St. John's

St. John's is the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, perched on steep hills where rows of wooden houses in red, yellow, and blue face the Atlantic harbor. The city surrounds a protected inlet that opens through a narrow channel called The Narrows, separating the sheltered water from the open ocean.

European fishermen used the harbor as a base for cod fishing in the early 1500s, long before English settlers established a permanent colony in 1583. Over centuries, the settlement grew into a military and trading hub linking Europe and the North American continent.

Live music sessions in pubs along George Street reflect Irish and Scottish roots that shaped local speech and social habits. Fishermen and their families gather at summer festivals, sharing stories and songs that connect the community to the water and weather.

Strong wind and fog shape the weather here, especially in spring and fall, so bring layers and waterproof clothing for sudden changes. The steep streets in the downtown core require good walking shoes, and many viewpoints sit on hilltops best reached on foot.

The colorful jellybean pattern of houses began when fishermen painted their homes in different shades to spot them easily from the water. Today, residents continue this tradition, choosing bright colors that stand out against fog and gray skies along the rocky coast.