Free Newfoundland and Labrador Travel Guide & Mobile App

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Newfoundland and Labrador
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Explore Newfoundland and Labrador for Atlantic coastlines, Indigenous and maritime heritage, iceberg waters, fjords, wildlife and vast northern landscapes.

Newfoundland and Labrador is Canada's easternmost province, a vast Atlantic territory divided by the island of Newfoundland and the mainland region of Labrador. Its geography sets the rhythm of travel: exposed headlands, sheltered coves, boreal forests, glacial valleys, long gravel roads and settlements strung along the coast. St John's, the provincial capital on Newfoundland's Avalon Peninsula, combines brightly painted row houses, a working harbour and a strong cultural life, while smaller communities preserve connections to fishing, boatbuilding and the sea.
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Newfoundland offers a remarkably varied landscape within an island setting. The Avalon Peninsula has rugged coastal paths and important maritime history; the Bonavista Peninsula is known for historic outports, sea stacks and views across the North Atlantic; and the west coast leads to Gros Morne National Park, where fjords, tablelands and ancient exposed rock illustrate the forces of plate tectonics. Farther north, the Viking settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows provides tangible evidence of an early Norse presence in North America. Inland forests and ponds support moose, caribou and black bears, while offshore waters bring whales, seabirds and, in season, drifting icebergs.
Labrador has a different scale and character. Coastal Labrador is shaped by Inuit, Innu and settler communities, rocky shores and broad stretches of boreal wilderness. Red Bay preserves the remains of a major Basque whaling station, while the Torngat Mountains National Park in the far north contains dramatic peaks, fjords and culturally important Inuit landscapes. Access is more demanding than on Newfoundland, often involving regional flights, ferries, boats or long road journeys, and some destinations require organised arrangements with local operators or Indigenous partners.
The province's culture reflects Indigenous histories, centuries of European fishing and settlement, Irish and West Country English influences, and a modern identity built around music, storytelling and community life. Traditional dishes include salt cod preparations, fish cakes, toutons and bakeapples, while contemporary restaurants make use of seafood, game, berries and locally grown produce. Music sessions, regional museums, craft studios and community festivals offer insight into traditions that are lived rather than simply displayed.
Travel here rewards time and flexibility. Distances are substantial, weather can change quickly and many coastal or northern experiences depend on tides, sea conditions and seasonal access. Visitors who combine a few well-chosen bases with short walks, heritage sites, boat trips and conversations in local communities will encounter a province whose appeal lies in the close relationship between people, ocean and wilderness.

When is the best time to visit Newfoundland and Labrador?

Best: June–August · 17–20°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January-1120
February0110
March3100
April5100
May1190
June (best)1790
July (best)2090
August (best)20100
September17100
October11110
November5120
December3130

Getting to and around Newfoundland and Labrador

How to get there

Most visitors arrive by air through St John's International Airport, which serves the capital and the Avalon Peninsula, or through regional airports such as Gander, Deer Lake and Wabush, depending on the itinerary. International connections are limited compared with Canada's largest cities, so many travellers connect through hubs such as Halifax, Montreal or Toronto. Marine Atlantic operates the principal vehicle ferries between North Sydney, Nova Scotia, and ports at Argentia and Port aux Basques on Newfoundland; these are outside the province's mainland access points but are important gateways to the island. Labrador is commonly reached by air, with road access from Quebec through Labrador City and routes linking parts of the coast.

Transportation

A car is highly useful for exploring Newfoundland's peninsulas, national parks and smaller coastal communities, where attractions are dispersed and public transport is limited. Roads can be long, winding and remote, so allow extra time and keep fuel and weather conditions in mind. Intercity bus services connect some major centres, but they do not provide comprehensive access to rural areas. Newfoundland has no regular passenger railway service. In Labrador, distances are greater and some communities are accessible only by air, seasonal ferry or boat; confirm local arrangements before travelling. Walking is practical in towns and on marked trails, while remote hikes require careful preparation and respect for changing conditions.

