road trip to st john's newfoundland

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The perfect Newfoundland road trip, from St. John’s to Bonavista

Canada’s easternmost province offers scenic views, historic towns, wildlife spotting, and endless outdoor recreation opportunities

By Midas Canada

Are you ready to explore a wild, rugged landscape of dramatic cliffs, sea caves, otherworldly icebergs, and fascinating wildlife, all with welcoming villages nearby? Spend your day watching the whales and puffins play before cozying up in a local coffee shop. Then, head out to watch for the colorful aurora borealis in the dark skies above. Taking a road trip from St. John’s to Bonavista reveals the history, landscapes, and people of this scenic slice of Newfoundland, Canada’s easternmost province.

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Midas wants to help you get ready for your summer road trip, starting with your vehicle. Our techs can run a completely free Closer Look Vehicle Check. This in-depth visual inspection lets you know what needs fixing now and what can wait, so you can hit the road with confidence. 

Make the trip before the trip to Midas and get $20 off a full-synthetic oil change. Request your appointment at  Midas.com .

Kick off your Newfoundland adventure with a stop at the gorgeous city of St. John’s , named in honor of John the Baptist. One of Canada’s most popular tourist destinations, St. John’s is the perfect place to start your Newfoundland adventure. Known for its “mini San Francisco” vibe (thanks in part to the collection of colorful homes, often called “Jellybean Row”), there’s plenty to see and do during your visit. Whether you want to check out the historic Signal Hill or enjoy a night out on the town with family and friends, the choice is completely yours. Historic St. John’s also played a large role in many wars, including the French and Indian War as well as the American Revolutionary War, so historical sites abound. Whatever you’re looking for, St. John’s won’t leave you disappointed.

Newman’s Wine Vaults

On a journey that showcases the great outdoors, you don’t want to overlook the great indoors, and Newman’s Wine Vaults Provincial Historic Site certainly accomplishes that mission. In 1679, a vessel filled with wine from Portugal unexpectedly docked in Newfoundland for the winter after a run-in with privateers. Upon arrival in their original destination, the bottles that “wintered” in Newfoundland were said to have a special smoothness, attributed to the cold climate. This accidental discovery kicked off a tradition that continued for more than 300 years. The initial sea cave shelters later became the brick and stone vaults you can visit today, sampling vintages similar to those once cherished by English aristocracy. 

Cape Spear Lighthouse

It’s not often you find yourself at the most “easterly point” of North America, but when setting foot at Cape Spear Lighthouse , that’s exactly where you’ll be. Wake up bright and early to see the beautiful sunrise from this scenic spot. Stare straight ahead and overlook what appears to be all of North America, with nothing but the ocean behind you. The oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland Labrador, the Cape Spear Lighthouse offers incredible views and a rich history that leaves a lasting impression.

East Coast Trail

Next up on your Newfoundland expedition is the lovely East Coast Trail , featuring more than 26 wilderness paths to explore. Whether you’re looking for a nice and easy trail or prefer a strenuous hike to get the blood pumping, the East Coast Trail delivers. It offers a seemingly endless number of sights to see; make your way to the 50-meter suspension bridge at La Manche or stop and gaze at eye-catching waterfalls. Before your visit, be sure to check out the events calendar, as there are some fun activities and guided hikes scheduled throughout the year.

Butter Pot Provincial Park

Clean and comfortable campsites? Check. Breathtaking views of forests, bogs, and beaches you’ll be telling your friends and family about for years? Check. Butter Pot Provincial Park , one of the premier parks in Canada, is visited by tens of thousands of camping enthusiasts each year. Choose from a handful of trails to explore, catch a trout, kayak across a pristine pond, go for a swim, or simply enjoy time with your family around a campfire. With more than 170 campsites, Butter Pot Provincial Park is the perfect place to set up camp.

Come By Chance Beach

Make a quick trip to the fun and exciting Come By Chance Beach , located in the tiny town of Come By Chance, just off the Avalon Peninsula. Established in 1969, Come By Chance is home to a population of just over 200 people and gained national attention due to its highly-productive oil refinery. Pull over at this quiet and beautiful beach to enjoy the ocean views. Though not as well known as some other cities nearby, Come By Chance is one of Canada’s busiest ports and a perfect place to get out and stretch after a long day’s drive.

Terra Nova National Park

Make your way to the beautiful Terra Nova , Canada’s easternmost national park, and get ready for a great time. With more than 400 square kilometers jam-packed with opportunities to hike, explore, and camp, you may need to extend your trip for a few days. Kayak through the sheltered bays of the magnificent coastlines, snap photos of whales or local seabirds, or walk the 11 gorgeous hiking trails. Home to eagles, beavers, moose, and more, Terra Nova National Park is a nature enthusiast’s dream. Visit during the summer and treat yourself to live performances, long walks with your family and friends, or even a nice round of golf.

Cape Bonavista Lighthouse

Your trip wouldn’t be complete without stopping at another incredible lighthouse. The Cape Bonavista Lighthouse operated from 1843 to 1962, and is now home to an informative and enjoyable museum, sharing the beacon’s rich history and giving you a first-hand look at life during the mid-1800s. Browse a lightkeeper’s diary, observe the handful of century-old artifacts, or just take in the waves splashing in from the sea. Cape Bonavista Lighthouse is one of the rare lighthouses that allows you to climb to the top to see the light that was used during its working years. Venture over to Spillars Cove to take in views of The Chimney, a prominent sea stack, and its many resting seabirds.

The Elliston Puffin Site

For the best up-close views of puffins in North America, head to the Elliston Puffin Site . Here, one of these beloved seabirds might fly right by your head, landing nearby for the perfect photo op. Don’t forget your binoculars and your camera. Watch for whales in the waters below. While in the area, check out the historic root cellars built into the hillsides. These might look like hobbit holes, but only fruits and vegetables hide inside.

Extend your journey as long as possible by exploring the incredibly enjoyable town of Bonavista, Newfoundland. Unlike surrounding cities, Bonavista was founded on an open plain, which gives it a unique landscape and fresh feel. Famous for its fish markets and a staple in port trade, Bonavista offers hours and hours of exploration fun. Stay a night or two in a classic hotel, or venture out to see the Ye Matthew Legacy ship or Mockbeggar Plantation. 

This journey has given you a sample of all that Newfoundland offers. Continue your loop to reach the western and northern shores, or venture inland. Some can’t-miss sites include Gros Morne National Park, Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve, and L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site. Hop on the Trans-Canada Highway to explore Newfoundland and Labrador’s small section of this famed route, which stretches across the entire length of Canada. Your adventures have just begun.

Meet the Author

Midas Canada

Midas wants to help you get ready for your summer road trip, starting with your vehicle. Our techs can run a completely free Closer Look Vehicle Check. This in-depth visual inspection lets you know what needs fixing now and what can wait, so you can hit the road with confidence. Make the trip before the trip to Midas and get $20 off a full-synthetic oil change. Request your appointment at  Midas.com .

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How to Plan a Newfoundland Road Trip Itinerary

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: March 28, 2023  - Last updated: July 5, 2024

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Planning a Newfoundland road trip? I grew up in Newfoundland and have driven across the province more times than I can even count! In this guide, I’m sharing everything you need to know about planning a road trip to Newfoundland.

If chasing icebergs, hiking coastal trails, and watching whales breach sounds up your alley, then you will love visiting Newfoundland.

Located on the easternmost tip of North America, Newfoundland isn’t the most accessible destination to reach in Canada, but it’s certainly one of the most rewarding.

While planning your Newfoundland itinerary, it’s important to remember that Newfoundland and Labrador is a BIG province.

Even though I grew up here and spent the better part of summer 2020 exploring the island, there are still places I haven’t seen. Not to mention Labrador!

Although we are one province, Newfoundland and Labrador are quite different. Going to Labrador is a whole adventure on its own (which I hope to write about someday).

Need help planning your trip to Newfoundland? Get your itinerary reviewed or have one tailor made by me – a Newfoundland local!

If you want to travel around Newfoundland properly, it will take you at least three weeks. Unfortunately, most people don’t have that much time, so you’ll have to pick and choose where to go.

This travel guide highlights all the best places to visit in Newfoundland so that you can plan a fantastic road trip itinerary.

Book your car rental in Newfoundland ahead

If you aren’t taking your own vehicle for the road trip, make sure to rent a car in advance, as car rentals can get booked up early in the summertime (especially in Newfoundland).

BEST CANADA CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS

When booking your Canada car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They search both international and local Canadian companies, so you get the best price.

All the airports have car rental agencies inside them, so this is the easiest option if you’re flying into one of the provinces from the mainland or abroad.

To find the best prices on car rentals, search Discover Cars. They will search all the main car rental agencies (Enterprise, Hertz, etc). so you can easily compare rental prices.

Bucket List Newfoundland Experiences

Go whale-watching! This is one of my absolute favorite things to do in Newfoundland.

Over 22 species of whales live in the ocean surrounding the island, including an abundance of humpbacks that migrate here every summer. It’s one of the best places to go whale-watching in the world!

The best time to see them is during July and August when the Capelin are rolling onto shore.

Look out for puffins. Newfoundland is home to thousands of puffins that nest on the cliffs every summer. It’s one of the best places for puffin spotting in North America !

Elliston on the Bonavista Peninsula is one of the best places to see puffins.

Chase icebergs . Every spring, hundreds of icebergs make their way from Greenland, often getting stuck in the bays around Newfoundland.

Visit Iceberg Finder to see where they are this year. Trinity, Twillingate , and St. Anthony are popular spots for iceberg spotting.

The best time to see icebergs is in the spring from April-June (although sometimes they can last until July). Boat tours can take you up close, although icebergs can also be enjoyed from shore.

Go hiking along the coast . With over 29,000 km of coastlines to explore, Newfoundland is a paradise for hiking trails.

You can find trails throughout the province, but some of my favorites are the East Coast Trail in St. John’s, the Discovery Trail in Bonavista, and the hiking trails in Gros Morne , one of two national parks in Newfoundland.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Newfoundland and Labrador is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites (pretty impressive, considering there are only 20 in Canada ).

These include Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve on the Irish Loop , L’anse Aux Meadows on the Northern Peninsula , Gros Morne National Park , and Red Bay in Labrador. They are all spectacular and deserve a spot on your Newfoundland vacation itinerary!

Enjoy the fantastic seafood . Maybe I’m biased, but I truly believe we have the best seafood in the world

Enjoy freshly caught cod, lobster, shrimp, and so much more. We also have some pretty talented chefs and notable restaurants here. In fact, three of Canada’s top 100 restaurants are in Newfoundland!

How to Get to Newfoundland

Planning a road trip to Newfoundland isn’t as easy as the rest of Canada because it’s an island only accessible by ferry or airplane. Most people don’t realize just how far away it is from the mainland!

Travel to Newfoundland by Ferry

The ferry from Sydney (in Cape Breton Island , Nova Scotia) takes about seven hours to reach Port Aux Basque on Newfoundland’s west coast.

There is also a longer ferry (16 hours+), which goes to Argentia on the East Coast. You can tour Newfoundland by car via these ferries or go on as a walk-on passenger.

Travel to Newfoundland by Plane

Newfoundland doesn’t have the best international connections. If you’re coming internationally, you’ll likely have to connect via Toronto or Montreal. From Toronto, it’s a 3-4 hour plane ride depending on the wind.

The fact that Newfoundland is out of the way often deters people from coming here, which is a shame. It’s a unique province unlike anywhere else in the country. There’s a reason everyone who comes here falls in love!

The best way to enjoy Newfoundland is by car. It makes an excellent addition to an East Coast Canada road trip if you want to see some of the other maritime provinces like Nova Scotia , Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick.

If you’re short on time, the best option is to fly into St. John’s (east coast) or Deer Lake (west coast) and hire a rental car from there.

If you aren’t taking your vehicle for the road trip, there are multiple car rental agencies in Newfoundland to rent from. If you’re flying in, you can pick up a rental car at the St. John’s International Airport or the Deer Lake Lake airport.

Getting Around Newfoundland

Back in the day, there was a train that went across Newfoundland that went along the coast. It’s such a shame that it doesn’t exist anymore.

Now the train across Canada only goes from Vancouver to Halifax , and from there, you can drive/take a ferry to Newfoundland.

Having a car is pretty essential for traveling around Newfoundland. There is a DRL bus that goes across the island, but it doesn’t go down the peninsulas where all the best places are.

Best Places to Road Trip Newfoundland

The magic of Newfoundland lies in the peninsulas.

There’s one highway that goes across the province (TCH 1), and driving across Newfoundland without detouring off the highway might not leave you with the best impression.

Sure, there are some scenic parts of the drive, but the best places to go in Newfoundland are by the ocean off the highway.

While planning your Newfoundland vacation, here are some suggestions for the best places to visit on your trip across the island. Note that this is by no means an inclusive list!

Newfoundland is full of unique small towns to see, and you could spend years exploring them all.

Eastern Newfoundland

Newfoundland road trip map

Avalon Peninsula

The Avalon Peninsula is where over half of the population lives, and it’s jam-packed with fun activities.

St. John’s and surrounding area

St. John’s is the capital city of Newfoundland and where I grew up. It’s a charming city with lots to see and do.

If you’re flying into Newfoundland, you’ll most likely be landing here. It makes a great place to start or end your Newfoundland travel itinerary.

Spend a couple of days wandering around the colorful streets of downtown, enjoying the nightlife and dining at Canada’s best restaurants.

RECOMMENDED ST. JOHN’S HOTEL

One of the most beautiful places to stay in downtown St. John’s is Blue on Water. This 4-star accommodation features beautiful interior designs and is steps away from top attractions.

If you’re a come from away (aka not from Newfoundland), do a screech-in ceremony downtown on George Street to become an honorary Newfoundlander. It’s a fun time!

Even though it’s a city, it’s not hard to find nature while in St. John’s. The entire city is surrounded by a network of trails known as the East Coast Trail , a beautiful coastal 326 hiking trail broken into 26 paths that stretch across the Avalon Peninsula’s shores.

There are also many other hiking trails in and around St. John’s . Definitely check out Signal Hill National Historic Sites for the city’s best views.

From there is a trail you can take that goes through the Battery all the way to Quidi Vidi, a charming fishing village. Afterward, take a drive to Cape Spear lighthouse, the most easterly point in all of North America!

There are many smaller communities surrounding St. John’s, which make great day trips. If you’re a diver, one fun thing to do is join a dive with Ocean Quest Adventures around Bell Island, where you can dive with shipwrecks.

Discover more things to do in St Johns Newfoundland

The Irish Loop is a beautiful section of the Avalon Peninsula that you can drive as a day trip from St. John’s, or spend a couple of nights exploring.

It’s home to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, one of Newfoundland’s best places to see puffins and whales.

RECOMMENDED WHALE-WATCHING TOUR

Departing from Bay Bulls, this whale and puffin cruise will take you to marvel at marine wildlife through the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve.

The reserve is home to over 2.5 million seabirds and one of the largest populations of whales in the North Atlantic!

It’s also home to the UNESCO world heritage site Mistaken Point , where you can see 650 million-year-old fossils.

Argentia/Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve

Following along the Trans Canada Highway 1, there are two more peninsulas you can explore on the Avalon Peninsula.

One is the turn-off for Argentia, where the ferry departs for Nova Scotia (this is the longer ferry). At the tip of the peninsula is Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve , a paradise for bird watchers.

Bay de Verde Peninsula

On the other side of the Avalon Peninsula is the Bay de Verde peninsula, home to Newfoundland’s most famous town: Dildo. Yes, you read that right!

Made famous by Jimmy Kimmel, Dildo is quite a cute place to stay with some great restaurants and even a brewery. It’s a great addition to your Newfoundland driving itinerary.

Why not stay overnight in Dildo? The Dildo boathouse inn is a great choice, with stunning sea views from the rooms to soak in the spectacular sunsets.

Continue down this peninsula, and you’ll come across more charming small towns. At the tip is Grate’s Cove – I haven’t had a chance to explore it, yet but have heard great things.

Brigus and Cupids are two other small towns along this peninsula worth visiting. If you’re visiting in August, don’t miss the Brigus blueberry festival – it’s always a good time.

Burin Peninsula

I haven’t had a chance to explore this peninsula yet, but I really want to because at the bottom you can take a ferry that goes to France! Yes, you can even visit Europe while road-tripping through Newfoundland.

St. Pierre et Miquelon is a small island owned by France, which you can visit by heading down the Burin Peninsula and catching a ferry. This has been on my bucket list for so long!

Bonavista Peninsula

The Bonavista Peninsula is one of the most beautiful parts of Newfoundland. Full of adorable small towns, gorgeous hiking trails , epic whale watching, puffin spotting, and iceberg-chasing opportunities.

The two best towns to stay here are Trinity and Bonavista, about 40 minutes apart.

RECOMMENDED TRINITY HOTEL

The Eriksen Premises is one of Trinity’s historic homes and a great place to spend the night. Antique wood décor is featured in all individually decorated rooms, and it’s next to restaurants and shops.

Be sure to stop in Port Rexton in between the two towns and hike the Skerwink Trail, one of the most famous hiking trails here. Afterward, enjoy a cold brew at the Port Rexton Brewery.

Discover more things to do in Trinity

Central Newfoundland

I never knew how amazing Central Newfoundland was until I visited for a week during the summer of 2020.

For a long time, I just thought of it as a place to stop along the highway on your way across the province. But Central Newfoundland has so much to offer than that. Don’t miss this part of the province on your Newfoundland trip!

Terra Nova National Park

Terra Nova National Park is one of two national parks in Newfoundland! You’ll drive right through it on your road trip in Newfoundland if you’re taking the TCH-1 across the province, but it’s worth detouring here if you love the outdoors. Terra Nova is an excellent place for camping as well as hiking.

Eastport Peninsula

The Eastport Peninsula , also known as the road to the beaches (route 310), is a great side trip while on a road trip through Newfoundland.

It takes you down to one of the cutest communities and picturesque beaches in Newfoundland. Yes, we have white-sand beaches here! There’s also a great hiking trail network here called the Damnable trail.

Hare Bay – Route 320/330

On the other side of Bonavista Bay is Hare Bay, one of the best places to go whale watching in Newfoundland.

We did a four-hour excursion with Hare Bay Adventures , and it was incredible to see so much marine life. The whales were jumping everywhere, and there were thousands of birds overhead.

Nearby is the town of Dover, where you can see the Dover Fault site. This is where the North American and European continents collided 150 million years ago! They have an interpretation site set up, and there’s also a small plane wreck you can see.

Keep driving on route 320/330, and you’ll reach Lumsden, which I’ve been told also has wonderful beaches.

Gander isn’t the most naturally appealing place in Newfoundland, but it does have some interesting places to visit for those interested in history.

Gander played an important role in WWII, as well as on September 11th. Made famous by the play Come From Away! There’s also an international airport here.

Twillingate and Fogo Island

Twillingate and Fogo Islands are quickly becoming two of the most popular places to visit in Newfoundland.

Twillingate is a magical town known for its epic iceberg-watching opportunities, hiking trails, and gorgeous coastline.

RECOMMENDED TWILLINGATE HOTEL

With its seaside charm, Twillingate is the perfect place to spend a night or two on your road trip. I recommend the Salt Box Co. , so you can experience what it’s like to stay in a traditional saltbox house.

Fogo Island has seen a boom in tourism thanks to the Fogo Island Inn, attracting celebrities and artists worldwide.

Be sure to hike Brimstone head to visit one of the four corners of the flat earth, and join Al’s walking tour here to take you around the historic town of Tilting. Afterward, Stop in Bang Belly for lunch for a delicious lunch.

RECOMMENDED FOGO HOTEL

We all wish we could stay at the Fogo Inn, but it’s not in most people’s budget. Instead, stay at one of The Old Salt Box Co. locations and enjoy sunsets over the ocean from your room.

There are also the Change Islands , where the boat will stop on the way to Fogo Island. Although not nearly as popular, I’ve heard great things about these islands. There’s a Newfoundland Pony sanctuary there!

Grand-Falls Windsor

Grand Falls is another place right off the highway that most people use as a place to sleep, as it’s about halfway across the province. However, it does have some fun activities to offer. For example, it’s home to the Exploits River, where you can go river-rafting!

Fortune Harbour & Bay of Exploits

This is one of my favorite places in Central Newfoundland. The Bay of Exploits is hands down the best place for sea kayaking in Newfoundland .

Fortune Harbour is just a small community nearby but makes an excellent base to stay in if you are joining a day kayaking tour with Adventures Newfoundland.

Kings Point

Another great stop in Central Newfoundland right off the highway is King’s Point, near Springdale.

It’s not only a great place to go whale watching but also for hiking. It’s home to the Alexander Murray Hiking Trail, a gorgeous three-hour hike that brings you to one of the best viewpoints in Central.

Western Newfoundland

Western Newfoundland is incredible. It’s got a completely different landscape than the rest of the province, with gorgeous mountain ranges.

Following the TCH-1 from King’s Point, it’s about an hour and a half until you reach the town of Deer Lake.

There are hotels here if you need a place to spend the night, but it’s also the turn-off for Highway 430, which takes you to Gros Morne National Park and the Viking Trail. There’s also an airport in Deer Lake, so you can fly here from St. John’s if you’re short on time.

Gros Morne National Park

Gros Morne National Park is a must while road-tripping around Newfoundland. Just driving in Newfoundland through the national park is an activity in itself; the landscapes are stunning.

RECOMMENDED GROS MORNE HOTEL

Rocky Harbour is the most convenient place to stay in the park if you aren’t camping. I recommend Bambury’s Hillside Chalets, cute saltbox homes with a 9.5+ rating.

Be sure to check out the tablelands trails, where you can see what the inside of the earth’s mantle looks like. Gros Morne National Park was named a UNESCO world heritage site for its outstanding geological significance.

Gros Morne is full of stunning hiking trails , but one of the best to go on is Gros Morne Mountain.

This 800m ascent is no easy feat but takes you to one of the best views in the park overlooking the long-range mountains and surrounding ponds.

Another must-do activity in Gros Morne is a boat ride down Western Brook Pond through the fjords. I felt like I had been transported to Norway; it was breathtaking.

Great Northern Peninsula – Viking Trail

Route 430, known as the Viking trail , is one of the best road trips in Newfoundland.

It starts after turning off for Gros Morne from Deer Lake, taking you right through the park. However, it’s worth it to keep driving around Newfoundland to St. Anthony on the Northern tip.

There you can find L’anse Aux Meadows . This UNESCO world heritage site is one of the only Viking settlements outside Greenland.

At L’anse aux Medows, you can see a reconstructed Viking village and learn about this fascinating part of history in the Parks Canada interpretation center.

Most people stay in St. Anthony for a night or two here since it takes about four hours to drive from Deer Lake. St. Anthony is also one of the best places to see icebergs and whales in Newfoundland!

RECOMMENDED ST. ANTHONY HOTEL

Grenfell Heritage Hotel & Suites is a historic hotel in St. Anthony, centrally located in town. It offers fully equipped kitchens in the apartment rooms – we stayed here for a week and loved it!

Corner Brook and Humber Valley

Corner Brook is the second-largest city in Newfoundland, although only about 30,000 people live here. Nevertheless, it’s a great base to stay in if you’re exploring the west coast with many hotels to choose from.

RECOMMENDED CORNER BROOK HOTEL

If you’re staying overnight in Corner Brook, stay at the Hew & Draw hotel. This family-owned and operated, pet-friendly boutique hotel is thoughtfully curated with Newfoundland-inspired custom furnishings. Plus, they have a hot tub on the rooftop! It’s one of the best hotels in Newfoundland.

Corner Brook is home to Marble Mountain, one of the best places for winter sports in Newfoundland. In the summer, it’s got gorgeous hiking trails, especially around the Humber Valley area.

Codroy Valley

Codroy Valley is a hidden gem in Newfoundland . You’ll see the mountains in the distance driving towards Port Aux Basques, but it’s worth spending some time here. Sheltered by the long-range mountains, the weather is lovely here – and so is the hiking.

Port Aux Basques

Port Aux Basque is where you take the ferry to Nova Scotia. I haven’t spent much time here outside of that, but there are some places to stay overnight .

Another place that’s high on my Newfoundland list to check out is Burgeo, on the other side of the west part of the island. I’ve heard fantastic things about this area, although it’s more off-the-beaten-path.

Newfoundland Road Trip Itineraries

You could spend an entire summer exploring the best Newfoundland road trips and still not see it all (trust me, I’ve tried); I realize most people have limited vacation time.

If you only have a few days, I recommend sticking to one side of the island (East, Central, or West). Otherwise, you will spend all your time traveling. It takes about 12 hours to drive the province from East to West!

