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Halifax Travel Card Review - 2024

Claire Millard

Halifax promote their Clarity Credit Card as a good product for frequent travellers looking to spend overseas and save money on foreign transaction fees.

This guide covers all you need to decide if the Halifax travel card is right for you, including the Halifax Clarity Card key features, benefits and fees. Plus we’ll also look at some alternatives for comparison , including the Wise international prepaid card and the Revolut debit card which both allow you to hold and exchange currencies before you travel, with low fees and the mid-market rate.

Halifax travel card: key features

Halifax directs customers to the Halifax Clarity Credit Card as a travel credit card that can help you manage your money across currencies. It’s a Mastercard, so broadly accepted globally, and has some handy travel features - but as a credit card, it can also mean you run into fees including interest and late payment penalties.

Let’s start with a quick overview of the pros and cons of the Halifax Clarity Credit Card:

In general, using a credit card to spend while you’re away can be convenient as you’ll be able to spread the costs of purchases out over a few months. However, as interest accumulates on unpaid balance amounts, this pushes up the costs overall. The Halifax Clarity Credit Card does have some handy travel features - notably no foreign transaction fee and the Mastercard exchange rate - but it may not be the cheapest option out there.

Travel debit cards from providers like Wise and Revolut can be a cheaper way to manage your travel money, as there’s no interest fee to worry about, and no penalties - just top up your account with the amount you want to spend, and you’re good to go.

Who is the Halifax travel card for?

The Halifax Clarity Credit Card is a good option if you want a credit card to use overseas, with no foreign transaction fee and no annual fee to pay. You can easily spread the costs of your travel over a couple of months with the Halifax Clarity Credit Card. However, it’s worth noting that late payment fees apply, so this card is most economical for customers who want to clear down their bill every month, to ensure no interest or penalty fees apply.

What is the Halifax travel card?

The Halifax Clarity Credit Card is a no annual fee credit card which has no foreign transaction fee, and so is offered with travellers in mind. There’s no Halifax ATM fee, but interest does start to accumulate immediately if you use your card in an ATM - plus late payment penalties apply if you don’t meet your minimum payment on time every month.

Is the Halifax Clarity Card a multi-currency card?

The Halifax travel card is not a multi-currency card, in that it does not allow you to hold a balance in multiple foreign currencies. However, it’s recommended by Halifax as a good travel card because there’s no foreign transaction fee to pay when you spend in a foreign currency, and you can spend more or less anywhere in the world. Your spending is converted to GBP from the currency you’ve used, with the Mastercard exchange rate and no extra Halifax fee.

Other cards, such as the Wise card and the Revolut card - which we’ll look at a bit more later - offer a different option. With these multi-currency accounts, you can add money in pounds and switch to the currency you need in advance, to hold a balance in the foreign currency of your choice. That’s handy as you’ll know your budget in the destination currency in advance, and can also mean you access a better exchange rate.

Alternatives to Halifax travel card

The Halifax travel card has some handy features, but travel credit cards aren’t right for everyone. They can work out to be more expensive compared to using a debit card, thanks to interest fees and penalties if you don’t make your payments in time, for example. Plus, there’s no option to hold a balance in a foreign currency, which can mean planning your travel budget is harder.

To help you decide if the Halifax travel card is right for you, let’s look at it alongside a couple of other popular alternatives:

Information taken from Halifax Clarity Card desktop site and Terms and conditions , Wise pricing page , Revolut international transfer fees .pdf) and Revolut UK ; correct at time of writing, 16th May 2023

As you can see, the features and fees of different travel money card options can vary pretty widely. Which is best for you will depend a lot on what you need from your card, and the type of transactions you’ll make frequently. A credit card might suit if you’re hoping to pay for your travel over a few months, and you don’t mind paying interest charges while you cover the bills. Or you could choose a debit card from a specialist service like Wise or Revolut for lower costs and a flexible multi-currency holding account.

Open a Wise account online or in the Wise app, to hold and exchange 50+ currencies, and spend with your linked Wise card in 170+ countries . You can manage your money easily from your smartphone, including sending payments to 70+ countries, and getting paid from 30+ countries with local details.

Whenever you travel, Wise can offer good value as you’ll get the mid-market exchange rate to switch GBP to the currency you need, with low fees from 0.41%.

Read a full Wise review here

Revolut has accounts with no monthly fees, and several higher tier account plans which have monthly charges but which also unlock extra features and free transactions. All accounts come with a linked card, and can hold 25+ currencies, which means you can switch currencies in advance if you’d like to, or just spend with your card while you travel.

Currency exchange uses the mid-market exchange rate to plan limits, with fair usage fees after that. Out of hours fees may also apply if you switch currencies when the global markets are shut.

Read a full Revolut review here

Halifax travel card fees & spending limits

Let’s look at the costs of using the Halifax Clarity Credit Card when you’re travelling:

Information correct at time of writing - 16th May 2023

Exchange rates

As we’ve seen, the Halifax Clarity Credit Card doesn’t allow you to hold a balance in other currencies, so when you’re overseas, your spending is converted to GBP to create your monthly bill. The exchange rate applied is the Mastercard rate, which is usually pretty fair, but may not be the exact same rate that you’d see on a currency converter tool. That’s because it may include a markup, or an extra fee, which is paid to Mastercard to cover the costs of currency conversion.

How to get a Halifax travel card

To get a Halifax Clarity Credit Card you’ll need to complete an online credit check. Eligibility criteria include:

You must be a UK resident, over 18, with a regular income

You must not have CCJs, IVAs or bankruptcies against your name

You can’t apply if you’re unemployed or a student

You can’t apply if you’ve recently been declined for a Halifax credit card after credit checking

To apply, simply head to the Halifax credit card desktop site, to complete the eligibility check and see if you’re entitled to apply.

What documents and information you’ll need

When you apply for a Halifax Clarity Credit Card you’ll be asked for:

Your name - you may have to prove your identity with government issued ID

Your address - proof of address may be required

Information about your income and outgoings - evidence may be required to support your application

How to use a Halifax travel card?

You can spend on your Halifax Clarity Credit Card anywhere you see the Mastercard symbol. You may also be able to add your card to your preferred mobile wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay.

You can also make cash withdrawals, with no Halifax fee. However, in this case the ATM operator may impose their own fee, and you’ll pay interest immediately on the amount withdrawn.

How to withdraw cash with a Halifax travel card?

Withdraw cash with your Halifax travel card as you would with any other debit or credit card. All you’ll need to do is to insert your card into the ATM, enter your card PIN, and confirm the amount you need to receive. You’ll be shown any applicable fee and can confirm the payment to receive your cash.

Is the card safe?

Yes. Halifax is a large and respected bank, overseen by the FCA in the UK. Credit cards are also covered by enhanced consumer protection for purchases between 100 GBP and 30,000 GBP, which can offer a little more peace of mind when spending.

How to use the Halifax travel card overseas?

You can use your Halifax Clarity Credit Card internationally, anywhere you see the Mastercard symbol. Mastercard is well supported globally, so the chances are that you’ll be able to use it wherever you’re headed. It’s helpful to know that whenever you spend overseas, the amount will be switched back to pounds using the Mastercard exchange rate, which may include a small markup on the mid-market rate. You’ll then need to repay your bill in full every month to avoid any extra interest or penalty fees.

Conclusion: is the Halifax travel card worth it?

If you’re looking for a travel credit card, the Halifax Clarity Credit Card could be a handy pick. There’s no annual fee and no foreign transaction fee, plus no Halifax ATM charge. However, unlike some other travel credit cards, you can’t earn cash back or rewards as you spend, which can be a drawback.

Spending on a credit card when you travel isn’t right for everyone. If you’d prefer a debit card you can use alongside a flexible multi-currency account to hold and exchange dozens of currencies, you may want to compare the options available from alternatives like Wise and Revolut. You can add funds in pounds and switch to the currency or currencies you need, so you’ll know your travel budget instantly - and you may get lower overall fees, too.

Halifax travel card review FAQ

The Halifax Clarity Credit Card is a credit card with no foreign transaction fee. Spend with your card when you travel and your balance is converted to pounds using the Mastercard exchange rate, for you to repay. If you’d rather use a debit card when you travel, to manage your budget in a foreign currency more closely, you could check out alternatives from providers like Wise and Revolut.

The Halifax Clarity Credit Card can be used at home and abroad anywhere you see the Mastercard symbol. There’s no foreign transaction fee when you spend overseas. However, you can’t hold a foreign currency balance which may be a drawback if you prefer to set your travel budget in advance - in this case you may prefer a multi-currency account from a service like Wise or Revolut.

If the Halifax Clarity Credit Card isn’t right for you, there’s lots of choice out there. You can check out other credit cards from major UK banks - or have a look at a travel debit card from a provider like Wise or Revolut as a different option that can come with lower overall fees and no interest to worry about.

Dave's Travel Corner

Seeing the World One Step at a Time

Travel Cards Reviewed including Barclays, Halifax Clarity & Tandem Card

March 14, 2019 by David B Leave a Comment

is halifax travel ready worth it

What are travel cards? According to Lending Expert’s guide a travel card is much like a debit or credit card, expect you pay for the amount you plan on spending in advance. They allow you to load them up with multiple currencies, helping you ensure you have the money you need for your specific destination. This currency converts automatically when travelling to other countries.

Travel cards are used regularly by travellers not only because many offer specific savings advantages, but also because they’re safer, giving you another way to carry money around with you that isn’t cash or your debit and credit cards. Furthermore, they encourage good budgeting, as you have to figure out how much you’re going to spend in advance and stick to that budget.

How to use travel cards Travel cards are utilitarian tools for travelling abroad and spending in foreign currency. However, it’s still important to use them wisely and mindfully. Here are a few tips on how to get the best out of your travel card:

• As with all cards, shop around before you agree to pay. Compare currency conversion rates, fees, and look at features that might best suit your needs • Choose your currencies carefully. You can pre-pay to get funds in any currency you want, but “exhausting” on currency means your other money converts into that currency automatically, with conversion fees attached. • Look for cards without common fees, like ATM withdrawal fees, as these costs can build up over time. • Check your travel card’s online account every day so you better understand your spending habits and adjust your budget as necessary. • Test out your travel card before you go abroad to make sure you’re not stuck without it.

Looking at the market So, what are the best travel cards available right now? A full comparison of all the top travel cards currently available would be a full article in and of itself, so here are a few highlights:

• The Barclaycard Platinum Cashback Plus has 0% exchange rate fees in Europe and Worldwide, with no withdrawal fees overseas and 0.25% cashback on spending.

• The Tandem card offers 0.5% cashback on spending, with no fees for overseas spending so long as you repay in full.

• The Halifax Clarity has no interest on spending when you pay in full, and no fees on spending or withdrawing cash when abroad.

