Charlottetown (PEI) Travel Guide

Nestled on the eastern coast of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown offers a walkable layout that invites visitors to explore its historic landmarks, dynamic arts scene, and picturesque waterfront.

Beyond its urban charms, Charlottetown is also a gateway to the enchanting world of Anne of Green Gables. Just a short drive away, tourists can immerse themselves in the iconic sites that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery's beloved novels, combining the best of the city's offerings with the pastoral charm of PEI's rural landscapes.

This guide will introduce you to the essential sights and experiences that make Charlottetown and its surrounding areas a must-visit destination.

Charlottetown, the charming capital of Prince Edward Island, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and culinary experiences. Known as the "Birthplace of Confederation", it's here, during the historic Charlottetown Conference of 1864, that Canada's journey as a nation began.

Top Reasons to Visit:

• Rich historical sites
• Diverse culinary scene, with a focus on fresh seafood
• Stunning waterfront views and outdoor activities
• Friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life
• Vibrant arts and culture scene

By air: Charlottetown Airport (YYG) connects to major Canadian cities with daily flights.

By sea: Take the scenic route and travel by ferry from Nova Scotia or New Brunswick.

By land: Drive across the Confederation Bridge, an engineering marvel that links Prince Edward Island with the mainland.

Getting Around:

• Walking: The city's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot.
• Biking: Rent a bike or join a cycling tour to discover the city's charm.
• Public Transportation: T3 Transit offers limited bus service.
• Car Rentals & Taxis: Available for exploring further afield.

Insider Tip: The Charlottetown Visitor Information Centre offers helpful advice for planning your stay.

• Province House National Historic Site: Witness the birthplace of Canadian Confederation.
• Beaconsfield Historic House: Step back in time and explore Victorian-era living.
• Government House: Tour the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor.

• St. Dunstan's Basilica: Marvel at the church’s stunning Gothic Revival style.
• Confederation Centre of the Arts: Experience this hub for art enthusiasts with its eclectic mix of exhibitions and live performances.

• Victoria Row: Stroll along this charming pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and street performers.
• Peake's Wharf Historic Waterfront: Soak in the vibrant culture with shops, eateries, and local music.

• Confederation Centre Art Gallery: Explore an impressive collection of Canadian art.
• PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation: Discover the island's rich history and heritage.

• The Market at the Guild: A local artisan market featuring unique crafts and food.
• Victoria Park Boardwalk: A scenic walk along the waterfront with beautiful views of the harbor.
  

• Lobster on the Wharf: Savor authentic maritime flavors and famous lobster rolls while feasting your eyes on the waterfront views.
• The Pilot House: Enjoy a variety of seafood dishes in a cozy, nautical-themed setting.

• Cows Creamery: Indulge in some of the best ice cream in Canada.
• Receiver Coffee Co.: Relaxa and enjoy your java at this popular local café serving up specialty coffee and delicious treats.

• The Culinary Institute of Canada: Enjoy an unforgettable meal prepared by talented chefs-in-training.
• Claddagh Oyster House: Savor innovative seafood dishes in an elegant setting.

• The Great George Hotel: A boutique hotel located near key attractions that blends historic charm with modern comforts.
• Sydney Boutique Inn & Suites: A historic option with luxurious accommodations and modern amenities.

• The Holman Grand Hotel: A modern and comfortable option in the heart of downtown.
• Rodd Charlottetown: A classic and convenient choice near the Confederation Centre of the Arts.

• Banbridge Inn: A charming and affordable B&B with excellent reviews.
• Charlottetown Inn & Conference Centre: Conveniently located for exploring downtown Charlottetown, this venue provides comfortable accommodations.

• Victoria Park: Ideal for picnics, walks, and jogging along scenic trails.
• Confederation Trail: A beautiful cycling path winding through the island's landscapes.

• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent equipment or join a tour to explore the waterfront.
• Harbour Hopper Tours: Enjoy a fun and unique tour on land and water on a retrofitted military vehicle.

• Fox Meadow Golf Course: A nearby 18-hole course offering stunning views.
• Belvedere Golf Club: A historic and challenging option for golf enthusiasts.

Insider Tip: Visit the Island Chocolates company to indulge your sweet tooth and learn about the chocolate-making process.

• Charlottetown Festival: A must-visit for musical theatre enthusiasts (June-September).
• Old Home Week: A celebration of PEI's agricultural heritage with events and exhibitions (August).
• Fall Flavours Food & Drink Festival: A culinary event showcasing the island's unique food culture (September-October).
  

• Anne™ – The Musical: A lively adaptation of Lucy Maud Montogmery’s classic story, Anne of Green Gables, at the Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown (summer only).
  

Insider Tip: Check out the Trailside Music Hall & Café for intimate live music performances and delicious eats.

• Green Gables Heritage Place (Cavendish, 40 mins from Charlottetown): Explore the iconic green-and-white farmhouse, Haunted Wood, and Lover’s Lane trails. Don't miss the interactive exhibits about Lucy Maud Montgomery’s life.
• Anne of Green Gables Museum (Park Corner, 50 mins from Charlottetown): Visit the "Lake of Shining Waters" and take a carriage ride.
• Avonlea Village (New Glasgow, 40 min from Charlottetown): Enjoy quirky shops, live entertainment, and themed treats like raspberry cordial. Seasonal actors in period costumes enhance the experience.
  

• Go Early: Arrive at opening time for quieter photos and cooler trails.
• Pack for Imagination: Bring a wide-brimmed hat or braids for photos, and comfy shoes for exploring.
• Pair with Nature: Combine your visit to Charlottetown with a beach day at Cavendish’s red-sand shores or a bike ride along the Gulf Shore Parkway.
• Savour the flavours: Try Anne-themed treats like “cordials” and PEI potato chips.
• Local Insight: Don’t rush; enjoy your experiences at a leisurely pace. Chat with staff for behind-the-scenes stories.

• Best Time to Visit: June to September for warm weather and festivals, or September to October for fall foliage and fewer crowds.
• Travel Insurance: When traveling interprovincially in Canada, securing comprehensive travel insurance is crucial. While Canada’s universal healthcare system provides coverage for residents, some medical services outside of one’s home province may only be partially covered or require out-of-pocket payments for emergencies such as specialized treatments or ambulance services. Additionally, unforeseen events—such as trip cancellations, lost luggage, or delays—can disrupt plans and incur significant costs. Insurance serves as a vital safeguard against financial strain, ensuring access to timely care, peace of mind, and logistical support while navigating the unique challenges of domestic travel.