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Where to Stay in St Johns

Where to Stay in St Johns

St Johns Newfoundland And Labrador, Canada Travel Guide

Accommodation Types in St. John's

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels:

    Limited options, popular for budget travelers. They include dorm beds and private rooms, with a social atmosphere.

  • Hotels:

    Choices range from budget chains to mid-range and boutique downtown hotels. Modern amenities and varied service levels are available.

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs):

    Many B&Bs reside in historic downtown homes. They deliver personalized service, a local feel, and often include homemade breakfast.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options:

    Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO list numerous apartments and homes. These work well for families or groups, with more space and often kitchen facilities.

Unique Local Accommodation Types

  • Historic Inns and Guesthouses:

    These often include unique character and a connection to the city's past, providing a distinctive stay experience.

  • Homestay and Community-Based Tourism Opportunities:

    Some vacation rentals might deliver a "homestay" feel. Engagement with local communities often occurs through guided tours or visits to small villages outside the city.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation:

    No official campgrounds are directly within St. John's. Provincial parks like Butter Pot or Paddy's Pond RV Park are available a short drive away.

  • Diverse Options:

    From budget-friendly to luxury, the city has a place for every traveler's budget and style.

St. John's Neighborhood Guide for Accommodation

The right neighborhood shapes your St. John's experience. Each area has a distinct character.

Downtown Water Street, Duckworth Street, George Street

Benefits
  • Walking distance to major attractions (Signal Hill, The Rooms).
  • Excellent dining and nightlife.
  • Good access to public transit.
  • Colorful row houses ("Jellybean Row").
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, especially near George Street.
  • Parking is challenging and expensive.
  • Exercise standard urban precautions late at night.
  • High demand for popular places.

The Battery / Quidi Vidi Village

Benefits
  • Extremely picturesque with stunning harbour views.
  • Quiet, unique local feel.
  • Short walk from downtown.
  • Quaint, historic fishing village atmosphere.
Considerations
  • Very steep and winding roads.
  • Driving and parking are difficult.
  • Limited amenities directly in the village.
  • A short drive or longer walk to downtown services.

Outer St. John's e.g., Avalon Mall, Kenmount Road

Benefits
  • More affordable hotel options.
  • Ample free parking.
  • Convenient for shopping.
  • Easy access to major roads.
Considerations
  • A car or bus is needed for sightseeing in the historic core.
  • Lacks the unique charm of downtown.
  • Less walkability to attractions.
  • Typical suburban environment.

Neighborhood Planning Tips

Proximity to Attractions and Transportation Hubs:

Downtown delivers the best proximity to most major attractions and public transit hubs. It is easy for exploration without a car.

Noise Levels and Ambiance:

Downtown can be lively, especially on weekends and evenings. The Battery and Quidi Vidi Village generally have a quieter, more tranquil ambiance.

Booking Strategies for Accommodation

Strategic booking secures your preferred accommodation and saves money.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (July-August): Book accommodation 3-6 months in advance. Popular B&Bs and boutique hotels downtown fill quickly.
  • Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October): Book 1-3 months in advance. This period has good demand.
  • Low Season (November-April): More flexibility exists. Booking 2-4 weeks in advance usually works, and you may find last-minute deals.
  • Flexibility: Adjust booking times based on major events or festivals, as these also affect demand.

Trusted Booking Platforms and Local Systems

  • Major international booking sites like Booking.com and Agoda are widely used and reliable.
  • Many local B&Bs and smaller hotels also accept direct booking through their own websites.
  • Deposit and Cancellation Policies: Policies vary significantly by property. Always check the deposit rules and cancellation terms before confirming your reservation.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Expect prices to be higher during the peak summer season. They are lowest in the winter months.

Booking Considerations

Flexibility Options:
  • Many properties allow free cancellation up to a certain period before arrival, providing flexibility.
  • Consider travel insurance for non-refundable bookings.
  • Booking directly with local properties can sometimes yield better rates or unique packages.
  • Sign up for newsletters for special deals.
Traveler Type Advice:
  • Families often find vacation rentals with kitchens more convenient.
  • Solo travelers may enjoy the social aspect of hostels (if available).
  • Couples often appreciate the charm of B&Bs.
  • Business travelers typically look for hotels with conference amenities.

Important Booking Notes

Read Reviews:

Always check recent reviews to verify property quality and service standards.

Location Check:

Confirm the property's exact location relative to attractions or activities planned.

Accessibility:

If accessibility needs exist, confirm details directly with the property before booking.

Accommodation Recommendations in St. John's

Here are some top accommodation selections for St. John's, categorized by travel style and budget.

Diverse Stay Types

The Jag Hotel Luxury

A boutique, music-themed hotel downtown. Modern and stylish.

  • Estimated Budget: $250 - $400+ CAD/night
  • Often includes breakfast.
  • Walking distance to George Street and other downtown attractions.
  • Premium amenities.
Delta Hotels by Marriott St. John's Conference Centre Mid-Range

Centrally located with good amenities. Convenient for both business and leisure.

  • Estimated Budget: $180 - $280 CAD/night
  • Close to the harbour and convention center.
  • Reliable Marriott service.
  • Family-friendly options.

Local Charm & Value

Murray Premises Hotel Historic/B&B

A historic building on Water Street. Includes characterful rooms.

  • Estimated Budget: $200 - $350 CAD/night
  • Delivers unique charm.
  • Often includes breakfast.
  • Prime downtown location, near shops and restaurants.
Hometel on Signal Hill Budget/Value

Offers basic, clean rooms. Delivers good value and free parking.

  • Estimated Budget: $100 - $180 CAD/night
  • A short drive to downtown.
  • Good for budget-conscious travelers with a car.
  • Offers views of Signal Hill.

Unique Boutique Stays

  • Blue on Water:

    A boutique hotel with a popular restaurant and bar. Features stylish decor. Located directly on Water Street.

  • The Luxus Boutique Hotel:

    An upscale option with modern design and personalized service. A luxurious experience for discerning travelers.

  • Alt Hotel St. John's:

    Modern design hotel with harbor views. Known for its comfortable rooms and central location.

  • The Narrows Bed and Breakfast:

    A charming B&B with characterful rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, near the Narrows entrance to the harbour.

Flexible Vacation Rentals

  • Various via Airbnb/VRBO:

    Offers a range of apartments and homes. Good for groups or families. Provides more space and kitchen facilities.

  • Booking Notes:

    Check the specific location for walkability to attractions. Read reviews carefully for amenities and host responsiveness.

  • Group Travel:

    Vacation rentals are often more cost-effective for larger groups or longer stays, allowing for shared meals and common areas.

  • Neighborhood Options:

    Rentals exist across various neighborhoods, from bustling downtown to quieter suburban areas, depending on your preference.

Additional Rental Insights

Benefits of Rentals

Vacation rentals deliver more space and kitchen facilities for groups or families, making self-catering an option.

  • Cost-effective for longer stays.
  • More privacy than traditional hotels.
  • Living like a local experience.
  • Pet-friendly options sometimes available.
Considerations for Rentals

Location significantly affects walkability to attractions, and pricing varies widely by property and season.

  • Cleaning fees often apply.
  • Interaction with hosts can vary.
  • Policies for cancellations and damages differ.
  • Availability diminishes quickly during peak season.

Overall Pricing Estimates CAD/night

Luxury Hotels

$250 - $400+

Mid-Range Hotels & B&Bs

$180 - $350

Budget Hotels & Hostels

$100 - $180