3 Week Newfoundland Itinerary

With three weeks, you could go on a fantastic road trip around Newfoundland, hitting many of the best places in Newfoundland:

• Day 1-3: Explore St. John’s, optional day trip around Irish Loop
• Day 3: Drive to Trinity (3 hours), optional stop in Dildo on way
• Day 4: Explore Bonavista Peninsula
• Day 5: Drive to Terra Nova National Park (1 hour), spend the night
• Day 6: Drive to Eastport Peninsula (1 hour), spend the night
• Day 7: Drive to Hare Bay (1 hour), spend the night
• Day 8: Drive to Twillingate (2 hours), optional stop in Gander
• Day 9: Explore Twillingate, take the ferry to Fogo Island that day
• Day 10: Explore Fogo Island
• Day 11: Take the ferry back from Fogo, drive to Fortune Harbour (3 1/2 hours)
• Day 12: Explore the Bay of Exploits
• Day 13: Drive to King’s Point (2 hours), optional stop in Grand-Falls Windsor
• Day 14: Drive to Gros Morne National Park (2 hours)
• Day 15-16: Explore Gros Morne National Park
• Day 17: Drive to St. Anthony (3-4 hours)
• Day 18: Explore St. Anthony/L’anse Aux Meadows
• Day 19: Drive back to Deer Lake or Corner Brook (4-5 hours)
• Day 20: Explore Corner Brook
• Day 21: Fly or take ferry back home

As you can see, even with three weeks, it’s tight to hit all the places I’ve mentioned in this post. Depending on how much time you have, you really need to pick and choose which areas you want to see the most here!

If you’re short on time, you can also fly between some cities in Newfoundland, such as St. John’s and Deer Lake. Although I do think touring Newfoundland by car is the best way to see the province.

2 week Newfoundland Itinerary (14 days)

With two weeks in Newfoundland, you can still see a lot of the province. I would still stick to two regions (east, central, or west) and make the most of your time there, spending a week in each.

Just combine two of the one week itineraries I’ve suggested above to make a 14 day Newfoundland itinerary.

Newfoundland itinerary 7 days (one week in Newfoundland)

With 7 days in Newfoundland, it’s best to dive deep into one region of the province otherwise, you’ll spend most of your time driving. Some people fly into St. John’s, spend a few days exploring the city , then head over to Gros Morne National Park for their remaining few days.

A week in St. John’s would give you plenty of time to explore the surrounding towns as day trips, as well as visit the Bonavista Peninsula.

Alternatively, you could spend the week exploring Central Newfoundlan d. We covered Eastport, Hare Bay, Twillingate, Fogo Island, Grand Falls, and the Bay of Exploits in one week. It was magical.

If you want to explore the Viking Trail , it’s best to fly into Deer Lake and stick to the island’s west coast. Spend the week in Corner Brook and drive along the Viking Trail towards St. Anthony, stopping in Gros Morne National Park along the way.

Best Time to Visit Newfoundland

The best time to Visit Newfoundland is during the summer months (July an August), as this is when you’ll get the nicest weather for hiking, and the whales are most plentiful.

However, if you want to see icebergs, springtime from May to June is the best time to visit, although sometimes they can last until July.

Fall is also a beautiful time in Newfoundland, and pleasant weather can last well until October. However, many tour operators will start shutting down in September, so this is something to consider.

If you love winter, Newfoundland can also be lovely for skiing and winter hiking . However, the weather is very unpredictable; so you’ll have to factor in travel delays to your plans.

Renting a car in Newfoundland

Car rentals are somewhat limited in Newfoundland, so I recommend booking ahead of your trip , as they often sell out in the busy summer season when most people are Newfoundland touring.

To find the best prices on car rentals, search Discover Cars.  They will search all the main car rental agencies (Enterprise, Hertz, etc.). so you can easily compare rental prices and find the best deal!

My favorite rental agency in Newfoundland is Enterprise, as they were fantastic to deal with when I had a car accident. The manager even came after working hours to help me sort everything out!

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Before heading out on any road trip, it’s essential to protect yourself with travel and medical insurance. You never know what can happen while you’re out on an adventure, and the last thing you want is expensive medical bills ruining your trip (because no, healthcare in Canada is not free for everyone).

As a digital nomad, I use SafetyWing travel insurance. For shorter trips, I recommend HeyMondo.

RECOMMENDED TRAVEL INSURANCE

Don’t forget to protect your trip with HeyMondo travel insurance. Get peace of mind with:

• 24/7 worldwide assistance (including covid)
• Extended Stays
• Cover for non-refundable expenses
• Heymondo assistance app

Newfoundland Tours | Trips to Newfoundland

A Newfoundland self-drive tour is the best way to explore Newfoundland. Unfortunately, there aren’t many guided trip options that tour the entire province, but here are some individual tours you can book while on a Newfoundland driving tour.

There are some bus tours that will take you around Newfoundland, but these are pretty expensive and generally geared toward an older crowd.

Lastly, there are some cruise ships that come to Newfoundland and small ship expeditions.

FAQ: Newfoundland road trip

How long does it take to drive around newfoundland.

It takes 12 hours to drive from St. John’s on the east coast to Port Aux Basques on the west coast. However, this is all along the main highway. If you’re detouring off the peninsulas (which you should), it’s going to take you much longer to drive around Newfoundland. This post has all the info you need.

How much time to visit Newfoundland?

Newfoundland is a big province and you could spend months exploring all the quaint towns and scenic drives in Newfoundland. To make the most of your time, you’ll want at least a week.

How big is Newfoundland?

Newfoundland covers an area of over 400,000 km², so it’s a big province and takes a long time to drive through. Here’s everything you need to know about planning a Newfoundland roadtrip itinerary.

Can you drive to Newfoundland?

Yes, but you have to put your car on a ferry from Nova Scotia, as Newfoundland is an island with no bridge there.

Have any questions about visiting Newfoundland or planning a road trip here? I know this was a lot of information, but there are just so many beautiful places to visit in Newfoundland.

Even if you only see one part of the province, you’ll still have an amazing time. Between the outdoor adventures and kind hospitality, Newfoundland is easily one of Canada’s most unique places to visit!

Visiting other parts of Canada? Don’t miss these posts!

• Where to Stay in Halifax
• Where to stay on the Cabot Trail
• The best things to do in Ontario in winter
• Top Toronto fall activities

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Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

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Lora—–my wife and i looking to spend 2-3 weeks in september and had a couple of questions 1. are the best fishing eating restaurant’s still open till sept.30th? 2. we are going to rent a vehicle, should we start at St. John’s or Deer Lake does it make any difference 3. our primary purpose is to sightsee and fish meals, as we have seen whales. Icebergs in our past. —plus any tips weather/car rental or must see’s much appreciated and Thanks—dave

hi Lora, it was nice reading your post. Planning a trip this August (as things are opening up now) I like to ask you which ones I should avoid if I do not want to hike (the strenuous and inclined ones) as I am not fit. I am taking this trip to do some photography (landscape, seascape, fishing villages and Puffins). Can you give me a hand in understanding your itinerary so that I can eliminate the ones that are not in my interest or fitness. Thanks.

Hi Reuben. While hiking is available in all of these places there are none that you really need to avoid as they also offer opportunities for photography and more leisure activities. Bonavista is a great place to take photos of puffins!

Guide to the Ultimate Newfoundland Road Trip

This complete guide to the ultimate Newfoundland road trip will make it easy for you to plan this epic adventure on this incredible island. I spent one summer in Newfoundland exploring the popular tourist attractions and the hidden gems on top of discovering the amazing culture of this unique province. Our road trip itinerary through Newfoundland will bring you to the most amazing and stunning landscapes in the province and all the iconic sightseeing venues, as well as the lesser-known ones that you should not miss.

Don’t have time to read now? Pin it for later.

*Discloser: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through a link. More information

Newfoundland Road Trip Itinerary

Where is newfoundland.

The island is the country’s easternmost province in Atlantic Canada. Its coastline sits between the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Strait of Belle Isle.

Why visit Newfoundland

There are numerous reasons why Newfoundland should be at the top of your list. Come for the whales, the puffins, and the icebergs, the Canadian and Ireland’s cultural mix and its people’s rich history, or maybe for the ocean, the cliffs, and the fjords. The island known as The Rock has plenty to amaze its tourists.

A bit of History

Newfoundland is where the Vikings first came to shore in Canada. They were the very first non-Native people to explore this continent. They left their mark in Northwestern Newfoundland, where the ruins of their settlement are still visible. 

The Ferry to Newfoundland

Newfoundland is an island and can be accessed only by ferry or plane. Hence, a ferry from North Sydney, Nova Scotia, will take you to Port-aux-Basques, NL or St John’s, NL.

The ferry from North Sydney to Port-aux-Basques is a 7-hour crossing, but with the time change, it would be an 8-hour difference from terminal to terminal. The ferry to St. John’s is twice as long and takes 16 hours.

The boat is quite large and can accommodate up to 350 cars and close to 1000 passengers, along with numerous cargo shipments and tractor-trailers.

Our Crossing on the Ferry

We needed to be at the terminal 2 hours before boarding but to be safe, we were there 2 hours and 45 minutes before and were not the first ones by a long shot. Once we had our boarding pass, we parked in the lane assigned to our vehicle and waited. After a couple of hours of waiting, we finally boarded the ship. We were among the last to board, still 45 minutes away from departure.

Leaving the van and bringing a few items to keep us occupied, along with warm clothes and snacks, we headed to deck 7, where reclining chairs and a cafeteria awaited the passengers. 

Spending the night on the ferry

There are cabins on board for overnight crossings, but none were available when we booked. So, our home for the night was the two seats we selected. The ship left port at 11:15 pm and was due to arrive in Newfoundland at 7:15 am the next day. This made for a long night.

Although the seats are comfortable for watching TV or reading, they are not so comfortable for sleeping. I ended up sleeping on the floor halfway under my seat, even though it is forbidden according to a video all passengers must watch before departure. So, the night was long, and my sleep was scarce.

Arriving in Newfoundland

They finally announced that we would be docking in 30 minutes. I stepped outside for a bit, but the fog was thick, and I could not see much. As the announcement had predicted, 30 minutes later, they asked us to head back to our vehicle for disembarkment.

We headed down a few flights of stairs to deck 3, where we were parked. It is important to notice the deck and row when you first park to find your car again; there are a few hundred in there! The wait was short as the cars exited the boat. 

Tips for the ferry

Reservation.

Plan and make reservations, especially if you want to book a cabin or reserve a seat. You can choose to cross during the daytime or at night. The ferry crossing from North Sydney to Port-aux-Basques is 7 hours. When you book, you will need to specify the type of vehicle and the length unless you are boarding as a passenger only without a car. 

Before boarding

Pack a bag of what you want to bring onboard. They suggest bringing any valuables that you have in the car and warm clothes. Some will also bring a blanket and a pillow. Anything to keep you occupied during the crossing, reading material, playing cards, snacks and a bottle of water. A cafeteria is on board the ferry, but it can be costly if you only rely on that. 

Be at the terminal two hours before departure. Once assigned your lane, you can park your vehicle in the proper lane and leave it. The terminal has an air-conditioned lounge with wifi as you wait. They will announce when it is time for you to return to your car for boarding.

Make yourself comfortable; the journey is 7 hours long. Step out on the deck to get a glimpse of the ocean and get some air. If you are crossing at night, you can still get some air, but you will need to wait for the sun to get a good look at the water. 

The ferry brings you to Port-aux-Basques on the southwestern coast of the island.

From here, we made our way to Gros Morne National Park on the western coast. On the way, we passed Red Lake and Corner Brook, two towns big enough to replenish any supplies you might need. 

Stop 1 on our road trip to Newfoundland – Gros Morne National Park

Once at Gros Morne National Park, you have two choices. Make your way towards the Tablelands area or the Gros Morne Mountain and the Western Brook Pond area. Those are two distinct areas of the park, separated by an hour’s drive. I suggest doing the Tablelands first for a visit to the Discovery Center and some exploring on the trails in this section before heading to Gros Morne and Western Brook Ponds.

Hiking and camping in Gros Morne

There are a few options for camping in the park, and it has numerous fun activities and stunning hikes . Its diversity in landscape and the fantastic seascape and wildlife make it one of the top attractions in Newfoundland and Labrador. 

Don’t Miss

Tablelands Trail is an easy 4-kilometre hike where the landscape has this astounding Mars-like look. It is entirely different from what you will find and see in the rest of the park.

Stop at the Gros Morne Mountain Lookout, where the park icon stands before you in all its glory.

The Western Brook Pond Boat Tour is a Canadian Signature Experience. The fjord and the 600-metre high cliffs with waterfalls offer spectacular scenery; Canadian landscapes at their very best—more information at bontours.ca .

#vanlife Note that there is a fresh water source near the park’s south entrance on route 430 . There is enough room to park by the side of the road. A long black pipe sticks out of the rock to help fill up jugs or water cans.

Accommodations near Gros Morne National Park

The town of Rocky Harbour sits in the middle of the park. It offers many accommodation options.

Wildflowers Country Inn is within walking distance of museums and restaurants. It has a rustic country feel with all the amenities expected in hotels.

Sea Spray Cottages offers a full kitchen with one or two bedrooms. The view of the water is stunning.

If you are travelling with your pet, I recommend the Bayside Cottages .

After a few days in Gros Morne National Park, we made our way east on the TCH (Trans Canada Highway) with a stop in Gander.

Stop 2 on our road trip to Newfoundland – Gander

This small town has all the amenities you might need in the middle of a road trip, from excellent sit-down restaurants and fast food to coffee shops with wifi, grocery stores and pharmacies.

Gander welcomed over 200 planes, providing shelter and food to 6800 passengers when the Americans grounded all airplanes after the 9/11 attacks. The residents are known for their generosity and organizing skills during tragic and disastrous events. 

Gander Heritage Memorial Park 

You can pay respect to veterans who gave their lives in various wars and those who lost their lives in aviation accidents. You also learn a bit about the town’s history and the story behind the name Gander and the big Newfoundland dog by the same name.

Cobbs Pond Rotary Park

This park is a large field with picnic tables by the water and nature trails around the pond. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy a bit of sun or an easy walk. 

Silent Witness Memorial 

This memorial commemorates the victims of a plane crash that happened in 1985. On board were eight crew members and 248 passengers, all members of the 101st Airborne Division or the US Army; the troops were coming home from their peacekeeping mission making a scheduled stop in Gander. Unfortunately, all aboard lost their lives in the crash where the memorial stands today. 

If you drive down a bit past the memorial site, you come to a rocky beach on Lake Gander with a picnic table. An ideal place for lunch. 

North Atlantic Aviation Museum

The town of Gander’s history revolves around aviation, and an aviation museum should be part of your visit. The North Atlantic Aviation Museum depicts Gander’s role in the development of aviation in Atlantic Canada. 

Accommodations in Gander

You will find known hotel chains in Gander, such as Comfort Inn .

Quality Hotel and Suites allow pets on request if you travel with your pet, though a charge may apply.

I recommend the Country Inn Cottage if you prefer a country setting with a small kitchen and an outdoor patio.

#vanlife Note that there is a water spring in Gambo about 30 minutes east of Gander to fill up on fresh water. 

After the overnight in Gander, we made our way east towards St. John’s with a stop in Terra Nova National Park.

Stop 3 on our road trip to Newfoundland – Terra Nova National Park

Terra Nova National Park is the easternmost park in Canada. It covers over 400 square kilometres of untamed nature and many miles of coastline, protecting wildlife and marine life. 

The Visitor Centre 

The exhibits of the aquariums with sea creatures that we rarely see are also impressive and informative, making it a fun learning experience.

Hiking in the park

Ochre Hill is an easy 1.5-kilometre hike with amazing views featuring the famous red chairs that look out over the park’s territory with its immense forests and numerous lakes. 

Mill Cove Lookout Trail is a 1.5-kilometre moderate hike featuring a boardwalk and stairs to take you to the hilltop overlooking Mill Cove.

Coastal Trail is an easy 9-kilometre hike from the Visitor Centre to the Newman Sound Campground that follows the coast of the Newman Sound. 

Louil Hill Trail is a moderate 4-kilometre hike through balsam fir and black spruce, climbing to the top of Louil Hill for a view of Alexander Bay.

Paddling and camping are also popular activities in the park.

#vanlife Note that free showers are available 24 h at the Visitor Centre and so are laundry facilities. 

After spending part of the day exploring Terra Nova National Park, we continued on our way toward St John’s. 

Stop 4 on our road trip to Newfoundland – St. John’s and the East Coast

St. John’s is such a beautiful town built on a hill (a steep one too) with its rows of jellybean houses that make everything cheerful. 

You will need a few days to see and do everything that this charming place offers. We spent four wonderful days exploring St. John’s and its surroundings. We covered most of the 13 top things to do in St John’s, Newfoundland .

Accommodations in St. John’s

St. John’s is a big city with endless accommodation options. Explore the top 10 hotels in downtown St. John’s , according to Expedia.

Food and Drinks

Water Street and George Street are where all the action is if you are looking for a pub and shops. 

Newfoundland Eatery and Pub had an impressive selection of on-tap beer, including the local ones. They also sometimes have live Celtic music as entertainment, which attracted us to the place. 

O’Reilly’s has live music and good food. The ambiance is lively, and everyone seems happy. The locals like to start conversations with tourists and make them feel at home. 

Green Sleeves Pub and Eatery is also an excellent choice for food. The place gets pretty crowded and lively with live music, mostly country music, and dancing is not prohibited. 

Irish culture is still very present. Even the locals’ accent is quite similar. 

Live music includes violins, accordions, and even flutes. On a Saturday night, the downtown area comes alive with music and parties from one pub to the next. 

#vanlife If you are looking to fill up on potable water, there is a natural water spring on Pitts Memorial Drive . Look out for the Rotary International sign. There is room to pull over on the side of the road.

Signal Hill

There is so much history on this hill. 

We made our way to the Discovery Centre for the exhibit and the movie, learning much about how Signal Hill came to be, the wars and the battles fought over the settlement that is now St John’s between the French and the British. 

The house used as the soldiers’ barracks is still on the hill, and visitors can walk among its ruins. A few cannons overlooking the cliffs pointed toward the sea stand at attention, just as they had during the many battles and wars fought on this ground. 

Cabot Tower on Signal Hill

The Cabot Tower on the Hill housed the signalman. He would fire the cannon at precisely noon every day. The importance of the precision of time was great as the seamen would use the sun and the horizon to navigate. They needed to calculate their location from the sun’s position at noon. Just a few minutes off, their position and direction could be altered by many degrees by the end of their voyage. 

You can try your skills at firing the cannon at noon in the Discovery Centre exhibit. I do hope you will be better than I was. I would not have made a good signalman, and seafarers might have been lost were I responsible for the canons back in those days. 

Hiking on Signal Hill

The system of trails around Signal Hill brings hikers to different viewpoints at different altitudes. The view of the city and the harbour with ships coming in is stunning. On the other side of the hill, you can admire the blue waters of the vast ocean. 

It can get extremely windy on top of the hill, so dress accordingly. The trails are also strewn with loose rocks and dirt, so appropriate footwear is necessary. 

#vanlife We spent the night near Signal Hill at the end of the Johnson GEO Centre parking lot overlooking the beautiful city night lights. To give our thanks, we visited the centre, which turned out to be one of our top activities in St. John’s. Stop in if you have the time.

Cape Spear and the Most Eastern Point in North America

The lighthouse.

Cape Spear is a Historic Site by Parks Canada. The lighthouse stands over the cliffs with the waves crashing beneath. Make sure to stop at the famous red chairs for a selfie and to view the lighthouse and the infinitely blue ocean.

You can visit the building farthest from the parking lot. Amazingly, it has been restored to the original house of the keeper and his family from the 1800s. You will get a glimpse into the life of those responsible for keeping and operating the lighthouse. The lighthouse was operational until 1987 when technology enabled it to automate the light. No keeper is needed anymore. 

The trails at Cape Spear

The trails around Cape Spear are part of the East Coast Trail . Just walking for a bit on this trail behind the lighthouse, you can see why it is an icon amongst backpackers. The endless ocean and the cliffs with the waves crashing at the bottom make a stunning sight. 

Most Easterly Point in North America

Coming back to the lighthouse and down the stairs is the way to the most eastern point of North America. This place sees the sun first every day. Worth getting up at 4:30 am for a peak of the rising sun! I was surprised to see the parking lot filling up at 5 in the morning, with visitors wanting to catch the sunrise.

WWII vestige

Visitors can also wander through the bunkers in this area and see the enormous cannons used during WWII. They were hidden and could be lifted out of their hole if an enemy ship was approaching. This was quite the engineering process for the day. The unsuspected enemy boat could not see any signs of the canons or the soldiers’ quarters as they were underground. Safe to say, the soldiers had the upper ground when attacking the ships! 

Whale watching

The trail continues along the shore. On the opposite shore, you can spot Signal Hill and the Cabot Tower. This is the perfect place for whale watching. We caught a couple of whales swimming playfully in the distance while visiting. They are a beautiful sight. 

#vanlife There are two parking lots on Cape Spear where overnight parking is permitted. We spent the night here wanting to be near to catch the continent’s first sunrise. We had a lot of company as other vanlifers, and RVers wanted the same.

Hiking a Stretch of the East Coast Trail

While on the east coast of Newfoundland, we decided to hike part of the East Coast Trail. This trail is a backpacking trail that follows the coast for over 300 kilometres. It includes many connected trails or sections. We chose to hike the Spurwink Island Path to the famous Berry Head Arch . It did not disappoint!

#vanlife The Community Center parking lot in Port Kirwan allows overnight parking for backpackers, so it is possible to spend the night here but be respectful of the community and be discreet if you choose to stay here overnight as we did. Locals are friendly and will initiate conversation if you are in the mood.

Stop 5 on our road trip to Newfoundland – Saint-Pierre et Miquelon, France

After a few days on the East Coast, we made our way to Fortune, where we hopped on the ferry to Saint-Pierre et Miquelon to spend one day in France. These tiny islands are just 42 kilometres south of Newfoundland. Discover the charms of this little gem in One Day in Saint-Pierre, France .

Stop 6 on our road trip to Newfoundland – Trinity 

After exploring Saint-Pierre et Miquelon for the day, we are back in Canada on Newfoundland and heading north to Trinity. 

#vanlife There is a sanitation dump station in Marystown on our way from Fortune to Trinity.

Historic Trinity

The town of Trinity is a charming and colourful village that sits at the end of the peninsula, surrounded by water. You can venture around town, admire the well-kept historic houses and visit the historic village. It will take you back to when the first settlers of Trinity were thriving. 

The Visitor Centre also displays the town’s history and how it came to be and was abandoned, all illustrated through a timeline. The exhibit also features artifacts recovered from that era.

Stop by the gift shop for locally made crafts and souvenirs. 

Fort Point Lighthouse

Fort Point is a point of land in the Trinity Harbour. The site tour is a 1-kilometre hike with interpretive signs telling the story of the military grounds and the lighthouse keepers from the mid-1700s onward. 

The lighthouse was built in 1871. Today, it still operates on an automated light that blinks every 5 seconds and a fog horn that warns seafarers. 

Hiking near Trinity

Naturally, we spent our time on the trails, as we love to do. Our favourite hikes in Trinity offer beautiful scenery where cliffs and ocean are centre stage. If you are willing to put your boots on and spend some time on the hiking trails in Trinity , you will not be disappointed!

Accommodations near Trinity

A stay at the Evergreen Suite includes breakfast, and guests can enjoy a private balcony.

The Seaport Inn comes highly recommended and is pet-friendly.

#vanlife We spent the night at THE spot in the whole province, on Fort Point, not too far from the lighthouse. The views were to die for!! There is nothing like enjoying a coffee with an unbelievably stunning view of the cliffs, the waves and the ocean. Locals use this area as a camping spot, but there is plenty of room for campers and tents. Again, I urge tourists to be respectful of this opportunity. Locals stopped by or camped nearby, and we had the pleasure of conversing with them about their hometown.

Stop 7 on our road trip to Newfoundland – Elliston and the Puffin Colony

From Trinity, we made our way north to Elliston. Elliston is a small town known for its puffin colony and the Puffin Festival, which we caught in July. 

The Puffin Colony Lookout 

The short trail leads to the lookout where hundreds of puffins are perched on the top of a flat rock island with their friends, the seagulls, and maybe a couple of ducks and cormorants. Many of them will also be in the water or flying by. They are cute little birds that seem to fly awkwardly with great effort but are fascinating to watch. Bring binoculars if you have them. And a zoom on your camera is quite handy to get a good photograph of those adorable little creatures! 

On top of the puffins, the coast and ocean views are stunning. The blue waters and the rock chimneys are picturesque on a sunny day!

Public Beach

Just before the trail to the puffins’ lookout is a public beach with stunning blue water when the sun is shining. The beach gets pretty crowded, but it is big and can accommodate quite a few visitors. The waves will get strong and high on a windy day. 

Gift Shop and Crafts 

There are a few souvenir shops in town. If you wish to bring back a souvenir or support the community, stop at one of them. Coffee shops are also a great way to support locals and enjoy more time in Elliston. 

#vanlife There is a source of fresh water on the 238 just outside Elliston for those needing to fill up on fresh water. 

Stop 8 – Bonavista, more puffins and whales

After the puffins in Elliston, we continued on our way to the peninsula’s tip to Bonavista for more sightseeing, hiking, and exploring.

Cape Bonavista Lighthouse 

The Visitor Centre of the lighthouse has an exhibit with pictures and descriptions of the construction. It illustrates the history of the lighthouse and stories from the keepers and their families throughout the last two centuries. 