Destinations in Newfoundland and Labrador

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

Best attractions in Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador's attractions range from globally important archaeology to wilderness that is best experienced with time and preparation. On northern Newfoundland, L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site interprets the remains of a Norse settlement, while the nearby Viking Trail leads through coastal communities and boreal landscapes. Gros Morne National Park on the west coast combines fjord-like inlets, the Tablelands and geological features created by ancient tectonic forces; Terra Nova National Park offers forest, ponds, coastal scenery and well-maintained outdoor activities farther east. The Avalon Peninsula brings together St John's heritage, coastal walking at Cape Spear and the seabird cliffs of Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. Iceberg and whale viewing are seasonal highlights in several coastal areas, and museums, lighthouses, craft studios and community heritage sites add cultural depth. Labrador offers a more remote range of experiences, including the Basque whaling archaeology of Red Bay, the coastal heritage of Labrador Straits and the mountains, fjords and Indigenous cultural landscapes of Torngat Mountains National Park. Access, guiding and weather conditions vary considerably, so remote attractions should be treated as planned journeys rather than spontaneous stops.

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Best landmarks in Newfoundland and Labrador

Signal Hill above St John's harbour is one of the province's best-known historic viewpoints, associated with coastal defence, maritime communication and the 1901 reception of the first transatlantic wireless signal. Nearby Cape Spear, on the eastern edge of the Avalon Peninsula, is Canada's easternmost point and is marked by a historic lighthouse and military remains. The brightly coloured streets, harbour and churches of St John's provide a distinctive urban landscape shaped by Atlantic trade and fishing. On the west coast, the Tablelands in Gros Morne National Park form an unusual ochre-coloured plateau of exposed mantle rock, while Western Brook Pond cuts inland as a dramatic glacial valley. L'Anse aux Meadows is significant not only as a landmark but as the clearest physical evidence of Norse settlement in North America. In Labrador, Red Bay's former whaling station preserves an international maritime story through harbour archaeology and underwater remains, while the Torngat Mountains create a remote northern landmark of sharp peaks, fjords and culturally important Inuit country. These places are separated by considerable distances and should be understood as distinct landscapes rather than stops on a compact circuit.

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Explore Newfoundland and Labrador on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top cities, national parks and sights are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Newfoundland and Labrador

Dining in Newfoundland and Labrador reflects the province's fishing history, northern climate and growing interest in local ingredients. Salt cod remains an important culinary reference, appearing in dishes such as fish cakes and fish-and-brewis, while toutons, often served with savoury or sweet accompaniments, are a familiar Newfoundland speciality. Fresh cod, crab, mussels, lobster and other seafood feature strongly in coastal restaurants, although menus vary with season and local supply. Bakeapples, partridgeberries and blueberries appear in preserves, desserts and drinks, and game may be available in some establishments where regulations and supply permit. St John's has the broadest choice of contemporary restaurants, cafés, pubs and bakeries, while towns across the island offer seafood counters, family-run dining rooms and rural inns. In Labrador, food traditions differ between communities and include Inuit, Innu and settler influences; visitors should seek locally run venues and respect the seasonal nature of many ingredients. Farmers' markets and food festivals can be useful places to encounter regional baking, preserves and craft products.

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Best bars in Newfoundland and Labrador

Evening life varies sharply across the province. St John's has the most concentrated choice of traditional pubs, live-music venues, restaurants, cocktail bars and small clubs, particularly around the downtown streets near the harbour. Its music culture draws on local songwriting, traditional repertoire and contemporary performers, but entertainment schedules change regularly. Elsewhere on Newfoundland, nightlife generally centres on community pubs, hotel lounges, restaurants, seasonal festivals and occasional live performances rather than a large club scene. In smaller towns, venues may close earlier and distances between them can be substantial. Labrador's evening culture is similarly community-based, with social clubs, pubs, eateries and local events providing the main options; in remote areas, the experience may consist of a quiet meal, a community gathering or an outdoor evening under broad northern skies. Drink responsibly, arrange transport in advance and remember that alcohol is not the only way to participate in local cultural life.

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Best nightclubs in Newfoundland and Labrador

Evening life varies sharply across the province. St John's has the most concentrated choice of traditional pubs, live-music venues, restaurants, cocktail bars and small clubs, particularly around the downtown streets near the harbour. Its music culture draws on local songwriting, traditional repertoire and contemporary performers, but entertainment schedules change regularly. Elsewhere on Newfoundland, nightlife generally centres on community pubs, hotel lounges, restaurants, seasonal festivals and occasional live performances rather than a large club scene. In smaller towns, venues may close earlier and distances between them can be substantial. Labrador's evening culture is similarly community-based, with social clubs, pubs, eateries and local events providing the main options; in remote areas, the experience may consist of a quiet meal, a community gathering or an outdoor evening under broad northern skies. Drink responsibly, arrange transport in advance and remember that alcohol is not the only way to participate in local cultural life.

