· CA

Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island, Canada

Escape to Prince Edward Island: Where Storybook Charm Meets Unspoiled Nature Dreaming of idyllic landscapes, captivating history, and fresh-from-the-ocean flavours? Look no further than Prince Edward Island, Canada. Affe…

#Island#Canada#Coastal#Tourism#Red soil

1/4

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Prince Edward Island.

Top Hotels in Prince Edward Island

Top Flights to Prince Edward Island

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Prince Edward Island.

Tours

Green Gables House

Step back in time at Green Gables House, the inspiration for the beloved novel 'Anne of Green Gables'. Explore the beautiful Victorian farmhouse and surrounding gardens.

Prince Edward Island National Park

Discover the natural beauty of PEI National Park with its red cliffs, beaches, and ecosystems.

Shopping

Victoria Row Shopping

Explore the charming street of Victoria Row, offering unique shops, cafes, and entertainment.

Charlottetown Waterfront

Stroll along the scenic Charlottetown waterfront, lined with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views.

Outdoor

Confederation Trail Cycling

Cycle through the scenic landscapes of Prince Edward Island on the Confederation Trail.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Prince Edward Island.

Currency

$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Prince Edward Island, Canada, is '0.2 million'.

Languages

English, French

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Prince Edward Island.

What people love

Prince Edward Island, located in Canada, offers a range of attractions and activities that make it a popular travel destination. Here are some pros of traveling to Prince Edward Island:

Natural Beauty: Prince Edward Island is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including red sand beaches, rolling green hills, and picturesque lighthouses. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives along the coast, explore national parks, and take in the island's peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
Anne of Green Gables: Prince Edward Island is the setting for the beloved children's novel "Anne of Green Gables" by Lucy Maud Montgomery. Fans of the book can visit the Green Gables Heritage Place, which is a historic site that inspired the novel and explore the charming villages and locations mentioned in the story.
Culinary Delights: Prince Edward Island is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly its world-famous lobsters and oysters. Visitors can enjoy a culinary adventure by sampling local dishes at seafood restaurants, farmers' markets, and food festivals held throughout the year.
Outdoor Activities: The island offers a wide range of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can go kayaking, cycling, golfing, hiking, and birdwatching in the island's beautiful natural surroundings. There are also opportunities for whale watching and deep-sea fishing excursions.
Cultural Experiences: Prince Edward Island has a rich cultural heritage, with a vibrant arts and music scene. Visitors can attend theater productions, art galleries, and music festivals that showcase the island's creative talents. The island also has a strong tradition of storytelling and folklore that visitors can explore.

Overall, traveling to Prince Edward Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities that make it a memorable destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway.

What to know

There are a few potential cons to consider when traveling to Prince Edward Island in Canada:

Limited public transportation: Prince Edward Island is a relatively small island with limited public transportation options. Renting a car may be necessary to explore the island fully.
Seasonal weather: The weather on Prince Edward Island can be unpredictable, with cold winters and mild summers. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially if you plan to visit during the winter months.
Limited dining options: While Prince Edward Island is known for its seafood, there may be limited dining options, especially in rural areas. It's a good idea to research restaurants and make reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Distance from major cities: Prince Edward Island is located on the eastern coast of Canada and may require a longer travel time to reach compared to other popular tourist destinations. Consider the time and cost of transportation when planning your trip.
Limited nightlife: If you're looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, Prince Edward Island may not offer as many options as larger cities. The island tends to have a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere.

Overall, while Prince Edward Island offers stunning natural beauty and a slower pace of life, it's important to consider these potential cons when planning your trip.

Prince Edward Island (PEI), located in eastern Canada, has a rich history that spans thousands of years, from its Indigenous roots to its role in Canadian confederation and beyond.

Early Inhabitants

Mi'kmaq People: The Indigenous Mi'kmaq have lived on the island for thousands of years. They called the island "Abegweit," meaning "Cradled on the Waves."

European Exploration and Settlement

Jacques Cartier (1534): The French explorer Jacques Cartier was among the first Europeans to visit the island, claiming it for France.
Acadian Settlement: The island was originally part of the French colony of Acadia. It was named Île Saint-Jean by the French and settled by Acadians in the early 18th century.

British Control

Seven Years' War: As a result of the Treaty of Paris in 1763, Île Saint-Jean was ceded to the British and renamed St. John's Island.
Land Ownership Issues: The British distributed land to absentee landlords, which created long-standing issues with land ownership that persisted for many years.

Name Change and Confederation

Name Change (1798): The island was renamed Prince Edward Island in honor of Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, the father of Queen Victoria.
Charlottetown Conference (1864): The capital, Charlottetown, was the site of the Charlottetown Conference, which was a pivotal event leading to Canadian Confederation. Although PEI did not join the confederation immediately, it played a crucial role in the discussions.

Joining Canada

Confederation (1873): PEI joined Canada on July 1, 1873, largely due to economic pressures and the promise of a railway and debt relief.

20th and 21st Century Developments

Confederation Bridge (1997): This bridge connected PEI to mainland Canada, greatly improving transportation and commerce.
Cultural and Economic Growth: The island has developed a blend of agriculture, fishing, and tourism as key economic drivers, with a strong cultural focus on preserving its history and natural beauty.

Significant Historical Figures

Sir John A. Macdonald: Although not from PEI, he was a key figure at the Charlottetown Conference.
Robert Harris: A notable artist born in PEI, known for his portraits and historical paintings.

Important Landmarks

Province House: Located in Charlottetown, it is the birthplace of Confederation and a National Historic Site.
Green Gables: The setting of L.M. Montgomery's famous novel "Anne of Green Gables," which has drawn international attention and tourism.
Beaconsfield Historic House: This Victorian mansion in Charlottetown offers a glimpse into the city's 19th-century history.

Prince Edward Island holds a unique place in Canadian history as the "Birthplace of Confederation," and its rich cultural heritage continues to be celebrated today.