The souvenir shop on the grounds is worth the visit, puffins and whales are the subjects of most articles for sale, but you will also find other Newfoundland memorabilia.

Hiking in Bonavista

Cape shore trail .

The trail is an easy out-and-back for 9 kilometres along the coast. It goes from the town of Bonavista to the Cape Bonavista Lighthouse. As you walk along the shore, watch for whales in Bonavista Bay. 

Spillars Cove Trail

This is a fantastic hike on top of cliffs bordering the coast. The trail starts on an old road for off-road vehicles but soon turns into a narrow path that climbs to the plateau in open fields similar to the tundra. The views of the ocean, the blue waters and the rock chimneys are stellar. Whale watching is quite popular here. There is also a colony of puffins in the area.

The trail is not well marked, so be vigilant, especially close to the cliffs; it is a long way down. A part of the trail has fallen into the ocean due to erosion. This part is easy to avoid by going around the void that the slide caused. Because of this and the fact that the trail follows cliffs, it is not recommended to do this hike on a foggy day when visibility is reduced.

But on a sunny day, this is a must!

John Cabot Municipal Park

This park sits on the shores of the bay in Bonavista. It honours the explorer John Cabot with a statue of him overlooking the ocean. The Cape Shore Trail crosses the park, and picnic tables and outhouses are not too far. The views of the sunsets are incredible. 

#vanlife we spent the night in John Cabot Municipal Park with an amazing view of the ocean and the setting sun.

Stop 9 on our road trip to Newfoundland – Twillingate Island and Crow Head

Our next stop brings us a little further west still on the north shores of Newfoundland in Twillingate. This charming town is known for its proximity to the Iceberg Alley and is often referred to as the Iceberg Capital. 

If you wish to view an iceberg, this is where you should be. The most appropriate time for viewing those immense floating ice blocks would be May and June, though some icebergs might still linger in July. They come from our neighbours off the coast of Greenland and slowly float in the sea, making their way south. They are majestic and surreal. An iceberg sighting is high on my bucket list.

Long Point Lighthouse 

The lighthouse lookouts are the perfect place for whale watching and iceberg viewing. The Long Point Lighthouse sits on the high cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean.  

Hiking the Twillingate Island Coast Trails

Twillingate Islands have fantastic hiking trails. From the Twillingate Island Coastal Trails to the many trail options near the charming town of Twillingate, the views of the high rocky cliffs and the endless ocean are all excellent options for a hiking adventure.

Annies Harbour Restaurant 

I strongly recommend it. We had dinner at Annie’s Harbour Restaurant . The service was excellent, and the staff was very friendly. It seemed pretty busy, so don’t hesitate to make a reservation. The food was delicious. The shrimp, the scallops and the fish were all excellent. The ambiance is also a plus! I give it five stars.

#vanlife We spent the night at an old abandoned campground that tourists and locals still use. There is no service but there are picnic tables and amazing views of the ocean with whales swimming close by.

From Twillingate, we set off for a full day of driving, heading back to the West Coast and then making our way to the northern end of the peninsula to L’Anse aux Meadows.

Stop 10 on our road trip to Newfoundland – L’Anse aux Meadows

L’Anse-aux-Meadows is our last stop in Newfoundland. Parks Canada Historical Site L’Anse aux Meadows sits at the very edge of the province. The northern tip of the peninsula on the west coast is the site of an ancient Viking settlement, the very first non-native explorers of this continent.

Visitor Centre

The exhibit in the Visitor Centre depicts the history of the Norseman and the route the Vikings took from their homeland in the Scandinavian Countries to Iceland and then to Greenland, to eventually come ashore in Newfoundland and build the settlement right here in L’Anse aux Meadows around the year 1000 AD. 

It also tells the story of how it came to be discovered by a couple of archeologists. The story goes that locals believed it was the ruins of an old indigenous camp, but the dig proved otherwise. Archeologists discovered the forge with metal objects like boat nails and clothes pins that the Scandinavian peoples used. Indigenous tribes did not work the metal, so it left no doubt that the ruins in L’Anse aux Meadows were Vikings. 

From the Sagas of Erik the Red and his son Leif Erikson, it is possible to determine a timeline for their voyages and discoveries in the new world. The Vikings never meant their settlement in L’Anse aux Meadows to be permanent as it was a gateway to the land they named Vinland for its richness in wild grapes. 

Ruins of the ancient settlement

Once you have made the rounds in the exhibit, you can exit by the centre’s back door. The boardwalk will lead you directly to the ruins of the ancient settlement. They are mounds of peat moss, but archeologists’ finds have been able to determine what most of them housed, whether it was family quarters, the forge, or woodwork buildings. 

One longhouse of timber and sod has been rebuilt to the likes of the Vikings’ dwellings. You can enter and visit. Costumed Viking interpreters explain the life and customs of the Norseman in the settlement. 

Hiking in L’Anse-aux-Meadows

The trail continues along the shore of the Strait of Belle Isle with its rocky beaches. It turns sharply left before returning to the parking lot through bog and marshes. Keep an eye out for moose as we had the pleasure of watching one graze in the meadow on our return to the parking lot. 

A short trail leads from the parking lot to the top of the hill with the giant statues of Vikings looking in the distance—the perfect place for a selfie. The view of the sea and the surrounding shores is quite beautiful. 

The Return Home – The Ferry from St. Barbe NL to Blanc Sablon QC

The ferry LMI from St Barbe, NL to Blanc Sablon, Qc is a 1 hour and 45-minute ride across the Strait of Belle Isle. 

Your vehicle will sit among 18-wheelers and campers, cars and trucks. The ferry sports two stories for vehicles; the low ones (cars and SUVs) are parked on the lower level, and the higher vehicles (big trucks, cargo vans and tractor-trailers) are on the second level. 

Reservations

Make sure to specify in your reservation if you need the extra height for your vehicle as the space on the second level is limited. You can make reservations online with Labrador Marine. You need only a deposit to reserve a spot for your vehicle and you can make changes to the reservation up to 24 h prior.  

Once you get to the ticket office, they will issue you a boarding pass when you pay in full. Visit Labradormarine.com for fees and schedules.

Once on the ferry, before leaving your vehicle, grab everything you think you might need on the crossing. You will not be able to return to it until the announcement is made once the ferry has docked on the other side of the river.

The third level is the seating area with a cafeteria. The seats recline, and the huge windows will let you sneak views of the water. You can also have a seat on the deck outside. It has two levels and fresh air. Dress warm if you intend to spend some time outdoors on the deck. The wind is fierce and cold even in the middle of summer. 

More Road Trips

If you are like me, you never want the road trip to end. My insatiable desire to explore new places keeps me going. From here, you can keep exploring this amazing province with a road trip through Labrador by completing the Trans-Labrador Highway in its entirety.

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Josanne is a Canadian adventurer and traveller. She shares her passion, hoping to inspire and empower individuals to embark on extraordinary Canadian travel adventures. She is committed to sharing immersive experiences celebrating Canada's unique landscapes, wildlife, and cultures while promoting responsible and mindful travels that cherish Canada's natural wonders.

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20 Comments

I never heard of NEWFOUNDLAND. From your detailed shared experiences, the ialand sounds like a place filled with fun and adventure. The hiking trail looks like something i would definitely take on if i decide to visit someday. Thanks for sharing your experience ADVENTURESOFJO.

If you do decide to visit, don’t hesitate to reach out. Newfoundland and Labrador is worth adding to your travel list!

I have to admit I’ve never heard about Newfoundland before but it seems to be a great place to visit :)

The landscape in Newfoundland is absolutely stunning! It is for sure a great place to visit :)

I think I need to add Newfoundland to my bucket list. It looks gorgeous!

It really is gorgeous! I do hope you get to see it someday :)

I have never heard of Newfoundland and that’s a shame cause this place is beautiful. Your photos are stunning! Thank you for sharing your experience and tips!

I agree, it is an amazing place with stunning landscapes! Thank you :)

Nature hikes and spending time at parks are special. These help to disconnect and unwind.

I agree! It is a lifesaver for me!

Seems like an amazing place to visit.

It is a fantastic place! Worth the visit :)

Wow there’s so much to do! Would love to go whale watching!

Whales are pretty impressive!

This makes me want to go to Newfoundland. Ive never been but I’d like to go sometime. Thanks for sharing!

I hope you get to visit someday! It is an amazing place!

The ferry crossing with an overnight cabin would be fun. I’ll have to remember that if we ever go to Newfoundland. It is on my list.

The cabin is much more comfortable than the reclining chairs ;) And travelling at night saves the day for exploring!

The inclusion of practical tips for ferry reservations, onboard activities, and must-pack items makes this guide truly comprehensive. The detailed account of the attractions, like the captivating Berry Head Arch, captures the imagination and encourages readers to embark on their own adventure.

Overall, this guide to the ultimate Newfoundland road trip is a must-read for anyone considering exploring this picturesque province. It’s a well-crafted blend of personal experiences, historical insights, and practical advice, creating a roadmap for an incredible journey that showcases the beauty and charm of Newfoundland.

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave this comment! Newfoundland is such an amazing place; it is easy to write about it and showcase all it has to offer to visitors :)

Comments are closed.

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The Best Things to Do in Newfoundland (+ Road Trip Itinerary)

A road trip itinerary with the most unforgettable things to do in newfoundland.

My husband and I first stepped foot in the eastern Atlantic Canadian provinces ten years ago on a family cruise. We had nothing but heavy rain and dense fog the entire trip, but since we hadn’t done much research beforehand we didn’t realize at the time how much we were missing. 

Don’t Miss These 20 Must-Know Tips Before You Go to Newfoundland

It was a good thing too because after we looked up the ports once we got home, we couldn’t believe what we saw. Colorful fishing villages. Sandy beaches. Vibrant cities. Historic lighthouses. Scenic drives.

It looked like an entirely different world than what we experienced so we’ve talked about going back ever since. When the announcement was made that the Canada border would be opening back up to Americans again, we figured it would be the perfect time to go. 

And so began a deep dive into planning a two-month Canadian road trip. 

Our original plan focused on The Maritimes – New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island – but we soon realized Newfoundland, Canada’s easternmost province is not much further. Only sitting a hop, skip, and a ferry ride away, we added the island to our itinerary.

Since we didn’t know anyone that personally visited before, we had no idea what to expect. The island surprised us in so many ways!

What we came across was a genuine kindness and distinct aura of local pride you won’t find in many places, incredible hiking trails, and raw beauty that begs to be explored. 

We can definitively say if Newfoundland isn’t on your travel bucket list, it should be!

When to Visit Newfoundland 

What is the best month to visit Newfoundland? The answer to that question depends on what magical experience you are chasing – floating icebergs, historical lighthouses, majestic whales, exciting festivals, or adorable puffins.

Because Newfoundland has it all and so much more!

Summer is by far the best time of year to visit Newfoundland and is also prime time for whale and puffin watching. 

In late June and July, the temperatures start warming up and flowers begin to bloom. July is the driest month and August is the hottest. 

We visited the last week in August and the first week in September. The weather was a variety of sunny days, clouds mixed with sun, and a few windy and rainy days but warm temperatures with highs around 71 degrees Fahrenheit  (21 degrees Celsius). 

On any given day, there’s a chance for a lighthouse or a moose sighting. But if you’d like to have icebergs floating in the background, plan your trip in the springtime in late May or early June. 

How to Get to Newfoundland 

Since it is an island, your only options to get to Newfoundland include a ferry or a plane ride. 

If you fly, you’ll most likely begin your trip in the capital of St. John’s located on the southeast side of the island. 

If you choose to drive, you have two options: a six to eight-hour sail to Port aux Basques or a fifteen-hour sail to Argentia.

If you are driving over the border from the United States another helpful article is All the Info You Need to Know to Cross the Border into Canada by Car.

Because of limited availability and planning our trip not too far in advance, we ended up taking the Port aux Basques ferry both ways.

If you are planning ahead of time, I suggest taking the Port aux Basques ferry in and Argentia out to avoid an entire day of driving. It takes roughly nine hours from port to port double backing through some areas. 

Two Week Newfoundland Road Trip Itinerary

Click here for an interactive Newfoundland road trip map.

How many days do you need in Newfoundland? The island of Newfoundland is the 16th largest island in the world.

For comparison, it’s a quarter larger than Ireland and roughly the same size as the state of Ohio. 

It takes a long time to drive from east to west and north to south.

Ideally, you should plan a week at a minimum, but two weeks not only gets you to all the highlights but allows you to enjoy them with a few hikes and tours here and there. 

Here is my suggested Newfoundland road trip itinerary. 

Newfoundland Itinerary 14 Days: Summary

• Port aux Basques, 1 night
• Corner Brook, 1 night
• Gros Morne National Park, 3 nights
• Kings Point, 1 night
• Twillingate, 2 nights
• Terra Nova National Park, 1 night
• Trinity, 1 night
• Conception Bay, 1 night
• St John’s, 3 nights

Looking to visit other places in Canada? Eastern Townships Region in Quebec

Disclaimer: Some of the links included in this post are affiliate links and will provide me with a commission at no additional cost to you.

Day 1: Port aux Basques

If you take the daytime ferry you’ll be arriving in Port aux Basques between 6:00 and 7:00 pm and will have to go through customs so for the first night we don’t recommend you drive too far.

So instead of rushing out and trying to beat twilight, once you debark, kick off your Newfoundland travel with a short yet spectacular sunset hike. 

Be aware one of the many unique things about Newfoundland is that it has its own time zone. Once you arrive on the mainland, you’ll be a half-hour ahead of Atlantic Canada.

What to See & Do: A delightful introduction to the island is the Grand Bay West Walking Trail . The easy hike starts out on a boardwalk overlooking the beach and a quiet bay then continues to multiple platforms overlooking the ocean.

There are wildflowers, swaying green grass, an old barn, sandy coves, and is the perfect spot to catch a sunset.

Where to Eat & Drink: After a long day, Seashore Restaurant with its friendly service, ocean view, and big portions is the right place for dinner. On the menu, you’ll find Newfoundland local dishes, seafood, and sandwiches. 

Where to Stay:  If you like your privacy, book at St. Christopher’s Hotel for a spacious and clean hotel room. 

For another fantastic experience, Hotel Port Aux Basques is a great option as well. 

Those looking for a free camping site, stay in the lot at Grand Bay West. It has two clean bathrooms that stay open all night and you won’t be bothered. 

Day 2: Corner Brook

Cruise the Trans-Canada Highway lined with evergreen trees and views for miles for roughly two and a half hours before detouring over to Cape Saint George. 

What to See & Do: The Boutte du Cap Park honors the French Acadian fishermen, Newfoundland’s first settlers, by baking bread in traditional wood fire bread ovens in a few places in the area including the park.

Try to get there between 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to take advantage of the free freshly made rolls made by locals in the stone oven in the park.

The bread is so fluffy and light; it’s a real treat.

Note: The bread oven demonstrations are typically done in July and August, Monday – Saturday. 

Also at the park, you’ll walk along plunging cliff edges to admire what locals call The Boot, a craggy horn jutting out from the mainland.

Head north on 463 to finish the Port au Port Peninsula loop drive before stopping at Captain James Cook National Historic Site .

The site has amazing views of the city of Corner Brook and the Bay of Islands and you only have to walk a short distance for spectacular photo opportunities.

Complete the day with a hike on the OBIEC Bottle Cove Boardwalk Trail.  It was one of our favorite hikes in Newfoundland!

With every step, it just keeps getting better and better.

A relatively short hike that starts out on a flat boardwalk, and after a short climb and walk on a tree-covered path pops out to spectacular views where the cove meets the ocean. 

Where to Eat & Drink: After the historic site, take a break for lunch at the Saltbox and Everoutdoor Adventures overlooking Benoit’s Cove. 

Where to Stay: Right in the heart of the small downtown is Glynmill Inn , highly rated with a restaurant and pub. 

If you’re looking for something a bit more modern and free continental breakfast, the Hew & Draw Hotel is a great option. 

Days 3 – 5: Gros Morne National Park

Next up on your Newfoundland road trip is Gros Morne National Park which is not only a national park but a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well. 

The park is a magical experience and one of the most beautiful places in Newfoundland that should not be missed! 

What to See & Do: We have a few recommended hikes for every level of hiker. 

• Easy – Eastern Point Trail
• Easy – Tablelands Trail
• Easy – Berry Hill Pond
• Easy – Steve’s Trail
• Moderate – Green Gardens Trail
• Moderate – Lookout Trail
• Difficult – Gros Morne Mounain
• Difficult- Western Brook Pond

The Eastern Point Trail , found near the south end of the park near Trout River, is not on the park map for some reason but I read about it beforehand so I had it on our itinerary. 

And I’m so glad we did because it scales our top 10 Newfoundland hiking list along with Bottlecove as one of our favorite trails.

If you are an experienced hiker, I highly recommend the Gros Morne Mountain Trail, a roughly 10-mile (16 km) climb that will knock your socks off. But it is difficult and will take an entire day so if you are in good shape and willing to climb on rocky terrain 

Another popular hike (and the picture you probably have come across a hundred times when researching your trip) is the Western Brook Fjord hike. We did not hike this trail because you either have to book a super expensive guide or go through a bunch of red tape to prove you are experienced and reserve a permit weeks in advance. 

I suggest booking the Western Brook Pond boat tour instead. It still requires a hike (roughly 2 miles but on flat land) to the dock but then you’ll get to enjoy the magnificent views of the glacier-carved fjord while relaxing on a boat. 

Other do-not-miss easy hikes include the most unique part of Gros Morne, The Tablelands , where you can actually see part of the earth’s mantle. 

We knew we had to experience this unusual section because of its rare geology, but what we didn’t expect was for it to be barren yet beautiful.

Steve’s Trail is another fantastic short hike, which starts in a meadow and leads out to a beautiful beach.

It’s also a great cove for spotting seals. 

And last but not least, make sure to catch a sunset at Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse. It’s another one of the most beautiful places in Newfoundland. 

Where to Eat: A unique restaurant mixing Newfoundland culture in a diner setting in the Tablelands area is the Merchant Warehouse Retro Cafe & Wine Bar.

Even though local craft beer and fish and chips are the most popular items on the menu, there are also burgers, sandwiches, and specialty desserts to be enjoyed inside or out back on the patio with water views. 

Where to Stay: We van camped at Berry Hill Campground inside the park, but if you aren’t camping The Rooms at Woody Point are comfortable and well-rated. (Take a tour of our minivan-turned-campervan here and see all the essential camping items we recommend.)

If you like the cabin vibe, book one of Bambury’s Hillside Chalets ; they are in a great location for exploring Gros Morne National Park.

Day 6: King’s Point

You’ll be backtracking a little bit today through Deer Lake, but from there you’ll head north to the town of King’s Point, another charming small town. 

What to See & Do:  From Gros Morne, you can drive direct to King’s Point or you can take an hour detour a little north to Tilt Cove . 

With a population of four, the super tiny hamlet is the smallest town in Canada. 

Founded in 1813 for its gold and copper ores, it was also Newfoundland’s first mining town.

Today, the sleepy town has a few livable homes and remnants of its mining past. 

On the way, Foster’s Bawn Lookout Trail in La Scie is a worthy deviation. Located at the tip of Baie Verde Peninsula, it’s another prime spot for iceberg viewing and whale watching during peak season.

It’s a short walk to a wooden platform with views like below. 

Another option is to arrive early in King’s Point and hike the Alexander Murray Hiking Trail , a popular 5.3-mile hiking trail. 1,000 stairs lead hikers to a breathtaking lookout.

Alternative Option

One of the most unique things to do in Newfoundland is to see floating icebergs from the glaciers of western Greenland. 

If you are planning a trip from April through August, you may want to adjust your itinerary from King’s Point to add a night up north in St. Anthony or Hay Cove to see the frozen giants and visit the L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, one of Newfoundland’s hidden gems.

The rugged coast is where Norse sailors first settled in North America – long before the famed Christopher Columbus. It’s the only authenticated Viking site on the continent and recently researchers figured out the exact timeframe – 1,000 years ago in 1021.

We struggled with whether or not to add L’Anse to our itinerary, but in the end, we chose not to add the extra driving time (it’s roughly 4 hours from Gros Morne National Park) since we visited in late summer and the icebergs had already disappeared. If you decide to add the additional stop and you need to keep your itinerary to 14 days, I suggest reducing one night in St. John’s. 

Where to Eat & Stay: A fantastic option for lodging and dinner is at By the Sea Inn & Cafe , located right on the water in the bay. Our waitress told us it’s not uncommon to see whales frolicking right outside your window. We weren’t so lucky, but there were multiple pictures hanging on the wall to back up her story!

We camped at King’s Point RV Park and although the campground itself is nothing to write home about the view is amazing and it is a cheap option. It was one of our favorite campsites of the trip. 

Day 7 & 8: Twillingate

A stunning coastline, a winery that serves up wine created with iceberg water, a historical lighthouse, and scenic country roads. 

Yes, Twillingate is worth an overnight!

What to See & Do: If you are visiting during the spring or early summer, Twillingate is a popular spot to take an iceberg and whale-watching boat tour. 

We visited in late summer and all the other tourists we talked to did not see whales on their guided tours so we decided to save our money and try later in the trip on the St. Lawrence River.

Do not miss the Long Point Lighthouse for breathtaking views of the rugged shore. 

Built in 1876 for the fishermen and coastal traders that navigated the rough waters of the Atlantic, the historic landmark is one of the most photographed locations on the northeast coast of Newfoundland. 

Next, hop over to the Auk Island Winery for a tasting. Not only are the names unique – like Fifty Shades of Bay, Moose Joose, Kiss My Arse, and 3 Sheets in the Wind – but the wines, made with local berries like partridgeberry and iceberg water, are as well. 

There are so many breathtakingly beautiful hikes in Newfoundland. We kept saying over and over, “we need more time!”

The French Beach Walking Trail, just east of the city, is another one. The coastline trail offers epic views of a few spectacular coves and if visiting in late summer, wild blueberries bloom ripe for picking at the base of the trail.  

Where to Eat & Drink: Annie’s Harbour Restaurant is a casual seafood restaurant right on the water. Popular with locals and visitors alike, I highly suggest making reservations.

If you like craft beer, you’ll find a cream ale, IPA, brown ale, and stout over at Split Rock Brewery. The cozy pub, right on the harbor, offers a menu with ham

Day 9: Terra Nova National Park

Did you know Newfoundland has two national parks? The second one on your itinerary is Terra Nova, also the most easterly national park in Canada.

What to See & Do: When you leave Twillingate, drive east to Pike’s Arm Lookout on New World Island. The short (but steep) trail is worth the detour and the steps. 

It’s mostly stairs versus a trail, but the climb is rewarding with 360-degree views including Notre Dame Bay and multiple small islands. At the top, you’ll find an outhouse and a platform with a large picnic table to sit at while you take it all in. 

Afterward, head to Mill Cove Trail inside the park. A quick stroll on a boardwalk through a patch of forest leads you to a moderate rock climb then a few stairs, to amazing views. Under a mile long, it’s another short and sweet hike with big payoffs.

Where to Eat: There are not many restaurants to choose from today, a few local popular ones you’ll come across are Gill’s Grill in Gambo, Rosie’s Restaurant & Bakery in Gander, and Country Style Coffee & Bakery in Glovertown. 

Where to Stay: There are not many lodging options near Terra Nova National Park so we camped at Newman Sound Campground, right in the heart of the park. The sites all have electricity, water, and showers. 

If you are not camping, consider Glovertown Ocean View Suites and Cottages or if you’re traveling with family Terra Nova Cabin . 

Day 10: Trinity

Before motoring to Trinity, there are a few interesting sites on the Bonavista Peninsula. 

What to See & Do: Start the morning at Tickle Cove Sea Arch , a magical bay of red sandstone and quartz. The relentless waves of the Atlantic Ocean eroded the rock from both sides creating the wonderful sea arch.

It’s just one of the significant geological sites in the peninsula that led to the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. 

Over at the Cape Bonavista Lighthouse , take a tour and climb the 1843 historic structure. Also, spend some time walking the grounds to look for whales and puffins.

Afterward, swing through Dungeon Provincial Park . There you’ll see, The Dungeon, a large crater with two sea arches. It’s also quite the sight to see as horses and cows graze on the dramatic coastline.

Another must-do in the area is the Elliston Puffin Viewing Site to see the small sea parrots from land, one of the only places in North America to offer such a sight.

PRO TIP: You’ll be looking for all sorts of wildlife on your trip, so make sure to pack a good pair of binoculars like these! We bought them right before our trip and they worked out great. Lightweight, budget-friendly, easy to use, and comes with a carrying case. 

There are usually a few flapping around the colony at all times of the day but sunrise or sunset is the best time to visit. 

After checking in to your guesthouse, take a stroll through the quaint town of Trinity, which has been an active settlement since 1588.

Where to Eat & Drink: Another cool fact about Elliston is that it is considered the Root Cellar Capital of the World with hundreds of frost-free underground and hill vaults. You’ll see a few at the puffin viewing site but also at Nanny’s Root Cellar Kitchen .

