St Johns Airport (YYT) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

St. John's International Airport quick facts

St. John's International Airport (YYT) serves as the primary aviation gateway to Newfoundland and Labrador, functioning as a hub for PAL Airlines. With a single, well-organized terminal, St. John's International Airport caters to approximately 1.38 million passengers annually. Here is what you need to know before traveling through this vital Atlantic Canadian transport hub.

St. John's International Airport Terminal Map and Layout

St. John's International Airport features a single, compact three-level terminal building that is exceptionally easy to navigate. Unlike sprawling multi-terminal hubs, this linear design places all services under one roof, minimizing confusion and walking distances. The terminal is arranged vertically across three floors, with arrivals on Level 1, departures and security on Level 2, and the passenger lounge and observation area on Level 3.

Because the airport operates with only one terminal, travelers never need to worry about inter-terminal shuttles or lengthy connections. The entire building can be traversed from end to end in less than ten minutes on foot. Moving walkways are not present, but the compact footprint renders them unnecessary. The straightforward layout is one of the airport's greatest strengths, particularly for travelers with tight connections or reduced mobility.

Navigating St. John's International Airport Terminals

Level 1: Arrivals and Ground Transportation

Level 1 houses the domestic and international baggage claim areas, the arrivals greeting hall, and all ground transportation desks. Here you will find the car rental counters directly across from the baggage carousels. The children's play area is situated to provide distraction for young travelers waiting for luggage. A memorial honoring the Royal Canadian Air Force is also located on this floor. Exits lead directly to the taxi stand, ride-sharing pickup zones, and the parking garage. The arrivals area also contains a small selection of food outlets for passengers who need a quick meal before heading into the city.

Level 2: Departures and Security Screening

Level 2 is the main departure level. Airline check-in counters for Air Canada, WestJet, Porter, Flair, and PAL Airlines are all located here, arranged in a straightforward row. The security screening checkpoint is centrally positioned and leads to the post-security departures lounge. Before security, you will find food court options, retail shops, and the entrance to the third-floor observation deck and lounge. This level also houses the customs hall for arriving international passengers. The charging station is strategically placed near the departure gates to keep devices powered before boarding.

Level 3: Lounge and Observation Area

Level 3 is home to the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, the only full-service airline lounge at the airport. An adjacent public observation area provides panoramic views of the apron and runways, making it a favorite spot for aviation enthusiasts. The quiet atmosphere on this floor offers a retreat from the busier departures concourse below.

Transportation to and from St. John's International Airport

Reaching downtown St. John's from the airport is quick and straightforward. The airport sits approximately 5.6 kilometers (3.5 miles) northwest of the city center, meaning most trips take less than 15 minutes by car. Several transportation methods are available, from rental cars to public buses.

Getting to and from St. John's International Airport by Car

Driving from St. John's International Airport to downtown St. John's is simple via the Trans-Canada Highway and Portugal Cove Road. Traffic congestion is rarely a significant issue in St. John's compared to larger Canadian cities, though the morning rush between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM and the evening peak from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM can cause minor delays on the main arteries. During winter storms, road conditions can deteriorate rapidly, so allow extra time and ensure the rental vehicle has proper winter tires between November and April.

The airport parking garage is connected directly to the terminal via enclosed walkways on Level 1. Short-term parking is ideal for pickups and drop-offs, while the long-term lot suits travelers leaving vehicles for several days. The parking garage operates on a pay-on-foot system, accepting both cash and major credit cards. Electric vehicle charging stations are available on the ground floor of the parking structure. A cell phone waiting lot is located on World Parkway near the terminal entrance, allowing drivers to wait free of charge until passengers are ready at the curb.

Curbside drop-off is permitted directly outside the departures entrance on Level 2. The area is strictly for active loading and unloading only, with a maximum waiting time of three minutes. Unattended vehicles are not allowed and may be ticketed or towed. For arrivals, pickup is permitted at the curb outside Level 1, but drivers should use the cell phone lot to avoid circling.

Getting to and from St. John's International Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Taxis operate as the primary on-demand transportation from St. John's International Airport. City Wide Taxi holds the exclusive contract for airport ground transportation and maintains a dedicated queue outside the Level 1 arrivals hall. A taxi dispatcher is on duty during peak arrival times to assist passengers. The fleet includes accessible vehicles capable of accommodating large, non-folding mobility aids. Booking an accessible taxi 24 hours in advance is recommended by calling City Wide Taxi directly.

