Best Halifax Tours & Trips

Where is Halifax and How Do I Get There

Nestled on the east coast of Canada, Halifax is the capital city of Nova Scotia, a province that’s practically surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. Its strategic location has made it a vital port for centuries.

Getting to Halifax is a breeze. The Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) welcomes flights from across Canada, the US, and Europe. From the airport, you can grab a shuttle, a taxi, or the public transit MetroX bus to get downtown. If you’re a fan of the scenic route, driving to Halifax offers stunning coastal views. And for a truly Canadian experience, VIA Rail’s “The Ocean” train journey provides a relaxing and picturesque way to arrive in the heart of the city.

Top Things to Do in Halifax

Halifax is a city brimming with activities and attractions. Here are some of the absolute must-dos for your Halifax itinerary:

Explore the Halifax Waterfront: This is the heart of the city. Stroll along one of the world's longest downtown boardwalks, stretching for about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles). You'll find everything from unique shops and delicious eateries to museums and boat tours. Don't miss the chance to relax in one of the famous waterfront hammocks!

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site: Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, the star-shaped Halifax Citadel is a must-visit. Explore the fort, learn about its history, and enjoy the panoramic views. The daily firing of the noon gun is a tradition you won't want to miss.

Discover Maritime History: Being a port city, Halifax's history is deeply intertwined with the sea. The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is a fantastic place to learn about this rich heritage, with exhibits on everything from small craft to the devastating Halifax Explosion and the city's connection to the Titanic.

Halifax Public Gardens: A tranquil oasis in the city center, the Halifax Public Gardens are a beautiful example of Victorian-era gardens. Take a leisurely walk, admire the fountains and flowers, and enjoy a moment of peace.

Experience the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21: This national museum is located at a historic gateway to Canada. It tells the stories of the millions of immigrants who arrived in Canada through this very port. It's a moving and educational experience that offers a deeper understanding of Canada's multicultural fabric.

The Best Time to Visit Halifax

While Halifax is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is from May to October. The summer months of July and August are the warmest and driest, with average temperatures in the low to mid-20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit). This is the perfect time for exploring the waterfront, enjoying outdoor patios, and taking part in the many festivals that take place, such as the Halifax International Busker Festival and the TD Halifax Jazz Festival.

The shoulder seasons of late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) are also fantastic times to visit. You'll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and stunning natural beauty, with spring blooms or vibrant fall foliage. Winter brings a festive spirit to the city, with the Evergreen Festival and opportunities for skating at the Emera Oval, but be prepared for colder temperatures and snow.

A Long Weekend in Halifax: Your Perfect Itinerary

Here’s a suggestion for how to spend a memorable long weekend in Halifax:

Day 1: Waterfront Wonders and Historic Heights

Start your day with a stroll along the Halifax Waterfront. Grab a coffee and a pastry at a local cafe and soak in the maritime atmosphere. Visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to get a sense of the city's seafaring past. In the afternoon, head up to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. Explore the fort, catch the noon gun firing, and enjoy the incredible views. For dinner, head back to the waterfront and indulge in some fresh, local seafood.

Day 2: Gardens, Culture, and Local Flavors

Begin your day with a peaceful walk through the beautiful Halifax Public Gardens. Then, make your way to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 to learn about Canada's immigrant history. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant North End of Halifax, known for its trendy shops, cafes, and colorful houses. In the evening, why not take a Halifax food tour and sample some of the city's best culinary delights?

Day 3: A Coastal Escape to Peggy's Cove

No trip to Halifax is complete without a visit to the iconic Peggy's Cove. Take a day trip to this picturesque fishing village, famous for its stunning lighthouse perched on granite rocks. The drive itself is beautiful, with scenic coastal views along the way. Spend some time exploring the village, taking photos, and enjoying the fresh sea air. You can even find a tour that combines Peggy's Cove with other local highlights.

Beyond Halifax: Vacation Ideas for More Time

If you have more than a long weekend, Halifax is the perfect base for exploring more of Nova Scotia. Here are a few ideas:

Lunenburg and Mahone Bay: Take a day trip to the south shore to visit the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, with its colorful waterfront and historic architecture. The nearby town of Mahone Bay is also worth a visit, famous for its three picturesque churches along the bay.

Annapolis Valley: Nova Scotia's wine country, the Annapolis Valley, is a beautiful region to explore. Visit local wineries, enjoy the scenic landscape, and sample some of the region's award-winning wines.

Bay of Fundy: Experience the highest tides in the world at the Bay of Fundy. You can go tidal bore rafting, explore the ocean floor at low tide, and witness this incredible natural phenomenon.

Things You Should Know Before You Go

A few final tips for your Halifax adventure:

• Downtown Halifax is very walkable, so bring comfortable shoes. You can easily explore many of the main attractions on foot.

• Don't be shy! Haligonians (the people of Halifax) are known for their friendliness and are always happy to offer directions or recommendations.

• The weather in Halifax can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to dress in layers and be prepared for a bit of everything, from sunshine to fog.

• Halifax is on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).

• Most attractions in Halifax are open year-round, but some seasonal tours and restaurants close in winter. Check ahead during off-season.

• The Halifax Art Gallery offers free entry on Thursdays and stays open later that day—ideal if you're on a budget or working with tight time.

• Local transit and ferries are reliable. When visiting Dartmouth, Factor in the scenic ferry ride rather than driving.

• Halifax’s culinary scene shines with fresh seafood - lobster rolls, oysters, and locally brewed beer or wine in the North End. Many restaurants are walkable from the downtown core.