🌴 Explore Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Charming, historic, and rich with coastal beauty, Charlottetown is the capital of Prince Edward Island and the birthplace of Canadian Confederation. With its red-brick streets, harborside boardwalk, and friendly island vibe, this small city is big on character. From fresh seafood to Anne of Green Gables heritage, Charlottetown offers a relaxing and authentically Canadian coastal experience.
📌 Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Province | Prince Edward Island |
| Country | Canada |
| Population | ~40,000 (metro ~80,000) |
| Time Zone | AST (UTC -4:00) / ADT (UTC -3:00, DST) |
| Currency | Canadian Dollar (CAD) |
| Nearest Airport | Charlottetown Airport (YYG) |
| Languages | English, French |
| Climate | Humid continental – Cold winters, warm summers |
| Best Time to Visit | June to September for warm weather, festivals, and seafood |
🧭 Top Attractions in Charlottetown
🏛️ Province House National Historic Site
The birthplace of Canadian Confederation, this 19th-century building hosted the 1864 Charlottetown Conference and offers guided tours and exhibits.
🌊 Victoria Row
A picturesque pedestrian street filled with cafés, patios, artisan shops, and live music in the summer — perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
🛳️ Peake’s Wharf Historic Waterfront
This lively boardwalk area features local boutiques, ice cream shops, harbor cruises, and fresh seafood with views of the water.
📖 Anne of Green Gables Heritage
While Anne’s fictional home is in Cavendish, Charlottetown celebrates her legacy with musicals, themed shops, and island-wide attractions.
🍴 Where to Eat & Drink
Charlottetown is a foodie’s paradise — especially for seafood lovers:
- Lobster on the Wharf – A classic PEI experience serving fresh-caught lobster and shellfish right by the marina
- Claddagh Oyster House – An upscale yet cozy spot known for local oysters, scallops, and craft cocktails
- Receiver Coffee Co. – A hip café and bakery known for house-roasted coffee and fresh, local ingredients
- The Gahan House – A brewpub with hearty fare and a great selection of PEI-brewed craft beer
Be sure to try Malpeque oysters, PEI mussels, lobster rolls, and cow’s ice cream — made locally and beloved across Canada.
🏨 Where to Stay
Charlottetown offers a warm island welcome with a range of charming accommodations:
- The Great George – A boutique hotel in a collection of restored heritage buildings, right in the heart of downtown
- Delta Hotels by Marriott – A centrally located option with waterfront views and modern amenities
- Fairholm Boutique Inns – Historic and elegant, offering a cozy bed-and-breakfast atmosphere
- Budget-friendly motels and inns – Available just outside the city center or near the airport
🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Support local artisans and take home a piece of island culture:
- Founders’ Hall and Confederation Centre Gift Shop – Great for PEI-themed gifts, books, and crafts
- Victoria Row & Queen Street Boutiques – Browse for handmade jewelry, clothing, and local art
- Peake’s Wharf – A great stop for souvenirs like Anne of Green Gables merch and locally made goods
- Souvenirs – Look for PEI preserves, pottery, knitted goods, and seafood sauces
🧳 Travel Information
Getting There:
- 🛫 By air: Charlottetown Airport (YYG) has flights from major Canadian cities
- 🚗 By car: Drive across the Confederation Bridge (Canada’s longest bridge!) from New Brunswick
- ⛴️ By ferry: Northumberland Ferries offer a scenic trip between Nova Scotia and eastern PEI
Getting Around:
- Downtown is very walkable, especially the historic core and waterfront
- Car rentals are recommended for exploring the island beyond the city
- Taxis and rideshares are available, though limited outside urban areas
- Biking is a great way to get around, with trails like the Confederation Trail offering stunning countryside views
Safety Tip: Charlottetown is extremely safe and welcoming. Island roads are well-maintained, but take care when driving in rural areas at night due to wildlife.
💡 Local Tips
- 🦞 Visit during PEI’s Fall Flavours Festival or Charlottetown Festival for local food, culture, and Anne of Green Gables performances
- 🎶 Catch a show at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, home of the long-running Anne of Green Gables – The Musical
- 🚲 Rent a bike and ride a portion of the Confederation Trail, which spans the island
- 🌅 Don’t miss a sunset walk along the Victoria Park boardwalk — it’s a local favorite for a reason!