time to visit Newfoundland since there are less tourists, and you can take in the stunning scenery of late autumn. But be ready for weather that might be chilly and unpredictable. Important Things to Think About in November:
Weather: Anticipate chilly temperatures along with the possibility of wind, rain, and maybe early snowfall. Sturdy shoes and layers of waterproof clothes are necessary.
Because daylight hours are fewer, make appropriate plans. Animals: Despite the early peak whale-watching season, migratory whales can still be seen.
Outdoor: Planning Your Perfect Trip to Newfoundland Use Expert Advice.
East Coast Trail: Hikes along the shore are magnificent in this trail system. Even brief segments can have significant benefits.
North Head Trail: Located on Signal Hill, this trail provides breathtaking panoramic views of St. John’s harbour and the Atlantic Ocean.
Signal Hill National Historic Site: Enjoy panoramic views of St. John’s and the coastline. Even in November, the views are spectacular. This location is rich in history.
- Hike to Lamanche Suspension Bridge.
- Watch the sunset at Topsail Bluff.
- Enjoy fish and chips dinner at Landing Restaurant at the ferry terminal in Portugal Cove-St Phillips.
Scenic Drives: The Irish Loop is a beautiful coastal drive with charming fishing villages and rugged scenery. Driving around the many coastal routes will provide amazing views.
You can drive from St. John’s to Ferryland.
Exploring Coastal Communities: Visiting small fishing villages provides a glimpse into Newfoundland unique culture and way of life. Even just walking around these small towns can be a great experience.
You can drive from St John’s to Petty Harbour and Goulds. Stop in the Goulds at Keith’s diner for lunch or dinner.
You can visit the Petty Harbour, Briggs, Torbay, Ferryland, and Pouch Cove communities.
Should we visit Gros Morne and Twillingate from August 1 to August 8? We want to visit Gros Morne and then up to Twillingate.
Gros Morne and Twillingate are two must see destinations in Newfoundland. August 1 to 8th gives you a good amount of time, but you’ll still want to plan efficiently.
Driving: The drive from Gros Morne to Twillingate is quite long. Allow ample time for travel, and consider breaking it up with an overnight stop.
Gros Morne: Plan for at least 2-3 days to explore Gros Morne National Park. Highlights include Western Brook Pond boat tour, the Tablelands hike, and exploring the coastal communities.
Twillingate: Allocate 2-3 days for Twillingate to enjoy iceberg and whale watching tours (if available), visiting the Auk Island Winery, and exploring the scenic coastline.
Booking: August is peak season, so book accommodations, tours, and car rentals well in advance.
Can you suggest a central place to stay in Grose Morne while we tour for a couple days?
Here’s a mix of highly-regarded accommodations in and around Gros Morne National Park, covering different styles and locations:
Gros Morne Cabins: These offer a comfortable, independent stay, ideal for those wanting a bit more space.
Wildflowers Country Inn: A charming inn known for its warm hospitality and scenic views. It is a very comfortable option.
Stay in Gros Morne: This location provides comfortable rooms.
Ocean View Hotel: Offers a good location, and a variety of amenities.
Neddies Harbour Inn: A highly-rated inn with excellent dining and stunning views.
The Tides Inn: Known for its exceptional service and beautiful setting.
The Rooms at Woody Point: This location provides a very high end experience.
I would love to visit Newfoundland again, but the travel costs are too much. Can you help me with information on booking a budget-friendly and active vacation to visit Newfoundland?
Budget-friendly options when travelling to Newfoundland. Here are 10 tips that can help with flights, hotels, and car rentals.
Flights:
Have Flexibility with Travel Dates: Traveling during the off-shoulder seasons (spring and fall) often yields cheaper flight and accommodation prices compared to the peak summer months. Mid-week flights (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) are frequently less expensive than weekend flights. Utilize Flight Comparison Websites: Websites like www.visitnewfoundlandlabrador.ca allow you to compare prices from various airlines, helping you find the best deals.
Consider Nearby Airports: Check flight prices to different airports in Newfoundland, such as St. John’s (YYT), Deer Lake (YDF), and Gander (YQX), as prices can vary. Also, consider flying into Halifax, Nova Scotia, and taking the ferry to Newfoundland.
Set Price Alerts: Many travel websites offer price-alert features that notify you when flight prices-drop. This can help you snag a deal.
Hotels: Explore Alternative Accommodations: Planning Your Perfect Trip to Newfoundland Use Expert Advice Consider staying in guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, or vacation-rentals (like those found on Airbnb or VRBO) instead of traditional hotels.
Travel in the Off-Season: As mentioned earlier, travelling during the off-season can significantly reduce hotel costs.
Compare Rental Car Companies: Use https://visitnewfoundlandlabrador.ca/rentalcars/ websites that compare rental car prices from different companies to find the best deal.
Consider the Size of the Car: Opt for a smaller, more fuel-efficient car if you don’t need a large vehicle. This can save you money on both the rental and gas.
