St. John’s is the oldest city in North America and the largest in Newfoundland. With so much history within the city, we think the best places to stay in St. John’s are within one of the original houses. There are a handful of converted historical buildings that brim with charm and boast spectacular sea views.

The colourful, independent nature of Newfoundland culture makes this city fresh and unique, and because of this it draws in artists, musicians, writers, and creative chefs. Set on a hill, the iconic sight of St John's is rows upon rows of brightly coloured houses.

When exploring the city, Signal Hill is a great place to start, it’s only a small castle/fort, but it's the town's most famous landmark, plus the views are amazing and there’s a regular military tattoo and cannon firing. Then, the Rooms Museum offers a strange visual cacophony of attractions in a massive stone and glass complex and is a real must-see. The city also has an excellent geological museum plus, there’s a cathedral and a basilica and some fantastic parks and gardens.

Within easy reach of St John’s are the Avalon Peninsula, the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, Cape Spear, Ferryland (one of the oldest settlements in North America), and beautiful Quidi Vidi. There are also opportunities to take whale and puffin spotting excursions.

To bag a room in one of the best places to stay in St John's during the summer months, we recommend booking well in advance as they tend to get booked up fast

The best places to stay in St John's

For period grandeur

• Ryan Mansion is a charming mansion turned 11 room boutique hotel where you can expect four-poster beds, art, antiques and roaring open fires. You’re also well located for all the town's best bits.

For a central location

• If you want to be right in the centre of St John's overlooking its historic waterfront, then book a room in the Murray Premises Hotel. Rooms are spacious and comfortable and you're well placed for the nightlife on nearby lively George Street.

For great value

• If you’re looking for a warm welcome and great value then try Leaside Manor. This 20 room family run B&B has lovely decor and local art on the walls, plus tubs you can soak in. The breakfast part of the B&B deal is very generous. And you’re in a great location.

For self-catering

• If you'd prefer a self-catered option, then we recommend checking the selection on Booking.com, our online partner.

Travel information

• Fly straight to St John's (around 3.5 hours from Toronto or only 5 hours from London). The airport is located about 10km north of the city.
• The best time to visit St John's is from July - September when the temperatures are warm (they can reach 30 degrees). There are also plenty of festivals during these months and it is the best time to spot whales.
• For car hire prices, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in St. John’s.
• Widen the net to include all our Newfoundland recommendations.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in St John's