Belleville City Guide

Local staples include poutine, butter tarts, and maple syrup items. Moderate international choices like Italian and Chinese. Growing vegetarian and vegan options. Limited late-night food beyond fast food.

Nightlife centers on pubs, bars, and some live music venues. It's relaxed with limited variety.

Mix of chains and local cafes with decent coffee but limited specialty roasters and events.

Tipping is customary, around 15-20% at restaurants and for personal services, 10-15% for taxis. Expected for good service.

Buy SIM cards at Bell, Rogers, Telus, Freedom Mobile, Virgin Plus, or Koodo stores in malls or electronics shops. Bell, Rogers, and Telus offer the best coverage and speeds. eSIMs are available. ID is needed for postpaid plans.

Streets and public areas are generally clean with regular waste and recycling pickup.

Some convenience stores open 24/7. Pharmacies rarely open round the clock. Emergency hospital services available anytime. Late-night food mostly fast food drive-thrus.

Major supermarkets include Loblaws, Metro, No Frills, and Food Basics. There's a local farmers' market for fresh produce. Stores typically open 8 AM - 9 PM daily and most are open Sundays.

Card payments work almost everywhere. Cash is rarely needed except at some independent vendors.

ATMs are mainly at big banks (RBC, TD, Scotiabank, CIBC, BMO) and big grocery stores. Non-bank customers usually pay CAD $2-$3.50 per transaction.

Public schools run by Hastings and Prince Edward District and Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic Boards. No international schools. French immersion available.

Limited formal digital nomad scene. Some cafes and public spaces offer Wi-Fi but few meetups or co-living options.

Good access to parks and waterfront green spaces with shading and running paths.

Running paths along the Waterfront Pathway and parks are safe and scenic, with active community groups.

Several gyms offer fitness facilities including pools and ice rinks.

Public hard courts in parks; some clubs require memberships and offer coaching.

No padel facilities available.

Several yoga studios offer various styles and drop-in options with English-speaking instructors.

Several schools offering Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, BJJ, and boxing with English-speaking instructors.

Nearest ski hills are 1.5-2 hours away, catering mainly to beginners and intermediates.

Good kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing on Bay of Quinte and Moira River, with rentals and guided tours available seasonally.

No notable surfing spots nearby.

Limited dive sites mainly for experienced divers exploring shipwrecks; equipment rentals limited locally.

Quinte Health Care Belleville General Hospital and clinics have English-speaking staff. Canada has public healthcare; visitors should get travel insurance. Pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall offer OTC meds and advice.

Tap water is safe and meets all quality standards.

Good playgrounds in parks like Zwick's Island, family-friendly cafes with high chairs, and attractions like Glanmore Historic Site and Waterfront Pathway.

Generally accepting with legal protections and some Pride events, though no dedicated LGBTQ+ venues.

Many pet-friendly parks, accommodations, and pet services including clinics and supplies.