Planning Your Perfect Trip to Newfoundland Use Expert Advice
Is St. John’s, Newfoundland, worth visiting?
St. John’s, the capital, is worth visiting. St. John’s offers a rich cultural heritage, a vibrant arts scene, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Known for its colourful row houses, historic sites like Signal Hill, and picturesque harbour, St. John’s provides a unique blend of natural beauty. The city’s friendly locals, lively music scene, and excellent seafood add to its charm, making it a must-visit destination.
What is St. John’s, Newfoundland, famous for?
St. John’s is famous for several things:
- Signal Hill: This historic site offers panoramic views, and the Cabot Tower is where the first transatlantic wireless communication was received.
- George Street is renowned for its nightlife, with the most bars and pubs per capita in North America.
- Colourful Row Houses: Known as Jellybean Row, these brightly painted homes are iconic.
- Rich History: As one of the oldest cities in North America, it has a rich maritime history and cultural heritage.
How many days does it take to visit St. John’s, Newfoundland?
To fully experience St. John’s and its surroundings, a visit of 4 to 5 days is recommended. This allows time to explore the city’s historical sites, enjoy the local cuisine, enjoy the nightlife on George Street, and venture out to nearby natural attractions such as Cape Spear and Quidi Vidi Village.
Is St. John’s, Newfoundland, a walkable city?
Yes, St. John’s is a walkable city, especially in the downtown area, where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are concentrated. The city’s hilly terrain can be challenging, but it also offers beautiful vistas and charming streets to explore on foot.
What is the best month to visit Newfoundland?
The best months to visit Newfoundland are from late June to early September. The weather is milder during this period, and you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, whale watching, and iceberg spotting. July and August are viral for tourists.
What is the best time of year to visit St. John’s, Newfoundland?
The best time to visit St. John’s is during the summer, from June to early September. During this time, the weather is warm, and many festivals and events occur. This is also the peak season for whale-watching and iceberg viewing.
Is St. John’s Newfoundland expensive?
St. John’s can be moderately expensive, especially during peak tourist season. Accommodation, dining, and activities can add up, but budget-friendly options are also available. Compared to larger Canadian cities, St. John’s is relatively affordable.
Is Newfoundland expensive to visit?
Newfoundland is not excessively expensive to visit, but costs can vary depending on the time of year and type of accommodation. While certain activities and dining experiences may be costly, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy.
What is the famous street in St. John’s, Newfoundland?
George Street is famous in St. John’s for its vibrant nightlife and numerous bars and pubs. George Street is a popular spot for locals and tourists looking to experience live music and socialize.
Can you get around St. John’s without a car?
Yes, you can get around St. John’s without a car, especially downtown, where many attractions are within walking distance. You’ll have access to convenient transportation options, such as public transportation, taxis, and ride-sharing services.
How long is the ferry ride from Nova Scotia to St. John’s, Newfoundland?
There is no direct ferry to St. John’s. However, you can take a ferry from North Sydney, Nova Scotia, to either Argentia (a 16-hour ride) or Port aux Basques (a 6–8-hour ride) in Newfoundland. From there, you must drive to St. John’s, which takes approximately 1.5 hours from Argentia or 9 hours from Port aux Basques.
How long does it take to drive around St. John’s?
Driving around St. John’s can take about an hour, depending on traffic and stops. Exploring the greater St. John’s area, including nearby attractions like Cape Spear and Quidi Vidi, can take several hours.
What is the crime rate in St. John’s, Newfoundland?
St. John’s has a relatively low crime rate compared to other Canadian cities. While it experiences typical urban crime, it is generally considered a safe place for residents and visitors.
How cheap is Newfoundland?
Newfoundland is relatively affordable compared to other parts of Canada. While some areas, especially St. John’s, can be expensive, smaller towns and rural areas, however, offer more budget-friendly options for accommodation and dining.
What is the best way to tour Newfoundland?
The best way to tour Newfoundland is by car. This allows you to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, remote villages, and natural attractions at your own pace. Renting a car is recommended if you’re flying into the province.
In what month do you see icebergs in Newfoundland?
Iceberg season in Newfoundland typically runs from late May to early June, though icebergs can sometimes be seen as late as July. The best month for iceberg viewing is usually June.
What is the best month to see icebergs in Newfoundland?
June is generally the best month to see icebergs in Newfoundland. This is when most icebergs drift along the coast, providing spectacular viewing opportunities.
When can I see puffins in Newfoundland?
Puffins can be seen in Newfoundland from late May to early September. The best months to see them are June and July, when they are most active during their breeding season.
What is the wettest month in Newfoundland?
October is typically the wettest month in Newfoundland, and it experiences the highest average rainfall.
When can you see whales in St John’s, Newfoundland?
Whale-watching season in St. John’s is from mid-June to mid-August. During this time, humpback, minke, and other whale species migrate through the waters of Newfoundland.
What should I pack for St. John’s, Newfoundland?