Travel cards are a fast-growing market with not only financial institutions but travel agencies getting involved, too. Make sure you scan the market carefully for the best deals and be fully aware of any fees that might not be obvious at a first glance before making your purchase.

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Roaming Around the World

Travel Guides, Tips, and Tales

35 Best Things to Do in Halifax Nova Scotia: Travel Guide & Tips for 2023

May 13, 2023 By John Widmer 37 Comments

The wide assortment of great things to do in Halifax helps to make Nova Scotia’s capital such a fun travel destination to visit in Canada! The friendly waterfront city has so much to offer visitors. Personally, Halifax remains one of our favorite destinations in the country.

What makes Halifax so much fun? ⚓ its unique maritime culture, 🇨🇦 the friendly Haligonians who live here, 🎉 the weekly festivals, ☀️ amazing summer weather, 🏞️ the abundant park space, 🍺 a booming craft beer scene, 🦞 delicious local seafood, 🏙️ the vibrant Waterfront, 🚗 adventurous day trips to pursue, and ➕ so much more!

This maritime city is awesome and there are so many fun things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia! We’re here to reveal in this travel guide what we’ve found to be the best things to do in Halifax, the best places to visit, and the best sights to see.

Best Things to Do in Halifax Travel Guide

As this website always likes to point out excellent value, we’ve gone on to provide all of our signature budget travel tips for Halifax too! We’ve personally completed loads of on-the-ground travel research all throughout Nova Scotia’s capital to uncover how to experience all the best things to do in Halifax, on any budget. We’ll show you loads of free things to do in Halifax. Yet we’ll also show you where to go to indulge in a quintessential lobster supper.

Speaking of lobster, eating is a thing to do in Halifax! In addition to sights, attractions, and activities to do in Halifax, this travel guide dishes out quintessential local foods to try in Halifax and another four drinking things to do here. Halifax is a fun drinking town, after all, with plenty of sunny patios and loads of local beverages to try!

But don’t overindulge too much. It can be worth it to get an early start to embark on a day trip from Halifax. Nova Scotia’s capital makes for an excellent hub to reach lighthouses, UNESCO sites, the wine region, and the famous Bay of Fundy’s extreme tidal changes.

Buckle in for all the travel tips to reach these best things to do in Halifax and the surrounding area. We hope this guide can provide ideas for things to do in Halifax, whether you live here and are looking for something new to do, or if you’re in Halifax for a day, perhaps as a cruise port stop. You can easily use these recommendations as a Halifax bucket list to slowly tick off or a Halifax port guide to get to the best Halifax sights during a short visit.

We have strived hard to provide all the details, directions, prices, and tips you may need – now updated for 2023 . It’s going to be another awesome year to explore Halifax!

🚶 20 Best Things to Do in Halifax

🚗 6 Best Day Trips to Do from Halifax

🍺 4 Best Drinking Things to Do in Halifax

🍽️ 5 Best Local Foods to Try in Halifax

💡 More Travel Tips for Halifax Nova Scotia

20 Best Things to Do in Halifax

Here’s a handy Halifax map that pinpoints all of our recommendations for what to do in Halifax that are further detailed throughout this article. So feel free to come back to this map to get your bearings and connect the dots!

Without further ado, below are the 20 best things to do in Halifax!

1) Stroll the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk  

Arguably the best thing to do in Halifax is simply roam around the Halifax waterfront. It’s a must-do in Halifax!

This working port on the Halifax Harbour boasts one of the longest downtown boardwalks in the world ! The length of Halifax’s scenic harbourfront board spans 4 kilometers (2.5 miles). You could easily spend an entire afternoon aimlessly strolling amongst the timber-frame and stone warehouses lining the picturesque seaside.

Halifax Waterfront

Stop at the Queen’s Marque steps to dip your toes in the Halifax Harbour. Or relax at the popular orange waterfront hammocks while watching the boats pass by. Continue further down the Halifax Waterfront to consider embarking on a ferry ride or taking a proper Halifax Harbour tour. Found all along the waterfront are attractions like this, covered throughout the remainder of this travel guide of things to do in Halifax.

Ambling on this charming thoroughfare, you’ll inevitably stumble across Halifax’s Farmers’ Market, the historic Alexander Keith’s Brewery, Canada’s oldest warship, the drunken lampposts, and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic (each of which is further detailed in this Halifax travel guide).

But don’t go to the Halifax waterfront just for its attractions. Soak in the atmosphere. You’ll hear the chatter of seagulls, the lapping of the water, the soft creaking of boats against the docks, and the laughter of children playing on the Wave sculpture. This lengthy waterfront is such an alluring place that truly defines the city of Halifax.

If you were going to only do one thing in Halifax, let it be a visit to the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk . It’s a must-do activity in Halifax and it’s free!

Walking along the Halifax waterfront boardwalk is a free thing to do in Halifax

💲Cost : Free 📍 Where : Just start walking! The approximately 4 km waterfront stretches from the Canadian Museum of Immigration on the southern end ( here ) towards Casino Nova Scotia on the north end ( here ). 📅 Seasonality : While the Halifax Waterfront can be visited year-round, it’s at its most vibrant during the warmer months, May-September. 🕒 When : Day and night. The waterfront is often blue & beautiful by day, but it also lights up in the evening.

2) Climb Citadel Hill for History and Views

The Halifax Citadel , also known as Fort George, is a star-shaped fort that sits atop the strategic high point of Citadel Hill. Given this location, you can go to Citadel Hill to enjoy sweeping views of Halifax and the harbour.

It’s all found at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site .

You’ll find much more atop this military fort than views. The Halifax Citadel also packs in loads of Halifax history. Fort George is the fourth fort built atop Citadel Hill since the first Citadel was founded there in 1749. The current structure was built in the mid-1800s by the British to protect Halifax.

Halifax Citadel cannon

When visiting the Halifax Citadel, you can learn about all this history at the onsite museum. Then explore the fort’s walls, check out the many cannons, and soak in the sweet views of Halifax.

💡 Tip : Try to be at Citadel Hill at Noon for the daily demonstration when those cannons are fired by gunners dressed in period uniforms. Known as the Noon Gun , the daily canon firing is a Halifax tradition that dates back to 1857!

Another regular occurrence to catch at the Citadel is the changing of the guards . It happens every hour. Don’t miss it!

Halifax Citadel guard

For an even more in-depth background about Halifax’s military past, consider taking a guided tour of the Halifax Citadel, led by an 1869 soldier. These guided tours are complimentary with paid admission, run regularly from May-Oct, and are 45-60 minutes.

💲Cost : Summer rates: C$12.50 for adults, free for anyone under 18. 📍 Where : Located here , the Citadel is about a 15-20 minute walk uphill from the Waterfront. 📅 Seasonality : May-Oct has full programs with all exhibits. Nov-Apr has free admission to some exterior spaces, limited services, and Noon Gun firing. 🕒 When : Daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. 🔗 Official Website : Halifax Citadel National Historic Site .

3) Shop at the Oldest Continuously Operated Farmers’ Market in North America

It was way back in June 1750, when the Halifax Farmers’ Market began, just a year after the city was founded. Nearly three centuries later, this Halifax farmers’ market is still going strong!

The 273-year-old market has grown over the years. As such, it changed locations throughout the years. And as the vendors themselves have moved around it has actually splintered off into two markets:

  • The Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market
  • The Halifax Brewery Market

Yet it’s the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market that makes the claim as being the longest continuously operating market in North America . It is the larger of these two farmers’ markets, hosting over 100 vendors each weekend.

Head towards the south end of the Waterfront on a weekend day to peruse through all the local and seasonal treats. If you arrive hungry, there are some affordable lunch options to consider too. The Seaport Farmers’ Market is indoors and open year-round, so you can still visit it no matter the weather.

💲Cost : Free to browse 📍 Where : New location, here , on the south end of the Waterfront, near the cruise port and Pier 21 Immigration Museum. 📅 Seasonality : Yearound 🕒 When : Saturday, 8:00 am – 2:00 pm. Sunday, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. 🔗 Official website : here .

Seaport Farmers Market Halifax Nova Scotia is a fun thing to do in Halifax on a budget

Also, be sure to check out the Halifax Brewery Market. This farmers’ market is named as such because it’s located in the same building that’s home to the historic Alexander Keith’s brewery.

The Halifax Brewery Market is centrally located along the waterfront and boasts 60+ vendors. You’ll need to be in Halifax on a Saturday morning to catch this farmers’ market in action because it’s only open once each week.

Whether at the Seaport Farmers’ Market or the Halifax Brewery Market, you can find everything from locally farmed produce and meats to locally made crafts and fresh flowers. Personally, we enjoy shopping here for Canadian staples like local honey, maple syrup, and even local spirits!

Whether you’re coming here to shop, eat, or simply browse, both of these farmers’ markets are a long-standing local tradition that makes for a fun thing to do in Halifax.

💲Cost : Free to browse 📍 Where : It’s housed here , in Halifax’s Brewery Square, in the same building as Alexander Keith’s Brewery. 📅 Seasonality : Yearound 🕒 When : Saturdays, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm

4) Go Canoeing in Halifax

Canoeing is a national pastime throughout Canada. And given all the water surrounding Halifax, this city makes for a great place to enjoy a leisurely paddle. The bustling Halifax Harbour can be an ideal spot to go for a row. It gives canoers and kayakers a great vantage point of the waterfront and the city itself.

kayaking Halifax Harbour

Tourism Nova Scotia / Photographer: Acorn Art Photography

There are a few different opportunities to canoe or kayak along Halifax’s popular waterfront, and they’re priced accordingly. A 90-minute kayak tour at centrally-located Harbour Watercraft is C$57.50.

For a more natural setting to kayak, consider heading out to Long Lake Provincial Park, just a 15-minute drive west of downtown Halifax. Here you can kayak around the lake’s inlets, islands, and natural shoreline of this protected park. Kayak rentals at Long Lake start at C$30, book here .

💡 But here’s a little Halifax budget tip to rent canoes for free! If you venture to the peninsula to a skinny harbour known as the Northwest Arm , you’ll come to St. Mary’s Boat Club, which provides free canoe rentals during weekends !

It’s a pleasant paddle through the sailboat-filled harbour, along the rugged coastline, and residential areas. You can even paddle across the Northwest Arm to Sir Sanford Fleming Park and briefly dock your canoe. Then you can have a stroll along the park’s waterfront trails or climb to the top of Dingle Tower , which further offers free admission.

Canoeing in Halifax using a free canoe rental from St Mary’s Boat Club

These free one-hour canoe rentals at St. Mary’s Boat Club are only available on Saturdays and Sundays , so be sure to plan this excursion for a weekend. Although this is enjoyed mostly by locals, you don’t need to be a Boat Club member or even a Halifax resident to use the canoes.