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Best shops in Newfoundland and Labrador

Shopping in Newfoundland and Labrador is strongest in St John's, where downtown streets combine independent clothing shops, bookshops, galleries, craft retailers, cafés and stores selling locally themed goods. Across Newfoundland, smaller market towns and outport communities offer studios and galleries featuring ceramics, woodwork, textiles, photography and paintings inspired by the coast. Farmers' markets and seasonal community markets are useful for preserves, baked goods, berries, seafood products and other regional foods, although locations and dates vary. Labrador's shopping is more community-based and practical, with locally made art, carvings, beadwork, textiles and other crafts available through Indigenous and regional cultural organisations when in season. Visitors should purchase directly from reputable makers and ask about the cultural significance and materials of Indigenous art rather than treating it as generic souvenir merchandise. Common keepsakes include locally designed books, music, artwork, knitwear and food products, while rural shops may have limited opening arrangements and card connectivity.

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Newfoundland and Labrador essentials

Currency and Payment
The currency is the Canadian dollar (CAD), as throughout Canada. Credit and debit cards, including contactless payments, are widely accepted in towns, hotels, petrol stations and established visitor facilities, although smaller rural businesses, seasonal operators and remote communities may have limited connectivity or prefer cash. Carry Canadian currency when travelling away from major centres, and do not assume that every small harbour or trailhead has an ATM. Tipping in restaurants, taxis and for guided services follows Canadian practice and is normally offered for satisfactory service.
Safety
Newfoundland and Labrador is generally suitable for independent travel, but its remoteness creates practical risks. Coastal cliffs, slippery rocks, strong currents, fog and sudden weather changes require caution, while trails may have uneven ground, limited phone coverage and no nearby services. Keep well back from icebergs, whales, seabirds and moose, and never attempt to approach or touch wildlife. Rural driving involves long distances, wildlife on roads and limited fuel stops; winter conditions can be severe. In Labrador and the province's backcountry, tell someone your route, check forecasts and use an experienced guide where access or navigation is complex.
Emergency Situations
Dial 911 for police, fire and ambulance emergencies throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Give the dispatcher your exact location, using a community name, road, trail, kilometre marker or GPS coordinates where possible. Mobile coverage can be intermittent in rural Newfoundland and much of Labrador, so do not rely solely on a phone during remote journeys. For boating, coastal distress or wilderness incidents, follow the instructions of local authorities, park staff, licensed operators or the Canadian Coast Guard; organised excursions should explain their emergency procedures before departure.
Do's and Don'ts
Do ask permission before photographing people, private property, fishing activity or community events, and show particular respect at Indigenous cultural sites and memorials. Do follow marked trails, closure notices, wildlife distances and leave-no-trace principles. In small communities, drive patiently, queue considerately and remember that roads and harbours are working spaces rather than scenic sets. Do not remove archaeological material, touch historic structures or enter restricted areas. Tipping is customary for many service workers, but it is not a substitute for respectful behaviour or an obligation in every situation.
Local Tips
Build weather flexibility into any itinerary, especially when ferries, boat trips, iceberg viewing or northern flights are involved. St John's makes a useful base for the Avalon Peninsula, while Deer Lake is convenient for western Newfoundland and Gros Morne; these centres are too far apart for casual day trips. In Labrador, confirm fuel, accommodation and communications before setting out, since services may be separated by very long distances. Ask local visitor centres about seasonal road conditions, community events, berry availability and trails that suit your experience rather than relying only on broad provincial itineraries.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay 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?]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
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?]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
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

Indigenous Peoples and Ancient Settlement

Newfoundland and Labrador has been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. The Innu have long occupied Labrador's interior and coast, Inuit communities have deep roots in northern Labrador, and Mi'kmaq communities have longstanding connections with Newfoundland and parts of the mainland. The Beothuk lived in Newfoundland before their population was devastated by disease, displacement and colonial expansion; Shanawdithit, who died in 1829, is commonly regarded as the last known Beothuk. Archaeological sites also document earlier cultures, including Maritime Archaic, Dorset and Palaeoeskimo traditions. Indigenous knowledge and contemporary communities remain central to understanding the province.

The Norse Settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows

Around the year 1000, Norse voyagers established a settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows on the northern tip of Newfoundland. Excavated remains of turf-built structures, ironworking and other artefacts confirm that the site was connected to Norse exploration across the North Atlantic. It is widely recognised as the earliest known European settlement in North America and demonstrates that transatlantic contact predated the later voyages associated with Christopher Columbus. The settlement appears to have been short-lived, but its discovery transformed understanding of medieval exploration and remains one of Newfoundland's most important archaeological legacies.

