Things To Do
in Charlottetown

Charlottetown, the capital city of Prince Edward Island, is a charming destination known for its historical significance as the birthplace of Canada. The city features a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous festivals held throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy picturesque waterfront views, beautiful parks, and a welcoming community.

With its rich maritime heritage and delicious local cuisine, Charlottetown offers a unique experience for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Historic Downtown
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the Confederation Centre of the Arts to appreciate the local arts scene.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through Victoria Park and visit the nearby Beaconsfield Historic House to learn about local history.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood, then catch a live performance at the Confederation Centre.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the nearby Hillsborough River, taking in the natural beauty of the island.

afternoon
:

Visit the Charlottetown Farmers Market to sample local products and interact with vendors.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a local pub with live music, experiencing the lively atmosphere of the city's nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍕Pizza Slice$4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night (Mid-Range)$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical significance.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Some attractions may have seasonal hours.

Places to Visit in Charlottetown

Visit one of these nice places.

Confederation Landing Park

A scenic waterfront park ideal for capturing sunrise photos with boats in the harbor.

Victoria Row

A charming street lined with Victorian-style architecture, perfect for street photography.

Brackley Beach

A stunning beach known for its breathtaking sunsets, offering great landscape photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Charlottetown

Charlottetown is a food lover's paradise, boasting a rich culinary scene that highlights local ingredients and traditional dishes.

Charlottetown Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lobster Roll

A classic maritime dish featuring fresh lobster meat, typically served in a split bun.

Must-Try!

PEI Mussels

Sustainably harvested mussels, often prepared with garlic and white wine.

Potato Salad

A staple side dish, showcasing the island's renowned potatoes, often made with mayonnaise and herbs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Charlottetown Farmers Market

A bustling market open on Saturdays, featuring local produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts.

Food Trucks at the Boardwalk

Various food trucks offering street food options, including poutine and fish tacos.

Climate Guide

Weather

Charlottetown experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures range from 20-30°C (68-86°F), while winter can drop to -10°C (14°F). Spring and fall are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Locals value their natural surroundings; please dispose of waste responsibly.

Politeness

Canadians are known for their politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is appreciated.

Punctuality

Being on time for appointments and gatherings is considered respectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Charlottetown is generally considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, tourists should remain vigilant in crowded areas and take standard precautions, such as securing personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Charlottetown

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of 15-20% is customary in restaurants; it's also polite to tip taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's wise to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a beautiful time to visit, with fewer crowds.

Summer

Warm weather draws tourists, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Fall

The foliage changes to vibrant autumn colors, providing picturesque landscapes and a quieter atmosphere.

Winter

Cold temperatures often bring snowfall, offering opportunities for winter sports and festive events.

Nightlife Guide

Charlottetown at Night

Charlottetown's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring a range of pubs, bars, and live music venues. The city comes alive with events, particularly in the summer, with outdoor concerts and festivals. Popular spots include The Pourhouse and The Olde Dublin Pub, known for their lively atmospheres and local brews.

Hiking in Charlottetown

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gulf Shore Parkway

A scenic trail offering views of the coastline, perfect for both hiking and biking.

Green Gables Shore

A picturesque route that combines hiking with visits to historical sites related to Lucy Maud Montgomery.

Airports

How to reach Charlottetown by plane.

Charlottetown Airport (YYG)

The main airport serving Charlottetown, offering domestic flights and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Charlottetown is highly walkable, especially in the downtown area, where most attractions, shops, and dining options are within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrians are respected by drivers.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Acadian Community

A significant cultural group in the region, with a rich history and French-speaking population.

Indigenous Peoples

The Mi'kmaq are the Indigenous people of the area, with a vibrant culture and heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Ice hockey is a popular sport, with local teams and community events during the winter.

Soccer

Soccer is widely played, especially among youth, with local leagues and tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Charlottetown is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation consists mainly of buses, which have limited routes but are affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Charlottetown.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Several local eateries provide gluten-free alternatives, especially for seafood and salads.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Charlottetown is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are reliable, and most healthcare professionals are English-speaking. Visitors should have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide