Things To Do
in Saint-Pierre
Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is a group of islands located south of Newfoundland in North America. It is an overseas territory of France, making it the only remaining part of New France under French control. The islands are known for their unique blend of French and North American culture, with French being the official language.
Saint-Pierre is the larger and more populous of the two main islands, while Miquelon is divided into two parts – Grand Miquelon and Langlade.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $90 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic walk along the stunning coastline of Saint-Pierre. Breathe in the fresh sea air while taking in the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Visit the local fishing harbor to watch the boats come in with their fresh catch. Grab some lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant to taste the local flavors.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the town. End your day with a cozy dinner at a café, enjoying the warm atmosphere.
Begin at the Archipelago Museum to learn about the history and culture of Saint Pierre and Miquelon. Engage with the exhibits and the heritage of this unique region.
Visit the Church of Saint-Pierre, an architectural gem of the island. Take a moment to appreciate its beauty before enjoying a local lunch at a nearby eatery.
Attend a local cultural event or music performance to immerse yourself in the community's traditions. Dine at a restaurant serving regional cuisine, savoring each bite.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique French culture in a North American context
- Stunning natural landscapes and proximity to the ocean
- Rich history and heritage connected to France
- Peaceful environment with low crime rates
- Potential for tourism due to its distinct culture and geography
- Limited job opportunities and economic dependency
- High cost of living and imported goods
- Harsh winter weather conditions
- Remote location, making travel expensive and complicated
- Limited access to healthcare and education resources
Best Activities in Saint-Pierre
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes of Saint-Pierre through various hiking trails that offer stunning views of the coast and the surrounding nature.
Saint-Pierre is home to a variety of bird species. Enjoy bird watching in natural reserves and along the shorelines, especially during migration seasons.
Experience the coastal beauty of Saint-Pierre by kayaking. Paddle through calm waters and observe marine life and picturesque scenery.
Join local fishing tours or try your luck at fishing off the coast. Saint-Pierre is known for its rich marine biodiversity.
Take a boat tour to watch whales and other marine mammals in their natural habitat, typically during the summer months.
Enjoy the serene beaches of Saint-Pierre for relaxation, sunbathing, and scenic walks along the shoreline.
Capture the unique architecture, landscapes, and wildlife of Saint-Pierre through guided photography tours tailored for enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint-Pierre with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint-Pierre
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the ocean, perfect for sunset photography.
An iconic lighthouse providing a striking backdrop against the rugged coastline, ideal for capturing dramatic seascapes.
A natural reserve with breathtaking views of the cliffs and the sea; great for nature photography and capturing local wildlife.
Overlooks the picturesque harbor of Saint-Pierre, offering excellent opportunities for photos of boats and vibrant colored buildings.
The main square in the heart of Saint-Pierre, surrounded by charming architecture, perfect for street photography and local culture.
A beautiful green space with views of the Atlantic Ocean, ideal for capturing serene landscapes and leisurely outdoor activities.
Food in Saint-Pierre
Saint-Pierre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish of salt cod, potatoes, onions, and cream, baked to perfection. This dish can be savored at restaurants like Le Feu de Braise and Le Viking in Saint-Pierre.
Must-Try!
Lobster prepared in the American style, with a rich tomato-based sauce. This delectable dish can be enjoyed at La Feu de Braise and La Marée in Saint-Pierre.
Scallops gratin, prepared with a flavorful combination of local ingredients. This dish is a specialty at La Marée in Saint-Pierre.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint-Pierre better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The local market in Saint-Pierre offers a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties. Visitors can indulge in homemade pastries and local snacks while exploring the vibrant market atmosphere.
The food trucks in this area offer a diverse range of street food options, from savory crepes to fresh seafood skewers. It's a great spot to experience quick bites with local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet people politely with a 'bonjour' (hello) or 'bonsoir' (good evening) when entering shops or meeting locals. A firm handshake is common, and maintaining eye contact shows respect.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending formal events. It's advisable to wear clean and well-presented clothing as it reflects respect for the local culture.
When dining with locals, wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and say 'Bon appétit' before the meal. It's also customary to keep hands on the table (but not elbows) during the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint-Pierre with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Pierre
Ensure a smooth experience
In Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, tipping is not as common or obligatory as in some other countries. Service charges may already be included in the bill, especially in restaurants. However, it is appreciated if customers round up the bill or leave small change for good service. Tipping practices can vary; locals may tip more generously compared to visitors.
Payment methods in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon are similar to those in France. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas and larger establishments. Cash is also commonly used, particularly in smaller shops and markets. The Euro is the official currency, and ATMs are available for withdrawal. Some businesses may prefer cash for small transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint-Pierre.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. Visitors can expect temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). This is a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and bird watching as the local wildlife becomes more active.
Summer offers the warmest temperatures, averaging between 14°C and 20°C (57°F to 68°F). This is the peak tourist season, perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals, cultural events, and exploring the beautiful coastal scenery. The long daylight hours allow for ample time to discover the varied flora and fauna.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F) and stunning fall foliage. This season is ideal for those who appreciate fewer crowds and the changing colors of nature. It's also a good time for hiking and enjoying the local harvest festivals.
Winter is cold, with temperatures often between -5°C and 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Snow can cover the landscape, making it picturesque but chilly. This season is suitable for those interested in winter sports or experiencing the serene beauty of a winter wonderland. Expect festive local celebrations as well.
Saint-Pierre at Night
Hiking in Saint-Pierre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal trail that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. It's perfect for a leisurely hike and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
A challenging hike that leads to the summit of Mont Saint Pierre, providing panoramic views of the surrounding islands and a unique perspective of the natural landscape.
This trail features a diverse range of flora and fauna, along with stunning views of the surrounding hills and maritime environment, offering a peaceful hiking experience.
A lesser-known trail that offers a more secluded hiking experience with opportunities to explore wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of nature away from the more populated areas.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint-Pierre through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Saint-Pierre by plane.
Located in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, approximately 1,300 km from Saint-Pierre.
Located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, approximately 1,600 km from Saint-Pierre.
Located in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, approximately 1,700 km from Saint-Pierre.
Located in New York City, New York, USA, approximately 2,500 km from Saint-Pierre.
Located in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, approximately 2,800 km from Saint-Pierre.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, as Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is a self-governing territorial overseas collectivity of France.
A significant community with historical ties to the region, as many inhabitants descend from Breton settlers.
Descendants of French settlers who migrated from what is now Canada, contributing to the cultural tapestry.
Including but not limited to people from Portugal and Spain, who have settled in smaller numbers.
The Soul of Saint-Pierre
Discover the essence of Saint-Pierre through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is a popular sport in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, with local leagues and community events encouraging participation.
Ice hockey is widely played in the region, with local teams and youth programs fostering skills and competition.
Basketball enjoys popularity among youth, with school teams and community leagues supporting the sport.
Running events, including marathons and fun runs, are commonly organized in the area, promoting fitness and community spirit.
Recreational fishing is a favored sport due to the rich marine environment surrounding the islands, attracting both locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Pierre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While many traditional dishes are seafood-based, several restaurants and cafes in Saint-Pierre offer vegetarian and vegan options. Le Feu de Braise and Café de la Grave have vegetarian-friendly choices, and Le Feu de Braise also offers vegan dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance will find that restaurants like La Marée and Le Feu de Braise can accommodate gluten-free dietary needs with some advance notice.