European Fisheries and the Atlantic Shore

From the sixteenth century, European fishing fleets were drawn to the exceptionally productive waters around Newfoundland and Labrador. English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Basque fishermen established seasonal stations, curing cod onshore and creating an Atlantic economy based on salt fish. Red Bay in Labrador became a major Basque whaling station during the sixteenth century, and its archaeological remains reveal the scale of that enterprise. The fishery shaped settlement patterns, trade, language and international rivalries, while coastal communities developed around harbours, stages and the seasonal movement of people and supplies.

Colonial Rule and the Growth of Newfoundland Society

England claimed Newfoundland in 1583, when Sir Humphrey Gilbert formally asserted sovereignty at St John's, although European fishing and settlement had already created a complex Atlantic presence. French and English interests continued to compete, and the island's strategic harbours were involved in conflicts linked to wider imperial wars. Permanent settlement expanded gradually, especially around the Avalon Peninsula and other fishing districts. Churches, merchant houses, fishing stages and later civic buildings reflected the growth of a society whose economy remained closely tied to cod, coastal trade and the hazards of the North Atlantic.

The Dominion of Newfoundland and Confederation

Newfoundland became a self-governing dominion in 1907 and developed its own political institutions, flag and international identity. Economic strain during the Great Depression led to the suspension of responsible government in 1934 and administration by a Commission of Government. After a closely contested political debate and referendum process, Newfoundland joined Canada on 31 March 1949; Labrador joined it as part of the province. Confederation brought new federal connections and public investment, but it also left a lasting political and cultural legacy, particularly in debates about autonomy and regional identity.

Resource Development and Changing Coastal Economies

During the twentieth century, Newfoundland and Labrador's economy broadened beyond the cod fishery through pulp and paper, mining, hydroelectricity and public infrastructure. Labrador's iron-ore industry expanded around western Labrador, while the Churchill Falls hydroelectric project became one of the largest developments in the region. The commercial cod fishery collapsed in the early 1990s, causing severe social and economic disruption in many coastal communities and ending a way of life that had endured for centuries. Today, offshore energy, mining, tourism, fisheries and public services coexist with efforts to sustain rural and Indigenous communities.

Contemporary Indigenous Recognition and Cultural Renewal

Modern Newfoundland and Labrador continues to reckon with colonial policies, Indigenous dispossession and the legacy of the residential-school system. Inuit, Innu and Mi'kmaq governments and organisations have strengthened cultural, political and economic roles, while public interpretation increasingly acknowledges Indigenous place names, knowledge and stewardship. In 2016, the Qalipu Mi'kmaq First Nation received federal recognition as a landless band with members across Newfoundland. Museums, cultural centres, language initiatives, Indigenous-led tourism and community gatherings now form part of a broader effort to present the province's history with greater accuracy and Indigenous authority.

Newfoundland and Labrador in Photos

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Newfoundland and Labrador

Discover the Best of Newfoundland and Labrador with Evendo - Your 100% Free, All-In-One Travel Guide App Covering Attractions, Landmarks, Restaurants, and More.

  • Comprehensive information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich content including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app
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Planning a trip to Newfoundland and Labrador? Evendo is your all-in-one travel guide app that makes exploring this stunning Canadian province a breeze. Download now for free.

  • 'Near Me' feature to quickly find nearby attractions and amenities
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  • Detailed history and travel essentials for Newfoundland and Labrador
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Get ready to explore the enchanting province of Newfoundland and Labrador with Evendo, the ultimate travel guide app designed to make your trip unforgettable. Whether you're visiting iconic landmarks like Gros Morne National Park, the picturesque Signal Hill, or the historic L'Anse aux Meadows, Evendo has got you covered with detailed information, images, maps, and local tips.

Foodies will love our curated lists of top dining spots, including Raymonds Restaurant in St. John's, known for its exquisite local cuisine, and Mallard Cottage, a charming eatery that offers a true taste of Newfoundland. Use Evendo to discover hidden gems and must-visit locations, from bustling bars and nightclubs to serene natural landscapes.

With Evendo, you can easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app. No more endless searching and planning; everything you need is right at your fingertips. Our 'Near Me' feature ensures you never miss out on nearby attractions, while curated local tips help you experience Newfoundland and Labrador like a true local.

Download Evendo today and unlock the full potential of your Newfoundland and Labrador adventure. And remember, Evendo isn't just limited to this beautiful Canadian province; it covers over 7,000 destinations worldwide, making it the perfect travel companion no matter where your journey takes you.

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