You simply need to make advanced reservations to snag a canoe for free and get out on the water! Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as canoes do get fully rented out. More info is at Halifax Recreation .

Tip : Clear days make for enjoyable conditions. But more important than sunny days, we recommend using  canoes when the winds are calm in Halifax. On windy days, people have been known to flip right into the harbour! You can check the wind forecast for Halifax here on WindGuru.com . Ideally, winds under 10 knots make for nice paddling conditions in Halifax.

5) Visit Halifax’s Fantastic Museums!

Halifax boasts many worthwhile museums throughout the city, depending on your interest, whether you’re wanting to learn more about Halifax’s major role in the Titanic disaster, explore Nova Scotian nature, do something

There are many wonderful museums all throughout Halifax to peruse! We love how each of Halifax’s museums puts a strong emphasis on Nova Scotian culture. These museums offer loads of insights into both Halifax and Nova Scotia, through a local lens.

💡 Tip : If the weather is cold or rainy, Halifax’s museums can be a great indoor option when searching for activities. Visiting museums is a great idea for things to do in Halifax on a rainy day .

The following are the five most popular and often-recommended museums to visit in Halifax:

⛵️ 5.1) Halifax Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

If you only have time for one museum, the Maritime Museum is our suggestion.

Halifax’s Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is the city’s most popular museum. Conveniently located along the Halifax Waterfront, visitors to the Maritime Museum can explore over 30,000 artifacts! The museum does an excellent job of immersing visitors in the rich seafaring history of the region.

Perhaps most notable is the Titanic exhibit , which tells the story of Halifax’s grim role in the Titanic’s recovery efforts. You can see several artifacts from the tragic sinking from the alluring, like a wooden deck chair, to the morbid, such as a body bag.

Titanic deck chair at Maritime Museum Halifax

Yet there is so much maritime curiosity to explore here, which goes far beyond that famously unsinkable ship. Visitors can also explore restored vessels and enjoy interactive displays that provide a unique, hands-on learning experience.

Those who are really interested in history could easily spend several hours perusing through what is Canada’s largest maritime museum .

💡 Budget tip to get in for free : It’s normally a C$10 adult ticket to get into Halifax Maritime Museum during the summer months. But for those who come Tuesday, after 5:00 pm, entry is free ! On Tuesday evenings the museum has extended hours until 8:00 pm and offers free admission each week during this three-hour period. There is also usually a free Tuesday Talk at the museum during this time too.

Halifax Maritime Museum has free admission on Tuesday nights

💲Cost : May-Oct: C$9.55. Nov-Apr: C$5.15. Tuesdays, 5:00-8:00, free. 📍 Where : Behind the Halifax Citadel, about a 20-min walk from the Waterfront, located here . 🕒 When : 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Tuesdays, until 8:00 pm. 🔗 Official Website : Halifax Maritime Museum .

🐢 5.2) For Nature Lovers: Museum of Natural History

Explore Nova Scotia’s diverse ecosystems, flora, fauna, and ancient life. Permanent exhibits include a coastal aquarium, Nova Scotia forests, the Gully (deepest submarine canyon in eastern N America), and an 18-foot round screen theatre, among other attractions. This long-standing museum (est. 1868) is also home to live animals, such as 100-year-old Gus the Tortoise.

💲Cost : C$6.30 📍 Where : Very centrally located on the Halifax Waterfront, here . 🕒 When : 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, daily. 🔗 Official Website : Museum of Natural History

🏛️ 5.3) For Those Exploring Their Canadian Heritage: Museum of Immigration

Halifax’s Pier 21 is the last surviving seaport immigration facility in Canada, often drawing comparisons to Ellis Island in the US. This National Historic Site of Canada now houses the Museum of Immigration, where visitors can discover 400 years of Canadian immigration, experience what it was like to immigrate through Pier 21 between 1928 and 1971, and even use their genealogy services to investigate your family’s Canadian immigration story.

💲Cost : C$15.50 📍 Where : Located at Pier 21, the southern end of the Waterfront, right here . 🕒 When : May-Oct: daily, 9:30-5:30. Nov-Apr: Wed-Sun, 10-5. 🔗 Official Website : Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 5.4) For Those with Kids: Discovery Centre

This interactive science museum fosters curiosity through loads of hands-on exhibits in addition to live science demonstrations, educational programs, and dome theatre. With four floors of displays covering topics such as science, technology, and engineering, this museum provides an immersive experience for kids that adults can appreciate too.

💲Cost : C$15, kids C$12 📍 Where : Near the southern end of the Waterfront, right here . 🕒 When : Wed-Sun, 9 am – 4 pm. 🔗 Official Website : Discovery Centre

🎨 5.5) For Art Lovers: Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia showcases the province’s diverse artistic talent and cultural history. One of its highlights is the collection of works by Maud Lewis, a celebrated local folk artist. In fact, you can visit her restored home, now housed within the gallery. The Art Gallery also hosts a variety of rotating exhibitions featuring contemporary and Indigenous art, ensuring there’s always something new and captivating to discover.

💡 Budget tip to get in for free : Go on Thursday 5 pm – 9 pm, when admission is free of charge as part of “BMO Free Access Thursday Night.”

💲Cost : C$12 📍 Where : Near the southern end of the Waterfront, right here . 🕒 When : Wed-Sun, 9 am – 4 pm. 🔗 Official Website : Art Gallery of Nova Scotia  

6) Tour the Halifax Harbour by Boat

Halifax Harbour cruises are popular pursuits for visitors to the city. These harbour tours are a quintessential experience for visitors to Halifax to gain perspective of the port city while cruising in the storied Harbour.

Yacht cruises can be worth the splurge, such as this Wine & Cheese Sunset Cruise of the Halifax Harbour. Soak up the views in luxury with a glass of local wine in hand, as the sun dips down into the sea and the city of Halifax lights up.

Yet for a more affordable and well-rounded tour of Halifax Harbour, we suggest the popular Harbour Hopper tour . It’s a fun 1-hour Halifax tour on an amphibious vehicle that travels along Halifax’s streets and plunks right down into the Harbour, all while visiting many of the city’s most famous sites along the way. Expect to pass by the Halifax Citadel, the Halifax Public Gardens, St. Paul’s Church, Georges Island, the Waterfront, and so much more.

This informative and comically narrated tour provides a much more complete experience of the Harbour and Halifax itself, with many time slots and budget-friendly prices. If you only have one day in Halifax , we’d strongly recommend the Harbour Hopper tour as the best thing to do in Halifax for an excellent overview of the city and its sights. Check prices and availability here .

💡 Budget Tip: Create Your Own Halifax Harbour Cruise for C$2.75

While a sunset cruise or the Harbour Hopper tour are excellent options to experience Halifax Harbour, we must show an alternative way to tour these waters for less than $3.

For the most economical way to get out into Halifax Harbour, simply take the public ferry from Halifax to Dartmouth . While you won’t get any narration to learn about the city, you will get an inexpensive boat ride into the harbour. This public ferry is primarily used as transit rather than a touristic pursuit. Yet locals and visitors alike are welcome aboard this affordable boat ride across Halifax Harbour.

The fare is only C$2.75 each way and ferries depart about every 15 minutes. You can even ask for a free transfer to continue on, by bus, to other locations across the Harbour.

The Halifax Harbour public ferry is cheap thing to do in Halifax on a budget

Currently, there are two ferry routes: the Halifax-Alderney Ferry and the Halifax Woodside Ferry. We suggest visitors take the Alderney Ferry, which brings passengers to the cross-harbour municipality of Dartmouth. It’s a quick and fun ferry trip across the harbour, that takes about 12 minutes each way. During the journey, you can enjoy some of the best views of the Halifax Waterfront .

💡 Tip : Upon boarding the ferry, grab a seat on the back of the top deck . Many people will pile into the front seats. But it’s the back seats that will offer fleeting views of Halifax city skyline.

Looking at Halifax Waterfront from ferry is a fun thing to do in Halifax on a budget - only $2.50

Once the ferry makes it across the harbour, you can take the opportunity to explore Dartmouth. There’s a small waterfront here, a park, and a whole ‘nother town to discover with some great restaurants, cafes, bars, and more.

And that free transfer we mentioned earlier can be used for buses too. So if you’re on the Dartmouth side of the Halifax Harbour, consider catching the #60 bus onward to Fisherman’s Cove. (We’ll explain why next.)

Or take that same bus down to Woodside Regional Park, where you can catch a different ferry back to Halifax. Doing so creates a loop around the Halifax Harbour to give a slightly different vantage point upon the return from Woodside.

Whether by ferry (on the cheap) or a proper Harbour cruise, taking a boat trip into the Halifax Harbour is another “must” for things to do in Halifax.

💲Cost : C$2.75 adults, C$2.00 seniors & children 📍 Where : The Halifax Ferry Terminal is located here , easily accessible on the northern fringes of the Waterfront. 🕒 When : Runs approximately every 15 minutes from 6:30 am – midnight. 🔗 Official website with timetables : here .

7) Wander Around a Nova Scotian Fishing Village: Fisherman’s Cove

Halifax has a maritime history built around fishing. So visiting a historic fishing village makes for a fun thing to do in Halifax. Nova Scotia’s fishing villages can be intriguing enclaves to explore with lots of photo opportunities abounding.

When visiting Halifax, the most popular day trip to see a fishing village is to Peggy’s Cove, where visitors will find the famed Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse alongside a recreated fishing village. Yet it should be noted that a visit to Peggy’s Cove will either require an hour’s drive with your own transportation or you’ll need to join a day tour, which typically runs between $50-$100.

For a closer and more budget-friendly alternative to Peggy’s Cove, we recommend venturing across the Halifax Harbour by ferry and then taking the bus to see “Fisherman’s Cove.”

Fisherman's Cove Halifax Nova Scotia

There is no lighthouse here. But you will get to see a restored 200-year-old fishing village full of colorful buildings, seafood shacks, artsy boutiques, and fishing boats lining the canal.

It’s also a great spot to take a leisurely stroll, watch the fishing boats come and go, or simply soak in the serene maritime atmosphere. Also, consider walking next door to MacCormack’s Beach Provincial Park to walk the boardwalk trails and enjoy this natural portion of the coastline the Halifax Harbour.

Back at Fisherman’s Cove, there’s also a Heritage Centre to learn more about the historic fishing village. The Heritage Centre and Fisherman’s Cove itself are free. So Fisherman’s Cove makes for yet another one of the many great things to do in Halifax, on any budget.

Fisherman's Cove bright stores

💲Cost : Free 📍 Where : Located across the Halifax Harbour, here . Can be reached by ferry + bus #60. 🕒 When : Daily, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. Sundays, Noon-5:00 pm.

