Navigate your way to and around New Brunswick with ease using our transportation guide. Learn about the best options for arriving by air, road, bus, or train, and discover the most convenient ways to explore the province’s scenic beauty, from car rentals to public transportation and organized tours.
Traveling to and getting around New Brunswick, Canada, involves several transportation options, each offering its own set of advantages. Here's a detailed guide:
Getting to New Brunswick
By Air
Major Airports: The province is served by three main airports - Fredericton International Airport (YFC), Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport (YQM), and Saint John Airport (YSJ). These airports offer domestic flights from major Canadian cities and some international flights, primarily from the United States.
Connecting Flights: For international visitors, it’s common to fly into a larger Canadian city like Toronto, Montreal, or Halifax and then take a domestic flight to New Brunswick.
By Road
From the United States: Visitors can drive into New Brunswick from the U.S. via several border crossings from Maine. The most used crossings are at Houlton, Calais, and Fort Fairfield.
From Other Provinces: New Brunswick is connected to Quebec and Nova Scotia by major highways, making it easily accessible for those driving from other parts of Canada.
Car Rentals: Available at airports and major cities, renting a car is a popular option for flexibility and convenience.
By Bus
Interprovincial Bus Services: Companies like Maritime Bus offer services connecting New Brunswick to Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Quebec.
By Train
VIA Rail: VIA Rail provides rail service to New Brunswick, connecting it with Quebec, Montreal, and Halifax.
By Sea
Ferries: There are ferry services from Nova Scotia (Digby to Saint John) and between New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.
Getting Around New Brunswick
By Car
Most Convenient: Having a car is the most convenient way to explore New Brunswick, especially for accessing rural and coastal areas.
Highways and Scenic Routes: The province has well-maintained highways and scenic routes like the Fundy Coastal Drive and the Acadian Coastal Drive.
Public Transportation
Urban Areas: Cities like Fredericton, Moncton, and Saint John have their own public transit systems, though they are less frequent than in larger cities.
Rural Service: Public transportation is limited in rural areas.
By Bike
Cycling Paths: In urban areas and some tourist spots, there are dedicated cycling paths. The province’s scenic landscapes also make it a popular destination for cycling enthusiasts.
Walking
Pedestrian-Friendly: New Brunswick’s towns and small cities are generally pedestrian-friendly, especially in tourist areas and downtown cores.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Availability: Taxis are available in cities and major towns. Ride-sharing services might be limited but are growing in urban areas.
Tours and Excursions
Organized Tours: For specific attractions or experiences, such as whale watching, cultural tours, or outdoor adventures, organized tours are available and often include transportation.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead: Especially in peak tourist seasons or for remote destinations, it's wise to book accommodations and car rentals in advance.
Weather Considerations: Winter travel requires preparation for snowy and icy conditions, especially when driving.
Explore Regionally: New Brunswick is a large province with diverse regions. It might be practical to focus on one area at a time, depending on the length of your stay.
Whether you’re flying in and renting a car, driving from a nearby province or state, or taking public transportation, New Brunswick is accessible and offers a variety of ways to explore its natural beauty and cultural attractions.