It’s the perfect restaurant to try traditional Newfoundland food like cod tongue, fish and brewis, or the famous Jiggs dinner in a historic building. 

If it’s a Thursday through Sunday, stop in at Port Rexton Brewery to grab a pint, a gourmet grilled cheese, and poutine at the permanent food truck stationed at the outdoor patio. It’s a fantastic spot to sit and relax. 

If you’re ready for an extra special dining experience, make reservations at Twine Loft in Trinity. The restaurant offers a 3-course dinner by candlelight overlooking the water. 

Where to Stay: Book a private room with a bath at Eriksen Premises within walking distance of everything in town. 

Day 11: Avondale

In the morning, walk the noteworthy Skerwink Trail , a 5.3 km hike in the Trinity area. The trail was previously selected by Travel and Leisure Magazine as one of the top 35 walks in North America and Europe. 

I hate to disagree with this designation because the hike is outstanding. But one of the top 35 in ALL of North America and Europe? Not sure it lives up to all that hype but worth it? Absolutely.

The stunning experience includes a tranquil walk in an evergreen forest lined with blueberry bushes, impressive overlooks at Robinhood Bay, towering sea stacks, and wonderful views of the towns of Port Rexton and Trinity. 

What to See & Do: On the way to Conception Bay, you have to stop in Dildo. Yep, that’s right, there’s a town called Dildo in Newfoundland! 

Afterward, explore the historic small fishing villages of Cupids and Brigus . You can view artifacts from one of the oldest settlements in North America at the Cupids Legacy Centre then walk the narrow lanes of the neighboring town. 

Where to Stay: Don’t let the check-in at the small neighborhood bar throw you off at Gloria’s BnB. Attached to the other half of the building is a guesthouse with private rooms and bathrooms for a reasonable price. In the morning, expect muffins, coffee, and juice in the shared room on the main level. 

Days 12 – 14: St. John’s

You’ll finish your trip in St. John’s, the capital and largest city in Newfoundland. 

What to See & Do: There are a few things you must do while staying in St. John’s. Check out this 2-hour boat cruise that leaves from the heart of downtown to see whales, puffins, and more. Or maybe you are just interested in a downtown walking tour to learn all about St. John’s fascinating history and interesting architecture. 

Visit Cape Spear, the easternmost point in North America found at the tip of Newfoundland just 10 miles east of the city.

Constructed in 1836, the Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site is the oldest surviving lighthouse in the province. 

Another unforgettable experience is hiking the North Head Trai l. It’s the oldest and supposedly the most popular trail on Signal Hill but we didn’t see many people while we were on it. 

Start at Fort Waldegrave up to Signal Hill (if you get there around noon you can see them shoot the cannon) then over to the fishing village of Quidi Vidi.

You won’t want to miss the quaint historic hamlet nestled in a tiny harbor surrounded by large rock outcrops. 

NOTE: There is a small parking lot as well if you’re not up for the challenge of the hike. 

A perfect location to rest your weary legs is the Quidi Vidi Brewing Company . Grab a table on the patio overlooking the bay and order a flight to try a few of their many delicious beers.

The fish & chip food truck serves up the best we had on the island. 

After proper hydration, finish your hike with an easy flat stroll along the Quidi Vidi Lake Trail back into St. John’s for a 5-mile loop.

Optional: If you’re visiting during whale season take a drive on the Irish Loop which starts just 20 miles south of St. John’s.

The scenic route winds around the southern region of the Avalon Peninsula. Add Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, Tors Cove, La Manche Provincial Park, Ferryland Lighthouse Mistaken Point and St. Vincent’s to your itinerary. 

Otherwise, I’d skip it to spend more time in and around the city. 

Where to Eat & Drink: Get screeched in at Christian’s Bar, check out the speakeasy-feel in the basement bar at YellowBelly Brewery, get stuffed at Get Stuffed, and eat at the vegetarian Peaceful Loft. 

Where to Stay: The historic Gower Manor B&B is perfectly located and has free parking and breakfast.

If you don enjoy B&B’s, the JAG Boutique Hotel is less than a 5 minutes walk from George Street with comfortable rooms appointed with a mini-fridge and Keurig coffee machine. 

The Argentia port is only an hour and a half from St. John’s so plan accordingly for your last day.

And that wraps up your two-week Newfoundland itinerary! I can’t wait for you to discover this enchanting place!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Newfoundland expensive to visit? Newfoundland is relatively expensive to visit. From an American’s perspective, most things in Canada including food, lodging, and drinks are a bit more expensive than at home. And Newfoundland is even more since it’s an island and more remote than some other provinces. But it is doable and there are ways to save like not eating out every meal and camping versus staying in hotels. 

What language do they speak in Newfoundland? English is the main language spoken in and around all of Newfoundland. Menus and signs are also written in English. 

What side of the road do they drive on in Newfoundland? Newfoundlanders follow the same rules of the road as Americans, driving on the right side.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Newfoundland? If you’re lucky you can see the northern lights on a clear night in Newfoundland but it is not one of the top places in Canada to see the aurora borealis.  

What is Newfoundland best known for? Newfoundland is best known for its colorful houses in St. John’s and its deep-rooted fishing heritage. 

Do you have any other favorite things to do in Newfoundland? We will definitely be back so please share in the comments below!

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Angela E. is a travel writer from the Chicagoland area who has visited all 50 states in the US and has traveled extensively around the world. She is passionate about exploring the great outdoors and hiking in particular. Her love for nature has taken her to some of the most beautiful locations on the planet. She has written extensively about her travels on her own website, Dang Travelers, and has been published in collaboration with other travel websites and multiple visitor bureaus around the country.

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17 Responses

Hello! I was happy to find this site as my husband and I are in the midst of planning a trip to NL this summer and our travel habits seem similar to yours. This will be our first visit to NL, and we’ll be traveling in a campervan with our dog and plan on sleeping every night in the van. Do you know if it’s essential to book campsites at the national and provincial parks in advance or if there tends to be day of availability? We’ll be traveling late July/early-mid August. The mention of the free campsite at Grand Bay West is really helpful, do you know of other similar free campsites throughout the island? Many thanks and happy travels!

Dang Travelers

Hi Lisa! I’m so excited for you, Newfoundland is such a magical place! Based on the time of year your visiting, I would probably book in advance. We saw a lot of campers and we visited in the beginning of shoulder season. I would at least definitely book Gros Morne in advance since it’s a busy park. I dont know of any other sites offhand, but we used the iOverlander app for free campsites.

Barb Macpherson

You need to make a significant correction – you fly into ST. JOHN’S. St. John (no “s”) is in New Brunswick and you’re in trouble if you book a flight to St. John if you want to be in Newfoundland!

Thanks Barb! I didn’t catch that before!!

I liked the article but feel you really should warn people about Wreck House.The day we came off the ferry we knew to stop at the Welcome Centre and check the winds at Wreck House. They were gusting at 50km to 80km and forcasted to go to 80km to 100km. As the wind here is always a cross wind, anyone traveling by motorcycle (me), or RV, or towing a trailer needs to be warned. That particular day one motorcylist was blown off the road and one transport was put on its side when the driver over corrected.

A beautiful visit but ckeck the winds before proceeding to Corner Brook.

Thanks so much Ben! We had no issues at all with wind so appreciate the info.

Great job Dang Travellers. Thanks for including Bay St. George in your itinerary.

What if we want to include a brief visit to Labrador? How to get to Newfoundland from Halifax?

There is a seasonal ferry. To get to Labrador from the island of Newfoundland, take the ferry that runs from St. Barbe on the island’s Great Northern Peninsula to Blanc Sablon, on Québec’s southernmost coast, right next to the border with Labrador.

Two of us are plannng to travel to NF in August. Reverse you trip somewhat and fly into St. John’s and fly out of Deer Lake (think that is the name?) and we’ll rent a car. Notice that you didn’t mention Fogo Island. No time for it or not to you liking?

We just didn’t have time. I’ve heard good things though!

Is this trip doable without camping? Could you wing it or would have to plan lodging far in advance?

It is doable without camping, but I’d definitely recommend reservations if you are traveling during the peak season of July and August.

Jasper Sloane Lennox

Did you rent a car for a 1 way trip from West to East ? Or did you loop back to point A?

We road tripped out there in our own car so we looped back. We tried taking two different ferries, but the one was already booked.

Great recommendations. We are pretty much doing this same trip in early September. Question for you….after Twillingate for 2 nights, we’ll head to the Bonavista peninsula for 2 nights before heading to St John’s. Do you think it makes more sense to stay in Bonavista or in Trinity for the two nights as a base for the peninsula? Thanks!

That’s a hard one as we liked both towns, but I’m leaning more towards Bonavista since it’s up north and a few more things to see and do. Hope you have the best trip!!

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The Ultimate Two Week Newfoundland Road Trip

September 19, 2023 | Home Town Tourist , North America by Melissa Hogan | Canada • Itineraries • Newfoundland | 9 Comments

If you’ve got a Canada bucket list, I bet road tripping through Newfoundland is on it. If not, what are you doing? If chasing icebergs, making friends with whales and puffins, hiking inland fjords, and eating the freshest seafood, spotting sea stacks and stunning coastal landscapes, and partying on the street with the most pubs per mile in Canada is your kind of vacation, then you need to road trip through Canada’s easternmost province.

They say there are no accidental tourists in Newfoundland. Just getting here in the first place can be a bit of a challenge. But it’s so worth it.

Table of Contents

Choosing a Newfoundland Road Trip Itinerary

Where to stay, where to eat, visit the great northern peninsula, visit southern labrador, explore the south coast, pop over to france, explore central newfoundland (fogo, baie verte), visit corner brook and the port aux port peninsula, book your trip to newfoundland & labrador, don't miss: top newfoundland activities, related posts, getting here and getting around.

There are only two ways to get to the island portion of Newfoundland and Labrador: fly or sail. The two most common methods are taking the ferry from North Sydney, Nova Scotia to Port-aux-Basques on the southwest coast or flying into St. John’s.

St. John’s International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in the province and many tourists arrive here for their vacation since it’s located in the capital city. Air Canada and WestJet are the two main carriers though you can also get some flights from the mainland with PAL Airlines. Flair Airlines and Lynx are new discount options into the region.

You can also fly into Gander or Deer Lake, depending on where you plan to visit.

If you fly, you’ll definitely want to rent a vehicle since seeing anything other than downtown St. John’s is difficult without wheels. Be sure to book your car way ahead of time since there’s limited rentals on the island, especially in the high season.

If you opt to bring your own vehicle, you’ll be taking a ferry to get here. Marine Atlantic runs two routes during the summer between Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. You can take the 7 hour sailing to Port aux Basques (2x/day, 7 days/week) landing 900km from St. John’s (perfect for visiting Gros Morne) or the 16 hour sailing to Argentia (1x/day, Sunday/Monday & Wednesday/Thursday), landing approximately 130km from St. John’s.

Newfoundland and Labrador is a big province. To properly explore all of it you’d need weeks and weeks and weeks. Most visitors only have a few days to a couple weeks. My recommendation is that if you only have a week choose just one region: Eastern, Central, Western, or Labrador. All the more reason to come back for a second (or third or fourth) visit, right?

If you have two weeks you can expand and pick two regions. Or if you really want to get the NL sample platter, you can stretch a bit, like I’ve done in the itinerary below, and include some of Eastern, Central, and Western.

Labrador is an amazing destination but its distance from the island portion of the province makes it difficult to combine into a road trip (unless you want to do the Great Northern Peninsula and southern Labrador combo). You should definitely make a plan to visit the Big Land though.

You can do this two week road trip starting in either direction. If you need to make it a loop, add a full day for driving back across the island.

Total Driving Time: 12h30 (1080km) one-way

Day 1-2 – St. John’s

Start your Newfoundland road trip off in the province’s capital. Spend a day or two exploring colourful downtown, picking up souvenirs and trying the great local restaurants. If you haven’t been to St. John’s in the last decade, the food scene has changed. A lot. You can get tacos, tapas, curries, and banh mi along with your fish and chips.

Take a morning walking tour with St. John’s Walking Tours and learn about the quirky side of St. John’s history. It’s a great introduction to the city and a bit of its history…and you’ll be introduced to Jellybean Row.

Head out to Cape Spear for an afternoon spin to the easternmost point in North America. Or if you’re really feeling it, get up at 4am to be the first to see the sunrise in North America. On your way back take the road through Maddox Cove and Petty Harbour for some really pretty views.

In the evening, get Screeched-In at Christian’s Pub on George Street. While you’re at it, take yourself on a pub crawl – there are more bars here than anywhere else.

Brunch at Mallard Cottage in Quidi Vidi is always a treat. Tip: try the cake table. Take a stroll around the lake afterward to work it off. Take a drive up Signal Hill (or hike from The Battery) and see if you can spot where you parked at Cape Spear yesterday.

Alt Hotel Jag Hotel The Inn by Mallard Cottage

Bannerman Brewing, Toslow, St. John’s Farmer’s Market, Mallard Cottage, YellowBelly Brewery, Boca Tapas, Cojones Tacos, Rocket Bakery

Enjoy the Pedestrian Mall, count the coloured houses, visit the Rooms, have a pub crawl on George Street, visit Signal Hill, hike the North Head trail, see the sunrise at Cape Spear, have a picnic in Bannerman Park

Day 3 – Brigus/Dildo

Driving Time: St. John’s – Dildo 1h30 (123km)

Leave St. John’s and head to the town of Brigus. If you’re an HGTV fan you may have seen this cute little town on their new show, Rock Solid Builds , which is set here. Have a drive around town and see if you can spot any of their projects.

There’s a canal that runs through the centre of the historic part of town and calls out to be photographed. You could visit Hawthorne Cottage , former home of Captain Bob Bartlett, who was in charge of the S.S. Roosevelt when Peary reached the North Pole. Or you could walk through The Tunnel, a hole blasted through solid stone to provide easy access to the Bartlett wharves. Maybe you want to peek into the Stone Barn Museum. Stop at The Quay for the most delicious blueberry crisp you’ve ever had. In fact, if you’re here in mid-August try to catch the annual Brigus Blueberry Festival.

If you’re inclined to check out a trail, go for a stroll on the Burnt Head Trail.

Make your way over to Dildo – the town where Jimmy Kimmel is mayor – for a photo with the sign in the hills and have a pint and dinner at the Dildo Brewing Company on the water. Don’t forget to pick up a conversation starter of a souvenir from their shop.

George House Heritage B&B

Dildo Brewing Company, The Quay, Yes B’Y Indian Kitchen of Dildo

See the canals, take in the view from the Brigus Tunnel, get a photo with the Dildo sign, hike the Burnt Head trail, go berry picking

Day 4-6 – Trinity/Bonavista

Driving Time: Dilo – Trinity 2h15 (188km)

After breakfast, get on the road towards the Bonavista Peninsula. Make sure you’ve booked ahead to go out on the water with Skipper Bob from Trinity Eco Tours. If you haven’t been in a zodiac before you’re in for a treat. Let me know how many whales and puffins you see.

The Skerwink Trail is a 5.3km loop with views that don’t quit. Some have called it one of the best hikes in the world. Finish your hike with a stop at Port Rexton Brewery for a pint from one of the first microbreweries in the province. Be sure to try a gourmet grilled cheese from the Oh My Cheeses food truck parked outside. If you’re a hiking fiend, there are seven other trails on the peninsula in the Hike Discovery network , each one worth checking out.

Finish your evening with an early dinner at the Twine Loft (book ahead) and a show by Rising Tide Theatre.

Explore all the Bonavista Peninsula has to offer the next day. Pick up coffee and a treat from Two Whales, check out the town a union built in Port Union, and get up close and personal with some puffins in Elliston and go hunting for root cellars . Find the unique sea arches in Dungeon Provincial Park (you might even see some horses roaming).

Stop by the Sealers Interpretation Centre and learn more about an often misunderstood practice and see the stories of sealers brought to life.

Get yourself an ice cream from Sweet Rock Ice Cream in Bonavista or some homemade butter crisp from Aunt  Sarah’s. If you’re curious just how big (or small) the ship was that carried John Cabot to Bonavista all the way from Bristol, visit the Matthew replica for a tour.

Trinity Eco Tours Lodge Artisan Inn & Vacation Homes Russelltown Inn

Bonavista Social Club, The Twine Loft, Oh My Cheeses, Trinity Mercantile, The Boreal Diner, Two Whales Coffee

See some whales with Trinity Eco-Tours, have a pint at Port Rexton Brewery, Dungeons Provincial Park, see the puffins at Elliston, hike the Skerwink Trail, visit The Matthew

Day 7-8 – Eastport Peninsula

Driving Time: Trinity – Eastport 1h45 (148km)

Leaving from the Bonavista Peninsula, duck off the highway to the Eastport Peninsula, home to some of the nicest beaches on the island.

Pick one or two of the Damnable Trails to explore – the trail network with the scary sounding name, but beautiful trails. I recommend the Round  Head Lookout for spectacular views of Salvage.

If you time your visit right, you just might catch the Beaches Accordion Festival . If you can, check out the Sunday Stages for a real taste of rural Newfoundland entertainment – musicians playing unamplified in fishing stages on the water. It’s absolute magic.

If kayaking is your thing, head out with Happy Adventure Tours when the water’s calm for some breathtaking shoreline views. If you want to relax, sink your toes in the white sand at Eastport Beach or Sandy Cove Beach with it’s spectacular high cliff backing.

Happy Adventure Inn White Sails Inn and Cabins

Chucky’s Seafood & Wild Game Restaurant, Downhome Delights, Ocean Breeze Pub

White sand beaches of Sandy Cove and Eastport, hike the Damnable Trail, kayak with Happy Adventure Tours, Beaches Accordion Festival

Day 9-11 – Twillingate

Driving Time: Eastport – Twillingate 2h30 (196km)

Another two and a half hour drive brings you to beautiful Twillingate, one of the towns along Iceberg Alley. When bergs are in season, this is a prime spot to see them. Icebergs melt and get smaller the further south they drift so, in a good season, Twillingate will get some monsters.

Book a shoreline boat tour with Twillingate Adventure Tours . While no one can guarantee icebergs or whales, the gorgeous Newfoundland coastline is a sure thing and Twillingate Adventure Tours has the only boat that can take you under the bridge to explore both sides of New World Island.

Take a drive out to Crow Head to see the Long Point Lighthouse – I guarantee you’ll stop at least once to admire the view. The vistas here are like nothing else. Swing by the Crow’s Nest Cafe for a coffee and a dessert on their patio.

Get tickets for the New World Island Dinner Theatre for the evening and be entertained by funny skits and rousing songs while being served a delicious dinner.

Explore more of the hiking trails in the area, especially one of the trails that takes you through Spillars Cove. And while we may not grow grapes on this island, we do have a winery. Drop by Auk Island Winery for a tasting of their locally made fruit wines. I recommend Fifty Shades of Bay, only partly for the name. 

The beauty of this area is the outdoors and one of the best things you can do in Twillingate is to book the From Sea to Plate culinary experience with Experience Twillingate . Your 4-5 course meal is prepared with hand-harvested seafood and locally foraged edibles, cooked with sea water, over fire on the beach while you relax by the ocean or hunt for sea glass and beach treasure. If you can’t make dinner they also do a morning Mug-Up on the beach. Magic.

Harbour Lights Inn Anchor Inn Hotel & Suites Sunshine Inn

Annie’s Seafood Restaurant, Canvas Cove Bistro, Split Rock Brewery, Crow’s Nest Cafe, Georgie’s Restaurant, Blue Barrel Gallery Cafe

Boat tour with Twillingate Adventure Tours, Auk Island Winery, hike the Rockcut Twillingate trails, visit the Long Point lighthouse, New World Island Dinner Theatre, have a Mug-Up with Experience Twillingate, Unscripted Digital Arts Festival

Day 12-14 – Gros Morne

Driving Time: Twillingate – Rocky Harbour 4h30 (425km)

Twillingate to Gros Morne is going to be a bit of a haul. If you have the extra time, I recommend stopping for a night at Riverfront Chalets so you can go rafting on the Exploits River out of Badger and break up the drive. But since this is only a two-week road trip we’re going to forge ahead.

Gros Morne is on a lot of Newfoundland bucket lists for good reason. The scenery here is out of this world. Almost literally. Inside the park is the only place where you can walk on the Earth’s mantle at the Tablelands . There is hiking galore (20 trails!) and outdoors adventures aplenty. Spend a day hiking to the summit of Gros Morne Mountain or take more leisurely hikes around the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse.

There are some great festivals happening throughout the year in Gros Morne. Trails, Tales, and Tunes kicks off the season in mid-May. The Gros Morne Theatre Festival runs from May to September, while the Gros Morne Summer Musical Festival happens in July and August. Writers at Woody Point is a legendary events that features well known Canadian musicians, writers, and authors in August.

Book your spot with Bontours for their Western Brook Pond boat tour to see those famous fjord views and waterfalls. It’s an absolutely must if you’re in the area. Don’t be fooled by the name, the pond is actually a 16km long lake with a depth of 165 meters. Getting to the boat is an adventure in itself, located down a 3km trail (~45 min walk). But it’s very worth it.

After all that hiking and walking and exploring, take some time to relax and reflect on your road trip at Shallow Bay Beach, another of the province’s few sandy beaches.

Ocean View Hotel Bambury’s Hillside Chalets Augustus Jane Inn

Java Jack’s, Treasure Box, Fisherman’s Landing, the Old Store Cafe, The Old Loft Restaurant

Western Brook Pond boat tour, visit the Tablelands, climb Gros Morne Mountain, Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse, hike the Berry Hill Pond Trail, Shallow Bay Beach, pay a visit to Galliott Studios

Ways to Extend Your Visit

Two weeks is hardly enough to see Newfoundland, let alone getting to Labrador, so here are some ways you can extend this road trip if you’ve got the time.

Time Needed: 3 days from Gros Morne

Take your time and have a leisurely drive from Gros Morne up the Great Northern Peninsula to St. Anthony, where you’ll find L’Anse aux Meadows – the first Viking settlement in North America.

Time Needed: 3-5 days from Saint Anthony

Take the ferry from St. Barbe to Blanc Sablon, QC and then cross back over into Labrador and head up to Red Bay National Historic Site, a 16th century Basque whaling complex. If you have the time, continue up the Labrador Coast to Battle Harbour, the unofficial capital of historic Labrador, now an all-inclusive experience.

Time Needed: Determined by which town you want to visit

The South coast of Newfoundland might be some of the most remote spots in the province, which also makes them really interesting to visit. There are the towns that you can only reach by provincial ferry like Gaultois, Ramea, and Francois and towns that are a few hours off the highway like Burgeo, Harbour Breton, and Belleoram. Each with their own unique charms.

Time Needed: 3-4 days from St. John’s

Take the ferry from Fortune and in 90min you can be in France. Saint-Pierre et Miquelon is a French territory that sits just off the end of the Burin Peninsula. A round trip walk-on ferry ticket costs 24€. Be sure to take your passport since you’ll be leaving Canada. Spend a day or two enjoying French wines and baguettes and strolling the streets.

Time Needed: 3-5 days

If you want to thoroughly indulge yourself, book a stay at the Fogo Island Inn (3-night minimum starting at $2075/night) – an all-inclusive experience like no other in the world. If you’re not in the luxury market, there are ways to experience the beauty of Fogo and Central Newfoundland at any price point. Explore the towns like King’s Point, Burlington, the beaches of Lumsden, or go rafting in Badger.

Corner Brook is the 3rd largest city in Newfoundland (and our 5th largest municipality…it’s complicated) so it’s definitely worth an add-on to your road trip. Once centered on forestry and it’s pulp mill, Corner Brook is now known for its outdoor adventures, like skiing at Marble Mountain, exploring the Corner Brook Caves, and a mountain biking trail network. Be sure to check out their two microbreweries: Boomstick and Bootleg. The Port au Port is steeped in Francophone heritage and makes a nice day trip from Corner Brook.

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July 4th, 2021 at 2:06 pm ( # )

What happened to Tver BurinPeninsula

November 12th, 2021 at 10:12 am ( # )

Thanks–wonderful information. I have only 2 weeks vacation. my question, Can i return to Ottawa by air from Gros morne ? or do I have to head back to st john’s to take the plane ? thx again

November 13th, 2021 at 6:02 pm ( # )

There’s an airport in Deer Lake, which is close to Gros Morne. There are no direct flights to Ottawa but you can connect through Toronto, Halifax, or Montreal.

December 20th, 2021 at 2:28 pm ( # )

thx melissa. How far is deer lake airport from Gros morne ? Seems that there is so much to do in Nfld with so little time ! I spent 2 weeks with my wife in the Maritmes, ie.. PEI, NB, Nova Scotia. I enjoyed the Caleids dancing and singing. Like shows like shakespeare or orchestras (we go the National Art Centre to see the Nutcracker or Handel’s Messiah. Anyways, Thx. for the info. john vital

December 22nd, 2021 at 10:40 am ( # )

It’s about 70km from Deer Lake to Rocky Harbour in Gros Morne National Park. Newfoundland and Labrador is a surprisingly big province when you’re driving around, but worth the time.