8) Visit McNabs Island to Explore Halifax Off-the-Beaten-Path:

If you’re planning a visit to Fisherman’s Cove, don’t stop there. This is the perfect opportunity to visit McNabs Island. We find McNabs Island to be one of the most underrated things to do in Halifax .

This half-day excursion isn’t among the most popular attractions in Halifax. Yet it’s something we highly recommended to anyone who enjoys nature and wants to get off the beaten path to inject a sense of adventure into their Halifax itinerary.

McNabs Island is the largest island in Halifax Harbour and has about 400 hectares (roughly 1,000 acres) of parkland to explore. With historic forts, beautiful beaches, and even some wildlife, it’s a fantastic place for hiking, picnicking, and bird-watching.

While exploring McNabs Island, learn a bit about its sordid history. McNabs Island has been used as a military fort, an amusement park, and even a soda factory. You can still find some of those bottles scattered throughout the island today. Given the history of this island, it is yet another of Canada’s National Historic Sites located in the Halifax area.

McNabs Island is an underrated thing to do in Halifax on a budget

McNabs Island has a well-maintained network of trails that zigzag across what is the largest island in Halifax Harbour. Those trails will take you to old crumbling forts, scenic cliffs, secluded beaches, and the modern-day ruins of former homes that remain on the island today. Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the trails across this interesting island.

Getting to McNabs Island directly from Halifax can get pricey since you’ll need to charter a boat for the 30-minute ride from Halifax to McNabs Island. Find operators here .

Yet a more budget-friendly way to reach McNabs Island is from Fisherman’s Cove, where Captain Mike Tilley will give you a lift in his skiff. It’s C$30 round-trip from Fisherman’s Cove to McNabs Island and back, which takes about 5 minutes each way.

“Captain Red Grey Beard,” as he’s also known, is full of local knowledge about the island and even has some personal ties that he’ll share with you. Be sure to ask questions and get him to tell you some tales.

Captain Mike’s McNabs Island Ferry

💲Cost : Entrance is free. Round-trip ferry from Fisherman’s Cove to McNabs Island: C$30 📍 Where : The island is in the middle of the Halifax Harbour, here . Find Captain Mike’s dock here  in Fisherman’s Cove. 📅 Seasonality : Captain Mike’s ferry operates in late spring, summer, and early fall. Other times of the year may be possible, pending the weather. 🕒 When : Typically daylight hours. Consider calling Captain Mike in advance to confirm. 🔗 More Info : Friends of McNabs Island 🔗 Ferry Website : Captain Mike’s McNabs Island Ferry

9) Pay Your Respect to the Victims of the Titanic

This is one of the more somber things to do in Halifax. The Fairview Lawn Cemetery is notable because it has the grim distinction of being the final resting place of the most Titanic victims .

Fairview Lawn Cemetery Halifax Titanic Sign

Survivors rescued from the infamous maritime tragedy were brought to New York City. But the White Star Line had an office in Halifax, which commissioned 3 ships with the task of recovering the victims from the icy waters.

Some were never found, while others were buried at sea. But a total of 209 bodies from the Titanic were hauled back to Halifax . The White Star Line paid for simple gravestones, many of which remain unnamed because the victims couldn’t be identified.

Fairview Lawn Cemetery Halifax Titanic Tombstones

Today, the Titanic section of the Fairview Lawn Cemetery provides visitors with a glimpse into this historic event in which Halifax played a vital role. Viewing this section of the cemetery, you may notice the curved layout of the gravestones that somewhat resembles the bow of a ship. If you go to Fairview Lawn, do note that it’s still an active cemetery that’s open to the public. So your respects is the only thing you’ll pay to visit.

Although a visit to the Fairview Lawn Cemetery is one of the more somber things to do in Halifax, it’s an interesting local sight to experience Halifax’s role in this tragic event.

💲Cost : Free 📍 Where : Located about 5 km from the Waterfront, be prepared for a long walk. Or catch a quick Uber/taxi. Find Fairview Lawn Cemetery here . 🕒 When : Weekdays 8:00 am – 4:00 pm.

10) Go Hiking around   Point Pleasant Park

Although Halifax is Nova Scotia’s largest city, it still maintains some enormous park space that’s only a short stroll from downtown. Located at the southern tip of the Halifax peninsula, this beautiful park offers stunning views of the harbour and the surrounding ocean.

It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy walking, jogging, or cycling along the trails and waterfront pathways. Point Pleasant is a great place to come get some fresh air, do some light trekking, or have a picnic by the sea on a nice sunny summer day.

Hiking the trails of Point Pleasant Park is a free thing to do in Halifax on a budget

Point Pleasant Park packs in 25 miles of hiking trails that weave across the peninsula and out toward the sea views. For a solid route that goes around the perimeter of the peninsula, take the Point Pleasant Park Loop . Yet we’d advise taking some detours from the loop to use the wooded trails in order to explore some of Point Pleasant’s historic sites.

Be sure to find the Prince of Wales Tower , which is the oldest Martello-style defensive tower in North America (1796) and one of Canada’s National Historic Sites. Locally known as “the roundhouse,” the Prince of Wales tower was built in 1796 as part of the city’s defensive fortifications. While you won’t be able to enter the tower itself, it’s an impressive historic site with interpretive signs to check out as you explore Point Pleasant Park.

One aspect that makes Point Pleasant Park unique is that Halifax doesn’t actually own it. Instead, the city rents this land from the British for 1 shilling (about 10 cents) each year, with a 999-year lease. What a deal!

Many National Historic Sites in Canada have an entrance charge, yet this one is free. Neither the tower nor Point Pleasant Park has an entrance fee. Perhaps we can thank the British and their generous lease agreement!

Prince of Wales Tower in Point Pleasant Park Halifax

Hiking or biking around Point Pleasant Park is a fun thing to do in Halifax for those who are looking to get active within the city!

💲Cost : Free 📍 Where : It’s located here , about 3 km away from the southern end of the Halifax Waterfront. 🕒 When : It’s open all day long.

11) Go to a Free Festival in Halifax

Halifax has festivals all throughout the year and these events really come to a pinnacle over the summer. It seems that there is some major event happening in Halifax every single weekend over the summer. Perhaps best of all, for those traveling to Halifax on a budget, most of the festivals are free! Or they at least have a free component.

Halifax Jazz Festival is a popular free summer event

Perhaps one of the biggest festivals of the year is the Halifax Jazz Festival . It does have modest entrance fees for some of the more notable performances. Yet it still maintains many free concerts throughout the four-day annual event. But Sunday is the day to go because that’s the free day for the Jazz Festival. On Sunday, even the main stage remains complimentary to watch a jam session.

Halifax’s most popular (mostly free) annual summer events include :

  • Royal Nova Scotia International Tatoo (June-July): World-class spectacle of music, dance, and military displays held annually in Halifax, showcasing both local and international talent. 💲 Ticketed event.
  • Halifax Mural Festival (July): A celebration of street art, transforming the city into a vibrant, open-air gallery with live painting, workshops, and art-related events. 💲 Free.
  • Halifax Canada Day (July): Commemorates the nation’s birthday with lively festivities, live performances, and an impressive fireworks display over the harbour. 💲 Free.
  • Halifax Jazz Festival (July): A captivating lineup of local and international jazz artists, drawing music lovers to enjoy a week of soulful performances at various city venues. 💲 Ticketed, but usually has free performances.
  • Halifax Pride Festival (July): A vibrant, inclusive celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, featuring a lively parade, concerts, and various events throughout the city. 💲 Free.
  • Halifax International Busker Festival (August): Astonishing street performances, including acrobatics, comedy, and music, set along the picturesque Halifax waterfront. 💲 Free, tips are strongly encouraged.
  • Halifax Natal Day Festival (August): Marks the city’s birthday with a weekend of family-friendly events, live music, and fireworks. 💲 Free.
  • Nocturne (October): A visual spectacle of contemporary art displayed across the streets of Halifax at night.

These are all on for 2023!

12) Board Canada’s Oldest Warship: HMCS Sackville

While strolling along the Halifax Waterfront, visitors can find decommissioned warships docked along the harbour that you can now explore and tour!

Perhaps most prominently is Canada’s oldest surviving warship, the HMCS Sackville.

HMCS Sackville is now a museum ship that makes a great thing to do in Halifax on a budget

This Royal Canadian Navy corvette was used during World War II and was crucial in winning the Battle of the Atlantic. The historic ship is the last remaining of 123 corvettes.

Today it is now a museum ship that is a worthwhile detour off of the Halifax Waterfront boardwalk. You can explore all throughout the WWII ship, from the bow and down into the engine room to learn about the wartime conditions. Visiting the ship offers an opportunity to learn about the brave sailors who served on it, providing a unique insight into Canada’s naval heritage.

As a free (donation-based) Halifax attraction, visiting the HMCS Sackville fits as yet another budget-friendly thing to do in Halifax!

💲Cost : Free, donations accepted 📍 Where : Located here , a central location along the Halifax Waterfront. 📅 Seasonality : mid-June to late October 🕒 When : Weekdays 10:00 am – 4:45 pm 🔗 Official website : HMSC Sackville .

13) Catch Halifax’s Free Outdoor Theatre: Shakespeare by the Sea

Shakespeare By The Sea is a beloved Halifax summertime tradition that showcases outdoor performances of Shakespeare’s plays set in the enchanting venue within Point Pleasant Park. It’s the largest and longest-running outdoor theatre festival in Atlantic Canada.

While the plays are often Shakespearean classics or adaptations, they also feature other (non-Shakespearan) classics too. For example, the 2023 season brings Pinocchio in addition to the Shakespeare classic Romeo and Juliet.

Shakespeare by the Sea performances usually run from July to early September. For 2023, it’s July 8 – September 3. For an up-to-date schedule, check the Shakespeare by the Sea Calendar .

Admission is pay-what-you-can and they’ll gladly accept any donation. The seating is on the grass, so bring a blanket or a chair. Otherwise, you can rent them for C$5. It’s a neat experience to watch live theatre under the open sky at dusk, enjoying this unique thing to do in Halifax.

💲Cost : Free (by donation) pay what you can, suggested donation C$20 📍 Where : Inside Point Pleasant Park. Nightly performances are held outside the Cambridge Battery, here . Matinees are at Park Place Theatre, here . 🕒 When : Tuesday-Sunday, 7:00 pm. 🔗 Official website & schedule : Shakespeare by the Sea .

Note: In addition to the aforementioned Shakespeare by the Sea outdoor theatre series, Halifax also typically has outdoor movies during the FIN Outdoor Film experience in the Public Gardens. However, after 20 summers, notice was given that they would not be presenting these screenings during the 2023 summer season. To see if this beloved tradition may return in the future, check back at FIN Outdoors .