Ride-sharing services operate in St. John's, though availability may be more limited than in larger Canadian cities. Approved ride-share drivers pick up passengers at designated zones near the arrivals level curb. Passengers should request rides through their respective apps once they have collected luggage and are ready to exit the terminal.

Estimated taxi fares from St. John's International Airport to downtown St. John's cost approximately $25 to $30 USD. A trip to Memorial University runs roughly $20 USD. Fares to nearby communities like Mount Pearl average $30 to $35 USD. All taxis accept cash and major credit cards.

Getting to and from St. John's International Airport by Public Transportation

Metrobus provides the only public transit connection to St. John's International Airport via Route 14. The bus stop is located on the main roadway outside the terminal, approximately a two-minute walk from the arrivals exit. Route 14 connects the airport to Memorial University and the Smallwood University Centre, where passengers can transfer to other Metrobus routes serving the greater St. John's area. The trip to Memorial University takes roughly 15 minutes.

Metrobus does not operate a direct express service to downtown St. John's from the airport. Travelers heading to the city center will need to transfer at the university center to connecting routes. This makes public transit a budget-friendly option but one requiring additional time and planning.

👉 Step-by-step: Exit the terminal on Level 1 and follow the sidewalk to the marked bus stop on the airport roadway. Board Route 14 and pay the exact fare in cash (drivers do not provide change). Ride to the Smallwood University Centre (Stop ID: 1150). From here, transfer to other Metrobus routes for downtown destinations. The total journey to downtown typically takes 40 to 55 minutes depending on transfer times.

Key Amenities at St. John's International Airport

ATMs

ATMs are located on Level 1 near the baggage claim area and on Level 2 before security. Machines dispense Canadian dollars and are operated by major Canadian banks. Most ATMs accept international cards on the Cirrus and Plus networks.

Lost and Found

The St. John's International Airport Authority manages lost and found services. Items left in the terminal building, parking garage, or security screening areas are held at the airport administration office. For items left on an aircraft, passengers must contact the respective airline directly. The lost and found office is located on Level 1 near the arrivals information desk. Inquiries can be made by calling the main airport line at +1 (709) 758-8500 during regular business hours.

Luggage Services

Baggage carts are available in the arrivals hall on Level 1. Carts require a small rental fee, typically $2 CAD payable by coin or card at the dispenser. No luggage storage or left-luggage facility operates at St. John's International Airport. Travelers with extended layovers should plan to keep bags with them or arrange off-site storage. Luggage wrapping is not available at this airport.

Pets

St. John's International Airport provides an outdoor pet relief area located at the grassy space near the arrivals level exit. Travelers should follow airport signage to the designated area. Pets traveling in the cabin must remain in their carriers at all times while inside the terminal building. Service animals are permitted throughout the airport without restriction.

Showers

Shower facilities are available inside the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge on Level 3. Access is restricted to lounge guests. No public pay-per-use showers exist elsewhere in the terminal.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are limited at St. John's International Airport. There is no dedicated foreign exchange counter. The duty-free shop and some retail outlets may accept US dollars and provide change in Canadian currency, though rates are generally less favorable than bank exchanges. Travelers are advised to exchange currency at a bank in downtown St. John's or withdraw Canadian dollars directly from airport ATMs for better rates.

Smoking Area

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the terminal building. Designated outdoor smoking areas are located outside the departures and arrivals level entrances, clearly marked with signage. Smoking or vaping is not permitted anywhere past the security checkpoint.

Terminal Building Features

The terminal at St. John's International Airport is modern and efficiently designed, with plenty of natural light filtering through large windows. A public piano located in the pre-security area invites travelers to play, contributing to a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere. Donation boxes support local charities. Seating throughout the terminal is comfortable and generally plentiful, though the post-security departures lounge can become crowded during peak flight banks.

WiFi

Free WiFi is available throughout St. John's International Airport. The network name is "YYT Free WiFi" and requires no password. Connection speeds are adequate for web browsing, email, and streaming. Charging stations with both standard electrical outlets and USB ports are positioned near gate seating areas on Level 2 and in the departures lounge.