October 28th, 2022 at 2:22 pm ( # )

Great site. An abundance of information. We are trying to decide when to travel. When did you go and are the photos you have posted here from the time you were travelling?

December 18th, 2022 at 5:12 pm ( # )

What time of year is best, Late May or early September? We cannot travel during the summer months.

December 20th, 2022 at 10:03 am ( # )

If icebergs are high on your list I’d go in May, otherwise September. You’ll miss out on whales and puffins with either timeframe but the weather in September is almost always better than the spring. For instance, fall hiking in Newfoundland is the best.

March 6th, 2024 at 5:28 am ( # )

Thanks for the great tips! It made our planing for our Transcanada road trip so much easier!

Greetings from Switzerland!

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Hi, I'm Melissa! I'm a web designer and digital marketer by trade, a newbie gardener, a shoe lover and a travel junkie. The travel bug hit me hard in 2012 and, ever since, I've been attempting to make the most of it while still working 9-5.

I want to inspire you to get out there and see the world, push your own limits and look good while doing it.

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I'm a web designer by trade, a one-time amateur bellydancer, a shoe lover and a travel junkie. The travel bug has only hit me hard in recent years but I'm attempting to make the most of it while still working 9-5.

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How To Plan 4 Days While Based In St. John’s – A Newfoundland Itinerary

Last Updated September 5, 2020 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Itineraries » How To Plan 4 Days While Based In St. John’s – A Newfoundland Itinerary

Newfoundland & Labrador is one of the most astonishing places in Canada. One second, you’ll think you’ve arrived in Ireland with the colorful houses and narrow streets, the next second, you’ll think you’re in Iceland with the incredible rugged landscapes, drifting icebergs, and breathtaking coastlines.

Since the island is so vast, deciding what to do and see can be overwhelming. Do you want to road trip to Gros Morne National Park? Explore the historic city of St. John’s? Watch whales and puffins on a boat tour? Luckily, with four days in St. John’s as your base, you can experience a little bit of everything!

After exploring Canada’s most easterly city, we knew we needed to share our experiences so that others could enjoy them, too. So here is our ultimate four-day St. John’s Newfoundland itinerary!

Table of contents

Highlights of 4 days in st. john’s, day 1 – welcome to newfoundland, day 2 – wandering st. john’s, day 3 – day trip to bonavista, day 4 – the irish loop, introduction to the province of newfoundland & labrador, newfoundland & labrador geography, newfoundland & labrador history, getting there, getting around newfoundland & labrador., where to stay in st. john’s, best time to go, what to pack for st. john’s, our takeaways from st. john’s, frequently asked questions, read more about canada, travel resources for your next trip.

• Visit stunning coastal vistas, with tiny houses nestled into the cliffside.
• Discover charming towns with old world hospitality and quirky customs.
• Learn what to pack, where to stay and the best place to stay in St. John’s.
• If you have just a few days to spend in St. John’s and want to find the best parts this is the itinerary for you!

TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELING TO NEWFOUNDLAND

• Where to stay – My choice of stay in St. John’s is JAG Boutique Hotel , it is located well, clean and convenient. We use Booking.com for all of our stays. Alternatively, you can always see if hotel corporate codes might work for you.
• Car rentals – This is part road trip so you absolutely need to rent a car! Save the most money through car rental coupon codes and always start your search with Discover Cars and RentalCars so you know what the best deals are.
• Flights – International flights are never cheap, but with the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature you can find the best deals. Check how much it would be for you to get to America!
• Insurance – Not always required but always recommended! Make sure you’re covered with the best travel insurance .
• Hottest deals – Never be without our frequently updated travel deals page .

4 Day St. John’s Newfoundland Itinerary

If you’ve seen photos of Newfoundland , then you know exactly why you need to put this exceptional destination on your bucket list. The rugged coastlines, little puffins , and some of the most charming fishing towns will beckon you to explore more. And if there’s one city that truly embodies the essence of Newfoundland, it’s St. John’s.

Basing yourself in St. John’s is one of the best ways to visit the province when you are short on time.  Full of funny little rituals to welcome you, the community is friendly, and you’ll get to experience true East Coast Canadian hospitality. In this 4 day guide, you’ll get to experience the warmth of the people while also getting out and exploring. From the Irish Loop and Cape Spear to the colorful houses of Jelly Bean Row , you’re going to thrive on this St. John’s Newfoundland itinerary.

Welcome to St. John’s! Today is all about exploration and getting your bearings. St. John’s is a charming city full of colorful row houses, delicious seafood, and friendly locals, and is the perfect welcome to Newfoundland.

Start your morning bright and early with the first sunrise in North America at Cape Spear Lighthouse . This iconic landmark is just a short 25-minute drive from downtown St. John’s and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is also the most easterly point in Canada.

After taking in the beautiful sunrise, head back to town for breakfast at one of the local cafes or bakeries. Newfoundland is known for its delicious seafood , so be sure to try some cod cakes or fish and chips.

Getting out of town will give you the freshest breath of air (or the fishiest, ha!) and some incredible views of St. John’s from the water. So hit the road on the Irish Loop, a scenic drive that will take you along the rugged coastline and through quaint fishing villages.

Make your way to Bay Bulls to join the O’brien’s Whale and Bird Tour , where you can see the majestic humpback whales and playful puffins. It’s legit one of the coolest things we’ve done! From the icebergs floating in the Atlantic to the playful whales, this tour is a must-do in Newfoundland.

After seeing all the whales and birds you can see, we recommend grabbing lunch at Sailor’s Gallery Restaurant . It’s right next to O’Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours so you won’t have to go far for a good bite.

Hit the road again after your wildlife adventure and stop at Petty Harbour, the most photogenic little fishing community where you can chat with locals and some of the freshest fish around. Then, continue onto Quidi Vidi , a charming village with one of the best breweries (Quidi Vidi Brewery) on the island.

Finish the day back in St. John’s at one of the local hangouts such as O’Reilly’s Pub. We’re sure you’ll quickly be initiated into Newfoundland by being screeched in . It’s a fun and silly tradition that involves drinking some Newfoundland Screech , kissing a cod (yes, really) , and reciting the local oath. It may sound strange, but it’s all part of the charm and spirit of Newfoundland.

For the full details of the day, we have it broken down for you into a whole other detailed post, so head over to the 1 day itinerary from St. John’s .

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Our recommended tour :

• O’Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours
• Distance: 35 minutes from St. John’s.
• Duration: 2 hour tour.
• Cost: $89 Per Person.
• The best time to go to ensure you see whales is in August or early September.
• The boat has a fully enclosed, heated cabin with panoramic views, along with a canteen, bar, and restrooms.
• Both the upper and lower decks offer ample rail space, ensuring picture-perfect views for all passengers.

Things to bring on your road trip :

• Layers! The weather can change quickly, especially on the coast, and the wind can be quite strong. Make sure to bring a warm jacket , hat , and gloves .
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the villages and Signal Hill.
• A camera with plenty of storage for all those amazing photos you’ll be taking.
• A phone charger for the car. Trust us, after 2 hours on the water your phone will be full of iceberg photos but also dead.

Day 1 Summary

• St. John’s to Bay Bulls – 35 minutes.
• Bay Bulls to Petty Harbour – 25 minutes.
• Petty Harbour to Quidi Vidi Harbour – 25 minutes.
• Quidi Vidi Harbour to Signal Hill – 6 minutes.

What you’ll see:

• Petty Harbour
• Quidi Vidi Harbour

What you’ll do:

Where you’ll eat:

• Sailor’s Gallery Restaurant
• O’Reilly’s Pub

Where to stay in St. John’s :

This is where you will stay for the entire four days, so pick a place to get cozy after your days exploring St. John’s.

• Blue on Water : A cozy spot right in the heart of St. John’s, giving you easy walking access to the best pubs and restaurants.
• JAG Boutique Hotel :  A chic hotel with modern rooms and great amenities, right in the center of St. John’s.
• The Elizabeth Manor Guesthouse : Just a bit outside the city center, this guesthouse offers a warm and cozy welcome to St. John’s.

After the full first day, you may want to take things a bit slower on your second day in St. John’s. Spend the morning exploring the colorful streets of the city, taking in the vibrant culture and friendly locals. You will also want to stay flexible as the weather can be pretty unpredictable here , so be prepared to adjust your St. John’s Newfoundland itinerary accordingly.

Start your morning with a yummy cup of coffee from Coffee Matters , the apple Danish is a must-try, it’s so warm and flaky. After you’ve had your fill, head up to Signal Hill , one of the most iconic stops in St. John’s. Here, you can take in the stunning views of the city and even visit Cabot Tower for a small entrance fee.

From the top, you can also get a view of Jelly Bean Row, but we will also be heading there later on in the day for a closer look. After spending some time at Signal Hill, head back down and walk along Water Street, the oldest street in North America . Here, you will find lots of quaint shops and boutiques selling local goods such as traditional Newfoundland jams and crafts.

Find a comfy spot inside Yellowbelly Brewery and relax a minute. Grab some delicious lunch and a couple of brews here before moving onward.

Stop in at Newfoundland Chocolate Company for some melt-in-your-mouth treats, including their famous Row House Bars (these also make great souvenirs). Once you’ve had your sugar fix, take a stroll along the harbor front and check out the many colorful fishing boats and docks. You may even see some local fisherman bringing in their catch of the day.

Walk off your lunch at Jelly Bean Row , a row of colorful houses that will make the perfect backdrop for your Instagram photos. They are very touristy, but when you see them in person, you’ll understand why. You’ll see cute little gardens and unique architecture that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.

Afterward, hop in the car and head to Pouch Cove which is near the most northern tip of the peninsula that St. John’s is on.  This scenic drive will take you through quaint fishing villages that are perfect for snapping some photos and enjoying the untouched beauty of Newfoundland.

Finish the day with a delicious pizza pie dinner at Piatto Pizzeria . They pizza is wood-fired and they have a delightful Nutella pizza option for dessert we highly advise you try.

A great way to see all the stops in St. John’s is on a walking tour where you can also learn about the history of the area.

Our recommended tour:

Downtown Walking Tour of St. John’s

• Starting point: 4 George St, St. John’s, NL A1C 1B8, Canada.
• Duration: 2 1/2 hours.
• Cost: $40 per person.

Tips for Signal Hill :

• Address:  230 Signal Hill Rd, St. John’s, NL A1A 1B3, Canada.
• Time spent at Signal Hill: 1-3 hours.
• Drive or walk to Signal Hill.
• 5 kilometers of trails to hike around the hill.
• North Head Trail is the most popular.
• Cabot Tower at the top for a scenic view of the city and harbor.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket, it gets very windy at the top.

Day 2 Summary

• Signal Hill
• Jelly Bean Row
• Downtown St. John’s
• Coffee Matters : Delicious coffee and a heavenly apple Danish.
• Yellowbelly Brewery : A fantastic wheat ale.
• Piatto Pizzeria : Wood Fire Pizza and an amazing Nutella pizza.
• Newfoundland Chocolate Company : The best sweet treats around. Don’t forget to grab extras to take home!

Bonavista is a must-visit destination when in Newfoundland. It’s a small town located on the North Eastern coast of the island and is known for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and historical sites .

However, this is a big day trip for most people and will take 3 1/2 hours each way. So be prepared for a long day, but trust us, it’s worth it. (If you have more time we recommend staying a night in Bonavista to fully experience the charm of this town).

The drive is absolutely stunning, with fishing villages dotting the coastline and rolling hills of green. The further north you go, the more like Ireland it quickly starts to look, and it’s pretty epic just how rugged it can get.

When you reach Bonavista peninsula, head to the Cape Bonavista lighthouse first, as this is where you’ll get some of the best views of the town and coastline. On a clear day, you can see for miles and spot whales or icebergs in the distance.

After taking in the views, make your way down to Dungeon Provincial Park . It looks a little like the cliffs of Moher in Ireland and is a must-visit spot for photographers. We were snapping pics left and right. The natural rock formations are truly something else, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world .

Next, visit the Ryan Premises National Historic Site to learn about the history of fishing in Newfoundland. You can explore the buildings and exhibits that showcase what life was like for early settlers and fishermen.

For lunch, stop by one of the local restaurants or cafes in town and try some traditional Newfoundland dishes like fish and chips or cod tongues. If it’s a cooler day, we highly recommend trying out the chowder at Skippers ; it’s heavenly.

Down the road from Bonavista, Elliston has a famous Puffin Viewing Site where you can observe these adorable seabirds in their natural habitat. It’s a great opportunity for birdwatching and getting some amazing photos. However, it’s not guaranteed you’ll see them, but it’s still a nice little adventure to have.

On your way back to St. John’s, make a stop at the town of Trinity . This picturesque village is filled with colorful houses, quaint shops, and beautiful gardens. Take a stroll around the town and visit historic sites such as the Trinity Museum and the Ryan Shop.

We recommend grabbing dinner at the Twine Loft in Trinity, which offers delicious seafood dishes and stunning views of the harbor. The cozy dining area is the perfect spot to relax and reflect on your day of exploring.

After your visit to Trinity, treat yourself to some dessert! Hit up Sweet Rock Ice Cream where all the ice-cream is homemade and absolutely divine.

It’s a 3 1/2 hour drive one way from St. John’s to Bonavista, so plan accordingly and make sure your car is filled with gas before hitting the road.

Cape Bonavista Light House :

• Address: 505 Cape Shore Rd, Bonavista, NL A0C 1B0, Canada.
• Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM.

Dungeon Provincial Park UNESCO Geosite :

• Address: ROUTE 238, Bonavista, NL A0C 1B0, Canada.

Ryan Premises National Historic Site :

• Address: 10 Ryans Hill Rd, Bonavista, NL A0C 1B0, Canada.
• Open: June 1 to October 11, 2024.
• Hours: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• Cost: $4.50.

Puffin Viewing Site :

• Address: Maberly Rd, Elliston, NL A0C 1W0, Canada.
• Puffin viewing season: Early May to mid-September.

Tips for your day trip to Bonavista:

• Bring snacks and water for the drive.
• Wear comfortable shoes , as you’ll be doing a lot of walking throughout the day.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, such as moose and caribou. Just remember to keep a safe distance and not approach them.
• Don’t forget your camera!
• Some sights may be closed during the winter months, so be sure to check the opening times before planning your trip.
• Plan for extra time in Bonavista, as there are many charming shops and cafes worth exploring.
• Bring a jacket or windbreaker , as the weather can be unpredictable and windy along the coast.

Day 3 Summary

7 hours of roundtrip driving.

• Cape Bonavista Lighthouse
• Dungeon Provincial Park – The Dungeon
• Iceberg spotting
• Puffin viewing site in Elliston
• Skippers : Best chowder for a cold day.
• Sweet Rock Ice Cream : Small Batch homemade ice cream. (The cookie smash is chef’s kiss !)
• Twine Loft : Cozy restaurant with yummy local eats.

Today is all about exploring the little villages that you might have missed on your journeys around Newfoundland. The Irish Loop is a scenic drive that takes you through beautiful coastal towns and provides a glimpse into the history and culture of Newfoundland.

On day 1 of the St. John’s Newfoundland itinerary, you would have done 1/4 of the Irish Loop but we’re going to finish it off today. The Irish Loop is a popular route that takes you around the main part of the Avalon region where half of it follows the coastline and the other half goes inland and near the Avalon Wilderness Reserve . 

One really important thing to know about the route is that you kind of need to know where to stop, as it’s not always obvious. Picture this—a stunning view of a hidden cove, but if you don’t know it’s there, you might miss it completely by sticking to the main loop. Unfortunately, there aren’t tourist signs pointing out these gems, so it’s best to know about them beforehand or be ready to explore a bit. Trust us, these little detours are usually worth it.

The best way to find these little hidden areas is by chatting with locals who will be more than happy to share their favorite spots with you.

You’ll see some familiar places, like Petty Harbour, but this is great news for those who are craving one last crispy fish and chips before you leave.  Head to Chafe’s Landing in Petty Harbour. This restaurant featured in Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown is seriously out of this world. The fish is succulent with a golden crisp batter, and the portion sizes are seriously generous. Plus, with a view of the harbor right from your table, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.

But don’t fill up too much on fish and chips because there’s plenty more to see and do on the Irish Loop. Continuing to drive south on the loop, you’ll make a stop in Ferryland , which houses the town’s famous lighthouse.  There are quite a number of scenic points here, so go a little off-road, and you’ll find the perfect perch to watch the waves crash against the rocky shore. (Make sure to look for some whales; you never know when they might make an appearance!)

If you wish to continue on the The Irish Loop , here are some of the most popular stops.

Explore the rich history and natural wonders of Cape Race , where the Titanic’s distress signal was received. Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve , a UNESCO site teeming with rare fossils. Trespassey, the launch point of Amelia Earhart’s historic flight. And don’t miss St. Vincent’s , a prime spot for unforgettable whale-watching adventures!

The Irish Loop :

• Start in St. John’s and head south on the Trans-Canada Highway.
• Best time to visit: June – September.
• The Irish Loop is not only for those who are looking for stunning landscapes and outdoor activities but also for history buffs and foodies. Along with its breathtaking views, this scenic drive offers a glimpse into the past with its historic sites and traditional fish and chip shops.

Stops along the way :

• Witless Bay Ecological Reserve
• Cappahayden
• Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve
• St. Vincent’s

Depending on how much time you have, the Irish Loop can be completed in a day or spread out over several days.

• Bring layers of clothing as the weather can change quickly on the coast.
• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many scenic stops along the way.
• Don’t be afraid to get off the highway and explore some of the smaller towns and villages along the route.
• Make sure to have cash on hand, as some of the smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit or debit cards.

Additional activities:

• Hiking trails are available at all levels, including the famous East Coast Trail , which runs alongside parts of the Irish Loop.
• Whale-watching tours from multiple locations along the coast.
• Sea kayaking and boat tours to explore the rugged coastline.

Day 4 Summary

• Chafe’s Landing : The best fish and chips of our trip.
• Squid Jagger : A nice stop in Ferryland and highly recommended by the locals.

Our St. John’s Newfoundland Guide

Now that you have your 4 day St. John’s itinerary, we also wanted to make sure you’ve got the information you needed about Newfoundland & Labrador.

In this section, you’ll learn about the basics of the province, ways to get here, rental car details, accommodation recommendations, best times to come, and more.

Newfoundland and Labrador is the easternmost province of Canada and is made up of two main regions—Newfoundland Island and Labrador. St. John’s, the capital city, is located on the island portion.

The region is known for its rugged coastlines, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture heavily influenced by its Irish and Scottish heritage. Seriously, the polite Canadian accent quickly gives way to a thick Irish lilt as you head further east. It’s quite the culture shock.

St. John’s is also the oldest city in North America , and some parts of the city still seem to be stuck in time with its colorful row houses and narrow streets. You will constantly find yourself forgetting you’re in Canada and not the UK or Ireland.

• Electricity – 120 volts, 60Hz.
• Currency – Canadian Dollars (CAD).
• $1 CAD = $0.73 USD.
• ATMs can be found all over and credit cards are accepted in most places.
• SIM – The two affordable options are to get an eSIM (we recommend KnowRoaming or Airalo ) or get a wifi hotspot option such as SkyRoam (read my full review ).
• Unit of Measure – Meter.
• Tipping – Average expectation is 15%.
• Language – The official languages are English and French (spoken predominantly in Québec). Note that Saint-Pierre and Miquelon speak French but is an island belonging to France.

We think the biggest thing we underestimated when planning our trip to Newfoundland was just the sheer size of the province.  If you’re coming to Newfoundland for 4 or even 5 days, there’s simply no way you can see everything .  There’s too much distance to cover and not enough time.

This should help put things into perspective.  Above is a map of the primary regions of Newfoundland and Labrador.  St. John’s is in the bottom right corner and belongs to the Avalon region.  The world-famous Gros Morne National Park is near Deer Lake and is in between the Western and Northern regions.  The drive from St. John’s to Gros Morne is 6.5 hours so basically a full day just to get there.

Where planning a St. John’s Newfoundland itinerary gets complicated is when you start looking at all the spots you can stop along the way, and when you add it all up, you’ll realize that you’d never make it all the way to Deer Lake.

We believe to really appreciate the province, it helps to understand the history and culture of Newfoundland & Labrador. It continues to play a huge role in the architecture, the language, and the attitudes of the locals.

Newfoundland is one of the oldest settled regions in North America, with evidence of indigenous peoples dating back over 9,000 years. We can’t even imagine 100 years ago let alone 9,000. Like most places, the arrival of European explorers and fishermen in the late 15th century marked the beginning of a tumultuous history for Newfoundland & Labrador. Following colonization attempts by England and France, the land was held under British rule for many years until finally becoming a province of Canada in 1949.

This is why you’ll see so many influences from both English and French cultures throughout the province. The most popular English Colony is St. John’s, which is now known as one of the oldest cities in North America. The colorful houses and narrow streets are reminiscent of its early days as a major fishing port. But the culture isn’t as much British as it is Irish, since most early settlers were Irish Catholics, who brought their traditions and language with them. (Which is much more fun!)

In the 18th century, young Irish men would often head over to work for English merchants and planters, especially in the fishing industry. This big migration hit its peak in the 1770s and 1780s, with over 100 ships and about 5,000 men leaving Irish ports. Many made the trip back and forth annually between Ireland and Newfoundland. By 1836, a detailed census showed that the Irish and their descendants made up half of Newfoundland’s population, with most living in St. John’s and nearby areas, known as the Irish Shore.

So when you hear an accent or see a traditional Irish music session in a pub, don’t be surprised. Newfoundlanders are proud of their Irish heritage and continue to celebrate it through different cultural events and festivals , such as the annual Seamus Creagh Festival .

The primary international airport for Newfoundland is the St. John’s International Airport (YYT), and it is serviced daily by Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines.

Direct flights to St. John’s come from Halifax, Toronto, London, and Dublin.

While St. John’s is the main international hub for Newfoundland and Labrador, there are airlines flying from Toronto and Halifax to Deer Lake and Gander on a daily basis.

You can also get to Newfoundland and Labrador by Ferry, take the Marine Atlantic ferries from North Sydney or Nova Scotia to the island of Newfoundland. The ferries are for both foot passengers and vehicles and arrive at either Port aux Basques or Argentia.

It should be no surprise that a rental car is absolutely mandatory when coming to Newfoundland.  You’re coming out here to road trip and so when you land in St. John’s, make sure you grab a car at any one of the major companies.  When you do, just make sure you save money by using one of the many coupon codes that I’ve consolidated . We usually start our search with Discover Cars and RentalCars to find the best deals and they’ve not let me down so far!

If you’re like us, the easiest place to start your adventures in the province is in St. John’s and when limited on time, you’ll undoubtedly be looking for a place to stay in the city.  Personally, we stayed at the JAG Boutique Hotel and it is somewhere we’d highly recommend to anyone looking for a new, quality, clean, and convenient hotel in the city.

Make sure to watch our video walkthrough of the property to get a feel for this rock-inspired property.

Newfoundland gets pretty cold in the winter and the winters are long.  As a result, the window for good weather ends up being small but when you’re able to go, you’ll be kicking yourself for not going earlier.

July – September

This is the best time to go because the temperatures rise up to the mid-20s (Celsius/70F) and this is also the time when wildlife and iceberg sightings are the most active.   This means you’ll have a really good chance of seeing puffins, whales, and these small fish called capelins that roll onto the beaches.  Summer is also when all the locals come out and there are a ton of great festivals to go to.

May – June and October – November

These are considered to be the shoulder seasons for Newfoundland, and there are still great opportunities to explore the province, but the weather gets a little iffy before the snow hits.  What’s great about coming this time of the year is that it’ll be low seasons. Therefore there won’t be crowds anywhere, hotels will be cheaper, and you won’t have to worry as much about booking things in advance.  On the other hand, many of the summer attractions that are away from St. John’s may or may not be closed for the season.

What to pack for a trip to St. John’s largely depends on what time of year you decide to go. Since we recommend going during the summer months, this is what we’d pack for that time of year:

• Layers – while temperature in the summer here are pretty mild, there are still some areas or activities you’ll experience chilly weather and wind. A good jacket or windbreaker is highly recommended. A beanie and a pair of gloves are good to have on hand as well.
• Shoes – You’ll be walking A LOT. Even hiking. Comfortable shoes are an absolute must.
• Electronic Devices – There are stunning sights at every turn, you won’t want to forget your camera! And considering you’ll be in a car through much of this trip, you’ll want a good car charger for all your devices batteries.
• Snacks – While there are so many great restaurants to stop at through this trip, we recommend keeping water and snacks on you or in the car, especially when driving/touring the coast.

After four days in Newfoundland, you will quickly realize you need about four weeks to see all the nooks and crannies of this rugged island. St. John’s is just the tip of the iceberg (Ha, see what I did there?) when it comes to things to see and do in Newfoundland.

The Irish Loop will give you some more insight into the people and culture of this province, with its small towns and friendly locals. Make sure to take your time, explore off the beaten path, and soak in all the stunning views along the way. And we’re sure if you’re anything like us, you’ll be planning your next trip back to Newfoundland before you even leave.

