St John’s FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting St John’s.

When is the best time to visit St John’s?

Mid-June to mid-September is the best time to visit St John’s and Newfoundland with the warmest weather and most sunshine. May-July is peak season for iceberg spotting while April to September is best for whale-watching. Temperatures in summer (June-August) range 16-21°C. Rain is relatively frequent throughout the year but more September to March. Winter (December-March) is cold and windy but not as severely cold as elsewhere in Canada. However, some restaurants and guesthouses close during the winter months. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) range from cool to mild but are picturesque times to visit, especially the Fall colours.

What is the time difference between the UK and St John’s?

St John’s and Newfoundland observes Newfoundland Standard Time (GMT – 3.5 hours), unusual because of the half-hour difference, and observes Newfoundland Daylight Time (+ 1 hour) March to November.

What places combine well with St John’s?

St John’s is close to Cape Spear and the best base to explore the rest of the Avalon peninsula. Bonavista is three hours’ drive north-west, Twilingate nearly five hours north, and Gros Morne National Park over six hours north-east.

What are the main cultural events in St John’s?

July – Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival
July/August – George Street Festival
August – Royal St. John’s Regatta