Is St. John's worth visiting?

Yes, it is a unique and beautiful city with a rich history and culture.

Yes, a car is highly recommended to explore the island.

How long is the flight?

The total travel time including connections is usually around 12 hours.

It can be expensive due to the cost of travel to the island.

No, there is no passenger rail service on the island of Newfoundland.

St. John's

Flight Ship

Picture Butte to St. John's

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Picture Butte to St. John's is the longest domestic trip in Canada, covering over 5,500 kilometers. The most practical way to travel is by flying from Lethbridge (YQL) via Calgary (YYC) and Toronto (YYZ) to St. John's International Airport (YYT). Driving is an extreme adventure that requires taking a ferry from North Sydney, Nova Scotia, to Argentia or Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. St. John's is a historic city known for its colorful houses and rugged coastline. Plan your trip with significant lead time.

Total Distance: 5,500 km driving distance; 4,500 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Lethbridge (YQL) via Calgary (YYC) and Toronto (YYZ) to St. John's (YYT) takes about 12 hours.

Cheapest Way

Flying is generally more cost-effective than driving due to the high cost of fuel and ferry fees.

Compare Picture Butte to St. John's Routes

	Flight Connecting	Ship Connecting
Duration	12 hours	60+ hours
Avg Price	$800 - $1,500 CAD	$1,200 - $2,000 CAD (including vehicle)
Operator	Air Canada or WestJet	Marine Atlantic
Route	YQL to YYC to YYZ to YYT	Drive to North Sydney, then ferry to Newfoundland
Tip	Expect long travel days with multiple connections.	Book your ferry reservation months in advance, especially in summer.

Travel Tips

Metrobus
Use the Metrobus system to get around St. John's.
Weather
Newfoundland weather is unpredictable; pack for all four seasons regardless of the time of year.
Car Rental
Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the surrounding coastal areas.
Local Culture
Engage with the locals; the hospitality in Newfoundland is legendary.
Airport Access
Taxis and ride-sharing services are the primary ways to get from the airport to downtown.

Safety Tips

Driving
Be cautious of moose on the roads, especially at dawn and dusk.
Emergency
Dial 911 for emergencies; services are available throughout the province.
General Safety
St. John's is safe, but be mindful of your surroundings in busy areas.
Coastal Safety
Stay away from the edge of cliffs; the coastal terrain can be unstable.