Saint Pierre and Miquelon is a small French territory near Canada. Despite being remote, it’s the perfect place for a quiet getaway. If you’re looking to explore somewhere unique without breaking the bank, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, I’ll give you some practical tips on how to enjoy this charming destination on a budget.
How to get to Saint Pierre and Miquelon affordably
To get to Saint Pierre and Miquelon, your best option is to travel from Canada. You can either fly directly from St. John’s, Newfoundland, or take a ferry from Fortune, Newfoundland. Flying is faster, but it’s typically more expensive than the ferry. If your dates are flexible, you can save money by booking your flights far in advance or taking a trip during the offseason.
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The ferry is a more budget-friendly choice. It’s about 70-90 CAD for a round trip (at the time of writing). It takes only about 90 minutes and offers great views along the way.
Budget accommodation in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Since there aren’t many hotels, prices can be on the higher side. However, don’t be discouraged! You have a few options if you’re trying to save money.
Guesthouses and B&Bs
Guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts are common in Saint Pierre, and they tend to be more affordable than hotels. Rooms are basic and clean, and many places include breakfast in their rates.
Rent an apartment
If you’re staying for a few days or traveling with others, renting an apartment or house could be a more budget-friendly and comfortable alternative. Look for vacation rentals available on local websites or platforms like Airbnb. Cooking your meals at a rental can also help you save on food costs!
Saving money on food
Food in Saint Pierre and Miquelon leans towards the French culinary tradition, which can be pricey if you’re not careful. But there are ways to eat well without blowing your budget.
Grocery stores
Like anywhere, grocery stores are your best bet for saving money on food. Pick up things like bread, cheese, and cured meats for a picnic-style meal. The local bakeries are perfect for inexpensive but delicious items like fresh baguettes and pastries.
Eateries and cafés
While there aren’t a ton of cheap dining options, small cafés and casual eateries often offer reasonably priced meals. Look for simple lunch specials, which are more affordable than dinner. Stick to local eateries to avoid the pricier tourist spots.
Getting around Saint Pierre and Miquelon cheaply
Transportation within the islands is relatively easy and cheap, though it can be limited.
Walking
Saint Pierre is small. You can walk pretty much everywhere in the main town. Walking is free, and you get to see more of the island’s charm up close.
Bike rentals
Biking is another great way to get around. You can rent bikes for about 15-20 EUR a day. It’s a fun and budget-friendly way to explore the island outside of town. Just make sure to bring some rain gear, as the weather can change quickly!
Public buses
There’s a limited bus service around Saint Pierre. It’s not frequent, but it’s very affordable and will take you to some key spots on the island.
Taxis
Taxis are available, but they’re definitely more of a splurge. Only rely on them when you really need to.
Free and cheap activities in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Fortunately, many of the best things to do on the islands don’t require much money at all!
Explore Saint Pierre by foot
The main town of Saint Pierre is fun to explore on foot. Walk around the picturesque streets, admire the colorful houses, and enjoy the laid-back vibe. You don’t need to spend anything to have a good time.
Visit the museums
There are a couple of museums on the island that are either free or have low entry fees. The Musée de l’Arche is worth visiting to learn about the islands’ history. Entrance is typically around 5 EUR.
Hiking
Both Saint Pierre and Miquelon have scenic trails you can hike for free. A popular option is hiking to Cap Percé, which offers amazing views of the coastline. You can also visit Grand-Barachois Lagoon on Miquelon to see seals and birdlife.
Cheap excursions and tours
If you’re interested in seeing more of the area, there are some affordable tours and excursions available as well.
Day trip to Île aux Marins
You can take a short boat ride to Île aux Marins, a small nearby island that’s largely abandoned today. The ferry ticket is cheap (about 7 EUR), and once you’re there, you can explore empty houses and a beautiful old church. It’s like stepping back in time.
Guided walking tours
Some local guides offer walking tours of Saint Pierre town. They usually cost around 10-15 EUR per person. It’s a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the islands without spending too much.
Travel tips for saving money in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Travel during the offseason
Saint Pierre and Miquelon isn’t as crowded as other destinations, but traveling in mid-spring or early autumn will help you score better deals on accommodation and tours. The weather is still pleasant, and you’ll avoid the busier summer months.
Book in advance
There aren’t a lot of flights, ferries, or accommodations available, so everything fills up quickly during peak season. You’ll often pay less if you book well in advance.
Bring your rain gear
The weather in Saint Pierre and Miquelon can be unpredictable. Bring a rain jacket and layers so you don’t end up needing to buy expensive gear on the islands. This will keep you from dipping into your travel budget just because of a little rain!
Pay attention to currency
The euro is the official currency, so make sure to exchange some beforehand or have a plan for withdrawing cash. Not every place accepts cards, and ATMs can sometimes be limited.
Final thoughts
Saint Pierre and Miquelon might not be the cheapest place to visit, but with some planning, you can explore this corner of the world without going over budget. It’s still a relatively undiscovered spot for most travelers, giving you a unique experience that’s worth every penny. From walks through colorful streets, scenic hikes, and museum visits, you can enjoy the islands’ vibe without feeling like you’re missing out—all while saving money where it counts.
Happy travels!
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