14) Take a Stroll Through the Victorian Gardens: Halifax Public Gardens

Halifax Public Gardens is a 16-acre oasis right in the heart of downtown Halifax, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. The Halifax Public Gardens are one of the finest surviving examples of a Victorian Garden in all of North America .

Halifax Public Gardens flowers

This impressive garden boasts beautifully manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and a variety of trees, providing an idyllic setting for a leisurely stroll.

Be sure to wander through the blooming flowers and over the quaint bridges. While strolling past charming ponds and ornate fountains, visitors can even find a replica of the Titanic. Perhaps consider pausing for reflection. Or indulge in an ice cream cone from the vendor in the garden’s pavilion.

The Halifax Public Gardens are a popular attraction in the summer. Yet it’s a fairly big space in the middle of the city, so you may end up seeing more traffic in the form of ducks rather than people.

Ducks on bridge at Halifax Public Gardens

While many notable gardens around the world charge hefty entrance fees, Halifax’s Public Gardens are open to the public for free! So while walking around this city on a nice summer day, be sure to amble through these gardens. It makes a great free thing to do in Halifax.

💲Cost : Free 📍 Where : Located here , it’s about a 15-20 minute walk from the central Waterfront. 🕒 When : 8:00 am until 30 minutes before sunset (check Halifax sunset times ). 🔗 Website : Friends of the Public Garden .

15) Go Skating for Free at the Emera Oval

A fun and free Halifax activity is skating at the Emera Oval. Rollerblades are popular here. But you can opt to go retro and borrow a pair of roller skates instead! Bikes, scooters, and even plastic toy cars are also available over the summer.

And all of these equipment rentals are entirely F-R-E-E! It’s all such good, clean fun. Slap on a pair of skates and go!

skating at Emera Oval is a free thing to do in Halifax on a budget

In the winter, the Emera Oval becomes ice, and hence free ice-skating commences for a popular wintertime activity in Halifax. Whatever season you visit the Emera Oval in, just be sure to bring an ID, which is required for any of the free rentals.

Taking a few spins around the Emera Oval is one of the fun things to do in Halifax for families. Kids love it! (But so do we.)

💲Cost : Free, with identification 📍 Where : It’s located here , about 1.5 km inland from the Halifax Waterfront. 🕒 When : Hours vary. During summer, typically opens at 11:00 am on weekdays and noon on weekends. Remains open until 8:00 pm (June, Sept, Oct) and until 9:00 pm (July-Aug). Check the website for official hours (below). 🔗 Official website : here .

16) Check Out Halifax’s Vibrant Street Art

Halifax has a thriving street art scene , so keep your eyes peeled while roaming around town. We appreciate how some of the artists keep true to the city’s maritime theme.

One of the best (and easily accessible) murals can be found sprawling along the backside of Freak Lunchbox, which is a fun candy store located in downtown Halifax.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BW7fpQ0F40A/?taken-by=roamingaroundtheworld

To get started on your street art pursuits, you can find this mural located here on Google Maps . Continuing throughout this downtown area, around Barrington Street and Argyle Street, looking for vibrant street art in alleys and on the side of other buildings.

Halifax’s North End neighborhood is another good area to find a burgeoning street art scene. You can find several impressive murals along Agricola Street, Gottingen Street, and the surrounding areas. More recently, several murals have sprouted up in the Quinpool District too.

Keep an eye out for public art displays as you roam around Halifax. New street art pops up all the time around this vibrant city.

17) Why Visit the Library during a Trip to Halifax

Halifax Central Library stairs

Given its glass facade and eye-catching design, this library is a great place to visit in Halifax for any architectural buffs and casual travelers alike.

Inside the Halifax Central Library, you’ll find an Escher-like series of stairs taking you to the top floor. And it’s well worth ascending, whether you’re into architecture or not.

Arguably the best reason to venture over to the Halifax Public Library is for the panoramic views you can find on its top floor. There’s also a café up there. So grab a cup of coffee and gaze out over Halifax’s downtown at those harbor views.

The library makes an interesting thing to do in Halifax for its unique architecture. So come to see that, but stay for the free wifi or simply to take a break from a busy day of sightseeing in Halifax.

💲Cost : Free 📍 Where : Located here , a leisurely 10-15 walk from the Waterfront. 🕒 When : Mon-Thurs, 9:00 am – 9:00 pm. Fri-Sat, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm. Sun, Noon – 6:00 pm. 🔗 Official website : Halifax Central Library .

18) Find the Drunken Lampposts

If these street lamps look a little tipsy, it’s not because you overindulged at one of Halifax’s spectacular patio bars. These lampposts were placed on the Halifax waterfront in 2013 as a temporary art installation. But the drunken lampposts were beloved so much that the city decided to keep them as permanent fixtures.

Drunken lampposts Halifax waterfront boardwalk

The drunken lampposts have since become a funny little Halifax attraction for travelers to seek out. They are said to represent “the nakedly honest portraits of unseemly behavours that are often playing out on our own streets after dark.” We think it’s hilarious. These drunk lampposts really show off Halifax’s quirky side and its sense of humor.

Where are the drunken lampposts in Halifax? You can find the drunken lampposts while strolling along the waterfront. They are located on the pier in front of the Bicycle Thief restaurant. Here’s the exact location on Google Maps .

💡 Tip : To get the best shots of this funny site, go early on a weekday morning. During weekend afternoons in the summer, this attraction will be flooded with many other Instagrammers and photographers trying to snap a picture.

💲Cost : Free 📍 Where : On the Waterfront, here . 🕒 When : They’re always there and always drunk.

19) Visit Historic St Paul’s Church for a Halifax Oddity

St. Paul’s church is the oldest building in Halifax, dating all the way back to its founding in 1750. St Paul’s is also the oldest surviving Protestant church in all of Canada. It’s worth visiting this historic church to soak in the history, admire the Georgian architecture, and simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere inside.

St Paul’s church Halifax Nova Scotia

Yet what makes St Paul’s particularly interesting is a face that remains forever etched into one of the church’s windows.

Reminders of the tragic 1917 Halifax Explosion , which claimed about 2,000 lives, can be found throughout Halifax. Yet perhaps none are as attention-grabbing as the lingering silhouette that is etched into this historic church’s window.

silhouette of man from Halifax Explosion in church window

Lore tells of a deacon that happened to be standing perfectly aligned with the window at the time of the explosion. This legend continues that an intense heat left his profile burnt into the glass. The deacon’s portrait remains in St. Paul’s window today. Hence, St. Paul’s church makes for a fascinating offbeat sight to see during a trip to Halifax.

💲Cost : Free 📍 Where : Located here on Argyle Street , it’s about a 5-minute walk from a central point of the Waterfront. 🕒 When : Go during daylight hours to see this infamous silhouette.

20) Visit the Iconic Halifax Clock Tower

If you’re walking to or from the Halifax Citadel, you must take a moment to check out what has become an iconic landmark in the city: The Halifax Town Clock . It’s a three-story clock tower that dates back to the early 1800s and sits at the base of the Citadel.

The clock was a gift from Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, to the people of Halifax way back in 1803. The clock has been keeping time ever since, and it’s definitely a must-visit spot for its historical significance and the fantastic view it offers of downtown Halifax and the harbor.

It’s yet another attraction to check out, making it a great way to conclude this Top 20 list of things to do in Halifax.

So go snap of pic of this famous Halifax landmark as you make your way to the waterfront for some drinks. Because that’s what we’re talking about in one of the next sections of this Halifax tourism guide – drinks! But first, check out some awesome things to do as day trips from Halifax.

Halifax Clock Tower

💲Cost : Free 📍 Where : Right here , in between the Waterfront and the Citadel. 🕒 When : See it in the daytime.

Best Nova Scotia Day Trips from Halifax

In addition to all the awesome things to do in Halifax itself, there are also a variety of day trips located within an hour or two away from Nova Scotia’s capital. There are famous lighthouses to see, record-breaking tides, and UNESCO-listed village World Heritage Sites.

Meanwhile, adventure seekers can pursue an adrenaline-packed day of   Tidal Bore Rafting or take a hike along the precipitous coastal cliff of Cape Split. After such hair-raising adventures, sipping some local tidal bay wine in the nearby wineries can make for a perfect way to wind down.

There are a few tours from Halifax to pursue such day trips. Yet those with their own transportation will find the most economical way to reach these sites.

If visiting Halifax without a car, consider renting one, even if just for a day or two.

💡 Tip: If visiting over the summer, be sure to secure your rental car as early as possible, because rental cars do become sold out during the summer high season. Search rental cars for your travel dates .

21) Visit the Scenic Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

Peggy’s Cove is the quintessential day trip from Halifax. At Peggy’s Cove, you’ll find a beautiful lighthouse on a rocky point, surrounded by a recreated fishing village. It’s a beautiful sight that can be like stepping into a Nova Scotia postcard.

Peggy's Cove Lighthouse

Yet given Peggy’s Cove’s notoriety, it has become is a very popular attraction near Halifax that draws in the crowds, particularly during mid-day. So plan your visit accordingly to best enjoy the picturesque sight.

💡 Tip: Go early in the morning, just after sunrise, when very few others are around. We also find it can be pleasant to go around dusk.

It’s free to visit Peggy’s Cove, as there is no entrance fee. Just be prepared for a 45-minute drive from Halifax, each way.

Alternatively, take a day tour from Halifax. This Peggy’s Cove Tour is the least expensive we’ve found online, receives great reviews, offers direct pick-up from downtown Halifax, and has multiple departure times throughout the day (we suggest 8:30 am if available). Because it is a small-group tour that regularly sells out, be sure to book in advance. Check availability for your travel dates .

22) Visit the UNESCO town of Lunenburg

Lunenburg is one of Nova Scotia’s three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, designated as such for being the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America. This colorful fishing village dates all the way back to 1753. Read more about Old Town Lunenburg’s UNESCO designation .

With dwindling fish stocks in recent years, it’s tourism that now helps Lunenburg thrive.

Lunenburg Nova Scotia town

To better understand Lunenburg’s seafaring past, be sure to check out the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic ($C10). And to better appreciate the town’s unique architecture and rich history, consider a walking tour (C$25).

Lunenburg is a must-stop detour from Nova Scotia’s Lighthouse Trail. Wander around the picturesque town and practice your photography skills on the original architecture that’s held strong over the course of more than two & a half centuries .

Try some local seafood from places like the South Shore Fish Shack , with a sunny deck overlooking the Lunenburg Waterfront. Wash it down with some local beer from Shipwright Brewing Company or some spirits from Ironworks Distillery , housed in a former blacksmith shop.

Lunenburg is located a bit more than an hour’s drive away from Halifax. And a day trip including both Lunenburg and Peggy’s Cove can make a good combo, driving from Halifax on the same day. Exploring Old Town Lunenburg is another free thing to do from Halifax for those who are driving.