Other Amenities

• Information Desk: Located on Level 1 in the arrivals hall, staffed during peak hours with volunteers and airport ambassadors who can provide directions and tourist information.
• Children's Play Area: A small play zone is located on Level 1 near baggage claim, keeping young children entertained while waiting for luggage.
• Medical Services: No dedicated medical clinic operates at the airport. First aid assistance can be requested through any airport staff member or at the information desk. In emergencies, 911 should be called directly.
• Chapel/Prayer Room: A quiet reflection room is available within the terminal for passengers seeking a peaceful space for prayer or meditation. Inquire at the information desk for the current location.

Airport Lounges at St. John's International Airport

St. John's International Airport offers one dedicated airline lounge and maintains partnerships with select credit card programs. The lounge landscape here is modest compared to major hubs, but the existing facility provides a comfortable pre-flight retreat.

Airline Lounges at St. John's International Airport

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge

Located on Level 3 of the terminal, the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge is accessible via a stairway or elevator near the departure gates. The lounge offers panoramic views of the airfield, comfortable seating arranged for both solo travelers and groups, complimentary snacks and beverages including beer and wine, shower facilities, and workstations with charging ports. The space covers a modest footprint but rarely feels overcrowded given the airport's traffic volume.

Access is granted to Air Canada business class passengers, Air Canada Elite status members, Star Alliance Gold members, and holders of the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card. Day passes are not sold to the general public at this location.

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

St. John's International Airport does not currently host an American Express Centurion Lounge, Capital One Lounge, or Chase Sapphire Lounge. The Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge remains the only premium lounge facility on-site.

Priority Pass Lounges at St. John's International Airport

Priority Pass does not currently offer any participating lounge, restaurant credit, or alternative experience at St. John's International Airport. Travelers holding Priority Pass memberships via premium credit cards should not expect lounge access at this airport and should plan accordingly.

Other Airports in the Region

For travelers heading to Newfoundland and Labrador, a few alternative airports may better suit specific itineraries depending on the final destination.

Gander International Airport (YQX)

Located approximately 3.5 hours by car west of St. John's, Gander International Airport serves central Newfoundland. This historic airport gained fame during the September 11 attacks when it sheltered thousands of diverted passengers. It is the preferred gateway for travelers heading to Terra Nova National Park or the northeastern coast. The terminal features an internationally recognized mid-century modern design and an aviation museum worth visiting even during a layover.

Deer Lake Regional Airport (YDF)

Situated roughly 7 hours by car from St. John's on the island's west coast, Deer Lake Regional Airport is the ideal choice for visitors heading to Gros Morne National Park, the Viking Trail, or the ski slopes of Marble Mountain. The airport is small and efficient with direct flights from Toronto and Halifax on major carriers.

St. Anthony Airport (YAY)

This tiny regional airport serves the northern tip of Newfoundland's Great Northern Peninsula. PAL Airlines operates scheduled flights from St. John's. This airport is essential for travelers visiting L'Anse aux Meadows, the UNESCO World Heritage Site where Vikings established North America's first European settlement.

St. John's International Airport Overview

St. John's International Airport began operations in 1941 as a military airfield, constructed by Canadian and American forces during the Second World War. The strategic location on the easternmost edge of North America made it a critical refueling stop for transatlantic flights. The airfield transitioned to civilian use in 1946, and the modern terminal building has been renovated and expanded multiple times to accommodate growing passenger demand.

Today, St. John's International Airport is the busiest airport in Newfoundland and Labrador and ranks among the top 20 airports in Canada by passenger volume. The airport sits approximately 5.6 kilometers (3.5 miles) northwest of downtown St. John's, making it one of the most conveniently situated urban airports in Atlantic Canada. It is part of Canada's National Airports System and operates as a privately managed facility under the St. John's International Airport Authority.

The airport holds international designation from Transport Canada and is classified as an airport of entry by Nav Canada. The Canada Border Services Agency maintains a permanent presence for processing international arrivals. The facility processed approximately 1.38 million passengers in recent years, with capacity to handle around 450 passengers per flight when aircraft are unloaded in stages. The airport is classified at CAT 7 for firefighting and rescue capabilities.

St. John's International Airport Postal Code

Duty Free and Shopping at St. John's International Airport

Duty-free shopping is available at St. John's International Airport in the post-security departures lounge on Level 2. The duty-free shop offers a selection of spirits, wines, fragrances, cosmetics, confectionery, and tobacco products. International travelers departing for destinations outside Canada can take advantage of duty-free pricing on eligible goods. Domestic travelers are subject to standard Canadian taxes on all purchases.