When visiting St. John’s, pack layers to accommodate varying weather conditions. Essentials include:
- Waterproof jacket and footwear
- Warm clothing (sweaters, hats, gloves)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Cameras and binoculars for wildlife and iceberg viewing
Can you see the Northern Lights from Newfoundland?
You can watch the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) from Newfoundland, particularly in low-light pollution areas. The best time to see them is from late fall to early spring.
Where is the best place to see whales and icebergs in Newfoundland?
Twillingate and Bonavista are Newfoundland’s best places to see whales and icebergs. These coastal areas offer excellent viewing opportunities and tours.
Are there polar bears in Newfoundland?
Polar bears are occasionally seen in the northern parts of Newfoundland and Labrador, particularly in the Labrador region. They are not commonly found in Newfoundland itself.
How long does it take to drive from one end of Newfoundland to the other?
Driving from the western end of Newfoundland (Port aux Basques) to the eastern end (St. John’s) takes approximately 9–10 hours without significant stops.
Is Fogo Island worth visiting?
Fogo Island is worth visiting for its unique culture, stunning landscapes, and renowned Fogo Island Inn. It offers a distinctive experience of Newfoundland’s heritage and natural beauty.
How often can you see northern lights in Newfoundland?
The Northern Lights can be seen in Newfoundland several times a year, particularly during periods of high solar activity. The best times are during winter when nights are longer and darker.
What is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter, from late September to early April, particularly around midnight or early morning.
How long is the ferry ride to Fogo?
The ferry ride to Fogo Island from Farewell, Newfoundland, takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
How much is the ferry to Fogo Island?
As of the latest information, the ferry to Fogo Island costs around $15–20 CAD per vehicle and additional fees for passengers, but prices can vary, so it’s best to check current rates.
What is so special about Fogo Island?
Fogo Island is unique for its rugged natural beauty, traditional outport culture, and the acclaimed Fogo Island Inn. It’s known for its artistic community, distinctive architecture, and stunning coastal Scenery.
Are there narwhals in Newfoundland?
Narwhals are typically found in Arctic waters and are uncommon in Newfoundland.
Are there dolphins in Newfoundland?
Yes, dolphins can be seen in the waters around Newfoundland, including species like the Atlantic white-sided dolphin and the common dolphin.
Are there killer whales in Newfoundland?
Killer whales (orcas) are occasionally sighted around Newfoundland, especially during summer.
What is Cape Spear known for?
Cape Spear is known for being the easternmost point in North America. It features a historic lighthouse and offers stunning 180-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a popular tourist spot.
Where can I see whales in Newfoundland?
Some of the best places to see whales in Newfoundland include:
- St. John’s and Cape Spear
- Trinity and Bonavista
- Twillingate
- Witless Bay Ecological Reserve
How do you see puffins in St John’s?
To see puffins near St. John’s, visit the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve island, which is home to large colonies of puffins. Boat tours from Bay Bulls can take you close to the puffin nesting sites.
How long do you need to see Newfoundland?
Plan to spend at least 7–19 days to see Newfoundland highlights. This allows enough time to explore St. John’s, the Avalon Peninsula, Gros Morne National Park, and other key attractions.
When should I go to Newfoundland?
The best time to visit Newfoundland is from late June to early September when the weather is mild. You can enjoy outdoor activities, events, and festivals. This period is also ideal for whale-watching and iceberg-viewing.
These are the best travel planning resources you should use.
Looking to book your trip to Newfoundland and Labrador? Use these resources that are tried and tested by other travellers like you who vacation in Newfoundland and Labrador. Bookmark these links. Save them for future reference.
Booking Flights, Hotels or B&B: Start planning your next vacation trip by finding the best flight, hotel or b&b deals. Book Here
Finding things to do in Newfoundland and Labrador on TripAdvisor and Viator is not hard. Enjoy boat tours, whale watching, icebergs watching, kayaking and other activities.
You can also find low prices on hotels, B&B and cabins with these two providers. If you are located in Canada, the USA, the UK or Europe, use Booking.com, and if you are in Canada, the USA or anywhere else, use TripAdvisor.
Car Rental: Here is what we recommend:
When you book with Rentalcars.com, you can compare prices and find the best vehicle for your trip. Economybookings.com Display all their vehicle on the website with a detailed description. They display high-quality photos and a user rating as well. Qeeq.com serves road trip travellers like you from different countries by working with car rental companies worldwide.
Get compensated if your flight is delayed or cancel
AirHelp and Compensateair will help you with flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding. All you need to do is to submit your flight details, and they will handle the claim process on your behalf. They will handle all the paperwork, airline negotiations, and legal proceedings.
Do you need more help planning your trip?
Check out our Resources Page, where we highlight all the resources and companies you can use to assist with your planning.
Where can I find more information about travelling to Newfoundland and Labrador? Here are helpful resources for planning your trip:
Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism | Travel Canada | The Rooms Provincial Museum