Lunenburg tours from Halifax are also available, many of which include Peggy’s Cove since its along the way. Consider one of these Lunenburg tours from Halifax :

  • Half-Day Small Group Tour of Nova Scotia’s South Shore – Goes to (1) Lunenburg, (2) Mahone Bay, and (3) Peggy’s Cove. 6 hours, C$175.
  • Nova Scotia Day Tour – Visit Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley – Goes to (1) Peggy’s Cove, (2) Queensland Beach, (3) Mahone Bay, (4) Lunenburg, (5) Bay of Fundy (Wolfville Waterfront Park) and (6) Lightfoot & Wolfville Wineries

23) Experience the Record-Breaking Bay of Fundy Tides

On the other side of Nova Scotia from Halifax is the Bay of Fundy, which is home to the most extreme tides in the world. It’s quite a sight to witness and a rare chance to walk on the floor of the ocean!

We suggest three very different spots to observe the tidal action, which are all free to experience:

  • Burntcoat Head Park – Walk on the ocean floor at low tide and marvel at the towering rock formations and tidal pools.
  • Halls Harbour – Pursue tide-watching at this small harbour, where you’ll see boats gently rise and fall, and eat at the adjacent restaurant while waiting for tidal changes.
  • Fundy Tidal Interpretive Area – watch the impressive tidal bore rush up the Shubenacadie River from an observation deck with informative signs to learn about it.

If you have a car, you can drive to any of these tidal attractions (more info on each, below). If you don’t have your own vehicle, then consider a Bay of Fundy tour from Halifax .

Burntcoat Head Park

About a 1 hour, 15-minute drive from Halifax, you can reach Burntcoat Head Park , home to the world’s highest recorded tides. If you make the trek from Halifax to Burntcoat Head Park, be sure to check the tides (listed on the website ) and plan your visit accordingly.

We suggest trying to time a visit during low tide for the opportunity to walk on the ocean’s floor. This also provides an opportunity to wander the tidal pools that form when the ocean is out. See what marine life you can find that may have been left behind. If time permits, watch as the Bay of Fundy dramatically fills the area you were once standing on, creating an aquatic landscape that shifts with each passing hour.

Halls Harbour

For a different view of the tides in a harbour setting, consider the 90-minute drive from Halifax to Halls Harbour . Here, visitors can witness this extreme act of nature as boats are seemingly lifted up and then lowered onto the harbour floor. At Halls Harbour, the tide swings a staggering 40 feet (~12 meters)! For perspective, imagine the tide rising and falling to the height of a 4-story building!

Look a the pictures below, first at high tide, then low tide.

Hall's Harbour Nova Scotia boats floating at high tide in the harbour, which is part of the Bay of Fundy and the most extreme tides in the world

It’s an amazing natural phenomenon to experience this in person. Walking along the ocean floor and seeing boats resting on the bottom of a harbor is mind-boggling. And yes, you can walk down there, which really helps put things into perspective.

Again, be sure to check the tides before you go and plan a visit for low tide. Halls Harbour is also known as Baxters Harbour and you can find the tide forecast   here .

💡 Tip: If you’re waiting around for the tides to change, don’t hesitate to pop into the adjacent Lobster Pound restaurant to try one of their local specialties like the lobster poutine!

Fundy Tidal Interpretive Area

Completely different than the ocean tidal change and the harbour tidal change, coming to the Fundy Tidal Interpretive Area offers a vantage point to witness Nova Scotia’s famous tidal bore in the Shubenacadie River. This is a remarkable natural phenomenon where the incoming tide forms waves that travel up the river.

Informative displays help to deepen your understanding of the Bay of Fundy’s powerful ecosystem. But the main draw is the observation deck to see the tidal bore in action. You may even catch adventurous souls doing tidal bore rafting (see next)!

24) Extreme Adventure: Tidal Bore Rafting

Don’t just watch those extreme tides. Experience them! A popular adventure pursuit in the Bay of Fundy is something known as Tidal Bore Rafting.

While the Bay of Fundy tides steadily fills the bay, the tidal flow is not-so-gradual when it reaches rivers. There are about 60 known places in the world where the phenomena of a tidal bore occurs. Nova Scotia’s Shubenacadie River is one of them.

Rivers in this region flow into the bay, just as most rivers in the world flow outward into the sea. But here in the Bay of Fundy, that all changes soon after low tide. The extreme tides rise in the Bay of Fundy and eventually begin to flow into the river. As the approaching water reaches the river, the rising tide is squeezed into an increasingly narrow space in the river. When the tide moves inward, it momentarily changes the course of the river to flow upstream.

During this process, waves and rapids are temporarily formed atop the sandbars. This is the tidal bore! And it’s now possible to go whitewater rafting upstream, during these changing tides. It’s such a crazy experience and is such a thrill! Check out the video below to get a glimpse at what it’s like.

For complete directions from Halifax, tips to know, who to book with, ways to save, and much more information about this Halifax day trip, be sure to check out all the details in our complete post that reviews:   Tidal Bore Rafting on the Most Extreme Tides in the World !

25) Cape Split: One of Nova Scotia’s Best Hikes

Also in the Bay of Fundy area is what we’ve found to be one of Nova Scotia’s most scenic hikes. It’s the Cape Split hike!

These jagged cliffs dramatically jut out for 7 kilometers right into the Bay of Fundy, where the extreme tides do their thing.

The only way to get here is the hike down to the cape. It’s a 6-kilometer trek each way that winds through a forest, before ultimately opening up to the barren cliffs that drop off into the bay.

drone shot of Cape Split Nova Scotia

For those who are active, hiking Cape Split is a perfect recreational pursuit you can to do as a day trip from Halifax!

It’s also another free activity. Just park your car at the trailhead and set off. The Cape Split trailhead is about a 90-minute drive from Halifax, located here .

Tip : If you want to check out the tides at Halls Harbour, do this hike in between the tide change to compare before and after.

26) Drink Tidal Bay Wine at Annapolis Valley Vineyards near Halifax

While in Nova Scotia’s tidal area, it’s only appropriate to drink the signature wine variety of the region: Tidal Bay.

There’s a burgeoning scene of wineries throughout the rolling hills of the coastal farmland of Annapolis Valley. Just a short hop away from Halifax, visitors can find these vineyards that produce the area’s signature white wine.

Tidal Bay is Nova Scotia’s first wine appellation and winemakers must maintain strict standards, such as 100% Nova Scotia grapes, in order to have the Tidal Bay designation. It’s a crisp & refreshing white wine, with green fruit notes and a distinct minerality. Appropriately for the region, it pairs exceptionally well with seafood.

Tidal Bay Wine at Luckett Vineyards

It’s about an hour’s drive from Halifax to get to the Annapolis Valley wine region featuring Tidal Bay wineries. In particular, Luckett Vineyards is one of the more popular wineries that we really enjoy.

It’s also a budget-friendly choice, as Luckett has a scenic tasting room with a tasting of five wines starting at only C$12. While there, be sure to wander through the grape vines to find the red phone booth that makes for some great photo ops.

In addition to Luckett, other popular Annapolis Valley wineries to visit include:

  • Lightfoot and Wolfville Winery – A certified organic, family-owned winery known for its handcrafted, small-lot wines, located in the Annapolis Valley. Visitors can enjoy tastings and farm-to-table dining with stunning views.
  • Benjamin Bridge – Renowned for its world-class Méthode Classique sparkling wines, this winery offers tastings, tours, and intimate culinary experiences.
  • Domaine de Grand Pré – Nova Scotia’s oldest farm winery, Domaine de Grand Pré offers a diverse range of wines and is home to the acclaimed Le Caveau restaurant.

Of course, you’ll need a designated driver to be able to enjoy multiple wineries. Instead, consider a proper Annapolis Valley wine tour from Halifax . The Wine and Lunch Escape makes three stops at three Annapolis Valley wineries and a very nice includes lunch! The wine tour receives excellent reviews, but it does book up. Check availability and reviews .

Also, if you enjoy a good drink, there’s much more to drink within the city of Halifax itself. And that’s a perfect segway into our next section of this Halifax travel guide!

Drinking Things to Do in Halifax

Halifax is said to have the most bars per capita of any city in Canada . With such an accolade, drinking IS one of the best things to do in Halifax !

So in addition to drinking Tidal Bay wine at Halifax’s neighboring vineyards (as suggested above), be sure to partake in these other drinking experiences throughout HRM.

Gahan's House patio in Halifax

27) Tour Alexander Keith’s Historic Brewery

This Halifax mainstay is one of the oldest breweries in North America , dating back to 1820. Keith’s has maintained the historic brewing facility that goes back nearly two centuries in Halifax’s history.

Alexander Keith's Brewery Halifax Nova Scotia

It’s a fun brew tour that’s one part history, one part brewing, and one part Nova Scotian tradition. It’s an equation that adds up to a great time, complete with intimate local music performances and many opportunities to drink Keith’s beer while being toured through the old hallways!

Visitors will learn just as much about the namesake Scottish brewer that became Halifax’s beloved mayor, as you will the brewing process.

Alexander Keith's beer while on brewery tour in Halifax

The tour includes four glasses of different styles of beer, adding to the value of this fun brewhouse tour!

💲Cost : C$26.95 📍 Where : Just off the central Waterfront, right here . 🕒 When : Tours generally occur every hour during summer months, Mon-Sat, Noon-7:00 pm. 🔗 Booking and availability : Alexander Keiths Brewery Tour .

28) Partake in the Halifax Tradition of a “Ceilidh”

Kitchen Ceilidh Durty Nelly's Halifax band playing Gaelic music

During the aforementioned Alexander Keith’s brewery tour, they’ll fully demonstrate what a cèilidh is like. Yet try to make it to an actual cèilidh while visiting Nova Scotia. For those heading up to Cape Breton, know cèilidhs are common occurrences up there. Yet if the timing is right, you can be fortunate to catch this tradition of a cèilidh in Halifax too.

One place that has regular cèilidhs in Halifax is Durty Nelly’s. They often have a cèilidh on Thursday nights 7-10 PM. Check their event calendar to see if one is occurring while you’re in town. The ceilidh itself is free. Just pony up to the bar for a pint while enjoying the live Gaelic music. Beers start at C$7.75.

Alternatively, you can also try the Old Triangle Irish Alehouse. They often host live traditional music sessions, and they’ve been known to turn into a full-on cèilidh. Check their gig calendar .

29) Patio Drinking is a Quintessential Thing to Do in Halifax

During the summer months, Halgonians and visitors alike love drinking on a sunny patio. There’s nearly a sport to patio drinking in Halifax and it’s become a hardened summertime tradition in this city.

