When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to St Johns?
The best – and often cheapest – time to book St John’s flights is sometime between May to November. These months are considered the low season, meaning fewer visitors and lower prices. Although rainfall is more likely, it is still relatively dry. Peak season lasts from December to April due to little rain, warm temperatures and hardly any humidity. Use Netflights to find great deals on direct flights and stick within your budget, even for travel during the peak season.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to St Johns?
The best time to book flights to St. John’s is two to three months in advance to save the most on airfare. In general, the earlier you book, the more likely you are to find lower prices. Deals on last-minute flights can help you save when booking on short notice. Those interested in seeing some of the island festivities will want to visit in July for the Antigua Carnival.
Flying to V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU)
Eight kilometres north-east of St John’s lies V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU). Formerly a US military base, today it is the gateway to the eastern Caribbean and beyond.
Find cheap flights to St John’s from a select number of airports in the United Kingdom. These flights depart from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Edinburgh and Glasgow on certain days of the week. Most return flights are indirect and may include stops in Barbados, Miami, Pointe-à-Pitre and London. Some may also require a transfer between different airlines during your travels. Only London Gatwick offers direct flights from American Airlines, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. Iberia also offers indirect St John’s flights from Edinburgh and Glasgow, while a local Caribbean airline, LIAT, has flights from Barbados and Pointe-à-Pitre to St. John’s.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
V.C. Bird International Airport is a small, single-terminal airport. It’s new main terminal opened in 2015 and handles all international and domestic return flights to Antigua and Barbuda. The old terminal is only used for offices. ANU has two floors; the ground floor is for check-ins, departures and the arrivals area, while the first floor hosts immigration desks, airport offices, a departure lounge and gates. Basic amenities can be found on both floors of the airport and include ATMs, banks, currency exchanges, a post office, shops, restaurants, cafes and snack bars, medical services, tour operators and free Wi-Fi.
Getting to the City from V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU)
You can take a bus, taxi or car hire to get to St. John’s from V.C. Bird International Airport. Local buses are the cheapest option; they stop outside the airport. Taxis can be booked at the taxi desks outside arrivals. Prices are fixed, and some taxis may be shared with other passengers. If you prefer to travel by car, car hire agencies, such as Alamo, Avis, Hertz and Thrifty Car Rentals, can be found in ANU. For a more luxurious option, there are limousine services available as well.
Why visit St. Johns?
St John’s is the centre of Antigua’s city life. Here you will find a number of interesting places to see, ranging from historical sites highlighting its British roots to bustling markets featuring local goods. At the front of the harbour, guarding the city with cannons is the Old Fort James, which was named after King James II. Afterwards, take a break at the popular Fort James Beach. It’s the perfect spot for sunbathing, beach sports and swimming.
As you head back into the city, stop by the Heritage Quays for some shopping. This duty-free shopping area overlooks the harbour of St. John’s and offers a range of goods from fine cigars to artwork and jewellery. For local goods and handicrafts, visit the Arts and Crafts Market near the West Bus Terminal. This colourful market features local artists that create products like natural soaps and dresses on the spot.
Don't Forget Before you Fly
It’s a good idea to bring some Eastern Caribbean dollars with you to pay for any transport or food on arrival. British nationals travelling to St. John’s do not need a visa. On entry, you will be allowed to stay for a specific amount of time, which can be extended for a small fee at the Antigua and Barbuda Immigration Department. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your date of entry. You should also visit your healthcare provider at least four to six weeks before leaving to check if you need any vaccinations.
