Charlottetown, the capital of Prince Edward Island, is a charming coastal city rich in history and culture. Known as the ‘Birthplace of Confederation’, it hosted the 1864 Charlottetown Conference that led to the formation of Canada.
The city features Victorian architecture, waterfront views, and vibrant arts and culinary scenes. Visitors can explore historic sites like Province House and enjoy local seafood delicacies. With its welcoming atmosphere, walkable downtown, and numerous festivals, Charlottetown offers a blend of heritage and modern appeal.
It’s a popular destination for those seeking scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and a taste of island life in Atlantic Canada.
Above; Love sign, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
Above Left: Queen Street. Above Right: Peakes Quay
Above: Victoria Row, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
Above: Owner of the Sea Rocket Oyster House shucking Oysters, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
Above, left to right: Lobster Roll / Oysters / Muscles & Fries – Sea Rocket Oyster House
Above left: Chocolate shop on Queen Street; Centre: Cows Ice Cream; Right; Shops on Victoria Row
Above: St James Church, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
Above Left: Street Art, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada; Above Right; Scarecrows from the annual Scarecrow Festival.
Above: Skating past traditional houses on Prince Edward Island, Canada
Above Left: Rare book shop The Bookman. Above Right; Colourful traditional houses.
Above Left: Early morning walk along the boardwalk Charlottetown. Above Right: Colourful buildings at Peakes Quay,
Above: Brighton Beach Range Lighthouse on Prince Edward Island
Need to know
Getting there
Charlottetown is well connected, with regular Air Canada flights from major Canadian cities. If you’re traveling from the UK or other parts of Europe, it’s best to connect through Toronto, Montreal, or Quebec City, all of which offer frequent Air Canada service from London.
Charlottetown Airport (YYG) is conveniently located just 7 km north of the city center. Getting into town is simple with affordable public buses running regularly to downtown for just $2, or you can opt for a taxi, which typically costs between $25 and $30CAD and takes around 20 minutes.
Best time to go
The ideal time to visit Charlottetown and Prince Edward Island is during the summer months between June and September, when the city comes alive. During the summer months, PEI offers warm temperatures, beautiful sandy beaches and loads of opportunity for adventure.
Where to stay
We stayed at the 4-star Rodd Charlottetown on Kent Street. A modern hotel with a touch of Charlottown flare. The Rodd is well located for the majority of Charlottetown sights and restaurants walkable.
There are plenty of hotels and B&Bs options. The Shipwright Inn is perfect for those looking for a more traditional experience. The Arts Hotel offers a quirky more budget friendly option. If you plan on visiting in the peak summer months then book early, rooms move fast1
Must-pack items:
If you’re planning on visiting during the summer months, temperatures typically range from 20 to 30°C, so your usual summer wardrobe should be just right. However, since Prince Edward Island is a North Atlantic Island, weather can be unpredictable, meaning it’s wise to pack a lightweight, waterproof, and wind-resistant jacket just in case.
If you’re traveling outside of the peak summer months, you can likely leave the shorts at home. Be sure to bring a warm coat, as cooler temperatures and brisk winds are more common during the off-season.
How to do it:
The best way to explore Charlottetown, is by foot or bike. This very walkable city is packed with historic sites, a lively waterfront, local shops, and some of the best sea food restaurants we’ve experienced, all within a compact downtown.
Rising Tide Electric Bicycles offer rentals and tours from 79.99CAD whilst GuruWalk offers free walking tours of Charlottetown.
Anything else:
There is no shortage of things to see and do oin Charlottetown but one thing that should not be missed is an Oyster lunch at the Sea Rocket Oyster House on Queen Street. Followed by an Ice Cream at from the famous Cows Ice Cream parlour.
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