Newfoundland and Labrador

Plan your trip to Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador is a rugged maritime destination where dramatic coastal cliffs, iceberg-filled waters, and centuries of seafaring history converge. Home to iconic fishing villages, world-class whale watching, and some of Canada's most striking natural landscapes, this Atlantic province offers an unforgettable blend of outdoor adventure and cultural immersion.

Getting there & around

Fly into St. John's International Airport, the main hub for the region, with connections from major Canadian and U.S. cities. Rent a car to explore at your own pace—the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) connects major destinations, though coastal roads can be narrow and winding. Ferry services link Newfoundland to Labrador and outlying islands like Fogo Island.

How long to stay

Plan for 7-10 days to experience the region's highlights: coastal towns, national parks, and wildlife viewing. A week allows you to explore St. John's, venture to Gros Morne or Terra Nova, and still have time for whale watching in Iceberg Alley.

When to go

Visit June through September for the best chance to see whales, icebergs (peak in June-July), and coastal wildlife in mild weather. July and August are warmest but busiest; shoulder months of June and September offer fewer crowds and excellent conditions.

Suggested itinerary

  1. St. John's and Cape Spear — Arrive in the capital and explore St. John's colorful row houses, historic downtown, and local breweries. Head to Cape Spear, North America's most easterly point, for dramatic cliff views and a visit to the iconic lighthouse.
  2. Whale Watching in Bay Bulls and Iceberg Alley — Take a boat tour from Bay Bulls to spot humpback and minke whales in their summer feeding grounds. The same waters often host icebergs drifted down from Greenland—a truly unforgettable sight.
  3. Trinity and Avalon Peninsula — Drive to the charming village of Trinity, known for its well-preserved 18th-century architecture and rich theatrical tradition. Explore nearby coastal trails and sample fresh seafood at local restaurants.
  4. Gros Morne National Park — Head west to this UNESCO World Heritage site and hike to Western Brook Pond, where freshwater fjords are surrounded by 2,000-foot cliffs. Explore the coastal tablelands and scenic mountain passes.
  5. Corner Brook and West Coast Exploration — Visit Corner Brook, Newfoundland's second-largest city, and take a scenic drive along the western coast. Stop at viewpoints and hiking trails overlooking the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
  6. Twillingate and Fogo Island — Drive north to Twillingate, the iceberg capital, for boat tours among the ice and coastal views. Visit nearby Fogo Island for its unique artist community, dramatic cliffs, and traditional fishing villages.
  7. Terra Nova National Park and Burin Peninsula — Explore Terra Nova on the east coast with coastal hikes, camping, and marine wildlife viewing. Continue to the Burin Peninsula's fishing heritage and scenic Head-Harrington waterfront.

Frequently asked questions

When can you see icebergs in Newfoundland?

Icebergs drift down from Greenland and are most visible in Iceberg Alley (around Twillingate and Bay Bulls) from May to July, with peak viewing in June and early July. Some icebergs may linger into August in cooler years.

Is Newfoundland worth visiting?

Yes—it offers unique maritime culture, dramatic coastal landscapes, excellent whale watching, and charming fishing villages found nowhere else in Canada. The combination of natural beauty and rich heritage makes it a memorable destination.

How many days do you need in Newfoundland?

Seven to ten days allows you to see major highlights like St. John's, whale watching, Gros Morne National Park, and coastal villages without rushing. A full two weeks lets you explore both islands and Labrador.

What is Newfoundland famous for?

Newfoundland is famous for its cod fishing heritage, dramatic coastal scenery with icebergs and whales, colorful row houses in St. John's, and unique maritime culture influenced by Indigenous and European settlement dating back centuries.

Do you need a car to explore Newfoundland?

A rental car is highly recommended to access coastal towns, national parks, and remote viewpoints; public transportation is limited outside St. John's. Some attractions require driving on narrow, winding roads through rural terrain.

History

Newfoundland and Labrador has a rich maritime heritage dating back to Indigenous Beothuk and Inuit peoples who inhabited the region for thousands of years. European exploration began in earnest during the late 15th century, with John Cabot's voyages establishing the area as a valuable fishing ground that attracted English, French, and Portuguese settlers. The region became a British colony in the 18th century and remained heavily dependent on the cod fishery for centuries, shaping its economy and culture profoundly. Newfoundland and Labrador joined Canadian Confederation in 1949, marking a major transition in its political and economic history.

Culture

Newfoundland and Labrador is renowned for its vibrant coastal traditions, colorful row houses, and strong connection to the sea that permeates daily life and artistic expression. The region celebrates a distinctive folk music heritage, traditional boat-building crafts, and iconic dishes like fish and chips and toutons that reflect its fishing legacy. The people of the province are known for their warm hospitality, unique sense of humor, and pride in their identity as Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Language

The local dialect, known as Newfoundland English, features distinctive vocabulary, accent patterns, and expressions influenced by Irish, English, and maritime traditions, such as calling a friend a "b'y" and using words like "screech" for local rum. Visitors might hear traditional phrases like "Whaddya at?" as a casual greeting or "Stay where you are" meaning stay seated and relax.

Best time to visit

Visit in summer (June-September) for whale watching and coastal exploration.

Places to visit

Where to eat