Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada Travel Guide

Discover Newfoundland and Labrador: Where rugged coastlines meet rich history and vibrant culture in Canada's easternmost province.

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Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador, the easternmost province of Canada, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known for its rugged coastline, the province is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Imagine towering cliffs, stunning fjords, and incredible sea stacks that line the shores. The landscape is a tapestry of dramatic scenery that will leave you breathless. St. John's, the capital city, is one of the oldest cities in North America. Its colorful row houses and lively harbor offer a charming atmosphere. Explore the historic Signal Hill, where you can learn about the area's military history and enjoy panoramic views of the city and sea. Nearby, the Cape Spear Lighthouse stands as the easternmost point in North America, a must-visit for anyone wanting to feel like they are standing at the edge of the world. The province is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The people of Newfoundland and Labrador are famous for their friendliness and unique dialect. Visit the Rooms, a cultural facility in St. John's, to delve into the local history and art. For a taste of the local music scene, head to George Street, known for its vibrant nightlife and live music venues. Whether you're hiking through Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or whale watching off the coast, Newfoundland and Labrador promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Newfoundland and Labrador.

Pack layers of clothing. The weather can be unpredictable and change rapidly.
Rent a car. Public transportation is limited, and many attractions are best accessed by car.
Book accommodations in advance during the summer months. Tourist season can get busy.
Try local seafood, especially cod and lobster. Fresh and delicious, it's a culinary highlight.
Don't miss iceberg season. Visit between April and June to see these natural wonders up close.

Destinations in Newfoundland and Labrador

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Gros Morne National Park

Forillon National Park

Explore Newfoundland and Labrador: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Newfoundland and Labrador

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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The Rooms

Explore the fascinating history and vibrant culture of Newfoundland and Labrador at The Rooms, a premier museum and art gallery in St. John's.

4.7

Terra Nova National Park

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Terra Nova National Park, a stunning natural retreat in Newfoundland and Labrador.

4.7

Captain James Cook National Historic Site

Discover the legacy of Captain James Cook amidst breathtaking vistas at Corner Brook's National Historic Site, a perfect blend of history and nature.

4.7

Steady Brook Falls Trail

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Steady Brook Falls Trail, a serene park in Newfoundland and Labrador known for its stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes.

4.7

Best landmarks in Newfoundland and Labrador

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Signal Hill National Historic Site

Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at Signal Hill National Historic Site, a must-see in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.

4.8

Point Amour, Provincial Historic Site, Newfoundland and Labrador

Explore the captivating history and stunning views at Point Amour Provincial Historic Site, home to Canada's second tallest lighthouse.

4.7

Gateway Labrador - Visitor Information Centre

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Labrador at the Gateway Visitor Information Centre—your essential resource for exploring this stunning region.

4.7

Gros Morne National Park Of Canada

Discover fjords, mountains, and unique geology in this UNESCO World Heritage Site on Newfoundland's stunning west coast.

4.9

Best restaurants in Newfoundland and Labrador

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Mallard Cottage

Discover the essence of Canadian cuisine at Mallard Cottage in St. John's—where tradition meets flavor amidst stunning landscapes.

4.6

Baba Q's Smoke & Grill

Experience the best barbecue and cocktails at Baba Q's Smoke & Grill in Labrador City - a culinary gem that promises delicious flavors and great ambiance.

4.7

Fisherman's Landing Restaurant

Experience exquisite seafood dining at Fisherman's Landing Restaurant in Rocky Harbour – where local flavors meet stunning waterfront views.

4.0

The Newfoundland Pub

Discover The Newfoundland Pub: A cozy spot in Ottawa serving delicious Canadian fare and refreshing drinks in a friendly atmosphere.

4.3

Best bars in Newfoundland and Labrador

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Baba Q's Smoke & Grill

Discover the rich flavors of barbecue and vibrant drinks at Baba Q's Smoke & Grill in Labrador City, Newfoundland and Labrador.

4.7

The Newfoundland Pub

Experience Canadian hospitality at The Newfoundland Pub in Ottawa, where delicious food, local brews, and a cozy atmosphere await.

4.3

The Black Sheep

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Black Sheep, a cozy pub in St. John's, serving local brews and delicious pub fare.

4.5

Jungle Jim's Eatery

Explore the diverse menu at Jungle Jim's Eatery in Labrador City, where American, Canadian, and Indian flavors meet in a family-friendly atmosphere.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Newfoundland and Labrador

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Fish Net Lounge

Experience the best of Wabush at Fish Net Lounge, where local flavors and community spirit come together for an unforgettable night.

5.0

Best shops in Newfoundland and Labrador

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Walmart

Discover unbeatable prices and a vast selection at Walmart in Labrador City – your essential shopping stop for all needs.

3.9

Labrador Mall

Explore Labrador Mall: a cozy shopping haven in Labrador City, blending local charm with a variety of retail and dining options.

3.9

Posie Row

Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Posie Row, the perfect spot for souvenirs in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.

4.7

Island Treasures

Explore Island Treasures: Your local gift shop and bookstore in Corner Brook, showcasing Newfoundland's unique crafts and literature.

4.4

Explore Newfoundland and Labrador on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Newfoundland and Labrador, mapped for you.