The BG is a perennial favorite on the waterfront . We love it too for the local beers and the open-air wooden seating directly on the Waterfront with views of the Halifax Harbour. It’s the perfect atmosphere to sip on a beverage on a bright sunny Halifax day. It’s a popular spot in the middle of the Waterfront that tends to get particularly busy during weekends.

But don’t worry, there are plenty of patio bars to enjoy drinks all throughout Halifax. The Lower Deck also sports a welcoming patio along the Waterfront during the summer months. Or go across the harbour to the Wooden Monkey in Dartmouth sweeping views of the Halifax skyline to accompany your cool beverage.

Another one of our favorite waterfront patios in Halifax is  Stone’s Throw . This patio bar on the northern fringes of the Halifax waterfront isn’t as popular as the centrally located, BG. Yet for those who want to enjoy patio drinking in Halifax on a budget. During happy hour (4:00-6:00) Stone’s Throw offers local Nova Scotia craft beer for C$6 for a generous 16 oz. pour. There’s also $6 wine and rotating cocktails.

The patio bar is hidden in plain sight, as it’s part of the Marriott Harbourfront Hotel. We recommend Stone’s Throw for inexpensive pre-dinner craft beer on the waterfront.

Stone's Throw Halifax patio with beer on the Halifax waterfront boardwalk

30) Drink Halifax’s Fantastic Local Breweries

Halifax has a fantastic local beer scene! There are loads of breweries, brew pubs, and cideries to check out all throughout the city. Brewing runs deep in Halifax and is currently having a major resurgence producing delicious results!

Halifax breweries have lots of appeal and new brewpubs are sprouting up all the time. At last count, we tallied over 20 breweries, brewpubs, and cideries across HRM. All beer-loving Halgonians seem to have their favorites.

Personally, we really enjoy Good Robot , Two Crows , and Propeller Brewing Company , to name a few. But try ‘em yourself and tell us which of Halifax’s local breweries you like best!

To sample some beers by the Halifax Waterfront, hit up Garrisons Brewery , near the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market. Enjoying their C$2 tasters from the variety of brews across their dozen taps is easy on the wallet too. At that price, grab a few at a time. We recommend the 8% Juicy Double IPA for those who like a hoppy beer if they have this specialty brew on tap.

Garrisons Brewery Halifax taster flight of craft beer

Use the Good Cheer Passport to Find Halifax Breweries and Earn Prizes

Those beer lovers visiting Halifax, make sure to join the (free) Good Cheer Trail Passport Program ! This passport can be used to discover local breweries, wineries, cideries, and distilleries all throughout the province of Nova Scotia. An excellent interactive map can be found on the Good Cheer Trail Passport website , to help you navigate your way to each of Halifax’s breweries.

Once you collect a stamp from 15 different places, you can redeem your Good Cheer Trail Passport for a free t-shirt to commemorate your drinking accomplishment! You’ll also be entered in a drawing for a grand prize.

Pick up your passport at any of the participating breweries and at the Halifax Tourism Office. Alternatively, use the digital Good Cheer passport found on the Taste of Nova Scotia Mobile App .

Nova Scotia Good Cheer Trail Passport stamps

And while the passport can be used throughout the entire province, you can easily collect 15 stamps right in Halifax . We can tell you from personal experience that this is a fun pursuit.

Eating is a Thing to Do in Halifax!

There are some interesting things to eat in Halifax that are unique to the city and to Nova Scotia. So these final five things to do in Halifax offer up some suggestions for these interesting foodie finds throughout the city.

Halifax has a designated official food that you may find surprising. It’s a must-try, reviewed below.

Yet it’s Nova Scotia’s seafood that simply can’t be ignored. Whether oysters, scallops, lobster suppers, or local haddock (fish), there is lots of seafood to try throughout Nova Scotia’s capital. And while seafood can tend to be expensive, of course, you know that we’re offering up our signature budget tips to help you enjoy the best of Halifax’s dining scene without spending a fortune.

31) Try the Official Food of Halifax: The Donair

The Halifax Donair has been proclaimed the official food of Halifax . And lucky for budget-conscious visitors to the city, the Halifax Donair makes for an inexpensive meal to try while in town.

Halifax donair is a great cheap eat in Halifax and is the city's official food

It may look like a Greek gyro or a Turkish doner kebab. Yet here in Halifax, donairs have taken on their own identity.

What is a Halifax donair? A large pita is stuffed with shaved spiced beef, rather than lamb or other doner meat. But what really makes it a “Halifax donair” is the “donair sauce.”

A concoction of condensed milk, sugar, garlic, and vinegar is what gives a Halifax Donair its distinction. As the story goes, it was 1973 when a Greek immigrant adjusted his recipe to local tastes by using beef and developing the signature sauce.

Nearly 50 years later, there are now donair shops all over Halifax. But his “King of Donair” shop is still in Halifax too. So go there to try this deliciously messy meal. Just grab some extra napkins!

Official Website: King of Donair

32) Eat Local Maritime Oysters in Halifax

Nova Scotia, along with the surrounding maritime provinces, is known for its fresh oysters. So be sure to try some freshly-shucked raw oysters on the half-shell while you’re in Halifax.

Local oysters are a culinary delight to try in Halifax. Being so close to the source helps to ensure freshness. The shuckers really take their oysters pretty seriously around here. The quality and freshness are unparalleled.

You’ll find many oyster varieties on the menu local to Nova Scotia and the surrounding Martime provinces. But keep an eye out for Sober Island oysters in particular, which are farmed about a 100-km west of Halifax and considered a premium oyster.

Oyster Happy Hour at Five Fishermen Halifax Little Fish is a cheap seafood deal in Halifax

Many oyster bars can be found all throughout Halifax. Often recommended Halifax oyster bars include the Press Gang , Barrington Steak House and Oyster Bar , Five Fishermen , Waterfront Warehouse , and McKelvie’s Restaurant , among many others.

💡 Budget Tip: Oyster Happy Hours

Oyster prices vary in price around Halifax but are typically somewhere around C$3+ per oyster (2023 prices). So wouldn’t be unusual for a dozen oysters to cost C$40+ at a Halifax restaurant or oyster bar.  Thankfully, oyster happy hours around Halifax will help to enjoy these mollusks for less.

Here are a few places in Halifax with known oyster happy hours:

  • Highwayman – C$2 oyster daily 4:00-5:00 pm.
  • Lot Six Bar & Restaurant – Dozen oysters for $C24

33) Try the “Best Fish & Chips in Canada!”

Halifax and many coastal communities throughout Nova Scotia have been based around fishing throughout the local waters. So a great way to try the local catch is with fish & chips!

The fish used around Halifax is local haddock, a type of cod, found locally in the cool & clean Atlantic waters offshore. The mild white fish makes for some particularly awesome fish & chips!

Fish & chips are fairly commonplace on menus throughout Nova Scotia, a nod to the province’s British roots. You can find fish & chips ranging from upscale restaurants to pubs and super casual counter-service joints.

While in Halifax, try fish and chips at Fries & Co. , Willman’s Fish & Chips , or Evan’s Fresh Seafood in Dartmouth. But if you want what’s been considered Canada’s best fish & chips, head over to John’s Lunch .

John's lunch Fish & chips Halifax

Cross the Halifax Harbour to the Woodside area of Dartmouth to find what Canadian Living deemed as the “ best fish & chips in Canada .” John’s Lunch coats its haddock with a homemade batter, mixed fresh every morning, then fries the battered haddock to crisp golden perfection. We must concur with Canadian Living , as this Halifax institution definitely delivered the best fish & chips we’ve had in Canada!

Prices vary by the number of pieces: 1-piece (C$9.75), 2-piece (C$14.00), 3-piece (C$17.50) meal. 💡 Budget tip: the 3-piece meal is plenty for couples to share, adding value to this delicious meal!

Official Website: John’s Lunch

34) Try Some Canadian Snacks at the Waterfront:  

There are some tasty treats and local snacks to try while wandering around the Halifax waterfront. Most of them are easy on the budget too! Here are some quintessential local snacks we suggest trying while visiting Halifax:

Ice Cream: Cows Creamery & Moon Mist

Cows Creamery is known to have the best ice cream in Canada and is often listed as the world’s best ice cream. It’s a staple in the neighboring province of PEI, you can also find a Cows Creamery location directly on Halifax’s waterfront. Scoops for this primo ice cream start at C$4, a sweet price for this tasty treat that we think lives up to the hype!

And for a uniquely Nova Scotian treat, keep an eye out for “Moon Mist” ice cream at any of the ice cream joints along the waterfront. This colorful mix of grape, banana, and bubble gum ice cream is a Nova Scotia tradition that can only be found around these parts.

Cows Creamery ice cream cone Halifax

Eat a BeaverTail on the Halifax Waterfront

BeaverTails are a beloved Canadian snack food that originated in Ottawa and quickly spread across all of Canada. So you can now find this flattened fried dough at a kiosk along the Halifax boardwalk. They’re shaped like (you guessed it) beaver tails and covered with cinnamon & sugar. If that’s not sweet enough, you can choose to have it loaded up with an assortment of other sugary toppings, from a maple spread to Nutella. BeaverTails start at about C$5.

Enjoy Canada’s National Dish in Halifax – Poutine

If you’re visiting Halifax from outside the country, you must try Canada’s national dish – poutine . It’s an economical snack/meal/gut bomb. For the uninitiated, poutine is a delicious concoction of french fries covered in squeaky cheese curds and brown gravy.

Perhaps one of the most convenient places for poutine on the Waterfront is Smoke’s Poutinerie . It’s a poutine franchise that has a kiosk in a central location on the Halifax waterfront.

Yet locals in Halifax point to Willy’s Fresh Cut as the best poutine in town. We visited, devoured, and concur. Prices range from C$6.00 for a small to C$9.50 for a large. Willy’s is located at Pizza Corner, which is another eating thing to do in Halifax that’s further explained next.

Smokes Poutinerie is a great place to try poutine in Halifax

35) Eat Lobster in Halifax

Nova Scotia’s waters are teeming with lobster fishing boats, and the province exports millions of pounds of lobster globally each year. So be sure to try this delicious local seafood while visiting Halifax.

Usually served boiled and served with classic sides, such as potato salad, restaurants in Halifax, many restaurants in Halifax feature local Nova Scotia lobster on their menus. Yet for a local tradition, consider a lobster supper, which can be a fun way to connect with Bluenosers (Nova Scotians).

To see if any community lobster suppers may be occurring during your visit, check local Facebook events, Eventbrite, Kijiji, local bulletin boards, or community social media pages. Yet for more of a sure bet, head out to the longstanding Shore Club in Hubbards (a 45-min drive from Halifax) for a traditional lobster supper, with mussels, and all the fixins.

Once considered the “poor man’s protein,” Nova Scotia lobster has since transformed into a premium culinary delight with prices to reflect that. Throughout Halifax, lobster is often at “market price” throughout Nova Scotia. Expect to pay somewhere around $C40-$C60 for a full lobster supper in Halifax (2023 prices).

