# St. Johns, Canada

> St. John's, Newfoundland, offers rugged Atlantic charm with colorful row houses, lively pubs, and stunning coastal trails. In August, the George Street Festival fills the streets with live music, making it a vibrant but pricey summer spot. It's a safe, friendly city with a strong local culture, though budget travelers may find costs challenging.

## Key stats

| Metric | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Region | North America |
| Backpacker cost | $60/day |
| Digital nomad cost | $90/day |
| Luxury cost | $250/day |
| Internet download | 150 Mbps |
| Internet upload | 50 Mbps |
| Safety score | 9/10 |
| Backpacker score | 4.5/10 |
| Digital nomad score | 5/10 |
| Luxury score | 4/10 |

**Safety:** St. John's is very safe with low crime rates. Practicing normal precautions, like locking your car and avoiding isolated areas at night, is sufficient. The main concerns are weather-related (fog, slippery trails) rather than safety.

## Neighborhoods

- **Downtown**: The vibrant core around Water, Duckworth, and George Streets. Packed with pubs, restaurants, shops, and historic sites. Best for visitors wanting to be at the center of the action. (medium price)
- **The Battery**: A scenic, hilly area below Signal Hill, with colorful houses and dramatic harbor views. Quaint and peaceful, but steep paths and fog make it less convenient. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers. (medium price)
- **Quidi Vidi**: A charming fishing village at the edge of the city, home to Quidi Vidi Brewery and a historic village. Offers a tranquil, local atmosphere, ideal for families and those seeking a quiet retreat. (low price)

## Pros

- Incredibly scenic coastal location
- Friendly locals and welcoming culture
- Low crime rate and safe neighborhoods
- Rich history and colorful architecture
- Vibrant music scene, especially in August
- Excellent seafood and local cuisine
- Great outdoor activities: hiking, boating, puffin watching
- Compact walkable city center
- Strong internet connectivity
- Unique off-the-beaten-path destination

## Cons

- High cost of living and daily expenses
- Cold, foggy, and wet weather for much of the year
- Limited budget accommodation options
- Small digital nomad community
- Restricted nightlife outside of George Street
- Remote location, far from major cities
- Limited luxury dining and high-end shopping
- Transportation within the city is limited
- Short tourist season, often crowded in summer
- High provincial taxes on goods and services

## FAQs

**Is St. John's safe for tourists?**

Yes, St. John's is one of Canada's safest cities. Violent crime is rare, and tourists can explore the downtown and trails with confidence. Use ordinary precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night and watching your step on wet hiking paths.

**What's the best time to visit St. John's?**

The best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is mildest and the city hosts vibrant festivals like the George Street Festival in August. Winters are harsh and foggy, but offer a cozy, local experience. For budget travelers, shoulder seasons (May or October) may offer lower prices, though some attractions close.

**Do I need a visa for St. John's?**

Canada requires most travelers to obtain an eTA or visitor visa, depending on your citizenship. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays under 6 months but must present a valid passport. Citizens of visa-exempt countries can apply for an eTA online before arrival. Always check official government sources.

**What's the internet speed like in St. John's?**

Internet speeds in St. John's are excellent, with average download speeds exceeding 150 Mbps and uploads around 50 Mbps. Major providers like Bell and Rogers offer fiber connections. Wifi is reliable in hotels, coworking spaces, and most cafes, making it suitable for remote work.

**Can I work remotely in St. John's?**

Yes, remote work is feasible in St. John's, thanks to high-speed internet and a few coworking options like Avalon Coworking. However, the digital nomad community is small, and the lack of dedicated nomad events means you'll need to be self-sufficient. Long-term stays are possible with a valid visa and some adaptability to the quieter pace.

**What's the backpacker scene like in St. John's?**

The backpacker scene is small but friendly. There are a couple of hostels, such as HI St. John's, where travelers can meet. Budget travelers should be prepared for higher costs than Asia or Latin America, but the social atmosphere is welcoming, and the shared love for adventure and nature creates a tight-knit community.

**How much does it cost to visit St. John's?**

Expect to spend around $60/day as a backpacker if you stay in dorms and cook meals, $90/day for a nomad in a private apartment and coworking, and upwards of $250/day for luxury travelers. Prices are noticeably higher than in many other Canadian cities due to its remoteness and limited supply.

## Links

- [Web page](https://www.cheaptraveldestination.com/canada/st-johns)
- [City JSON](https://www.cheaptraveldestination.com/data/cities/stjohns.json)
- [Canada overview](https://www.cheaptraveldestination.com/canada)