You need at least 4 days to see the highlights of St. John’s and the Irish Loop, but to explore the island fully, you’ll need at least a few weeks.

Absolutely! Newfoundland offers stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and friendly locals. It’s a must-visit destination for any traveler.

The best time to visit Newfoundland is during the summer months, from June to September. A lot of the tourist attractions and activities are only open during this time, and the weather is nice and sunny.

The best time to go whale watching in Newfoundland is from mid-June to late August. This is when you’ll have the best chance of spotting humpback whales and other marine life.

You can see all the highlights of St. John’s in one day. Our one-day St. John’s Newfoundland itinerary is packed full but will give you a great overview of the city.

The best time to see puffins in Elliston is from early May through most of September. This is the time of the puffins mating season, so you will definitely be able to see lots and lots in that timeframe!

• Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite review
• One day in Toronto itinerary
• 1 day St. John’s itinerary in Newfoundland
• A perfect weekend in Tobermory
• Canada travel guide

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature . Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300 ) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.

eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The one we find using the most is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order. The newest eSIM we’ve tried is KnowRoaming that sneakily has great rates on unlimited plans. We’ve partnered with them to give you a custom code GAP10 to save you 10%.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

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About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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How to Spend 4 Days in St. John’s, Newfoundland

By: Author Jessica Lam

Posted on Published: January 2, 2019  - Last updated: September 19, 2023

Categories Newfoundland & Labrador

Adam and I spent 4 days in Newfoundland back in the fall, and we were in absolute awe by how incredible the Newfoundland landscape was during our road trip.

Today I’m sharing my Newfoundland road trip itinerary, including the best things to do and top places to eat in St. John’s during the fall!

Although we wanted to visit Gros Morne National Park , one of Newfoundland’s most popular tourist attractions, it’s closed during the fall season.

We didn’t get to do much hiking, but we did get to do a lot of exploring.

We also made sure to get a feel of city life, staying in and wandering around St. John’s.

Also, I have to say that the food scene in Newfoundland is pretty darn great – especially the seafood!

Until I saw Come from Away on stage in Toronto several months ago, Newfoundland was never on my radar for places to travel to.

While planning the trip , I didn’t really find much on Instagram about Newfoundland, so I hope this inspires y’all to make the trip out there!

Here’s how to spend 4 days in Newfoundland!

Be sure to also follow me on Instagram and TikTok – I share a lot more content on those platforms that don’t make it to the blog!

Tips for your 4 day Newfoundland road trip itinerary

Get a car rental.

It’s pretty difficult to get around Newfoundland without a car.

We didn’t see any buses while we were there, and while there probably are some, it’s just easier to have your own car rental.

I usually book my car rentals on Expedia to collect points – you reserve ahead of time, and you pay once you get to the counter!

Find accommodations with really good reviews

We stayed in both an Airbnb and a hotel, neither of which had bad reviews.

We were greeted with many creepy critters and long hairs at our Airbnb, and strange stains on the blanket cover at our hotel.

You probably don’t want to stay in either of those places, and I have a separate blog post all about how to find the best Airbnbs .

Day 1: Kicking off 4 days in Newfoundland

As soon as we arrived in Newfoundland, we headed off to Cape Spear.

It’s the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland (dating back to the 1800s), as well as the most eastern point in North America.

I can’t even imagine how incredible watching the sunrise here would be!

You can spot icebergs, seabirds, and whales from here, hike on the trail, or explore the creepy WWII ruins.

The lighthouse has actually been restored to its original state, so you can see how a lighthouse keeper and his family would’ve lived back in the day.

LOCATION: Cape Spear, NL

Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove

If there’s one thing you absolutely must add to your Newfoundland road trip itinerary, it’s Petty Harbour, a cute little fishing town that dates back as far as the 1600s.

We came here twice during our trip and had this gorgeous viewpoint all to ourselves both times.

Chafe’s Landing , one of the  best  seafood restaurants you’ll ever visit, is located here and we ate there both times.

We tried a Newfoundland specialty, cod tongues, and it was a little slimy but delicious.

If you get the chance to visit, definitely add Chafe’s to your 4 day Newfoundland road trip itinerary!

LOCATION: Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove, NL

Day 2: Cape Race & Ferryland

We stumbled across Tors Cove as we were driving, and we just had to make the stop.

The view was gorgeous, and photos don’t even do it any justice.

Tors Cove is a tiny village with a population of around 1,000 people.

You can find Tors Cove along the Irish Loop drive, known as one of the most scenic drives in Canada.

LOCATION: Tors Cove, NL

Fun fact: Cape Race is known for being the first place to hear the distress call from the Titanic .

We’d just come back from Ireland , and the harsh waves, grassy cliffs, and rustic cabins of Cape Race totally made us feel like we were still there.

The Cape Race Lighthouse contains one of the most powerful lights in the world, and it’s actually still being used today.

LOCATION: Cape Race, NL

We planned on stopping at  Bernard Kavanagh’s Irish Loop Restaurant for lunch, but it was closed for the fall/winter season.

We ending up going next door to the Squid Jigger.

The food was still great, and we learned that Newfoundlanders call potato wedges “taters” – I was expecting tater tots lol.

Ferryland Lighthouse

The historic town of Ferryland was founded in the 1600s, and it was so incredible walking up the hills and wandering around this old lighthouse.

We had to walk quite a bit from the parking lot to the lighthouse, but it was so worth it.

As we were leaving, another couple was debating on whether the walk was worth it.

We probably should’ve told them it was, because they ended up driving off without getting out of their car.

LOCATION: Ferryland, NL

Day 3: St John’s & Cavendish

Downtown st. john’s.

We spent the morning having some breakfast at Fixed Coffee (update: they’ve shut down) and exploring St. John’s.

I absolutely love how colourful and charming the neighbourhoods in St. John’s are.

We unsuccessfully tried to find Jellybean Row, and it turns out it’s not a specific place, it’s just a name for the cute and colourful homes in Newfoundland.

We did manage to find The Battery neighbourhood, but it was too windy for us to get out of the car!

LOCATION: St. John’s, NL

We drove an hour out of St. John’s just to take a peek at these cute little cabins.

And snap some colourful photos, of course.

A man driving by told us one of these cabins was a children’s library, and it had toys and books inside.

I think the other cabins just had storage inside.

LOCATION: Cavendish, NL

Day 4: Quidi Vidi & Signal Hill

We started off the last day of our 4 days in Newfoundland with a brewery tour at the Quidi Vidi Brewery .

The major thing that caught my eye was the Iceberg Beer made with 20,000 year old iceberg water, and it did not disappoint.

This lovely little craft beer spot is super low key and very passionate about being local

One of the beers we tasted was made with rhubarb from people’s backyard gardens!

After the tour, we did a hike up the Quidi Vidi Lake Trail, and it was a little frightening in the wind.

I’d definitely recommend doing it on a more calm day, but we got some pretty cool, moody views.

Quidi Vidi is less than 10 minutes from downtown St. John’s, and it’s definitely worth making a day trip out of and adding to your Newfoundland road trip itinerary!

We intended on visiting Mallard Cottage in Quidi Vidi for lunch, but it was fully booked.

We went back to downtown St. John’s and picked one of the top places to eat on Yelp, Bernard Stanley Gastropub .

The burgers and fries were absolutely delicious – definitely recommend visiting this spot if you’re looking for places to eat in St. John’s.

Signal Hill Historic Site

Our last stop on our Newfoundland road trip itinerary was Signal Hill, one of St. Johns’ most popular tourist attractions.

Unfortunately we literally couldn’t see anything because it was so rainy and foggy.

We got out of the car and ran back inside after a few minutes because the wind was giving my legs a mind of their own.

This is definitely a spot I’d love to come back to next time I’m in St. John’s!

LOCATION: 230 Signal Hill Rd, St. John’s, NL

There were quite a few stops we made on our scenic drives around St. John’s during our 4 days in Newfoundland.

Here are a few of my favourite photos, all of which Adam took lol.

From the adorable and colourful houses, to the stunning landscapes, to the unique slang words, Newfoundland is a very charming place that has caught my heart.

We spent a lot of time in St. John’s, and I’d definitely love to come back in the summer when it isn’t rainy and freezing cold.

I don’t regret coming during the fall at all – the changing leaves made for gorgeous landscapes.

Perhaps just a little less wind would’ve been nice.

Have you been to Newfoundland before? What are the best things to do in St. John’s? What did you have on your Newfoundland road trip itinerary? Let me know on Twitter or Instagram !

If you’re planning a trip to Newfoundland , you might enjoy these posts as well:

• Best things to do in St. John’s
• Instagram-worthy spots in Newfoundland

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A Four-Day Foodie Road Trip Through Rugged Newfoundland, Canada

Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada’s easternmost province, was its own dominion—an autonomous British colony—until 1949, and in many ways the region still feels very much separate from its parent country. Over a thousand years ago, the Vikings littered the shoreline with their trademark stone cairns; today, small “outport” towns dot the glacially hewn coast—an undulation of fjords and peninsulas that reaches toward Europe like fervent fingers. This four-day circuit from St. John’s, the capital, up through the Bonavista peninsula offers roadtrippers a glimpse at the eastern seaboard’s last great tract of wilderness. Follow the circuit to meet the area’s locals, and fisherfolk and farmers who are deeply connected to the land and sea.

The trip: Four days, 505 miles

What to drive.

Pick up and drop off your rental vehicle at St. John’s International Airport. Any car will do as the roads are sealed and well-maintained throughout the province.

Newfoundland is best experienced during the warmer months of the year, between May and October. Watch the icebergs sail down the coastline during May and June; whales breach in the fjords throughout July and August.

A small house along the Irish Loop.

The anything-but-basic pastry box at Mallard Cottage in The Gut—St. John’s aptly named seaside burb—is the best thing to happen to modern brunching since it became socially acceptable to drink champagne before noon. After an oversized portion of eggs or french toast, fill a takeaway carton full of baked goods from the buffet table. Consider it fuel to keep you focused while navigating the so-called Irish Loop, a 185-mile long circuit of small Catholic communities lining the Avalon Peninsula.

Work off your breakfast exploring the hidden rivulets on one of The Outfitters’ half-day kayaking outings departing from Bay Bulls, or hiking to the end of the world to reach the lighthouse in nearby Ferryland. A heaping portion of fresh fish and chips at Chafe’s Landing in Petty Harbour is a must, no matter how many brownies and danishes you had earlier.

A look at what you'll forage with Cod Sounds.

Leaving the capital region, the diamond moose-crossing signs begin to multiply—a bright yellow reminder that you’ve entered a vast realm of balsam fir, which blankets the province all the way to its rocky shoreline. Without another vehicle in sight it’s tempting to drive faster, but keep your foot at the ready near the break should a scruffy mega-beast emerge from the brush.

The tree line winnows on the far side of Avalon, about 90 miles from St. John’s, where you’ll meet Lori McCarthy. For years, McCarthy has been the secret weapon of many restaurants in St. John’s, providing its upmarket eateries with sustainably foraged produce found throughout Newfoundland’s meadows and coves. She’s since turned her daily gathering into the tourist-facing enterprise Cod Sounds ; guests lend a helping hand—scouring for everything from chanterelles to sea urchin. Follow her pickup truck into the unfortunately named village of Dildo—thought to be a portmanteau of the French d’ile (island) and d’eau (water), which seems fitting as you wade through the boulder-strewn tide pools filling foraging baskets with cockles. Rent a wooden dory from Dildo Cove Outdoor Adventures and row further down the coast to light a bonfire and boil your bivalves for a beachside snack.

Back on the highway, it’s another two hours to the village of Trinity, famed as the backdrop of The Shipping News , based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning book by Annie Proulx. A collection of prim, shanty-style cottages along the water are a part of the Artisan Inn , which also tends to Twine Loft, once a captain’s fishing shed, now a cozy, wood-planked dining room lit by candles.

The Cape Bonavista Lighthouse.

To circle the Bonavista peninsula is to trace the continent’s easternmost edge, where puffin colonies gather, and granite towers tumble into the abyss. The Cape Bonavista Lighthouse guards the perilous seaward entrance into the eponymous township—now a haven for country-mice hipsters. The goal is to reach the Bonavista Social Club by 4:30 p.m. for a very long—and very early—dinner on the restaurant’s porch overlooking the water. The owners, Katie and Shane Hayes, pull from their on-site garden to serve peppery salads and wood-fired pizzas on hand-carved dishware as scores of humpbacks gracefully puff their way across the inlet.

After the sunset, complete the loop back towards Trinity and pause for a pint of “T-Rex”—a craft porter named for a local school administrator (not the dinosaur)—at Port Rexton Brewing Company , run by wives Alicia MacDonald and Sonja Mills.

Give yourself plenty of time to wander the Skerwink Trail.

Before tackling the two-and-a-half-hour drive back to St. John’s, hit the legendary Skerwink Trail often heralded as Canada’s best short hike. If you walk without stopping, the route—which follows a cliff’s ledge as it winds through sea stacks and sloping thickets of tuckemore—takes around an hour. Give yourself about three hours, though, to ogle the hidden beaches below and another dozen whales spitting plumes of seawater in the bay.

Back in The Gut, enjoy a pre-dinner lager at Quidi Vidi Brewing Company , made using glacial water from an iceberg, then toast a successful road trip with a glass of somm-selected Nova Scotia wine at Raymond’s , a critical darling often considered one of Canada’s finest tables. You may recognize the sprig of bright green garnish accompanying a main course of whitefish drizzled in a pork reduction—you probably gathered it a few days earlier during the foraging foray with Cod Sounds.

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Newfoundland Roadtrip Itinerary

Newfoundland – known for its rugged natural beauty, charismatic fishing towns and fun, friendly people, it’s a destination on many travelers’ bucket lists. However, given its isolated nature, many would-be travelers are discouraged as they perceive it to be a difficult place to visit, especially given a short time frame. But through our travels here we’ve found this to be a misconception, as multiple travel options and proximity of attractions make travel here surprisingly convenient. For adventure seekers with a time constraint, here is our Ultimate One Week Newfoundland Itinerary.

**Note: Since we chose the ferry system in favor of flying, our journey goes from Port-aux-Basques to Argentia; however, the same itinerary could be followed by flying into Deer Lake, renting a car, and flying out of St John’s.

Our journey began in Halifax, where Friday after work we loaded up the Rav4 and boogeyed on up to Cape Breton where we were scheduled to board the ferry in North Sydney. Marine Atlantic runs a well-orchestrated, comfortable overnight ferry that leaves Friday night at 11:45pm and arrives in Port aux Basques, NL at around 6:45 the next morning. There’s an option to get a double room for around $120 but given the fact that it was such a short ride we opted for the reserved reclining seats at $20 a piece. They were all we needed as we both passed out before the boat left and slept fairly soundly until the captain’s arrival announcement.

Newfoundland Roadtrip Itinerary: Day One

We arrived in Newfoundland early, sprung our clocks forward half an hour and hustled over to Tim’s with a cohort of other coffee-craving ferry passengers. Post-caffeination, we took the Trans Canada two and a half hours up to our first destination,  Gros Morne National Park . Feeling a little dreary from our overnight voyage, we opted to take it easy this day, spending most of our time driving to lookout points along the park roads and checking out the quaint town of Rocky Harbour. We found a great campsite right on the water at Green Point campground, where we made dinner and watched one of the most incredible sunsets right on the beach.

Newfoundland Roadtrip Itinerary: Day Two

We woke up with the sun and journeyed up the road half an hour to the gem of Gros Morne, Western Brook Pond. Our whole day was spent exploring this iconic fjord-turned-pond. In the morning we embarked on the  Snug Harbor Hike , which – unannounced to us at the time – involves traversing a strongly flowing river. But it turns out that conquering the river is well worth it as on the other side is a beautiful beach, completely secluded from anyone unwilling to risk the crossing.

When planning the trip, we had been hoping to do a day hike up to view the extent of the fjord and the classic sight you see on postcards everywhere. Unfortunately, were dismayed to find that the only option here was a guided tour with a hefty price $250 per person, or a 4 day backcountry tour, which our quick itinerary did not have time for. Instead, in the afternoon we opted to do the Bontours boat tour of Western Brook Pond. With stunning views, entertaining hosts, and fun musical guests on the way back, it’s a must-do while in Gros Morne.

Newfoundland Roadtrip Itinerary: Day Three  

After spending the night at a great campsite in Lomond Campground, we spent day 3 exploring the southern part of the park. There are all kinds of worthy hikes around the Tablelands – a unique, Mars-like geological formation resulting from magma reaching the earth’s surface many millennia ago. We went for the  Lookout Trail  hike which gave a mix of everything – Bonne Bay, Tablelands, and even a moose! Late that afternoon we left Gros Morne en route to Twillingate.

Newfoundland Roadtrip Itinerary: Day Four  

To avoid any late-night moose encounters on the road we crashed in Lewisporte for the night and thus didn’t arrive in Twillingate until Tuesday morning. However, surrounded by impressive cliffs, full of fishing culture, and with no shortage of exciting hikes and boating excursions, we quickly realized that Twillingate is THE can’t-miss destination of any Newfoundland road trip. We spent the day hiking and flying the drone up and down the coastline, then capped it off with a delightful winery tour at Auk Island Winery. After leaving the winery, we found some fun little cliff hikes that were honestly a 5 minute walk from the car, to gorgeous ocean views. We ended up setting up camp for the night in a little picnic area along the cliffs, just about 5 minutes outside of town.

Newfoundland Roadtrip Itinerary: Day Five  

One of the highlights of the trip was whale watching in Twillingate. We went with Iceberg Tours but it seems like all the companies work together and so you really can’t go wrong. From the boat we had great views of the expansive cliffs, saw nesting bald eagles, and puffins. After we’d been coasting for a while and hadn’t spotted any whales, we were starting to give up hope. Finally, our guide spotted something on the horizon and we ended up finding two pairs of humpbacks and finbacks along the coast who we followed around for a while. It. Was. Awesome.

Whale watching – and Iceberg watching if possible – is a must-have on any Newfoundland itinerary. Make sure it’s on yours!

That afternoon we drove 3.5 hours to Bay Roberts where we picnicked and explored the  Shoreline Heritage Trail . Next stop, St. John’s!

Newfoundland Roadtrip Itinerary: Day Six

We arrived in St. John’s the next morning and spent the first part of the day puttering around the town checking out the waterfront and all of the fun shops along Water Street. We had some fantastic coffee and baked goods at the Rocket Bakery – one of many great cafes in St. John’s – before making the trip out to the easternmost point of North America,  Cape Spear . This very impressive, picturesque spot is best enjoyed in the morning or late afternoon as you’ll avoid the midday crowds and the lighting is better for photographing the cliffs. We spent a couple of hours here before heading back to St. John’s and finding a quaint hotel room at the  Duckworth Inn  boutique hotel.

For dinner, we went to a great little gastropub called Bernard Stanley. With low-key, cozy decor and a fabulous menu, we would highly recommend this place. Specifically, we’d recommend the Shellfish Rockpool – assorted seafood and vegetables in a white wine cream sauce poured over smashed potatoes and a puff pastry on top…mmmm take me back!

Newfoundland isn’t known for its cuisine, so this place is a must-have on your itinerary!

CLICK HERE to check out the best hotel in St. John’s > >

Newfoundland Roadtrip Itinerary: Day Seven  

It was a rainy morning in St. John’s so we did a little bit of cafe hopping. We started back at our new go-to spot, the Rocket Cafe, before meandering over to the Battery Cafe, a quieter spot near Signal Hill with just as formidable fare. Once the storm cleared we went over to Quidi Vidi and hiked around the dainty little harbor built into the cliffs.

When hiking here in August you can look forward to a bounty of delicious wild blueberries along the way, yum! And no trip to Quidi Vidi is complete without a post-hike Iceberg Beer at the Quidi Vidi Brewery. Later that afternoon we went up to learn about the history and enjoy the epic views of Signal Hill. There’s really no better spot from which to view St John’s Harbour. Finally, we followed it up with dinner at Ches’s Famous Fish n Chips before starting our journey down to  Cape St. Mary’s.

Newfoundland Roadtrip Itinerary: Day Eight  

A word of caution that the trip down to Cape St. Mary’s is not the most enjoyable as it requires navigating a minefield of manhole sized potholes, but it is definitely worth the journey! There is not much in the way of gas, food, or accommodations between St John’s and the Cape so be sure to come prepared. At the Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve, the main attraction is a 2-mile round-trip hike to Bird Rock – an eroded cliff island that is home to tens of thousands of seabirds. The most accessible seabird colony in North America, the hike ends at the edge of a cliff where you are within 50 feet of Bird Rock with thousands of magnificent birds flying overhead. At first we were very concerned about getting “bombed”, but we hung out there for a couple of hours and only got hit once by some minor shrapnel.

From here we started our journey home. We drove up the picturesque, rugged coastline to Argentia, where we boarded the 16 hour overnight ferry back to Nova Scotia. We’d highly recommend getting a cabin for this journey back, as it’s key to have a comfortable escape to relax and catch some zzz’s. Bon Voyage!!

Tips for visiting Newfoundland:

• Bring cash – many of the campgrounds are not manned and require payment into a cash box
• Avoid driving at dusk and at night as moose become a serious danger at this time
• Watch for potholes! Some of the smaller highways are notoriously bad for potholes which can slow you down
• Come stocked with a good cooler and prepared to cook! Stock up on groceries in the cities as food options in some of the smaller towns can be scarce.

categories:  Road Trips ,  Travel ,  Canada

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An Epic Newfoundland Road Trip

Posted by Kyla Hunter | Feb 27, 2023 | Canada , Travel | 1 |

If you’re looking for the ideal road trip Newfoundland is a great place to consider. Newfoundland is wild, windswept and perched on the edge of the Atlantic. It’s part of Canada but a world unto itself. The best way to see this vast and beautiful province is on a Newfoundland roadtrip. The scenery is spectacular, and best experienced with the luxury of being on your own schedule.  

Newfoundland was the last province to join Canada, in 1949. It still seems like a separate country in many ways. They have their own distinct accent and expressions, with entire books dedicated to translating and loads of distinctly “Newfy” traditions. You’ll likely be called “buy” constantly, and you’ll be straining to figure out what’s being said to you half the time. Newfoundlanders are so incredibly friendly, you’ll feel like you’re talking to an old friend, even if you can’t always understand them. 

Newfoundland is not a small province, and distances between sites can be far. It is possible to see a portion of this province in a week. But if you really want to dig deep in Newfoundland, I’d recommend taking at least a 2 week road trip to Newfoundland. 

This 2-week Newfoundland road trip itinerary covers National Parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and National Historic Sites. There are plenty of recommendations for extending your trip beyond 2 weeks, as well as places you could forego if you have less time.

Table of Contents

Getting to newfoundland.

• Newfoundland Road Trip Tips
• Itinerary Overview

Gros Morne National Park & UNESCO World Heritage Site: 2 days

Great northern peninsula: 2 days, twillingate: 2 days, bonavista: 2 days, terra nova national park: 1 day, st. john’s: 3-4 days.

• Argentina: 1 day

Newfoundland is an island, hence limiting the options to get there! The only ways to get to Newfoundland are by ferry or airplane. 

Nova Scotia to Newfoundland Ferry

The ferry from Nova Scotia leaves from the North Sydney ferry terminal to either Port-aux-Basque or Argentia. The ferry can be busy, so reservations are highly recommended. This is especially true in the summer, and if you have an over-size vehicle. You can make reservations here .

North Sydney, NS to Port-aux-Basque, NL – this 7-hour ferry runs year-round. We ended up taking this ferry both directions because we were too early in the season to catch the Argentia ferry. I opted for the daytime boat because 7hrs didn’t seem long enough for anyone to sleep and I was sure we’d end up with tired, cranky kids (and parents) if we took the overnight boat!

North Sydney, NS to Argentia, NL – this ferry takes 16hrs and only runs during the summer months. The cabins are booked up well in advance, so if you’d like a cabin make reservations as soon as you know you’re itinerary! There are a number of relatively comfortable reclining seats available both with and without a reservation. This is a reasonable alternative if you haven’t been able to secure a cabin, or don’t want to spend the money!

Check the marine Atlantic website for ferry schedules from Nova Scotia to Newfoundland.

Labrador to Newfoundland Ferry

The ferry from Labrador leaves from Blanc Sablon, Quebec and travels to St. Barbe, NL. The sailing takes about 1hr45min and is frequently cancelled during bad weather and high winds. The schedule varies widely during the week and depending on the season. You can make a reservation in advance, and in the busy summer months, this is highly recommended. If the weather is dreadful, I’d recommend calling in advance to ensure the ferry is running (1-866-535-2567). 

*expert tip: All scheduled times are Newfoundland time. The ferry leaves from Quebec, which is 1.5hrs behind Newfoundland, which can make things a little confusing.

Flying to Newfoundland

The main airports in Newfoundland are St. John’s, Gander and Deer Lake. For this itinerary, you’ll want to fly into Deer Lake and out of St. John’s (or vice versa, depending on which direction you’re going). The cost of rental cars has increased drastically since COVID, so it may be worth checking the price of a one-way rental in each direction and choosing your itinerary based on this. 

Newfoundland Roadtrip Tips

If you’re headed on a road trip to Newfoundland, there are a few things you should know and plan for. 

• Potholes – Newfoundland is a small province with a lot of highways to maintain. So, it doesn’t always get all the love it requires. Couple this with harsh weather and fluctuating temperatures, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for potholes. Luckily, there’s usually room to swerve around them, but you’ll want to be on the alert for these as they can seriously damage a vehicle if you’re not careful.
• Weather – The weather is unpredictable and can change rapidly. You’ll want to prepare for all seasons all year long.
• Wildlife – There’s an abundance of wildlife on the island, including Cariboo and Moose. These are more common on the Western side of the Island, but you’ll want to remain alert while driving, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Distances – We were constantly surprised by just how far apart things were and how long it took us to get from one point to another. Give yourself ample time, and don’t underestimate just how spread out things are here.
• Wreckhouse wind – I had no idea what this was, but it’s worth taking note of. A wreckhouse wind is any wind strong enough to ”wreck a house” (XXX km/h). It’s highly recommended that you do NOT drive during one of these winds. There will be signs on the highway warning you about this, although the one time we actually saw the sign it was so calm the grass wasn’t even rustling. I think it was an old sign, so make sure to also check the weather and use some common sense!

Know Before You Go To Newfoundland

• Money & ATMs – Almost every business accepts card payment, but it’s always a good idea to carry a little bit of cash with you. The internet does periodically quit, especially with the unpredictable weather, so it’s good to have some cash. You can find ATMs in all the larger cities, and I recommend you get cash out wherever you rent your car (or bring cash with you if you’re coming from somewhere else in Canada).
• Cell service – Much of the province is quite remote, so don’t expect cell service everywhere. Access is limited to populated areas, with large tracts of road completely void of cell service.
• Drinking Water – The tap water in Newfoundland is safe to drink. I always recommend bringing a reusable water bottle with you that you can refill to avoid using plastic. You can bring a water bottle with a filter to use in rivers and streams if you’re going to be wild camping.
• Schedules – I made the mistake of assuming the larger tourist attractions and Parks Canada sites would be open all year long. This is NOT the case. Many things didn’t open until early June, meaning we had to re-jig plans due to our late May arrival. Figure out what you want to see, and check the opening season before you book your trip!

West to East Newfoundland Road trip Itinerary

The reason this itinerary runs from West to East is that this is the direction of our trip! It really doesn’t matter where you start, you’ll have an incredible adventure either way. You’ll need to take into account where you are going to enter and exit Newfoundland and which direction the car rental is the cheapest (if you’re renting a car).

A quick road trip itinerary overview:

Gros Morne is an incredibly beautiful park, unlike anything else in Newfoundland. A person could easily spend multiple days here exploring the trails or doing the multi-day hike from the end of Western Brook Pond to the summit of Gros Morne mountain. Luckily, you can easily get a taste of what the park has to offer in 2 days.

Things To Do In Southern Gros Morne

Discovery Centre

The Discovery Centre in Bonne Bay is a great place to begin your visit to Gros Morne. Here you can learn about the geological and cultural history of the park. We spent almost an hour here, but we may have lingered due to the rain outside! I’d budget at least 30-45min to see all the displays. You can also pick up a coffee from the small coffee shop on site. 

*kid tip – pick up a Parks Canada Xplorer booklet and ask for a plastic pipette to examine the contents of the Pitcher Plants found around the park. 

If you really love hiking, the Lookout Hills Trail starts from here. But I’d recommend heading straight to the Tablelands Trail instead.

• Click here to check the hours and info for the Gros Morne Discovery Centre. 

Tablelands Trail 

The red rock that makes up the Tablelands looks like it belongs on Mars, and it feels like you’re walking on another planet. But it’s not another planet, the red rock comes from deep within our own planet. This is one of the only places on earth where you can actually walk on the earth’s mantle. But, if you don’t visit the Discovery Centre first, you won’t know this! 

• Location: The trailhead starts 4 km west of Discovery Centre in Woody Point on route 431
• Distance: 4km return
• Rating: Easy

Birchy Head Red Chairs

This isn’t a very time-consuming stop, but the view is lovely from the red chairs at this roadside pull-out. Plus, if you’ve visited a number of Canadian Parks, you’ll know the red chairs are a bit of a “thing”. We try to get a picture with them whenever we can!

• Location: 12km south of Rocky Harbour

Bonnie Bay Marine Station and Aquarium

Unfortunately, we were too early in the year to visit the Marine Station, but I have heard it’s excellent. It’s run by Memorial University and is home to many of the Bonne Bay marine animals and plants. You can join an interpretive tour and get up close and personal with some of the creatures in the touch tank.

• Click here to find the most up to date info on the website.

Lobster Cove Lighthouse

The Lobster Cove Lighthouse is a small detour from the main road but well worth the few extra minutes drive. The house is well preserved and offers a glimpse into what life was like for the light keeper when these lighthouses were manned. The actual lighthouse itself is still working but is run by the Coast Guard, so unfortunately, you can’t go up the tower (much to our dismay). However, the trails around the seashore surrounding the lighthouse are great for exploring on a sunny day. 

• Location: Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse, Main St N, Rocky Harbour, NL 
• Cost & Hours are on the Parks Canada Website .

Things To Do In Northern Gros Morne

Green Point

During the summer months, you can join a guided walk at Green Point. These share the history of the area as well as information on the local flora and fauna (including the Tuckamore forest). If your timing doesn’t allow for it, I’d recommend the 6km hike along the Coastal Trail starting at the Campground.

• Location: 49.682346, -57.956263
• Check the website for the most up-to-date information.

Western Book Pond Tour

In my opinion, this is one of the things that absolutely MUST be done in Gros Morne. Western Brook Pond was once a proper fjord that was cut off from the ocean and is now a freshwater lake below steep, waterfall-strewn mountains. The only way to properly see this fjord is via a 2 hr boat tour. 

Tours run only in the summer and shoulder seasons, with the tour frequency changing throughout the season. It’s a 2.7km hike from the parking lot to the boat dock. The trail is quite easy, with plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. If you’re not in the most amazing shape, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get to the boat dock. Once at the boat dock, there are toilets and a small café where you can grab a drink and relax.

You need to book your tour directly through the tour operator, Bon Tours [https://www.bontours.ca/]. It may be possible to show up and find room on a boat, however, this is an incredibly popular tour and booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.

*expert tip – the best views are from the top deck, but it can get quite windy. If you want a seat on the top deck be sure to line up to board the boat first as it’s always the first place to fill up. The front of the boat also has great views, but there aren’t any seats, and it’s not uncommon to get wet up there! It’s better to pick a comfy seat and just make your way up to the front a few times throughout the boat ride for a photo op. 

*kid tip – The trail is gravel, so a stroller with larger wheels will be easiest to push.

• Location: 49.787362, -57.874530
• Check the Bon Tours website for prices, tour times, and to book.

Cow Head is a sleepy little town most of the year but comes to life for the summer months. The biggest draw here is the long sandy beach and protected bay, making it the perfect place to go for a dip in the sea (or just dip your toes…it’s not very warm even if the beach is sandy!).

The other thing to do in Cow Head is go to the theatre (unexpected, I know!). Cow Head is home to Theatre Newfoundland Labrador, which offers a variety of great performances as well as dinner theatre throughout the summer. Check the schedule or buy tickets at Theatre Newfoundland .

Know Before You Go To Gros Morne

Where to stay.

• Green Point Campground. If you can go without services, sites 14, 16, 17 & 19 all have Adirondack chairs with ocean views. Our site (17) had a little path down to the beach as well. Book on the Parks Canada website . The cost is $27.25 per night in the summer and $16.05/night in the winter. It’s open year-round, but self-registration only between Oct 10 and May 20.
• Bonne Bay Hotel – The Rooms At Woody Point .
• Norris Point B&B – Out East B&B .

Where to Eat

There are admittedly VERY FEW great food options along the Gros Morne Coast. A few that we enjoyed were:

• Merchant Warehouse Retro Café & Wine Bar in Bonne Bay (16 Water St, Bonne Bay, NL)
• Sunrise Bakery & Café in Parson’s Point (Main St, Parsons Pt, NL). This is a good option for breakfast or lunch if you’re headed North. Actually, it’s the only option in this part of the world!!
• There are a few other (better) options in Rocky Harbour and Norris Point. 

The Great Northern Peninsula doesn’t seem to make it on everyone’s itinerary. This is understandable since it’s so far out of the way from everything! In our opinion, it’s worth the extra driving for experiences only found on this little bit of land sticking out into the Atlantic.

Things To Do Along The Great Northern Peninsula

Port au Choix NHS

Port au Choix was added to our itinerary because of our quest to visit Canada’s National Parks, National Historic Sites and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s a wee bit off the main highway, but barely counted as being out of the way. We learned about the Indigenous people who lived on this site 6000 years ago! It’s pretty incredible. The interpretive centre is well laid out and informative, and there are a lot of great walks that can be done around the peninsula. There’s even a herd of resident Cariboo that you can spot if you’re lucky (which, unfortunately, we weren’t).

• Location: Point Riche Road, Port au Choix, NL A0K 4C0
• Check the website for opening hours and cost (included in your Parks Canada Discovery Pass)

L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site & UNESCO World Heritage Site

I really had no idea what to expect when we visited L’Anse aux Meadows. I just thought it was an old Viking settlement and didn’t realize the significance of this site. 

When the Norsemen landed in North America at this site 1000 years ago, it completed the circle of human navigation around the globe. Indigenous Ancestor’s arrived from the West over 5000 years ago, and the Norsemen’s arrival completed the loop when they arrived from the East. This is pretty big if you stop and think about it. 

It’s easy to spend the better part of a day here. The reconstructed longhouse has a few actors that tell the history of the men and women who wintered here many centuries ago. There are also a number of hiking paths and a small interpretive center. 

• Find the opening hours and cost on the Parks Canada Website . It is included in your Discovery Pass if you have one.

If you want more Viking history after visiting L’Anse aux Meadows, you can head up the road to Norstead. This is a reconstructed Viking village that I’ve heard incredible things about. Unfortunately, it wasn’t yet open when we were in the area (it didn’t open until June 6).

• Location: 263 L’Anse Meadows, Saint Lunaire-Griquet, NL 
• Check the Norstead website for opening dates and costs.

Dark Tickle (Berry Picking, etc)

This locally owned business is centred around Newfoundland berries. They offer a number of different excursions and activities depending on the time of year. We weren’t in Newfoundland for berry season, but we visited their onsite café, Café Nymph, and learned all about the different berries that are summertime foraging favourites.

• Location: 75 Main Street, Saint Lunaire-Griquet, NL
• Click here for their website .

St. Anthony

This is the main city up at the top of the Great Northern Peninsula, and chances are you’ll find your way here. It has the highest concentration of restaurants and accommodation options. There are a few things to do in St. Anthony, mostly centred around Dr. Grenfell (who you’ll find to be quite prolific in this area, we even found a tribute to him in Labrador!).

You can visit the Grenfell House Museum and the Grenfell Historical Society (where we went for tea & toutons). It’s also a great place to spot icebergs; head out to Fox Point Lighhouse, or walk Lamage Point Trail.

Know Before You Go To the Great Northern Peninsula

• Grenfell Heritage Hotel and Suites (definitely your best bet if you can get a room)
• Snorri Cabins (lots of options, nice if you’re looking for a bit more space).

Where to Eat 

• Daily Catch

Optional Side Trip – Labrador

Few visitors to Newfoundland make it up the Great Northern Peninsula, and even fewer cross the Strait of Belle Isle to Labrador. The biggest reason to do this is to explore the whaling history of the region at Red Bay Basque Whaling Station in Red Bay. It is both a Canadian National Historic Site as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Things To Do In Southern Labrador

Red Bay Basque Whaling Station

A visit to Red Bay Basque Whaling Station was the catalyst behind our visit to Labrador. It’s about an hours drive along the coast from the ferry terminal at Blanc Sablon, QC. The site is small but fascinating, another piece of history that seems to be completely missed in our history books (or at least I don’t remember it!). Our girls claim it was the best Xplorer site we visited. 

The guides all have a strong connection to the site. They talk fondly of the days when the town was a flurry of activity as archaeological digs & dives were piecing together the info we can now read about. In the summer they run a number of interpretive programs that could easily keep a person occupied for the entire day. 

• Find the most up-to-date info on the Canada Parks Website.

Battle Harbour

If you have the time, and the money, consider a trip to Battle Harbour. It was not in our budget, but it’s been added to my future ”dream list”!

Know Before You Go To Southern Labrador

Where to stay .

• The Florian Hotel (Forteau)
• Northern Light Inn (L’Anse au Clair)
• Camping – It’s possible to wild camp in Labrador, just be respectful of the locals (don’t pitch up on private property) and beware of the crazy wind! We had a hard time finding a spot sheltered from the wind. We spent one night camping, but the second night we gave up and stayed in a hotel.

Where To Eat

• Robin’s Donuts (L’Anse au Clair)
• Greco Pizza Xpress (L’Anse au Clair)
• Whaler’s Restaurant & Cabins (Red Bay)

Due to unforeseen circumstances (mainly me incorrectly booking a boat tour for the wrong week), we never made it to Twillingate. I’m a bit sad about it, but it also gives us a reason to return to Newfoundland. Plus, I’d really love to visit Fogo Island, and Twillingate is easily visited on the way. The following info is based on my research and plan, rather than what we actually did. Head to this post by Wandering Wagers for personalized info on visiting Twillingate.

Things I Wanted To Do In Twillingate

• Long Point Lighthouse
• Auk Island Winery
• Beothuk Interpretation Centre

Optional Side Trip: Fogo Island

Along with not making it to Twillingate, we also didn’t make it to Fogo Island. In a sense we opted for the Great Northern Peninsula this trip, rather than Twillingate and Fogo Island. I’m not all that sorry, it gives us a great excuse to go back one day!

Things You Should Do On Fogo Island

• Fogo Island Marine Interpretation Centre
• Fogo Island Inn
• Check out this post by Lora for more ideas!

*Expert Tip – On your way from Twillingate to Bonavista, you’ll drive through Gander. If you’ve seen the Broadway Musical “Come From Away”, you’ll want to stop in for a Tim Hortons coffee and drive by the airport.

Bonavista lies at the end of a beautiful peninsula. It’s full of quaint little fishing villages, a gorgeous coastline and lots of cute puffins! Bonavista is the largest city on the peninsula, but I’d highly recommend basing yourself in Trinity or Port Rexton.

Things to do in Bonavista

Ryan Premises NHS

This Canadian National Historic Site was once a major canning center for the cod fisheries. It’s spread out over several buildings and has a few interactive exhibits that were especially fun for the kids. Their favourite was filleting and salting the stuffed cod! 

To the girl’s dismay, they don’t have an Xplorer program, and they were disappointed they couldn’t earn another National Park tag. However, they still had a great time, and we learned a lot. 

• Find the most up-to-date information on Ryan Premises National Historic Site .

Cape Bonavista Lighthouse

The drive out to the red and white striped lighthouse takes you to the very end of the peninsula with unimpeded views north to the Labrador Sea. There are a handful of walking trails and some great views over to a puffin colony. We went specifically looking for puffins and, of course, didn’t find any! But we had a lovely walk along the cliff, well protected behind the fence.

• Visiting the Cape is free, but the lighthouse museum does have an entry fee. You can find the latest info on their website .

Puffin Viewing Site

This was one of our favourite stops on the entire Newfoundland road trip! The small peninsula between Ellison and Maberly has a puffin colony that is close enough to almost guarantee a sighting. You sit at the edge of a cliff, looking across a small gap to a rocky island full of puffins. 

Based on the name, I should’ve known this would be the best place to see Puffins! Coming from the North, the parking lot is on the right, just past the entrance. It’s a short walk from here to the cliff edge overlooking the puffin colony. It’s a very easy walk from the parking lot out to the viewing site, and you’ll go past a few of the traditional cellars this area is known for. There’s even one right beside the car park that’s perfect for a photo op! 

During our visit, we watched the puffins pop in and out of their nests (burrows?) in the ground just along the small straight. However, when my friend Dawn and her family visited, the puffins flew right across to say hi! Earlier in the season, when they’re nesting, they tend not to travel far from their nests. So if you’re able, plan your visit for a bit later in the summer. 

*kid tip – You have to cross the road to get to the puffins, and it can get quite busy. Please be sure to keep your kiddos close. 

It’s a very easy walk from the parking lot out to the viewing site, and you’ll go past a few of the traditional cellars this area is known for. There’s even one right beside the car park that’s perfect for a photo op!

Skerwink Trail (Trinity)

Unfortunately, this is something on my list that we missed. Partly because the weather wasn’t very good, and partly because we just didn’t have the time! 

This well-marked trail is a moderately challenging 6km hike that takes about 2 hours. It looks to have stunning coastal views, but I guess we’ll have to wait until next time to see them. Don’t make my mistake, make time for Skerwink Trail! 

Twine Loft Dining

While we were planning our roadtrip to Newfoundland, I didn’t expect much from the food. I figured it would be mostly fish and chips and clam chowder! (And it was a lot of those things…) However, we were able to find a few absolutely fantastic restaurants on our travels, Twine Loft Dining in Trinity being one of these.

There are 2 sittings a night with a set menu that varies based on the catch and the season. They also have a gorgeous deck right on the water to sit and enjoy an aperitif before dinner. Kids are welcome at the early sitting, and it’s always busy you need to book ahead. The day before we received an email confirming our main course choices (we had 2 options), otherwise we got what we were served. And it was incredible!

• Reserve a table, view a sample menu and check the hours (it’s not open all year).

My plan was to have dinner at Twine Loft prior to the theatre, but unfortunately, this wasn’t in the cards for us.

Rising Tide Theatre

The variety of productions occurring each season at Rising Tide Theatre is astonishing. I would assume for a small theatre, they would run one performance for the whole summer. However, they had multiple different shows. 

As with everything in Newfoundland in the summer, make sure to look at the schedule before planning your trip (if it matters which performance you see) and book in advance. 

We were booked to see a magic show, the most appropriate show available for the kids. However, on the day of the show, they were having issues with the lighting and ended up having to cancel it. They offered us seats for a later date, but we were going to be long gone by then. This was just bad luck for us!

Expert tip: Book the early seating at Twine Loft Dining prior to walking over to catch the evening performance.

Sea of Whales Adventure

I think it’s impossible to visit Newfoundland without getting out on the water, and a boat trip with Sea of Whales Adventure is the best way to do this! We visited early in the season and had the most spectacular 3-hour tour with Kris.

Of course, I managed to screw up our booking. Honestly, for some reason, I was off my game this trip! I’m blaming it on the fact that we were in Canada, and it felt like I didn’t need to do as much planning because we were at home (although a VERY long way from home!). 

I booked online, and we showed up at the office in Trinity at what I thought was our time of booking. Except, nobody was there. I was a bit confused, as was the person I spoke to on the phone! She came rushing back to investigate and figured out that I was booked for the following weekend…whoops!! Luckily, there was space the next day for us, so all was not lost.

Rather than leaving from Trinity, we drove across the peninsula and left from Princeton. We were suited up in waterproof thermal suits and put on mitts and a toque. It wasn’t warm, but it also wasn’t cold (thanks to all the layers). 

We saw a baby eagle, an iceberg and a minke whale and met a lobster fisherman. However, the highlight for all of us was the puffins. Because we were on a 3-hour tour, we had time to head a bit further out. We went to a large island off the coast that’s home to a huge puffin colony. There were hundreds of birds on the water and in the air above us. It was spectacular! I’d highly recommend the 3-hour tour for this reason alone.

Typical tours run for 2 hours, which is definitely enough to feel like you’ve had a great time on the water. However, if you have time to spare, I’d highly recommend the 3-hour tour.

• Find Sea of Whales online to book your boat trip .

Know Before You Go To Bonavista

• Trinity Suites
• Kelly’s Landing (Trinity)
• Russelltown Inn (Bonavista)
• Lancaster Inn B&B (Bonavista)
• Twine Loft Dining (Trinity)
• The Quintal Cafe (Bonavista)
• Mifflin’s Tea Room (Bonavista)

You could honestly spend a day or a week in Terra Nova National Park. We opted for a quick visit to the Visitor Center and a coastal hike, but there’s so much more you could do here!

The Visitor Center is the best place to start your visit, with a touch tank and many interpretive displays about the plants and animals in the park. During the summer, they offer guided walks as well as evening concerts and campfire singalongs.

• You can find the schedule online to plan your visit. 

St. John’s is an incredibly cool city with so much charm. It’s worth a whole post in itself, so I’d recommend heading over HERE if you’re looking for more detail. However, I’ll give a general overview of all the things I think are worth making time for in the capital city. 

Things To Do:

• Cape Spear Lighthouse NHS
• Signal Hill NHS
• The Queen’s Battery Barracks
• Johnson’s Geo Centre
• Terry Fox Mile 0
• Wander & Shop along Water St.
• Visit Quidi Vidi

Where to Eat: 

• The Postmaster’s Bakery
• The Battery Café
• Rocket Bakery Water St
• Ches’s Famous Fish & Chips

Optional Side Trip: Brigus (1/2 day)

I had to include this for completeness, although I’m not actually certain it’s worth the detour! We dubbed Hawthorne Cottage NHS as the worst National Historic Site in Canada. Now to be fair, we haven’t visited all the National Historic Sites, but I think we’ve seen enough to hand out this “award”. 

We had half a day to fit in either Hawthorne Cottage in Brigus or Castle Hill National Historic Site in Argentia. I was a bit perturbed that the Argentia ferry wasn’t running yet (meaning we had to drive all the way back across the province to catch the ferry from Port-aux-Basque. Again, I didn’t do my research (at all) and made the decision to visit Brigus because it looked like a cute town, and we could squeeze in one more National Historic Site. 

Hawthorne Cottage is a heritage home that was gifted to the Canadian government. It has been well preserved and does provide some insight into the life of Canadian Explorer Captain Bob Bartlett. However, it wasn’t worth the detour, especially since it didn’t have an Xplorer book (again, I should’ve done my research!).

In my opinion, the only reason to visit Hawthorne Cottage is if you really want to check off all the Canadian National Parks and National Historic Sites. You can find further information on the Park’s Canada Website.

Argentia 1 day

If you do a better job than me when planning your Newfoundland Roadtrip (which you will now because you’ve read this!), you’ll either fly out of St. John’s or catch the ferry from Argentia. 

If you do catch the ferry from Argentia, it’s worth visiting Castle Hill National Historic Site . Unfortunately, I don’t have any personal experience here (see our above poor decision to visit Hawthorne Cottage instead). 

There’s So Much More!

There’s so much more to do on a Newfoundland road trip, this is really just scratching the surface. As always, some of the best bits of a road trip are the unexpected gems you find along the way.

A few more optional side trips to consider are: Saint Pierre et Michelon (France) and the Mi’Kmaq Discovery Centre.

(This post may contain affiliate links, for which we earn a small commission at no additional expense to you. You can read our affiliate policy here .)

About The Author

Kyla Hunter

I am a wife, mother and professional schemer! I love planning travel...and of course, actually traveling with my family. My favourite experiences tend to happen off the beaten path, and I'd love to show you that it's possible to travel everywhere with your kids!

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Newfoundland Discovery | Atlantic Canada Road Trip

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INTRODUCTION

This popular Newfoundland road trip takes you through Canada’s easternmost province.

Visit two unesco world heritage sites, uncover fascinating viking history and learn about the atlantic way of life from the locals themselves., as you go, you'll encounter abundant wildlife and scenic national parks, plus enjoy a boat trip in bay bulls to search for whales and the atlantic puffin. , visit the colorful clapboard houses of trinity, marvel at ancient icebergs (may-june) and spend time exploring gros morne national park. .

