A Week on Prince Edward Island: The Perfect PEI Itinerary
I grew up watching Anne of Green Gables annually with my mom and sister, so my fascination for is Canadian province has long been a brewing. We finally made a road trip of it, spending a week on Prince Edward Island.
I honestly don’t have many “bucket list” destinations, but without a doubt, taking a trip to the land of kindred spirits was at the top. My mom and I have road-tripped all across the United States, but this stop in P.E.I. felt extra special with our love of Anne Shirley and the beautiful countryside.
If you visit any of these spots, tag @accentgolden on social so I can see what you’re up to!
Overview of Your Week on Prince Edward Island
When to Visit Prince Edward Island
The best time of year to visit Prince Edward Island is July through September. Since it’s located in Canada, most places are closed during the winter due to the weather and lower tourism.
We visited in June, which, while you may find some sunny days, often yielded a lot of unpredictable weather with a good bit of rain.
How to Use This Itinerary
This isn’t your standard “Day 1” itinerary. Below you’ll find some of my favorite towns, eats, shops, and activities that I think you should hit while spending a week in Prince Edward Island.
‘You’ll find a sample itinerary at the bottom of this guide to help you outline your travels, if you need it.
Where to Stay on Prince Edward Island
When I originally booked our travel plans, I assumed it would make the most sense to stay in one place for the week, venturing from there each day. With that plan in mind, I booked us at a Bed & Breakfast in Kensington, so we’d be positioned more centrally on the island.
In hindsight, after covering a lot of the island via car, I learned it can take quite a bit of time to get from one place to the next. For a week on Prince Edward Island, where you want to see many spots, I’d recommend splitting your stay between a central but west location (like Kensington) and a central but east location (like Charlottetown).
Towns to Explore
Kensington – The Confederation Trail cuts right through the small town, where you’ll find few restaurants, bakery, and galleries. You can also walk down the trail and learn more about the history surrounding it and the town.
Summerville – A few good cafes to grab a drink from and sit down in one of the Adirondack chairs by the water. Also, stop by the perfect old-school ice cream parlour for a sweet treat.
Charlottetown – A bustling small city with a cute suburb around it. Stroll along the shops off Queen Street and Victoria Row, grab an ice cream from Cows, and walk down to the waterfront.
Victoria by the Sea – A charming seaside village featuring loads of local artisans operating shops out of their own homes *swoon*. You can also walk out onto the shore to collect sea glass.
Don’t miss the Charlottetown farmers market on Saturdays, featuring over 60 local crafters, artists, and more!
Where to Eat on P.E.I.
You’ll see below that, unsurprisingly, I have a massive sweet tooth. While you’ll find tons of seafood recommendations for Prince Edward Island, that’s not for me. Find me a bakery and a cafe, and I’m gonna be happy as a clam.
My favorite eats, sweets, and treats
Holman’s Ice Cream Parlour – A classic ice cream spot inside an old home with a beautiful garden. They even have notes on the wall and historical anecdotes to showcase some of the stories behind the shop.
The Willow Bakery & Cafe – Was co-owned with the B&B we stayed at. Most of the treats were ok but I loved the ginger cookie sandwiches (went back for seconds!).
Samuel’s Coffee House – My mom grabbed an iced tea here that she is forever trying to recreate. Great spot to grab a drink or a quick bite to eat by the water.
Pilot House – Perfect lunch spot in Charlottetown, especially lovely for a sit outside. Highly recommend the fried chicken sandwich (heads up that the seafood chowder is priceyyy).
Receiver Cafe & Bistro – Another Charlottetown find. We grabbed breakfast here on a Saturday during the farmer’s market hours and it was delicious!
The Handpie Company – I love a pie, especially a handheld one. They offer both savory and sweet pies, just be sure to get there early as they run out of popular flavors quickly.
Baba’s Kitchen – Great breakfast stop ahead of your day of excursions. Filled with book-clubbing ladies, all-day breakfast, and an overall charming vibe.
Travel Tips for Your Week on Prince Edward Island
Sample 7-Day Prince Edward Island Itinerary
Day 1–2: Charlottetown Highlights
Spend your first few days exploring this charmingly historic town. There are lots of shops to peruse, spots to eat at, and places to just sit and relax.
Day 3–4: Cavendish & Green Gables
Step back in time to the world of Anne of Green Gables for a few days. Visit the Green Gables Heritage Place and Avonlea Village in Cavendish, plus more local attractions.
Day 5–6: North Shore Adventures
My favorite nod to Anne of Green Gables is the Green Gables Museum in Kensington, which is author L.M. Montgomery’s childhood home. While in the area, spend a day or more exploring the beaches, walking trails, and outdoor activities.
Day 7: Relax and Reflect
While a week will give you plenty of time to explore Prince Edward Island at your leisure, use your last day to pop back to any favorites, hit up those spots you may have missed, or simply take a drive without a destination. You’ll find so many cute shops and hidden gems when you take that random right turn, so an unplanned day is the perfect way to wrap up a week on Prince Edward Island.
Looking for more road trip adventures?
All these travel plans have you craving something sweet?
Pies, cakes, cookies, or make them single-serve. Find your next favorite bake here