The retail options beyond duty-free are modest. A convenience shop near the departure gates sells newspapers, magazines, snacks, travel essentials, and local souvenirs. For more extensive shopping, downtown St. John's on Water Street and Duckworth Street offers local artisan boutiques, crafts, and galleries featuring genuine Newfoundland products including hand-knit woolens, screech rum, and indigenous art.

Dining options at the airport include quick-service outlets on Level 2 before security and a food court in the post-security area. Offerings range from coffee and pastries to sandwiches and hot meals. Restaurants feature local flavors including toutons and fresh seafood when in season. Full-service dining is not available at the airport; travelers seeking a sit-down meal should plan to visit restaurants in the city.

Security Wait Times St. John's International Airport

Security wait times at St. John's International Airport are generally quite manageable compared to major Canadian hubs. Current average wait times clock in around 7 minutes for security screening during normal periods. The single security checkpoint processes passengers efficiently due to the airport's moderate traffic volume. Peak delays rarely exceed 15 minutes even during busy periods.

The busiest travel months are July, August, and December, when wait times can increase by 30 to 50 percent over normal averages. The busiest hours at the checkpoint run from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, aligning with the departure banks for flights to Toronto, Halifax, and Montreal. Midday hours between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM typically see the shortest waits, averaging around 6 minutes.

TSA PreCheck is not available at this Canadian airport. The equivalent trusted traveler program for Canadian citizens and permanent residents is NEXUS, which operates dedicated lanes where available. Global Entry is applicable for US-bound passengers who are enrolled in the program. CLEAR is not available at St. John's International Airport.

💡 Tips: Check in online and use a mobile boarding pass to skip the check-in counter. Arrive at the least 90 minutes before a domestic flight and 2 hours before an international departure. Tuesdays and Wednesdays see the lightest passenger traffic while Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings are busiest. Ensure liquids are in containers of 100ml or less and placed in a clear, resealable bag before reaching the screening point.

St. John's International Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

The airport provides clearly designated zones for drop-offs and pick-ups. Departures drop-off is on Level 2, directly outside the airline check-in counters. Drivers may stop at the curb for active loading only, with a strict three-minute maximum wait time. Vehicles must not be left unattended, and enforcement officers patrol the area regularly.

Arrivals pick-up is located on Level 1 outside the baggage claim hall. The same three-minute active loading rule applies. Drivers waiting for arriving passengers should use the free cell phone waiting lot rather than circling the terminal road. The cell phone lot is located on World Parkway just before the terminal loop and has clear signage. Drivers can park free for up to 30 minutes while waiting for arriving passengers to call and confirm they are curbside ready.

Commercial vehicles including taxis and pre-arranged shuttles have designated waiting and loading areas clearly marked at the curb. Ride-share pickup operates from specific signed zones in the arrivals area.

Flight Routes and Airlines at St. John's International Airport

St. John's International Airport connects eastern Newfoundland with major Canadian cities and select international destinations. The airport is a critical transportation link for the province, and the diverse airline mix provides competitive options for travelers.

Air Canada operates the largest schedule at the airport, with multiple daily flights to Toronto Pearson, Halifax, and Montreal. The airline also connects St. John's with seasonal service to other Canadian destinations. WestJet offers flights to Toronto, while Porter Airlines connects St. John's to Ottawa and Halifax using its Embraer E195-E2 jets. PAL Airlines, the regional specialist headquartered in St. John's, serves smaller communities across Newfoundland and Labrador as well as destinations in the Maritime provinces. Flair Airlines entered the market with ultra-low-cost flights connecting St. John's to Toronto starting May 2026, operating three times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

International service is limited. Seasonal flights to sun destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico operate during the winter months. Some transatlantic connections operate on a seasonal or charter basis. The busiest domestic route from St. John's International Airport is Toronto Pearson, followed by Halifax Stanfield and Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau.

Getting to and from St. John's International Airport

Transportation options from St. John's International Airport cater to various budgets and preferences, from convenient car rentals to economical public transit. The compact geography of St. John's means all options deliver you to the downtown core within minutes.

Car Rental at St. John's International Airport

Rental cars provide the most flexibility for exploring Newfoundland. All major rental companies maintain desks on Level 1 in the arrivals hall directly across from baggage claim, making the pickup process seamless. Rental vehicles are parked in the adjacent garage, just a short walk from the counters.

