Understand

Prepare to be enchanted by Saint John, a vibrant city that is steeped in history and brimming with cultural diversity. This charming city, nestled in the heart of Canada, is a fascinating blend of Irish and British Loyalist heritage. Boasting a population of approximately 125,000, Saint John welcomes visitors from all corners of North America, hosting cruise ships and individual tourists alike. Explore the city's rich past and unique identity, and discover why it is affectionately known as Canada's most Loyalist City. Embrace the warmth and friendliness of the locals, as you experience the welcoming nature of this truly remarkable destination.

Get in

Driving to Saint John is usually a breeze, unlike many other cities. However, recently traffic has been on the rise. If you're driving from Fredericton to Saint John on Highway 7, you need to be cautious due to the potential risk of moose collisions at certain times. Saint John is just 107 km (66 miles) away from the Calais/St. Stephen border between Canada and the United States. It is 496 km (310 miles) from Portland, Maine, 940 km (588 miles) from Montreal, Qubec, and 424 km (265 miles) from Halifax, Nova Scotia. For those in western Nova Scotia planning to visit Saint John, the ferry from Digby is your best option. From mid June to mid October, there are three daily crossings that take around two and a half hours on average. During the rest of the year, there is at least one daily crossing that usually takes two hours and forty-five minutes. If you need a car rental, there are eleven dealerships in the city, including Avis Rent A Car at the Saint John Airport. Saint John Airport (IATA: YSJ) is well served by daily flights from Montreal, Toronto, Fredericton, and Halifax. Bus service with Acadian Bus Lines drops off travellers at 199 Chesley Drive, just a short walk uptown along the Harbour Passage paved walking trail. While there is no direct train service to Saint John, you can take a train to Moncton and then make a two-hour bus ride into Saint John. In addition to its transportation options, Saint John is also a popular destination for cruise ship visitors. Cruise ships regularly dock at the city's wharf. For pleasure boaters, Saint John's Market Wharf offers a convenient space within the harbour for berthing. While longer-term moorage is not available at the wharf, it is provided several miles up the Saint John River. Please note that there are no fuel or marine services at the wharf, and local fishing boats also use it.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Poutine is a Canadian comfort food consisting of French fries topped with cheese curds and a generous amount of gravy. This dish originates from the province of Quebec but is now widely enjoyed across Canada. It's typically a non-spicy, warm, and filling meal.

Smoked salmon is a popular food item in Canada, particularly in British Columbia where the Pacific salmon is abundant. The salmon is cured with salt and sugar, then cold-smoked over wood chips to enhance its flavor. It's often served as an appetizer, accompanied by cream cheese, bagels, or crackers. The dish offers a mixture of savory and slightly smoky taste, making it a refreshing choice.

Butter tarts are a sweet and flaky dessert native to Canada, particularly popular in the prairie provinces. A butter tart consists of a pastry shell filled with a mixture of butter, sugar, and syrup, often with added raisins or pecans. These bite-sized treats offer a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making them a beloved Canadian treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing