Newfoundland: A Road Trip Itinerary for First-Timers

If you think you can “see Newfoundland” in a week—you’re both wrong and right. The province spans hundreds of kilometres. If you drove across, non-stop, it would take about 12 hours – and you would see nothing. It’s a province that deserves to be broken into pieces. This 7-day Newfoundland road trip itinerary sticks to Eastern Newfoundland, offering a mix of history, coastal views, and charming small towns.

Whether you’re flying into St. John’s or starting a road trip across Atlantic Canada, here’s your guide to soaking up the best of the east.

Day 1–3: St. John’s and the Avalon Peninsula

Fly into St. John’s International Airport, and set up base for a few days. The city is colourful, compact, and culture-rich, with lively restaurants, music, and some of the most beautiful hikes in the country. I believe St. John’s is the most beautiful city in Canada. You could spend weeks just soaking it in.

Top Things to Do in St. John’s:

• Signal Hill: Hike the Battery to the summit, or drive if you’re short on time. Views of the Atlantic are unbeatable.
• Cape Spear: Canada’s easternmost point. Go at sunrise if you can.
• Downtown eats: Try brunch on Water Street (Ziggy’s chip truck for classic fare or Bannerman Brewing for something trendy).
• The Rooms Museum: Art, history, and a perfect view over the Narrows.
• Evening shows: LSPU Hall features top-tier local theatre.

Want a break from the city? Day-trip along the Avalon Peninsula to Middle Cove, Outer Cove, or Topsail Beach. You’re never far from an East Coast Trail trail head or a rugged beach. Your Newfoundland road trip itinerary could just top here – there’s so much to see on the Peninsula.

Where to stay in St. John’s? My favourite hotel is the Alt, right on the water, with a great restaurant. If you are a Marriott Bonvoy member, you can use or earn points at the Courtyard, Delta, or Sheraton – all good options.

*You do not need a car in the city. There are tour and taxi companies that will happily take you to the nearby sites that require a lift. It can be nice to have a car though. Rentals book up very quickly in Newfoundland. If you want a car, double check that one is available before confirming your dates to avoid disappointment.

Only have a short time? Here’s how I’d spend 24 hours in St. John’s

Day 4–5: Trinity & the Bonavista Peninsula

Head north to Trinity, a postcard-perfect town packed with history and charm. It’s about a 3-hour drive and well worth the change in pace.

Trinity Must-Do’s:

• Rising Tide Theatre Festival: All their shows are good, but I like to find something with some Newfoundland History. Shows change each season.
• Skerwink Trail (Port Rexton): A 5.3 km loop trail with jaw-dropping cliffside views.
• Coffee & community: Trinity Coffee Company roasts its own and is a great local hangout.

Stay at Artisan Inn or Fisher’s Loft in Port Rexton (book early—they fill fast in late summer).

Add a Day Trip:

• Port Union: A union-built town frozen in time, with a museum, walking trails, and rich labour history.
• Elliston: Newfoundland’s puffin capital. Bring binoculars or borrow a pair roadside and enjoy the wild, non-commercial vibe.

Day 6: Bonavista

Whether you overnight in Bonavista or loop back to Trinity, this town is worth a full day.

Bonavista Highlights:

• Cape Bonavista Lighthouse: Epic cliffs, whale watching, and maybe even icebergs.
• The Matthew: Tour a replica of John Cabot’s ship where he landed in 1497.
• Bonavista Social Club (Amherst Cove): Incredible seasonal food, grown and baked onsite.

Even if you only loop through Bonavista on your return from Elliston, this coastal town delivers a full Newfoundland experience in just a few hours.

Optional Extension: More to See

Got extra time? Continue west to:

• Gander (for Come From Away fans)
• Twillingate (icebergs, boats, and charm)
• Terra Nova National Park
• Fogo Island (dramatic landscapes and contemporary art)

Tips for Your Eastern Newfoundland Road Trip Itinerary

• Rent a car: Public transport is limited.
• Pack layers: Even in August, the weather shifts fast.
• Book accommodations and vehicles early: Especially July–September.
• Respect wildlife: Especially puffins and whales—observe, don’t disturb.

Final Thoughts on a Newfoundland Road Trip Itinerary

Eastern Newfoundland is a stunning, story-filled part of Canada that rewards slow travel. Don’t rush it. Even a week in this corner of the province will give you rugged coasts, rich history, and a taste of what makes Newfoundland unforgettable.

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