St John’s - Discovering Antigua and Barbuda

Travelling to St John’s

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in St John’s, a pretty good destination in Antigua and Barbuda (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to St John’s and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around St John’s, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Antigua and Barbuda, here's everything to know about St John’s for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to St John’s

St. John's is the capital city of Antigua and Barbuda, located on the northwest coast of the island of Antigua. It is the economic and cultural hub of the country, with a population of around 22,000 people. St. John's is known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks and buildings, and vibrant street markets. The city is home to the famous Antigua Carnival, which takes place annually in July or August, and is a popular tourist destination for those looking for a Caribbean getaway.

What to visit in St John’s

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Nelson's Dockyard - Located in English Harbour, this historic site was once the base of the British Navy during the 18th century. Today, it's a popular tourist destination offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past. Visitors can explore the restored buildings, admire the yachts moored in the harbor, and visit the museum to learn more about the area's history.
2. Shirley Heights - Perched atop a hill overlooking English Harbour, Shirley Heights offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and sea. On Sundays, visitors can participate in the famous sunset party, featuring live music, food, and drinks.
3. Museum of Antigua and Barbuda - Located in St. John's, this museum features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the islands. Visitors can learn about the indigenous people, the arrival of Europeans, and the islands' sugar and slave trades.
4. St. John's Cathedral - This historic cathedral was built in 1845 and is one of the most notable landmarks in St. John's. Visitors can admire its impressive twin bell towers and stunning stained-glass windows.
5. Betty's Hope - This former sugar plantation was once one of the largest on the island, and today visitors can explore the ruins of the estate and learn about the history of the sugar trade in Antigua and Barbuda.
6. Fig Tree Drive - A scenic drive through Antigua's lush rainforest, Fig Tree Drive offers stunning views of the island's flora and fauna, including mango and banana trees, coconut palms, and exotic birds.
7. Devil's Bridge - Located on the eastern coast of the island, Devil's Bridge is a natural limestone arch that was formed by the power of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can explore the surrounding tide pools and watch as waves crash against the rocks.
8. Fort James - This historic fort was built by the British in the 18th century to protect the island from invading forces. Today, visitors can explore the fort's ruins and enjoy breathtaking views of St. John's harbor.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in St John’s.

When to go on holiday to St John’s

The best time to visit St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda is between mid-December and mid-April when temperatures are at their coolest and driest. This is also the peak tourism season, so expect higher prices for accommodations and activities during this time. However, if you're looking for a cheaper option, you can also consider traveling during the off-season between May and November when you may encounter more rainfall, but also fewer crowds and lower prices. Keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June to November, so it's important to monitor weather reports if you plan to travel during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to St John’s

There are several ways to get to St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda, depending on your point of departure. If you are coming from outside the Caribbean region, you can take a direct flight to the VC Bird International Airport in Antigua. Many airlines offer flights to Antigua, including American Airlines, Delta, United, and British Airways. If you are coming from within the Caribbean, there are several airlines that offer flights to Antigua, including LIAT, Caribbean Airlines, and Air Antilles. Once you arrive at the VC Bird International Airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use a shuttle service to get to St. John's. It is about a 15-minute drive from the airport to St. John's.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit St John’s, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in St John’s

Sure, here are some typical foods of St. John's in Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Fungee and Pepperpot: Fungee is a traditional cornmeal dish that is served with saltfish, sardines or a rich meat stew called Pepperpot. It is a comfort food and a favorite of locals and visitors alike.
2. Conch Fritters: Conch fritters are a popular appetizer made from the meat of the Queen Conch. They are deep-fried into fritters and served with hot sauce for an added kick.
3. Goat Water: Goat water is a spicy soup made with goat meat, tomatoes, onions, seasoning, and dumplings. It is typically served on special occasions and is sometimes served with cassava or breadfruit.
4. Saltfish and Dumplings: Saltfish and dumplings are a simple but delicious dish made with salted cod and flour dumplings. They are often served with onions and peppers for added flavor.
5. Callaloo: Callaloo is a leafy green vegetable that is similar to spinach. It is sometimes cooked with crab or salted meat and served as a side dish or soup.
6. Sweet Potato Pudding: Sweet potato pudding is a popular dessert made from grated sweet potatoes, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. It is often served warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods of St. John's in Antigua and Barbuda. There are many other delicious dishes to experience on the island.
You can find general info about typical foods in Antigua and Barbuda here.

Is St John’s an expensive destination for tourists?

St. John's in Antigua and Barbuda can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists. This is due to a variety of factors, such as the high cost of living in the country, the cost of transportation, and the cost of accommodation. However, there are ways to save money when visiting St. John's, such as choosing to stay in more affordable accommodations, eating at local restaurants, and planning activities that are free or low-cost. Overall, it's recommended to plan ahead and budget accordingly to make the most of your trip to St. John's.

Where to find accomodation in St John’s

The best areas to find accommodation in St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda would be: 1. Dickenson Bay - This area is located on the northwest coast of the island and has a scenic beach with several resorts and hotels.
2. Jolly Harbour - A marina and resort community located on the west coast that offers a range of accommodation options in a beautiful setting.
3. English Harbour - A historic district located on the south coast with charming boutique hotels and guesthouses, and a lively nightlife scene.
4. Runaway Bay - This bay is located on the north coast and offers a secluded feel with some great beachfront hotels.
5. Falmouth Harbour - This area is a popular boating and yachting destination and offers upscale resorts and villas.
You can check hotel prices at St John’s here:
Booking.com

Is St John’s a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, St John's in Antigua and Barbuda is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The local authorities take safety and security seriously, and there is a visible police presence in high-traffic tourist areas. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night or in remote areas. It is also recommended to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive valuables in public.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Antigua and Barbuda here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting St John’s.

What type of travelers will enjoy St John’s the most?

St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda offers a wide range of activities and attractions that can cater to different types of travelers. Couples will enjoy the beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, and romantic sunset views. They can also indulge in spa treatments, fine dining, and other luxury experiences.
Young people looking for fun will find St. John's vibrant nightlife, water sports, and adventure activities appealing. There are also numerous parties, events, and festivals throughout the year that offer a lively and festive atmosphere.
Families will enjoy the many kid-friendly activities such as visiting animal parks, water parks, and historical sites. There are also various water sports, boat tours, and family-friendly beaches where they can enjoy quality time together.
Overall, St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda is a great destination for all types of travelers looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.

How to get around St John’s

The most common form of transportation in St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda are taxis and rental cars. Public transportation options include buses and minivans, known as "dollar vans." Alternatively, visitors can navigate the city on foot, depending on their destination as the city is relatively small.

What to see around St John’s

Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from St John's in Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Nelson's Dockyard National Park - a historic site with restored buildings from the colonial period.
2. Shirley Heights - a lookout spot that provides stunning views of the island and the harbor.
3. Devil's Bridge - a natural arch carved by the ocean with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
4. Betty's Hope - a restored sugar plantation that provides a glimpse of Antigua's rich history.
5. Half Moon Bay - a picturesque beach with crystal clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
6. Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour - an eco-adventure that takes you through the lush rainforest on a zip line.
7. Fig Tree Drive - a scenic drive that takes you through Antigua's dense rainforest and scenic plantations. These are just a few of the many attractions available to explore on a day trip from St John's, Antigua and Barbuda.
For every travel information about Antigua and Barbuda you can click here.

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