Companies operating at St. John's International Airport include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty. Avis operates extended hours from 8:00 AM to 2:30 AM daily with holiday hour adjustments. Most other agencies maintain similar schedules aligned with the flight schedule. After-hours returns are accommodated via key drop boxes.

Renting an SUV or vehicle with all-wheel drive is highly recommended for exploring Newfoundland, particularly during fall, winter, and spring when weather conditions can change rapidly. Economy cars are perfectly adequate for city use. Booking in advance is strongly advised, especially during the peak summer tourism season between June and September when vehicle availability tightens considerably.

St. John's International Airport Taxi Services

City Wide Taxi operates as the exclusive provider of taxi services from the airport. A dedicated taxi stand is located directly outside the Level 1 arrivals exit, with a dispatcher on duty during peak times. The taxi queue moves efficiently, and wait times rarely exceed a few minutes even when multiple flights arrive simultaneously. Fares from the airport to downtown St. John's average $25 to $30 USD. The trip to Memorial University costs approximately $20 USD. Most drivers accept credit cards, but carrying some Canadian cash is advisable as backup payment.

Private Car Services at St. John's International Airport

Several companies in St. John's offer pre-booked private car services from the airport. These services provide a more premium experience than standard taxis, with fixed rates quoted at the time of booking. Vehicles include sedans for business travelers and spacious SUVs for families. Pre-booking guarantees a driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall with a name sign, eliminating any uncertainty after a long flight.

Bus Services at St. John's International Airport

Metrobus Route 14 connects the airport to Memorial University and the wider St. John's transit network. The bus stop is located on the airport roadway, a short walk from the terminal exit. Service operates at approximately 60-minute intervals during daytime hours on weekdays, with reduced schedules on weekends. The fare is $2.50 CAD per ride, with exact change required. This is the most economical option for solo travelers not in a hurry.

Hotel Shuttles

Most major hotels in St. John's do not operate dedicated airport shuttles due to the short distance between the airport and the city center. Guests typically use taxis or rental cars for the quick 10-15 minute journey. It is worth checking with the specific hotel at the time of booking, as some properties may offer complimentary pickup as part of package deals or for loyalty members.

Parking at St. John's International Airport

The on-site parking garage offers both short-term and long-term parking with direct indoor connections to the terminal on Level 1. Short-term parking is best for stays under 24 hours and is charged at hourly rates with a daily maximum. Long-term parking is designed for travelers leaving vehicles for multiple days, with competitive daily rates. Both sections of the garage are secure, well-lit, and monitored.

Accessible parking spaces are available on every level of the garage, with the most convenient spots located near the elevator lobbies. The parking payment system accepts Canadian and US dollar bills, coins, and all major credit cards. The hourly rate in the short-term lot is approximately $3 USD per hour, while the daily maximum for long-term parking is about $15 USD per day. No free parking is offered at the airport. Electric vehicle charging stations are installed on the ground floor of the parking facility.

No off-airport private parking lots operate in the immediate vicinity. The airport monopoly on parking means travelers do not have budget alternatives nearby. For the most cost-effective option, book long-term parking online in advance through the airport website, which sometimes offers small discounts over the drive-up rate.

Places to Explore Near St. John's International Airport

St. John's International Airport's location just minutes from both downtown and the beautiful eastern Newfoundland coast puts travelers within easy reach of remarkable attractions.

• Signal Hill National Historic Site: A 12-minute drive from the airport, this iconic hill offers breathtaking views of St. John's harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. It is the site of Marconi's first transatlantic wireless transmission in 1901.
• Cape Spear Lighthouse: Just 25 minutes from the airport, this is the easternmost point of North America. The historic lighthouse and coastal hiking trails make for an excellent half-day excursion.
• Water Street and Duckworth Street: A 12-minute drive lands you among the colorful jellybean rowhouses, boutiques, pubs, and seafood restaurants that define downtown St. John's.
• The Rooms: Ten minutes from the airport, this cultural center combines the provincial museum, art gallery, and archives under one dramatic roof with views over the city.
• Quidi Vidi Village: A charming fishing village just 8 minutes from the airport. Visit the Quidi Vidi Brewery for craft beer made with iceberg water.
• Petty Harbour: A picturesque fishing community 20 minutes from the airport, offering whale watching, boat tours, and oceanfront dining.
• Witless Bay Ecological Reserve: About 35 minutes south of the airport, this reserve is home to millions of seabirds and seasonal whales. Boat tours depart from Bay Bulls.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit St John S

St. John's experiences a maritime climate with cool summers and relatively mild winters compared to inland Canada. Weather can change rapidly, and the city is known for its fog, wind, and precipitation throughout the year.