Newfoundland and Labrador Essentials

Newfoundland and Labrador can be accessed by air and sea. The main international gateway is St. John's International Airport (YYT), which offers direct flights from major Canadian cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax, as well as some international destinations. Gander International Airport (YQX) and Deer Lake Regional Airport (YDF) serve as additional entry points. For those traveling by sea, Marine Atlantic operates ferries from North Sydney, Nova Scotia to Port aux Basques and Argentia in Newfoundland. The ferry ride offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Newfoundland and Labrador have a variety of transportation options. Rental cars are a popular choice for exploring remote areas and national parks. Public buses operate in larger cities like St. John's, but services can be limited in rural areas. Taxis are readily available in urban centers. For inter-city travel, DRL Coachlines offers bus services that connect various towns and cities across Newfoundland. If you are planning to visit Labrador, note that some areas are only accessible by plane or boat.
The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas where card payments may not be accepted. ATMs are available in urban centers and larger towns, but may be scarce in remote locations. It's always a good idea to have some local currency on hand.
Newfoundland and Labrador are generally very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night. Always be aware of your surroundings and practice common sense safety measures.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Major hospitals are located in St. John's, Gander, and Corner Brook. Smaller medical facilities and pharmacies are available in most towns. For minor health issues, over-the-counter medications can be purchased at local pharmacies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable and change rapidly. Avoid wearing overly casual attire in fine dining establishments. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or religious sites. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respectful on public transport. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Hi,' and a handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as Jigg's dinner and toutons. Don't refuse food or drink if offered, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Newfoundland and Labrador like a local, visit the traditional fishing villages and engage with the friendly locals. Attend a 'kitchen party,' a social gathering featuring live music, dancing, and local food. Explore the stunning national parks like Gros Morne and Terra Nova. Don't miss the opportunity to witness iceberg alley in the spring or take a boat tour to see puffins and whales. Enjoy the unique dialect and sayings of the locals, and don't hesitate to ask them about the region's rich history and folklore.

When is the best time to visit Newfoundland and Labrador?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Newfoundland and Labrador

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Newfoundland and Labrador. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [Hao-dee]
- GoodbyeTake care
  [Tayk kayr]
- YesYea
  [Yay]
- NoNaw
  [Naw]
- Please/You're welcomeNo problem
  [Noh proh-blum]
- Thank youThanks a bunch
  [Thangs a bun-ch]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry 'bout that
  [Sor-ee 'bout that]
- How are you?How's she cuttin'?
  [Hows she cuttin'?]
- Fine. And you?Good. And yerself?
  [Goo-d. And yer-self?]
- Do you speak English?Do ya talk English?
  [Doo ya talk In-glish?]
- I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [I ain't get-tin' it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I have a look at the menu, please?
  [Can I hav a luk at the men-yoo, pleez?]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meet]
- Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [Bot-toms up]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay up, please?
  [Can I pay up, pleez?]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [Get lost!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doc-tor!]
- I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [I'm all turned a-round]
- I'm illI'm not feelin' well
  [I'm not feel-in' well]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to grab...
  [I'd like to grab...]
- I'm just lookingJust havin' a gander
  [Just hav-in' a gan-der]
- How much is it?What’s the damage?
  [Wut's the dam-age?]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [That's a bit steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya bring it down a bit?
  [Can ya bring it down a bit?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [Morn-in']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Even-in']
- YesterdayYest'day
  [Yes-ter-day]
- TodayTo-day
  [To-day]
- TomorrowTo-morrow
  [To-mor-row]
- 1One
  [Wun]
- 2Two
  [Too]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [For]
- 5Five
  [Fiv]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [Ayt]
- 9Nine
  [Nin]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the ad-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out to me?
  [Can ya point it out to me?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)One ticket to ...
  [Wun tick-it to ...]

History of Newfoundland and Labrador

Before European contact, Newfoundland and Labrador were home to various Indigenous groups, including the Beothuk, Innu, and Inuit. These peoples had rich cultures and traditions that were deeply connected to the land and sea, thriving in the region for thousands of years.
Around the year 1000 AD, Norse explorers from Greenland, led by Leif Erikson, established a settlement at L’Anse aux Meadows on the northern tip of Newfoundland. This site is the first known European settlement in North America and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In 1497, John Cabot, an Italian navigator commissioned by England, arrived on the coast of Newfoundland. His discovery led to European interest in the region, particularly for its rich fishing grounds, which would become a crucial part of the economy for centuries.
The Grand Banks, off the coast of Newfoundland, became one of the world's richest fishing grounds. European fishermen from England, France, Spain, and Portugal flocked to these waters, establishing seasonal fishing stations and eventually permanent settlements.
Throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, Newfoundland was a contested territory between England and France. The island saw numerous skirmishes and conflicts, including the famous Battle of Signal Hill in 1762, where the British recaptured St. John's from the French.
In 1949, after a series of debates and referendums, Newfoundland and Labrador joined Canada as its tenth province. This decision marked the end of its status as a British colony and the beginning of its integration into the Canadian confederation.
Newfoundland and Labrador boast a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Indigenous groups, English, Irish, French, and Scottish settlers. The province is renowned for its distinctive dialects, traditional music, and vibrant festivals, reflecting its diverse history.
In 1992, the Canadian government declared a moratorium on the Northern Cod fishery, which had been a cornerstone of Newfoundland's economy for centuries. This event led to significant economic and social impacts, reshaping the province's future and its fishing communities.
The province is known for its stunning landscapes, including Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park's dramatic fjords, mountains, and coastal scenery highlight the geological history of the region, attracting nature lovers and geologists alike.
Today, Newfoundland and Labrador continue to evolve, balancing traditional industries like fishing with new developments in energy, tourism, and technology. The province's unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a fascinating destination for travelers.