Fly from Raleigh–Durham (RDU) to Charlottetown (YYG). Most itineraries connect through Toronto or Montreal; total travel time including connection is typically 4–6 hours. Book an early flight to maximize your first day on PEI.
Settle at your Charlottetown hotel then walk to Claddagh Oyster House for fresh Atlantic seafood—great oysters and seasonal mains; open for lunch and dinner but confirm seasonal hours (typically noon onward).
Self-guided or guided 1.5–2 hr walk around Victoria Row, the waterfront and Confederation Landing to learn Confederation history and enjoy Victorian architecture; outdoor route open year-round, guided tours often 10am–4pm.
Visit the Confederation Centre galleries and, if available, catch an evening theatre show; gallery hours typically 9:30am–5:00pm, performances vary (check schedule and book tickets in advance).
Choose Peake’s Quay for harbour views and seafood or The Gahan House for local pub classics and brewed-on-site beers; most restaurants open for dinner from 5:00pm–9:00pm/10:00pm.
Drive a short distance or stroll to neighbourhood shops and the waterfront boardwalk for a relaxed morning; preserves and speciality shops open from about 9:30am–5:00pm.
If you have a rental car, drive ~30 minutes to this quaint village for artisan shops and seaside views; shops often open midday through late afternoon, especially in shoulder season.
Hopyard is good for craft beer and elevated comfort food; if you prefer fine dining, Hugo’s Restaurant is a top choice (open evenings, reservation advised).
Head north from Charlottetown to Cavendish, the gateway to PEI National Park and Anne of Green Gables attractions; scenic drive along Route 6 is straightforward and well signed.
Visit the Lucy Maud Montgomery sites and interpretive centre to learn about the beloved book; hours typically 9:00am–5:00pm in shoulder and high season—check seasonal closing dates.
Walk the red sand dunes and boardwalks at Cavendish Beach; park lands are open year-round, visitor centre hours often 9:00am–5:00pm. Great for swimming, dunes and scenic photography.
Head to Green Gables Shore or Stanhope Beach for sunset views; beaches are open 24/7, but facilities and lifeguards are seasonal—watch tides and conditions.
Scenic drive across the island toward the southeast coast; Basin Head is known for its ‘singing sands’ and a lively beach atmosphere in summer months.
Enjoy the white sand beach and the Basin Head Fisheries Museum; park facilities are seasonal—museum hours often 10:00am–5:00pm in summer/early fall.
Visit the remote East Point lighthouse and walk the coastal trails for dramatic views; lighthouse tower access may be seasonal but grounds and trails are open year-round.
On the way back, stop at St. Peter’s for the canal viewpoint and possibly the ferry across the Hillsborough River; St. Peter’s historic area is accessible most days.
Return to Charlottetown for a relaxed dinner; if you prefer a traditional lobster supper experience, check availability and seasonal schedules at local halls (usually late spring–early fall).
Have breakfast and check out of your Charlottetown hotel; allow time to return rental car if you’re flying out (many pick-ups at Charlottetown airport).
Drive the Confederation Bridge (toll for westbound vehicles: CAD48.25 for a standard two-axle vehicle as of 2025) and stop at the PEI side viewpoint in Borden-Carleton for photos; allow 1 hr including stops.
Return to Charlottetown (or nearby) airport for your afternoon/evening flight; allow 90 min for rental car return, security and boarding if departing that evening.