Things To Do
in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Saint Pierre and Miquelon is a tiny French overseas collectivity located off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada. The archipelago consists of two main islands, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, joined by a string of smaller islets and rugged shores. Its culture blends French maritime heritage with North Atlantic pragmatism, reflected in its seafood-focused cuisine and bilingual everyday life.
Despite its remote feel, the islands offer colorful harbors, historic forts, and a pace of life distinct from continental France.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the small yet charming airport of Saint Pierre, where you will be greeted by the quaint environment and the smell of fresh sea air. Check into your hotel and take a moment to rest or explore nearby shops before starting your adventure. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café to savor traditional French pastries.
Spend your afternoon wandering the streets of Saint Pierre, checking out the colorful French architecture that lines the harbor. Visit the fascinating Musée Héritage, where you can learn about the island's unique history and culture. Take a picturesque walk along the coast, soaking in the views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Indulge in a seafood dinner at a local restaurant, sampling the day's fresh catch paired with fine French wines. As the sun sets, take a tranquil stroll along the shore to enjoy the vista of a glowing horizon. Return to your accommodation for a good night's sleep, dreaming of the discoveries that lie ahead.
Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore the landmarks of the island. Begin with a visit to the beautiful Church of Saint Pierre, known for its striking architecture. Take time to appreciate the serenity and uniqueness of this historic site.
After lunch in town, embark on a guided tour that highlights the stunning coastal scenery and abundant wildlife. Travel to iconic locations, including the Pointe aux Canons, for breathtaking views and fascinating geological formations. Capture amazing photographs of the surrounding landscapes, ensuring you remember this incredible journey.
Savor a delightful dinner featuring local dishes, perhaps trying the celebrated lobster or traditional French cassoulet. Join fellow travelers for an evening at a local pub, where you can enjoy live music and the warm camaraderie of islanders. Reflect on the day's adventures while sipping a glass of local wine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $60-90 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay (mid-range) | $120-200 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚕Taxi or short ride | $10-18 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Remote Atlantic paradise with authentic Franco-Atlantic culture
- Excellent seafood and scenic coastlines
- Limited nightlife and services
- High travel costs and limited transport options
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is... ?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does this cost?
- "Je voudrais..." - I would like...
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The check, please.
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un plat local ?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
Places to Visit in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Visit one of these nice places.
The bustling harbor with boats, nets, and light at dawn; great for seascapes and street life.
Pastel façades line the harbor and provide vibrant color against Atlantic skies.
Rugged shorelines, tidal pools, and dramatic sea spray for landscape photography.
Lighthouse views and expansive Atlantic angles from Miquelon’s rocky coast.
Food in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Saint Pierre and Miquelon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, velvety soup featuring fresh lobster and langoustine, best enjoyed at a waterfront bistro.
Must-Try!
Pan-seared cod finished with hazelnut-brown butter and herbs, a staple of island cooking.
Langoustines cooked in a tomato-and-herb sauce, reflecting Atlantic flavors.
Sautéed scallops often served with light cream sauces and a touch of fromage.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seaside market selling fresh fish, shellfish, crustaceans, produce, and regional specialties.
Snack spots and small vendors offering crepes, pastries, and coffee with sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour, Monsieur/Madame' and a handshake; maintain polite demeanor.
French is the primary language; English is less common in rural areas; attempting basic French helps.
Keep hands on the table, wait to be seated, and say 'bon appétit' before meals.
Context similar to France; tips are appreciated but not mandatory.
Safety
Tipping in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; 5-10% in restaurants for good service is common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in towns; cash remains important in remote shops; some small operations may only accept cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Brisk, variable days; wildlife awakening; layer up and expect mixed skies.
Milder temperatures, longer daylight, and peak seafood activity; ideal for outdoor exploration and boat trips.
Cooler with Atlantic winds; fewer crowds; watch for sudden storms and changing tides.
Very cold and windy; some services reduce hours; dramatic sea imagery and tranquil coastlines, best with proper winter gear.
Saint Pierre and Miquelon at Night
Hiking in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route along the shoreline with sea views and rock formations.
Rugged shorelines, heath, and forested patches with panoramic outlooks.
Airports
How to reach Saint Pierre and Miquelon by plane.
Main airport serving the territory, offering connections to mainland France and Canada; flights are seasonal and limited.
For longer connections, travelers typically connect through Paris or Montreal to reach Saint-Pierre and Miquelon.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding communities whose livelihoods depend on the sea.
A small year-round population with seasonal influxes from mainland France and Canada.
A growing demographic visiting for seafood, scenery, and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A fundamental activity for locals; sport and commercial fishing are central to daily life.
Coastal winds make sailing popular; local regattas occur periodically.
Coastal and inland trails attract hikers and nature lovers.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options exist primarily as salads, cheese plates, and omelettes; when dining out, ask for vegetarian plat du jour or vegetable sides; many menus are seafood-focused, so plan accordingly.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint Pierre and Miquelon.