Things To Do
in Charlottetown

Steamed local mussels served in garlic-white wine broth or classic marinara; try them at waterfront restaurants and market stalls.

Must-Try!

Fresh lobster served in a buttered roll or as a steamed whole lobster — best at harbour shacks and seaside eateries.

Widely used in fries, soups and potato breads; sample the local potato dishes at diners and markets.

A seasonal summertime treat made with PEI strawberries, often sold at markets and farm stands.

Open most mornings (check seasonal hours) with vendors selling seafood, baked goods, prepared foods, produce and local crafts — great for quick bites and people-watching.

Seasonal stalls and food trucks near the harbour offering seafood snacks, chowders and ice cream during the summer months.

Islanders are known for politeness and small-talk — greet strangers, thank service staff and respond to friendliness in kind.

Acknowledge local Mi'kmaq communities and Acadian French heritage; be respectful when photographing cultural sites and always ask permission when engaging with community members.

Casual, comfortable clothing is normal; dress neatly for nicer restaurants and performances at the Confederation Centre.

Follow Leave No Trace principles on trails and beaches — don’t disturb dunes, wildlife or private farmland.

Standard tipping is 15–20% in restaurants for good service; round up fares for taxis and tip bartenders $1–2 per drink or 10–15% for large tabs. No tip is expected for counter service, but small tips are appreciated.

Credit and debit cards (chip & PIN/contactless) are widely accepted; mobile payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) common. Cash is still useful for markets, small vendors and tips. ATMs available in town; notify your bank if traveling internationally.

Warm, pleasant days (20–25°C / 68–77°F) with long daylight hours; peak tourist season, many festivals, open markets and the best beach weather — book accommodation early.

Cooler temperatures and crisp air with beautiful fall foliage; fewer crowds, some businesses reduce hours, perfect for scenic drives and photography.

Cold and snowy (often below freezing) with shorter days; many outdoor activities shift to winter sports and the city is much quieter — bring warm layers and winter tires if driving.

Variable weather with cool, damp days and occasional warm spells; late spring brings blooming fields and reopening of seasonal attractions.

The majority population with ancestry from Scottish, English and Irish settlers; English is the dominant language.

A French-speaking minority with cultural roots on the island; French is used in some communities, festivals and signage.

Indigenous people with living communities and cultural presence in PEI (Abegweit First Nation), contributing to the island's history and contemporary culture.

Smaller but growing communities adding cultural diversity, particularly in urban Charlottetown.

A leading winter sport across PEI with community rinks, junior leagues and local enthusiasm for game nights.

PEI is popular for scenic golf courses and attracts golfers to courses around Charlottetown and the north shore.

A community winter sport with local clubs and seasonal competitions.

Summer boating, sailing and fishing are popular around Charlottetown's harbour and coastal waters.

Vegetarian options are widely available at markets, cafés and many restaurants; look for seasonal vegetable plates, salads and potato-based dishes.

Vegan choices are growing but still limited compared with larger cities; check menus ahead and ask markets/vendors about dairy-free options.

Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free diets (gluten-free bread, salads, seafood); always inform staff about cross-contamination risks.

Shellfish is a staple on PEI — those with allergies should be vigilant and notify restaurants; cross-contact can occur in kitchens.