The capital of Prince Edward Island, founded in 1765, sits on a peninsula. It's a governmental hub with Irish influences, connected to mainland Canada by Confederation Bridge.
Charlottetown, the capital of Prince Edward Island, is a coastal city steeped in Canadian history. You can stroll past Victorian-era buildings, catch a show at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, or dine on fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. The city's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, allowing you to experience both its urban core and calm atmosphere.
Getting to Charlottetown
You can reach Charlottetown by air, land, or sea. Several Canadian cities have direct flights to Charlottetown Airport (YYG). If you're driving, cross the 12.9-kilometer Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick. For a scenic approach, take the ferry from Nova Scotia to Wood Islands, then drive about an hour to Charlottetown.
Arts and Culture
Visit the Confederation Centre of the Arts, a multi-venue complex in downtown Charlottetown. It houses an art gallery, several theaters, and a public library. You can watch "Anne of Green Gables - The Musical," which has been running since 1965, making it Canada's longest-running musical.
Waterfront and Parks
Spend a relaxed afternoon at Victoria Park, a 40-acre green space near downtown. You'll find walking trails, tennis courts, and swimming areas. For a longer adventure, rent a bike and ride part of the Confederation Trail, a 435-kilometer route that crosses the entire island.
Local Cuisine
Charlottetown's restaurants serve Prince Edward Island's agricultural produce and seafood. Try fresh oysters at one of the city's oyster bars, or sample locally-brewed beer at a downtown pub. For a hands-on experience, take a culinary class at the Culinary Institute of Canada, where you can learn to prepare dishes using local ingredients.
Festivals and Events
Attend festivals throughout the year in Charlottetown. From June to September, the Charlottetown Festival presents Canadian performing arts. In autumn, participate in the PEI Fall Flavours Festival, which includes several events in Charlottetown celebrating the island's culinary traditions.
Historical Sites
Learn about Canada's formation at Province House National Historic Site, where delegates first discussed Canadian unification in 1864. While Province House undergoes restoration, you can see a replica of the Confederation Chamber at the nearby Confederation Centre of the Arts.
Where to Stay
Choose from a range of accommodations in Charlottetown, from historic inns to modern hotels. Stay at The Great George, a collection of restored 19th-century buildings in downtown. If you prefer water views, book a room at the Delta Hotels Prince Edward, which overlooks Charlottetown Harbour and connects to the convention centre.
Best Time to Visit
Visit Charlottetown between June and September for warm weather and numerous outdoor events. Temperatures typically range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). If you don't mind cooler weather, come in autumn to experience the Fall Flavours Festival and see the city's trees turn red and gold.
