Charlottetown, with its charming streets, historic landmarks, and seaside views, makes for a wonderful city to explore on foot or by bus. Its small size means that even a brief tour can pack a lot of history, flavor, and local color. Whether you want a quick overview or a more personal, in-depth experience, Charlottetown offers options tailored to every kind of traveler. We particularly love the Charlottetown City Highlights, which combines convenience, affordability, and a good dose of local insight — perfect for cruise passengers or first-timers.
If you’re after a private, more personalized experience, the City Tour of Historic Charlottetown Prince Edward Island offers a deep dive with a local guide suited to your interests. For a quick, fun snapshot of the city, the Pony Express City Tour provides a breezy 45-minute overview. No matter your style, there’s a tour in Charlottetown for you.
1. Charlottetown City Highlights
This sightseeing bus tour is a fantastic way to get your bearings in Charlottetown without wearing out your walking shoes. For just about an hour and under $26, you’ll see the waterfront, key sights, and receive commentary from your guide. This tour is especially well-suited for cruise travelers, as it offers easy pickup and drop-off right at the cruise terminal. Starting with Beaconsfield Historic House, a beautiful Victorian mansion, it continues to the Province House, where the 1864 Charlottetown Conference laid the groundwork for Canadian Confederation.
The tour also visits Victoria Park, a lovely spot for photos, and St. Dunstan’s Basilica, a striking cathedral worth a quick look. Along the way, your guide will share both historical stories and current tips on where to eat and shop. Reviewers praise the friendly, knowledgeable drivers and the fact that the tour hits all the major highlights in a short time. A highlight for many is the opportunity to walk around downtown afterward, with plenty of cafes and shops nearby.
Bottom Line: This tour offers great value and convenience for a quick overview of Charlottetown’s most famous sights, especially if you’re short on time or arriving by cruise.
2. Deluxe North Shore and City Tour
For those seeking a more personalized and comprehensive experience, the Deluxe North Shore and City Tour is hard to beat. Priced at $495 for your group of up to five people, this private half-day tour lasts around five hours and offers customized insights from an expert guide.
This tour covers the historic downtown, visiting St. Dunstan’s Basilica, Dalvay Beach, and the Dunes Studio Gallery. What sets it apart is the ability to tailor your itinerary, with stops at Cavendish, famous for Green Gables, and the North Rustico Harbour. The guide shares local stories about the fishing industries and the island’s Acadian French heritage, making it a rich cultural experience.
Guests especially enjoy the flexibility — your guide will stop for photos or a quick walk at places you find interesting. The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who are attentive to guests’ interests; one mentions “an unforgettable local gallery and lunch spot.” The price might seem high, but it’s great value if you want a more intimate, in-depth, and personalized look at PEI.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or small groups wanting a customized experience with insider tips, especially if you prefer quiet, private exploration over a large group.
3. Pony Express City Tour
If you’re after a quick, lively overview, the Pony Express City Tour is your best bet. At just about 45 minutes and under $24 per person, it’s one of the shortest options, but it still hits key spots like Victoria Row, the Founders’ Food Hall & Market, and the Great George Street Historic District. The tour begins at 6 Prince St and conveniently ends back at the start — ideal if you’re on a tight schedule.
This tour’s main appeal is its snappy pace and engaging storytelling. Your driver-guide will weave in stories about Charlottetown’s role as the birthplace of Canada and highlight the Victorian architecture lining the streets. Reviewers find it informative and fun, emphasizing the family-friendly nature of the tour — not too long for kids, but still packed with interesting facts.
It’s best suited for travelers wanting a taste of the city, especially if they prefer to combine sightseeing with other activities like shopping or dining. Keep in mind, it’s a shorter tour, so it won’t dive too deep into history but provides a solid snapshot.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a brief, lively introduction to Charlottetown, especially if you’re short on time or traveling with children.
4. City Tour of Historic Charlottetown Prince Edward Island
For visitors wanting a more personal connection to Charlottetown, the City Tour of Historic Charlottetown offers a private, guided experience lasting about three hours. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy customized storytelling and want to see the key landmarks with a local who can answer all your questions.
Your guide will take you to St. Dunstan’s Basilica, Province House (currently under renovation, but the guide can tell you about its history), and other important sites like the University of PEI and Victoria Park. The personalized nature means you can focus on your specific interests, whether that’s architecture, history, or local life. The small size of the group (up to six people) ensures a comfortable, intimate experience.
Guests mention their guide’s knowledge and friendliness, and appreciate the flexibility to explore some spots more thoroughly. The main advantage is the personalized attention—perfect for travelers wanting a deeper understanding of Charlottetown without the rush of large tours.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history enthusiasts or those with specific interests, this private tour offers a tailored look at the city’s highlights.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Selecting the right tour depends on your time, budget, and interests. If you only have an hour and want an easy overview, the Charlottetown City Highlights is your best bet. For a customized, in-depth experience, the Deluxe North Shore and City Tour is ideal, especially for small groups willing to spend more. If your schedule is tight or you’re traveling with kids, a quick Pony Express City Tour offers a lively, family-friendly introduction.
Finally, for those craving a more personalized, relaxed exploration, the private City Tour of Historic Charlottetown provides the most flexibility and personal attention.
Consider your interests: history buffs will appreciate the private tour, while first-time visitors might favor the quick bus highlights. Book early, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and tour style.
Final Thoughts
Charlottetown’s compact size and rich history make it easy to explore in many ways. Whether you prefer a quick bus tour, a luxurious private experience, or a short and lively city walk, there’s an option for you. For a broad overview, the Charlottetown City Highlights tour offers excellent value, while the private City Tour of Historic Charlottetown is perfect for those who want a more detailed, personalized visit.
If you’re visiting PEI for a few days, consider combining the highlights tour with a scenic drive or a visit to Green Gables. No matter your choice, booking early will ensure you make the most of your time in this charming city.