A long layover in St. John is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Saint John Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside YSJ
A few things to sort out before you leave YSJ:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Canada. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to St. John takes about 60 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What’s Worth Seeing in St. John
Two recommendations for your time in St. John:
Start with Reversing Falls Rapids. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Saint John City Market. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at YSJ, check out Relaxing in the Terminal with Wi-Fi or YSJ Airport Gift Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in St. John, local travelers recommend Gahan House Port City. If you have time for a second stop, Grannan’s Seafood Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at YSJ, On The Fly Restaurant & Bar is the go-to. YSJ Airport Coffee & Snacks rounds out your in-terminal options.
The Best Way Into St. John from YSJ
The most straightforward way into St. John is the local transport, which takes about 60 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your St. John Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for St. John:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $19 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $39 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in St. John, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage at YSJ
Dedicated luggage storage at YSJ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in St. John’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at YSJ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate St. John or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, YSJ has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in St. John genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.