Itinerary at a Glance

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 St. John’s | Arrival Arrive in St. John’s and pick up your rental vehicle. You may have a late arrival so the rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 2 St. John’s Sightseeing A morning of sightseeing in St. John’s. Discover ‘the Rooms, museum art gallery & archives. Drive up Signal Hill for spectacular views and take a trip out to Cape Spear National Historic Site, the most easterly point in North America. Visit one of the provinces most photographed places, Quidi Vidi Village just 3 km from St. John’s. You may want to stop at Quidi Vidi Brewery for a pint. (breakfast included)

Day 3 Avalon Peninsula - Whale Watching, Puffins | 66 km/42 mi Spend the day exploring the stunning coastline and the little villages of the Avalon Peninsula. Start your day driving to Bay Bulls for a boat excursion to see whales and the Atlantic Puffin - if you are lucky you may even spot an iceberg (May/June only). From Bay Bulls follow the Irish Loop to Ferryland, the home of the original Colony of Avalon founded by George Calvert, later Lord Baltimore, in 1621. The site of the Ferryland settlement is now being excavated, and archaeologists have uncovered over a million artifacts from the stone constructed buildings including gold rings, Portuguese ceramics, and other unusual objects. (breakfast included)

Day 4 St. John’s to Trinity | 269 km/167 mi Today embark on your journey to the Bonavista Peninsula, known for its scenic and rugged coastlines. The peninsula also contains some of the oldest settlements in Newfoundland, particularly the towns of Bonavista and Trinity. Before settling in to your accommodation for the night, you may want to drive 20 minutes south of Trinity to New Bonaventure and visit the Random Passage Site. Constructed in 2000 for the filming of the international TV mini-series “Random Passage”, the site today provides the opportunity to step back in time and experience what life might have been like in a fishing outpost in the early 1800s. (breakfast included)

Day 5 Trinity Explore the enchanting village of Trinity with its restored white and pastel coloured clapboard houses. Set along a dramatic coastline you will discover a sense of Newfoundland’s history and nature. Join the Trinity Pageant, a walking theatre that meanders through the village enticing viewers to live the history of the area. If you’re feeling active, hike the short but steep 20-minute trail up Gun Hill behind the village for spectacular 360 degree views of the village and surrounding areas. (breakfast included)

Day 6 Bonavista Peninsula Now that you have a sense of the area, venture to Port Rexton today and hike the Skerwink Trail. This very walkable trail will take you along the rugged coastline for a spectacular view of the surrounding villages set against the ocean. In the afternoon, head north to the town of Bonavista, where you can visit the Ryan Premises National Historic Site, a 19th century replica fish processing factory. In this small village you will also find the red and white striped Bonavista Lighthouse, and the Matthew Legacy, a replica of John Cabot’s ship which voyaged across the Atlantic to discover land in 1497. (breakfast included)

Day 7 Trinity to Twillingate | 309 km/192 mi Enroute to Twillingate, pass through Terra Nova National Park. If you feel the need to commune with nature, a stop will introduce you to coniferous forests, ponds, and a plethora of walking trails. Continue towards Twillingate. In Boyd’s Cove make another stop at the Beothuk Interpretive Centre and visit an ancient Beothuk village discovered by archaeologists in the 1980s. Arrive in Twillingate then grab your camera and head out on the ocean with the afternoon Iceberg Watch boat tour, where you will have an opportunity to see icebergs, whales, sunsets and many other spectacular views that the beautiful island of Twillingate has to offer. (breakfast included)

Day 8 Twillingate to Norris Point | 428 km/266 mi Bound for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gros Morne National Park, words do not give the vistas justice. The park is populated by little villages, bare topped mountains, and forests inhabited by moose and caribou. (breakfast included)

Day 9 Western Brook Pond Cruise The morning is free to explore the area with your rental car. Enjoy a boat tour of the freshwater fjord of Western Brook Pond. The landlocked fjord is a rare sight. Carved by glaciers, and home to plenty of waterfalls and wildlife, it’s worth the trip alone. The rest of the day is free to explore the sites of the Gros Morne National Park.

Day 10 Gros Morne National Park Enjoy a day exploring all of Gros Morne National Park on your own viewing glacial valleys, intriguing rock formations, magnificent sea arches and numerous types of wildlife. Don’t miss the internationally known Tablelands, a rare outcrop of the Earth’s mantle pushed skyward half a billion years ago.

Day 11 Norris Point to St. Anthony | 356km/221mi Heading toward St. Anthony, make a stop in Port Au Choix and Port Au Choix National Historic Site where three ancient cemeteries of the Maritime Archaic People were discovered. The Visitor Centre gives great background to this culture with exhibits and artifacts. Continue to St. Anthony, the ‘Iceberg Capital of the World’. Along the rugged ocean coastline you can witness the majestic wonder of whales and icebergs (note that the peak iceberg season is typically May/June and early July)

Day 12 St. Anthony - L’Anse aux Meadows Visit the L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site comprising the remains of the earliest European settlement in the Americas. The colony of Vinland was excavated in the 1960s and the artifacts are on display supported by a film. Walk to the original village and discover the full scale replicas of Norse buildings. Return to St. Anthony for the night. (breakfast included)

Day 13 St. Anthony to Norris Point | 356km/221mi Make your way back down the peninsula to Norris Point, your base at the doorstep of Gros Morne National Park with restaurants, shops and beautiful views of Bonne Bay and The Tablelands. Watch for Jenniex House as you drive in for fantastic views of both, with the latter designated a World Heritage Site in 1987 to acknowledge its geological diversity and striking barren shapes. Located just off the Viking Trail, Norris Point is in the heart of Western Newfoundland’s booming tourism visitation area and is well equipped with natural landforms, adventure activities and a relaxing small-town feel. (breakfast included)

Day 14 Norris Point to Deer Lake | 73 km/45 mi Upon check-out of your hotel drive to Deer Lake Airport where your Newfoundland discovery ends. (breakfast included)

Package Includes:

• 3 nights accommodation in St. John’s
• 3 nights accommodation in Trinity
• 1 night accommodation in Twillingate
• 4 nights accommodation in Norris Point
• 2 nights accommodation in St. Anthony
• Whale Watching Cruise
• Iceberg watch boat cruise
• Western Brook Pond Cruise
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Cape Spear Lighthouse
• Castle Hill
• Gros Morne National Park
• L’Anse aux Meadows
• Terra Nova National Park
• Port au Choix
• Ryan Premises
• Signal Hill

Hotel Information | Moderate Grade

• St. John’s - Leaside Manor | Deluxe Suite | Breakfast Included
• Trinity - Artisan Inn | Standard Room | Breakfast Included
• Twillingate - Harbour Lights Inn | Standard Room | Breakfast Included
• Norris Point - Neddies Harbour Inn | Queen Room
• St. Anthony - Grenfell Heritage Hotel | Double Room (Breakfast included)

Not included:

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

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DATES & PRICING

Departs from St. John’s: Daily Moderate Grade (Tour Code: SD96P)

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10 Scenic Road Trips To Take In Newfoundland

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7 State Parks Better Than Yellowstone National Park

Think twice about carrying bear spray this summer, 7 small towns in oregon proving the west coast is better than the east.

Newfoundland and Labrador is a gorgeous province on the East Coast of Canada with large cliffs, fjords, and waterfalls. Originally an area inhabited by Vikings, this part of the country is across the Atlantic Ocean from Ireland. This connection is significant to the province because many Newfoundlanders are of Irish descent, their ancestors migrating across the waters to Canada’s shores. This stunning easterly province deserves a spot on any traveler's Canada itinerary, and the best way to explore is with one of these scenic road trips.

10 Granite Coast Drive

Newfoundland’s Granite Coast Drive is a 45 km scenic day trip that starts in Channel-Port aux Basques. Travelers must load their vehicle onto the ferry to reach the access point for the drive. Once en route, there are many scenic viewpoints and attractions to stop at along the way, including the Railway Heritage Museum and the historic community called Isle aux Morts.

9 Irish Loop

For a longer road trip, travelers can embark on the Irish Loop (Route 10), which is 312 km long . The route starts south of St. John’s , allowing drivers to travel around the lower half of the scenic Avalon Peninsula. Although it’s possible to complete this journey in just 3-4 hours, there are plenty of scenic viewpoints to stop at along the way, so it’s a good idea to plan a least a full day or two with a bed and breakfast stop overnight to enjoy this loop.

Related: Why You Should Be Visiting Newfoundland, If Only For These Unique Accommodations

8 The Viking Trail (Route 430)

The Viking Trail in Newfoundland and Labrador is a 526 km route that starts from Route 1 and takes drivers onto Route 430 at Deer Lake. The route has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Gros Morne National Park, which is a picturesque destination. Driving the Viking Trail eventually takes travelers onto Route 436, where they can view the second UNESCO World Heritage Site on the drive, L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site.

7 Kittiwake Coast

The Kittiwake Coast drive, also called the Road To The Shore, starts in Gander or Gambo and is approximately 307 km long . The route is a horseshoe shape that takes travelers along Route 330 and Route 320 right on the coast between these two iconic towns. This is an excellent road trip option for travelers who want to explore Gander, which has a significant reputation on the world stage following its involvement in housing travelers during the tragic events of 9/11. Since then, it has come to even greater fame as part of the musical based on these events, called Come From Away.

6 The Grenfell Drive

Grenfell Drive is a road trip from the northern tip of Newfoundland and covers 171 km . Another part of the old French Shore of the province, once home to French fishing communities, the route houses the French Shore Interpretation Centre and Crouse, which is a popular hiking destination. Traveling this route by car takes only a few hours, but visitors should plan to spend at least one full day to permit time to stop and learn about the fishing history of the area and enjoy some of the beautiful hiking trails.

5 The Trans-Labrador Highway

The Trans-Labrador Highway (TLH) is a scenic drive across Labrador, traversing winding roads and narrow bridges. It begins in Fremont, Quebec, and is the only public road across all of Labrador. May to September is the best time to do this remote, scenic drive to avoid severe weather conditions. The journey takes 22 hours from start to finish (1185 km) , but most people plan several days to space out the driving and enjoy hiking and stops along the way. Much of the route is unpaved and was built in 1992; travelers should confirm with their rental company whether they are allowed to drive their vehicle on this type of road to avoid violating rental agreements.

4 Codroy Valley International Wetlands

The Codroy Valley International Wetlands road trip is just 40 km and is the perfect choice for a casual day trip with beautiful views. To reach the start of this route, travelers just drive 15 minutes north of Channel-Port aux Basques via Route 1 and pass through tons of gorgeous, sprawling farmland. The 40 km distance reference is for one-way, so travelers who are planning to return to their origin point to sleep that night should plan for an 80 km journey.

3 The French Ancestors Route

The French Ancestors Route is located on the West Coast of Newfoundland and is a 161 km route . The route has a coastal loop and passes through Stephenville-Port au Port Peninsula, which is a hub for French culture in the province. This shore was previously owned by the French for fishing and only came under Newfoundland’s control in 1904. Stephenville has an air base and a Theatre Festival, so travelers who appreciate the arts should plan their trip accordingly to catch a musical or comedy show along the way.

Related: Newfoundland Guide: Visiting The Historic Cape Spear Lighthouse

2 The Caribou Trail

Also located near the west coast of the province, The Caribou Trail is a 148 km drive starting on Route 1 that takes travelers to the south coast of the island. Travelers depart from the West Coast on Route 480 and pass through densely forested areas and past Sandbanks Provincial Park. The park has multiple sandy beaches making this a great place for a pit stop for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts.

1 Captain Cook’s Trail

Travelers who have just one afternoon for a road trip somewhere in Newfoundland should consider driving Captain Cook’s Trail, named for the famous explorer, Captain James Cook. This driving route is only 53 km long and passes by a commemorative statue of the captain himself in Corner Brook. The drive offers the beauty of the mountains, ocean, and fishing villages along Route 450, the Bay of Islands, and Lark Harbour.

30 Best Stops Between St. John's and Gros Morne National Park

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How long is the drive from St. John's to Gros Morne National Park?

The direct drive from St. John's to Gros Morne National Park is 433 mi (696 km) , and should have a drive time of 8 hrs 29 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from St. John's to Gros Morne National Park, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with top places to visit like Captain Wayne's Marine Excursions and Gatherall's Puffin & Whale Watch, or the ever-popular Colony of Avalon Gift Shop.

Best stops along St. John's to Gros Morne National Park drive

Colony of avalon gift shop.

Captain Wayne's Marine Excursions

Gatherall's Puffin & Whale Watch

O'brien's whale and bird tours, stan cook sea kayak adventures, ocean quest - cbs - resort and training facility, bell island community museum, salmonier nature park, the wilds resort at salmonier river, cupids legacy centre, bay roberts east shoreline heritage walk, markland cottage winery, wooden boat museum of newfoundland and labrador, heart's content cable station, provincial historic site, lester garland house, a trinity historical society site & shop.

Castle Hill National Historic Site

Splash n putt cabins, silent witnesses memorial, north atlantic aviation museum, cobb's pond rotary park, salmonid interpretation centre, rafting newfoundland, dr. jon lien whale pavilion, king's point pottery gallery and gifts, grenfell house museum, newfoundland insectarium.

Deer Lake Beach

Marble zip tours, corner brook stream trail, captain james cook national historic site.

Attractions

Other popular road trips from St. John's

Explore nearby places.

• Gros Morne National Park
• Norris Point
• Rocky Harbour
• Woody Point
• Sally's Cove
• Trout River
• St. Paul's
• Cox's Cove
• Lark Harbour
• Steady Brook
• Portland Creek
• York Harbour
• Corner Brook
• Daniel's Harbour
• Jackson's Arm
• River of Ponds
• King's Point
• Stephenville
• Hawke's Bay
• Port au Port

All related maps of Gros Morne National Park

• Map of Gros Morne National Park
• Map of Norris Point
• Map of Rocky Harbour
• Map of Bonne Bay
• Map of Woody Point
• Map of Glenburnie
• Map of Sally's Cove
• Map of Trout River
• Map of St. Paul's
• Map of Cow Head
• Map of Cormack
• Map of Reidville
• Map of Deer Lake
• Map of Cox's Cove
• Map of Pasadena
• Map of Lark Harbour
• Map of Steady Brook
• Map of Portland Creek
• Map of York Harbour
• Map of Corner Brook
• Map of Daniel's Harbour
• Map of Jackson's Arm
• Map of River of Ponds
• Map of Black Duck
• Map of King's Point
• Map of Stephenville
• Map of Baie Verte
• Map of Hawke's Bay
• Map of Springdale
• Map of Port au Port
• Map of Burlington

Gros Morne National Park throughout the year

• Gros Morne National Park in January
• Gros Morne National Park in February
• Gros Morne National Park in March
• Gros Morne National Park in April
• Gros Morne National Park in May
• Gros Morne National Park in June
• Gros Morne National Park in July
• Gros Morne National Park in August
• Gros Morne National Park in September
• Gros Morne National Park in October
• Gros Morne National Park in November
• Gros Morne National Park in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Gros Morne National Park?

Get inspired for your trip to Gros Morne National Park with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Gros Morne National Park Itinerary
• 2-Day Gros Morne National Park Itinerary
• 3-Day Gros Morne National Park Itinerary
• 4-Day Gros Morne National Park Itinerary
• 5-Day Gros Morne National Park Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from st. john's to gros morne national park.

Yes! You can drive from St. John's to Gros Morne National Park.

How far is Gros Morne National Park from St. John's by car?

The drive from St. John's to Gros Morne National Park is 433 miles (696 km).

How long does it take to drive from St. John's to Gros Morne National Park?

Driving from St. John's to Gros Morne National Park should take you 8 hrs 29 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from St. John's to Gros Morne National Park?

Gas from St. John's to Gros Morne National Park would cost around $38 to $88 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from St. John's to Gros Morne National Park?

You could check out Captain Wayne's Marine Excursions and Gatherall's Puffin & Whale Watch, or the always popular Colony of Avalon Gift Shop!

What's the weather like in St. John's?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in St. John's in January
• Weather in St. John's in February
• Weather in St. John's in March
• Weather in St. John's in April
• Weather in St. John's in May
• Weather in St. John's in June
• Weather in St. John's in July
• Weather in St. John's in August
• Weather in St. John's in September
• Weather in St. John's in October
• Weather in St. John's in November
• Weather in St. John's in December

What are some other road trips from St. John's?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for St. John's.

• St. John's to Halifax drive
• St. John's to Trinity drive
• St. John's to Gros Morne National Park drive
• St. John's to Charlottetown drive
• St. John's to Twillingate drive
• St. John's to Bonavista drive
• St. John's to L'Anse aux Meadows drive
• St. John's to Rocky Harbour drive
• St. John's to St. Anthony drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

TRIPS TIPS and TEES

Newfoundland Road Trip: St. John’s to Gros Morne National Park

Newfoundland is an island. You can get there by flying or by ferry. We chose to fly into St. John’s, Newfoundland’s largest city.

A must-see in Newfoundland is Gros Morne National Park . It is located on the west side of the island. St. John’s is on the east side.

We stayed in Rocky Harbour. This small community is a great home base for exploring Gros Morne National Park.

St. John’s to Rocky Harbour

Before leaving St. John’s, we made a quick trip to Wal-Mart to pick up some essentials.  (For us, essentials include a small cooler, car snacks, drinks, paper products, and baggies.)

I suggest allowing a whole day to make the trip from St. John’s to Gros Morne National Park. It is approximately 703 km (437 miles) from St. John’s to the town of Rocky Harbour.

Google maps shows that the drive takes about 7 hours. We encountered June snowfall en route which slowed us down a bit. Otherwise, Google’s time estimate is pretty accurate.

We stopped for lunch at a Subway in Gander , Newfoundland.  There are several places to grab a quick bite in Gander or further down the road in Grand Falls-Windsor.

Along the way, you’ll notice signs warning drivers of moose on the roadway. Take this warning seriously and drive with caution. They aren’t kidding.

Whenever we take any kind of road trip, we always listen to audiobooks on Audible. On this journey, we listened to Way of Kings .  I love listening to a story and gazing at the landscape of someplace new!

Once you reach Gros Morne National Park, you’re in for a real treat! The scenery is spectacular!

If you’re planning a trip to Newfoundland and considering whether or not it is worth it to make the drive from St John’s to Gros Morne National Park, the answer is YES! Allow a day and take your time. Driving across Newfoundland is a great way to experience this Canadian treasure!

11 Summer Vacation Ideas

It’s never too late or too early to plan your next trip. So branch out and…

Gros Morne Hike: Berry Hill Trail

Berry Hill Trail in Gros Morne National Park is near the town of Rocky Harbour, Newfoundland.…

• Planning a Newfoundland Vacation

Newfoundland and Labrador form the easternmost province of Canada. A trip to Newfoundland includes spectacular scenery,…

For more information on Newfoundland, check out the following:

• Newfoundland’s Cape Spear
• 6 Must-See Sights in St John’s, Newfoundland
• 7 Reasons to Add Newfoundland to Your Bucket List

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2 thoughts on “Newfoundland Road Trip: St. John’s to Gros Morne National Park”

Nice! Have you read the book The Day the World Came to Town (on which the musical Come From Away is based?) Reading that gave me a huge appreciation for Newfoundland and a hope to visit one day!

I haven’t. I’ll have to check that out. Thx!

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Toronto to St. John's (Newfoundland) drive

Toronto to st. john's (newfoundland) road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Toronto to St. John's (Newfoundland). If you're planning a road trip to St. John's (Newfoundland), you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Toronto drive for about 4.5 hours

2:18 pm   Ottawa stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:18 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 6.5 hours find more stops

9:00 am  leave from Hilton Montreal Bonaventure drive for about 3.5 hours

12:43 pm   St Lawrence River stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:43 pm drive for about 5.5 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 9 hours find more stops

8:00 am  leave from Moncton drive for about 5 hours

1:11 pm   Cape Breton stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:11 pm drive for about 11.5 hours

day 3 driving ≈ 16.5 hours

10:00 am  leave from Corner Brook drive for about 4 hours

1:47 pm   Gander stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:47 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

5:28 pm  arrive in St. John's (Newfoundland)

day 4 driving ≈ 6.5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Ottawa   (31 answers)     Rideau Canal   (6 mentions)     Gatineau Park   (5 mentions)     Parliament Hill   (4 mentions)     Parliament Buildings   (2 mentions)     Canadian Museum of History   (2 mentions)     questions about Ottawa:         What's the best neighborhood in Ottawa for a first time visitor?         Sports and nature in Ottawa         What to do in Ottawa on a five hour layover? Montreal   (134 answers)     Vieux-Montreal   (14 mentions)     Mont Royal   (13 mentions)     Jardin Botanique   (10 mentions)     Old Port of Montreal   (10 mentions)     Boulevard Saint-Laurent   (9 mentions)     restaurants around Montreal:         La Banquise Resto         Schwartz's         Restaurant au Pied de Cochon         Marché Atwater         Garde Manger     hotels around Montreal:         Hilton Montreal Bonaventure         Hotel Le St. James         Hôtel Nelligan         Hotel Le Crystal Montreal         Sofitel Montréal     questions about Montreal:         A foodie in Montreal         Outdoor activities in Montreal + great restaurants?         Traffic         Hidden gems of Montreal         best photo locations St Lawrence River   (3 mentions) Moncton   (5 answers) Cape Breton   (7 mentions) Corner Brook Gander

What are some things to do in St. John's (Newfoundland)?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about St. John's (Newfoundland). Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to St. John's (Newfoundland).

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a St. John's (Newfoundland) to Toronto drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Toronto to St. John's (Newfoundland) . Or get a full Toronto to St. John's (Newfoundland) flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Toronto well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Toronto!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Toronto to St. John's

places to eat

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Google driving directions

St John S, Newfoundland and Labrador Luxury Real Estate, Homes & Condos

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208 Topsail Road, St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador, A1E 2B1

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House For Sale In Cornwall Heights - Fairview Acres, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador

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Property Information:

Welcome to 208 Topsail Road. Formerly known as “Old Topsail Road,” this charming home is humbly perched in one of the most unique and exclusive neighborhoods in the city, the Waterford Valley. Ask anyone who lives there and they’ll note its ideal microclimate, eclectic vibe, walkability, nearby conveniences, perfect school zoning, and how they never want to leave the area (many move within the neighborhood). This tidy and well-cared for home features many upgrades while still retaining plenty of beloved character that you hope to find in the area. The main floor is bright and deceptively spacious, featuring high ceilings and a welcoming living area with an ornamental fireplace which flows effortlessly into the dining area. The updated kitchen is equipped with new appliances (excluding the fridge), a convenient pantry/laundry room, a cozy breakfast nook, and direct access to the backyard. Upstairs, you’ll find three well-appointed bedrooms and a full bathroom. The primary suite, once two smaller rooms, offers generous space and comfort. The second bedroom is similarly spacious, while the third bedroom serves as an ideal office or hobby room. The basement provides ample storage, and the driveway accommodates multiple vehicles. The backyard, stretching approximately 80 feet from the house, boasts a multi-tier patio, plenty of room for gardening, hobbies, and even a beloved pet. Recent updates include a new roof (July 2024) and majority PEX plumbing replacement (2021). This is the home you’ve been waiting for. offers will be presented on Friday, August 16th at 7:00 PM. (id:27)

Building Features:

• Style: Semi-Detached
• Building Type: House
• Architectural Style: 2 Level
• Construction Style - Attachment: Semi-detached
• Exterior Finish: Vinyl siding
• Flooring Type: Hardwood, Flooring Type
• Foundation Type: Concrete
• Heating Type: Forced air
• Heating Fuel: Electric, Oil

Property Features:

• OwnershipType: Freehold
• Property Type: Single Family
• Bedrooms: 3
• Bathrooms: 1
• Access Type: Year-round access
• Built in: 1932
• Irregular: Yes
• Landscape Features: Landscaped
• Lot Size: 25 x 145 (aprx)
• Zoning: RES
• Sewer: Municipal sewage system
• Bedroom 2nd Level TBC
• Bathroom 2nd Level 5'1"" x 11'1""
• Bedroom 2nd Level 4'9"" x 7'11""
• Primary Bedroom 2nd Level 11'10"" x 17'2""
• Laundry Main Level 11'1"" x 4'11""
• Dining Main Level 10'11"" x 7'10""
• Kitchen Main Level 9' x 12'10""
• Living Main Level 12'3"" x 25'1""

Courtesy of: Keller Williams Platinum Realty

Start by finding out what your home might be worth in today's market.

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Location of 208 topsail road, st. john's, newfoundland & labrador, a1e 2b1.

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Climate Risk Data

About Climate Risk: Properties are at increased risk of damage from extreme weather due to climate change. ClimateCheck provides detailed climate risk data for properties now and up to 30 years into the future.

Projected Heat Risk: Low

22 hot days expected in 2050

Projected Precipitation Risk: High

14 storms expected in 2050

Projected Heat Risk: Relatively Low

Relatively Low

ClimateCheck®

Current data

This property, 208 Topsail Road , experiences 7 hot days per year at around 25.3 degrees Celsius.

Projected data

Severe heat risk is expected to increase in this area. In 2050, it is projected that there will be 22 hot days at 27.7 degrees Celsius.

Projected Avg. Temperature

# Hot Days Per Year

About Heat Risk

Heat risk is the number of extreme heat days experienced each year looking at historical conditions (1980-2005) in your area and taking the 2% of the hottest days and projecting that into the future.

Projected Precipitation Risk: Exteme

This property, 208 Topsail Road , experiences 11 significant 2-day storms per year, with about 426.8mm of precipitation per storm.

Severe storms are expected to increase in this area. In 2050, it is projected that there will be 14 significant 2-day storms with 551.2mm of precipitation per year.

Precipitation Per Storm

48-Hour Storms Per Year

About Storm Risk

Storm risk is the number of high wind, wet or snowy events each year. Climate check looks at historical conditions (1980-2005) in your area, on the days with the top 1% of total precipitation in a year and projected to 2050.

Environmental Risks provided by ClimateCheck®

Royal LePage does not endorse nor guarantee this information. By providing this information, Royal LePage and its agents are not providing advice or guidance on climate risks. Royal LePage strongly recommends that consumers independently investigate the property’s climate risks to their own personal satisfaction.

Demographic Information of 208 Topsail Road, St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador, A1E 2B1

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No certificate/diploma/degree

High school certificate or equivalent

Apprenticeship trade certificate/diploma

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University certificate (below bachelor)

University Degree

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