Spring (March to May): Temperatures range from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C). Late spring sees ice and fog clearing, though snow remains possible into April. Pack waterproof layers and be prepared for unpredictable conditions.

Summer (June to August): The most pleasant period with temperatures between 50°F and 70°F (10°C to 21°C). July and August are the warmest months and also the busiest for tourism. This is the prime season for whale watching, iceberg viewing, and outdoor festivals. The airport operates at peak capacity.

Fall (September to November): Temperatures cool to 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C). September offers pleasant weather with fewer crowds. October and November bring increased rain and wind.

Winter (December to February): Temperatures hover between 20°F and 35°F (-6°C to 2°C). Snow is frequent but daily accumulations are generally manageable. Storms can cause flight delays, so flexible travel plans are advisable.

👉 The best time to visit is July through September for the warmest weather, whale watching, and festivals. June offers iceberg viewing opportunities, while the December holiday season transforms the city with festive lights, though flight disruptions are more likely.

Essential Travel Tips

• Arrival time: Arrive 90 minutes before domestic flights and 2 hours before international departures. During winter storms, add an extra hour for road conditions.
• Flight status: Check flight status frequently via the airline app. Weather-related delays are common, especially November through March.
• Packing: Pack layers and a waterproof jacket regardless of season. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for St. John's steep hills.
• Currency: Canadian dollars are required. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout St. John's, but small businesses and taxi drivers may prefer cash.
• Language: English is the primary language. Newfoundland English has distinct dialects and phrases, but visitors will have no trouble communicating.
• Documentation: International travelers need a valid passport. US citizens may additionally require an eTA when flying into Canada.
• Drivers license: A valid driver's license from any country is accepted by rental agencies. An International Driving Permit is recommended if the license is not in English. Renters must typically be at least 21 years old.
• Fuel stations: The nearest gas stations to the airport are located on Portugal Cove Road, approximately a 3-minute drive from the terminal exit. Fill up before returning a rental car.

About the City

St. John's is the capital and largest city of Newfoundland and Labrador, and ranks as one of the oldest European settlements in North America, with roots dating back to the early 1500s. The city's population sits around 110,000 in the metro area, giving it a small-city feel with surprisingly cosmopolitan cultural offerings.

The city is famous for its colorful jellybean rowhouses that climb the steep hills overlooking the harbor, its vibrant live music scene centered on the famous George Street (with more bars and pubs per square foot than anywhere else in Canada), and its unique culinary traditions. Dining in St. John's is an experience in itself. Local specialties include fish and chips made with fresh cod, toutons (fried bread dough served with molasses), and the full Newfoundland Jiggs Dinner. For a uniquely local experience, try cod tongues or seal flipper pie. The city's craft beer scene has flourished, with Quidi Vidi Brewery leading the way alongside several excellent microbreweries.

St. John's serves as an ideal base for exploring eastern Newfoundland. From the dramatic coastal scenery of the East Coast Trail to the historic sites documenting centuries of maritime history, the city and its surroundings reward visitors who take the time to explore beyond the well-trodden tourist path.

Start Your Journey at St. John's International Airport

St. John's International Airport delivers an airport experience that reflects the character of Newfoundland itself: compact, friendly, and surprisingly full of character. The single-terminal layout eliminates the stress of navigating sprawling hubs, while the proximity to downtown means you will be sipping local craft beer on George Street within 15 minutes of collecting your luggage.

Booking a rental car in advance is the smartest way to unlock everything this remarkable corner of Canada has to offer. With your own wheels, the colorful streets of downtown, the windswept cliffs of Cape Spear, and the charming fishing villages of the Irish Loop all become easily accessible day trips from a central St. John's base. The rental counters at St. John's International Airport offer a wide range of vehicles, and advance reservations are essential during the busy summer months.

Plan ahead, book early, and prepare for a journey through one of North America's most distinctive and welcoming cities. Your Newfoundland adventure begins the moment you touch down at St. John's International Airport.