Charlottetown is the capital of Canada’s Prince Edward Island. It's on the southern coast of the province. The Province House National Historic Site hosted the Charlottetown Conference of 1864, spurring the country’s birth. Victoria Row has shops, restaurants and the Confederation Centre of the Arts, with its musical based on “Anne of Green Gables.” Nearby is the Gothic Revival St. Dunstan’s Basilica.
Summer (June to September): Best weather (20°C to 25°C / 68°F to 77°F) with festivals, seafood, and beach activities.
Fall (September to October): Crisp air, stunning fall foliage, and fewer tourists.
Spring (April to May): Mild weather with blooming gardens, ideal for sightseeing.
Winter (November to March): Quiet, cold (-10°C to -1°C / 14°F to 30°F), but great for cozy retreats and winter activities.
By Air: Charlottetown Airport (YYG) offers flights from major Canadian cities.
By Car: Drive via the Confederation Bridge (from New Brunswick) or take the ferry from Nova Scotia.
By Ferry: Northumberland Ferries connects PEI to Nova Scotia (May to December).
By Bus: Maritime Bus runs routes from other Atlantic provinces.
Province House National Historic Site – Birthplace of Confederation and a must-visit for history lovers.
Confederation Centre of the Arts – Home to the famous Anne of Green Gables musical.
Victoria Row – A charming pedestrian street with shops, cafés, and live music.
Beaconsfield Historic House – A beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion.
St. Dunstan’s Basilica Cathedral – A stunning French Gothic-style church.
Peake’s Wharf Historic Waterfront – Great for walking, shopping, and dining by the water.
Charlottetown Farmers’ Market – Local produce, crafts, and fresh seafood every Saturday.
Victoria Park – A scenic coastal park with walking trails and picnic spots.
Red Shores Racetrack & Casino – Exciting harness racing and gaming.
Government House (Fanningbank) – The Lieutenant Governor’s residence with beautiful gardens.
Go on a Walking Tour – The city is small and best explored on foot.
Take a Boat Tour – Explore the coastline and spot marine wildlife.
Experience a Lobster Dinner – Try a traditional PEI lobster supper.
Attend the Charlottetown Festival (Summer) – A major arts festival featuring Anne of Green Gables – The Musical.
Explore PEI’s Red Sand Beaches – Visit Brackley Beach or Cavendish Beach.
Go Craft Beer & Cider Tasting – Check out Upstreet Craft Brewing and Red Island Cider.
Visit Green Gables Heritage Place (Cavendish) – See the inspiration for Anne of Green Gables.
Cycle the Confederation Trail – A scenic biking route across the island.
Enjoy Fresh Oysters – Try Malpeque oysters, world-famous for their taste.
Go Kayaking on the Hillsborough River – A peaceful way to explore PEI’s waterways.
Luxury:
The Great George – A boutique hotel with historic charm.
Rodd Charlottetown Hotel – Classic elegance with modern comforts.
Mid-Range:
Sydney Boutique Inn & Suites – Beautiful suites in a heritage building.
Fairholm Boutique Inns – Cozy, charming, and centrally located.
Budget-Friendly:
The Sonata Inn – Great for families, with free breakfast.
The Harbour House – A charming B&B with friendly service.
Airbnb & Vacation Rentals:
Options in Downtown Charlottetown and near the waterfront for cozy stays.
Seafood & Local Favorites:
Lobster on the Wharf – Fresh lobster, oysters, and seafood platters.
Claddagh Oyster House – Famous for Malpeque oysters and local seafood.
Water Prince Corner Shop – A must-visit for classic PEI lobster rolls.
Casual & Café Dining:
Receiver Coffee Co. – A top spot for coffee and brunch.
Leonhard’s Café – European-style breakfast and baked goods.
BoomBurger – PEI’s take on burgers using local ingredients.
International Cuisine:
Terre Rouge Craft Kitchen – Farm-to-table dishes with a French twist.
Sims Corner Steakhouse & Oyster Bar – High-end steaks and seafood.
Slaymaker & Nichols – A modern bistro with creative dishes.
Desserts & Bakeries:
COWS Creamery – PEI’s famous ice cream and cheese shop.
Buns & Things Bakery – Fresh bread, pastries, and local treats.
Birthplace of Canada: Charlottetown is where the idea of Canada as a country was first discussed in 1864.
Music & Theater Scene:
Anne of Green Gables – The Musical runs every summer at the Confederation Centre of the Arts.
The Charlottetown Festival features plays, concerts, and comedy shows.
Maritime Traditions:
Charlottetown has a deep fishing and sailing history. The waterfront is filled with local stories.
Festivals & Events:
PEI Shellfish Festival (September): Celebrates oysters, mussels, and lobsters.
Canada Day Celebrations (July 1st): Big parades, fireworks, and concerts.
Old Home Week (August): A mix of horse racing, carnival rides, and entertainment.