Travelers to Saint John, New Brunswick find excellent value in the city’s compact but comprehensive tour offerings. The historic walking tours stand out, particularly through the Victorian-era Prince William Street district – they’re informative and well-paced. For nature enthusiasts, the Bay of Fundy excursions deliver big thrills with the world’s highest tides and remarkable coastal geography. The small-group bike tours through uptown deserve special praise for combining exercise with local insights, stopping at key architectural landmarks and viewpoints.
We especially love the walking tours for their culture and the Bay of Fundy trips for their natural drama. These particular options consistently earn top marks for their knowledgeable guides and thoughtful organization.
Let’s explore the best tours Saint John has to offer.
Key Points
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The Saint John Walking Tour offers a 1.5-mile guided exploration of historic landmarks, with a maximum group size of 15 and an overall rating of 4.4 from 39 reviews.
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The Bay of Fundy Tours provide various options, including a luxury car tour, a premier operator (Go Fundy Tours), and a comprehensive all-day sightseeing tour by bus.
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The tours are designed for small group formats, allowing for personalized attention and interaction with knowledgeable local guides while exploring historic and natural attractions.
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The tours generally include round-trip transportation, admission to key attractions, and snacks or meals, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.
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The tours offer high traveler satisfaction, with a 95% recommendation rate, and are priced competitively, ranging from budget-friendly to more premium experiences based on inclusions and group size.
Saint John Walking Tour
The Saint John Walking Tour provides visitors with a 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) guided exploration of the city’s historic landmarks and architectural gems.
The tour begins at 100 Water Street, where participants meet their guide one hour after their cruise ship’s arrival. As they walk along Prince William Street and King Street, they’ll discover the city’s rich history, including the 225th Anniversary Clock, the Policeman’s Museum, and the Victorian-era buildings that line King Street.
The tour includes visits to King’s Square and the City Market, a commercial hub since 1877.
With a maximum group size of 15 travelers, the tour offers an intimate and engaging experience. While port pickup, food, and drinks aren’t included, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with strollers and service animals allowed.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.4 from 39 reviews, with positive feedback highlighting the knowledgeable and storytelling-skilled guides.
Read our full review: Saint John Walking Tour Review
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Bay of Fundy Tour in Luxury Car
Offering a unique opportunity to explore the renowned Bay of Fundy, the Bay of Fundy Tour in Luxury Car provides travelers with a comfortable and personalized experience.
Located in Saint John, Canada, this private tour is priced at $1,200 for a group of up to 6 people, allowing for an intimate and customized adventure.
The tour includes a licensed guide who’ll accompany you in a luxury vehicle, ensuring a seamless and informative journey. Along the way, you’ll enjoy complimentary coffee, cold drinks, and Wi-Fi, making it a truly enjoyable experience.
The Fundy Trail Parkway entry fee of $9 per person is an additional cost.
The tour starts at 8:00 am from the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal, and guests have up to one hour to board the vehicle.
Passengers are advised to wear comfortable sneakers or walking shoes, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
This non-refundable tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and is near public transportation.
Read our full review: Bay of Fundy Tour in Luxury Car Review
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Go Fundy Tours
One of the premier tour operators in Saint John, Go Fundy Tours offers visitors a captivating exploration of the renowned Bay of Fundy. Operating from June to November, the company’s tours depart from downtown Saint John, taking guests on a journey to discover the bay’s natural wonders.
With a maximum group size of 18, the tours provide an intimate and personalized experience. Included in the tour are coffee, tea, snacks, bottled water, and a delicious lunch, ensuring travelers are well-nourished throughout the day.
While the tours involve moderate walking, including some steep paths, the stunning scenery and informative guides make the experience both enjoyable and educational. Wheelchair users and those with certain medical conditions may face accessibility challenges.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and an impressive 5.0 rating from over 100 reviews, Go Fundy Tours is a must-consider option for anyone seeking to explore the breathtaking Bay of Fundy during their visit to Saint John.
Read our full review: Go Fundy Tours Review
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Shore Excursion:Saint John History Walking Tour
Exploring Canada’s oldest incorporated city, the Shore Excursion: Saint John History Walking Tour provides visitors a captivating glimpse into the rich past of Saint John.
Led by a local guide, the tour highlights the city’s historic markets, cemeteries, green spaces, and downtown. Participants will witness the renowned Bay of Fundy tides, the highest in the world.
The easy meetup at the Saint John cruise pier, with the option for direct meeting or requested pickup, ensures a seamless start to the tour.
Suitable for all ages, the small-group experience is limited to 15 travelers, guaranteeing a personalized journey.
With professional guides, gratuities covered, and a promise to return guests to their ships on time, the tour offers excellent value.
Available from February to November, the Shore Excursion: Saint John History Walking Tour is a must-do for those seeking to uncover the storied heritage of this vibrant Canadian city.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion:Saint John History Walking Tour Review
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Saint John Small Group Seafood Walking Tour
Although the Saint John Small Group Seafood Walking Tour promises a culinary adventure through the city’s maritime heritage, recent reviews suggest the experience may fall short of expectations.
With a maximum group size of 10 people, the tour takes participants on a 2-hour stroll through downtown Saint John, culminating in a tasting of local seafood specialties.
However, based on the tour’s feedback, the food quality and overall experience seem to have missed the mark. Customers reported the seafood chowder and oysters were subpar, and the tour guide failed to provide adequate information about the local cuisine and establishments.
On top of that, the tour was plagued by logistical issues, as the guide didn’t show up, and there was a lack of communication about the cancellation.
With an overall rating of just 1 out of 5 stars, this walking tour may not offer the best value compared to dining directly at the city’s restaurants.
Read our full review: Saint John Small Group Seafood Walking Tour Review
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Bay of Fundy Tour by Bus
For those looking to enjoy the stunning natural landscapes of New Brunswick, the Bay of Fundy Tour by Bus offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience.
Designed for cruise ship passengers or private groups, this all-day tour showcases the region’s top attractions, including the Reversing Falls Rapids, the mighty Bay of Fundy, and the historic Fort Howe.
With an average rating of 4.0 from 125 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, who provide informative commentary throughout the journey.
Travelers can expect a moderate level of physical activity, with light walking and the possibility of wearing rubber boots for certain activities, such as exploring sea caves.
The tour departs from the Marco Polo, Diamond Jubilee, or Long Wharf cruise ship terminals, with participants meeting at least 15 minutes before the start time.
Priced from £73.39 per person, the tour includes the entry fee to the Fundy Trail Parkway and offers a lowest price guarantee, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Bay of Fundy Tour by Bus Review
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Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour
Travelers seeking an engaging and educational exploration of Saint John’s rich history can embark on the Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour. This 2-hour cycling adventure showcases the city’s significant historical sites, from ancient trading posts to military forts from the American Revolutionary War.
Participants will also visit Canada’s oldest brewery, Moosehead, and experience the mesmerizing Reversing Falls Rapids.
The tour is a flexible, small-group experience, with a maximum of 2 travelers, and is priced at $81.98 per person. It includes the use of a bicycle, helmet, and a complimentary 16oz beverage at Moosehead Brewery.
The meeting point is at Lilys, located along the Bay of Fundy, and the tour ends back at the same location.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level.
With 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this cycling tour offers a memorable and active way to discover Saint John’s captivating past.
Read our full review: Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour Review
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Uptown Saint John Highlights Walking Tour
The Uptown Saint John Highlights Walking Tour offers travelers an engaging exploration of the city’s historic district. Available from April 10, 2023, to December 2, 2026, this tour operates Monday to Tuesday from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM, with a maximum group size of 6 participants.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour is also near public transportation, making it convenient for visitors. Included in the tour are snacks, a voucher for the Saint John City Market, and gratuities. The meeting and end points are the same, allowing for a seamless experience.
Guests should have a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the walking tour. Bookings are confirmed within 48 hours, subject to availability, and feature a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
Priced at $31.37 per person, the Uptown Saint John Highlights Walking Tour provides a budget-friendly way to discover the city’s historic charm.
Read our full review: Uptown Saint John Highlights Walking Tour Review
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Best of Saint John Small Group Tour W/Fort La Tour + Martello
This small group tour in Saint John, New Brunswick offers an enriching exploration of the city’s top historic and natural attractions. Guided by knowledgeable and friendly locals, the tour takes visitors to the Saint John Market, Rockwood Park, Place Fort LaTour, and the Carleton Martello Tower viewpoint.
Along the way, travelers will witness the stunning Bay of Fundy and the Reversing Falls Rapids.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from downtown hotels, admission to Place Fort LaTour, and a narrated driving tour of Rockwood Park. Guests can also enjoy a walking tour of the Saint John City Market, with the opportunity to make purchases and tip the guide if desired.
With a maximum group size of 10, this intimate experience allows for personalized attention and ample opportunities to ask questions.
Boasting a 95% traveler recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence recognition, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the rich history and natural beauty of Saint John.
Read our full review: Best of Saint John Small Group Tour W/Fort La Tour + Martello Review
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Sum Up
Saint John offers a variety of tours showcasing the city’s history, scenery, and culinary delights. From walking and cycling tours to luxury car and bus excursions, visitors can explore the Bay of Fundy, historic sites, and the lively uptown. These tours provide an excellent way to experience the best of what Saint John has to offer.