If that’s a bit steep for those on a budget in Halifax, consider indulging in a lobster roll instead. Chunks of chilled, succulent lobster meat are tossed lightly with mayo and served in a toasted, buttery roll. It’s a simple, yet incredibly delicious way to enjoy lobster in Halifax. Expect to pay roughly $C25-C$35 (2023 prices) for a lobster roll in Halifax, which may or may not include a modest side like a bag of chips.

Lobster in Halifax: Dave's Lobster (upper left), Lobster Poutine from Halls Harbour (upper right), and lobster supper in Halifax from Mic Mac (bottom)

Here are just a few notable suggestions among the many places to eat lobster in and around Halifax:

  • Five Fisherman – Upscale restaurant in a historic setting known for its seafood dishes, with lobster suppers at market price.
  • McKelvie’s – Situated on the Halifax Waterfront, this seafood restaurant serves steamed lobster at market price and also offers a delicious lobster pasta (C$49).
  • Salty’s – Located directly on the Halifax Harbour, Salty’s has a more casual downstairs and a more upscale upstairs restaurant, each with steamed lobster at market prices.
  • Dave’s Lobster – Seasonal counter-service joint slinging various lobster rolls (market price) and even a lobster grilled cheese, conveniently located on the Waterfront.
  • Shore Club – A 45-minute drive east of Halifax will take you to this lobster supper institution, with traditional communal seating, live music, and all the accompaniments. (1-pound lobster dinner: C$43.95, 1.5-pound: C$54.50).
  • Halls Harbour – Given the 1.5-hour drive from Halifax, it’s a smart idea to include as part of a Bay of Fundy day trip. In addition to lobster meals (market price), this active lobster pound has a wide variety of lobster dishes, including lobster nachos (C$25.50), lobster mac & cheese (C$24.50), lobster BLT salad (C$30), and our personal favorite – lobster poutine (C$23.25)!

And if you haven’t got your fill of lobster in Halifax, also check out our separate article about lobster in Nova Scotia’s neighboring province: 6 Best Ways to Experience Lobster in PEI .

More Halifax Travel Tips

Here are a few more travel tips to help you explore Halifax!

☀️ Best Time to Visit Halifax:

There is little debate that Summer (June-August) is the best time of year to visit Halifax. This is the warmest time of year for Halifax, yet temps usually remain mild and crisp, with highs ranging from 18°-24°C (~65°-75°F) in the afternoon. Blue, clear skies becoming increasingly prevalent.

All seasonal establishments are open. Summer also brings an influx of events and festivals across Halifax. Yet summer is also peak season for Halifax. So visitors may encounter high-priced accommodation, crowds (particularly on weekends), long waits for attractions and restaurants, and/or availability problems.

While summer can be an ideal time to visit Halifax, one could make a solid argument to travel to Halifax in the early Fall for optimal conditions . Temperatures are still mild, with highs ranging from 16° to 22°C (61°-72°F). And it’s the month of September that actually has the greatest propensity for clear skies. Fall visitors to Halifax may also get an opportunity to see foilage around the city. stunning fall foliage. Yet another perk is how Halifax becomes less crowded after Labour Day.

There’s never a bad time to visit Halifax, but do know that winter can be quite cold , with temperatures often below freezing. Seasonal establishments will be long shut down before winter even begins, so that may limit your activities. There’s usually a good amount of snow during winter in Halifax, so this brings about the opportunity for winter sports.

🧥 Pack for the Weather:

Halifax’s maritime climate can be unpredictable. Pack layers and a rain jacket, especially in the spring and fall. If your trip to Halifax is in the next week or so, here’s the Halifax 7-day forecast .

Also, understand that even during warm summer days, temperatures can dip down towards 11°C (low 50s F) in the evening. So be sure to pack a light jacket or sweater to keep warm, even in the summer . To see what weather averages are during any time of year, find year-round Halifax weather averages on WeatherSpark .

⏰ Local Time in Halifax

Remember, Halifax is in the Atlantic Time Zone , which is one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time . Your phone will adjust automatically. But just make sure you’re aware of the time change.

⚠️ Not from Canada, eh? You need travel insurance!

While Halifax is a very safe travel destination, accidents can occur. If you’re visiting Canada from the US , be sure you have medical coverage while within the country.

If not, you won’t be covered by Canada’s health care system. Medical costs will be outrageous should an unforeseen accident occur. Medical coverage is an absolute must, but travel insurance will also cover other mishaps like trip cancelation and lost luggage, which can also be assuring to have. For Americans visiting Canada, we recommend World Nomads travel insurance which contains the medical coverage you need to have while traveling in Canada. Get a quick quote for your travel dates .

✈️ Getting to Halifax

Halifax is well connected by flights to the Halifax Stanfield International Airport. Air Canada and WestJet have numerous flights throughout Canada, which make for convenient connections elsewhere.

For those traveling to Halifax from the US, direct flights are limited to Boston year-round, so a connection will likely be necessary. Although, there are seasonal direct flights between Halifax and Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Tampa, Philadelphia, and DC.

We’ve spotted  flights around $400 and less for roundtrips from US locations. Of course, airfare prices change regularly. Search around to score a good deal on flights to Halifax. Get creative with your flight searches and be sure to book at least 3 weeks out (or more) to secure a low fare.

🚐 Getting from the Airport to Downtown Halifax

The Halifax Airport is 35 kilometers (22 miles) away from downtown, so it takes over a half hour to get into town. A taxi will cost you a flat rate of C$65 and Uber estimates are C$55-C$60.

For travelers on a budget, the Regional Express Airport 320 bus runs every 30-60 minutes and drops off in Scotia Square, right in the heart of downtown Halifax. The cost is only C$4.25, so it’s quite the savings over taking a taxi! Find all the timetable and route info: Regional Express 320 .

🚶 Getting Around Halifax

Halifax is a very walkable city . Most all the attractions, restaurants, and bars that we’ve mentioned throughout this guide can be walked to. Be sure to pack a pair of comfortable shoes!

Those driving to Halifax and staying downtown (recommended), may find they have no need for their car throughout the visit. If the need arises, you can use Halifax Transit as an affordable way to get around the city. Uber is now in Halifax too, providing a convenient option.

📍 Where to Stay in Halifax

Map showing the best area to stay in Halifax

Most Halifax hotels are naturally located within this area, so there are plenty of options to choose from. Just consider booking early.

📍 For Summer Reservations – Book Early!

If staying in Halifax over the summer, particularly during a summer weekend, be sure to secure a reservation as soon as possible. Hotels will be sold out and those that still have availability will likely have very high prices. Book early to have your pick of hotels and to secure a good rate.

With over 100 properties listed, we’ve found Booking.com to have the most hotel listings and often the best prices too. Search Halifax hotels on Booking for your travel dates to lock in your accommodation.

🚗 Use Tours or Rental Cars for Day Trips from Halifax

There’s no need to rent a car to get around Halifax itself. In fact, it may even be a burden to find parking. Yet Halifax makes a great central base to explore much of Nova Scotia.

We’ve found rental cars to be surprisingly inexpensive in Halifax, with rates as low as C$50 per day for an economy car. Most of the major car rental agencies have locations in downtown Halifax (Hertz, Avis, Budget, Alamo, etc.). Often rental car prices were cheaper from those downtown locations compared to picking up a rental car at the airport.

We scoured through all the main booking sites and even got quotes from agencies directly. In doing so, we noticed the best rental car rates in Halifax by searching on Priceline . Book your rental car as early as possible, because these also become sold out during popular summer days. Search rental cars for your travel dates .

Cheap rental car we got in Halifax

🚰 Tap Water in Halifax

Halifax’s tap water is safe and delicious to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle.

💬 Know the Local Lingo in Halifax

You may encounter some new words and phrases while in Halifax, or even while reading this article. To help you make sense of things, here are a few local words we’ve picked up during visits to Halifax:

  • Bluenoser: A term for someone from Nova Scotia. It originated from the schooner, Bluenose, which is featured on the Canadian dime.
  • Caper: Someone from Cape Breton Island.
  • Scotian: Another term for someone from Nova Scotia.
  • Maritimer: A term for someone from the Maritime provinces, which include Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island.
  • The Peninsula : The Halifax Peninsula, is a smaller portion of the city of Halifax that includes downtown and the waterfront and is defined by water boundaries that include the Halifax Harbour, Northwest Arm, and Bedford Basin.
  • HRM : Stands for “Halifax Regional Municipality,” which is the 5,000+ sq km wide region that includes Halifax, Dartmouth, Bedford, and Halifax County.
  • The Valley : Refers specifically to the Annapolis Valley region of Nova Scotia.
  • Sociable! : Similar to “cheers!” Raise your glass, say “socialable!”, and take a drink.
  • Donair: A popular fast food item in Halifax, similar to a gyro, but with a distinct sweet garlic sauce.
  • Kitchen Party: A social gathering in someone’s kitchen, often involving music and dancing. This is a common tradition in Atlantic Canada.
  • Storm Chips: Bags of potato chips Nova Scotians stock up on before a storm.

📖 Order a Free Halifax Visitor Guide

Want some more info and ideas for Halifax, be sure to check out Discover Halifax . It’s the official tourism website for Halifax and has loads of great information. If you live in the US or Canada, they’ll even mail you a complimentary Halifax Visitor Guide by using this link .

If you want even more travel info for Halifax, Nova Scotia, and the Maritimes, consider ordering a Travel Guide. We like the Lonely Planet Nova Scotia , which was last updated in 2022.

Best Things To Do in Halifax: Conclusion

We hope that this post has helped to give you lots of ideas for what to do in Halifax and show that it is very possible to enjoy many things to do, whatever the travel budget. Halifax is a wonderful city that has proven to be one of our favorite lengthy stays while traveling all over the world.

We have absolutely fallen in love with Halifax while roaming around the city.

Halifax Waterfront boardwalk chairs

If this travel guide has helped you plan your things to do in Halifax, please let us know in the comments below.

Or if you have been to this fun Canadian city and have your own travel tips or suggestions for things to do in Halifax – let us know too! We will actually be roaming around Halifax once again in the summer and fall of 2023, now as a family with little ones in tow. 😊 So we’d love to use your Halifax travel tips and update this article again!

Happy travels to beautiful Halifax, Nova Scotia! 🇨🇦

Publishing note: This article about the Best Things to Do in Halifax was originally published in November 2017. It was most recently updated in May 2023, in an effort to reflect current pricing and up-to-date info.

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Tidal Bore Rafting on the Most Extreme Tides in the World

December 27, 2023 at 2:31 AM

Awesome Halifax travel guide! Planning a trip and these 35 tips are gold. Thanks for the simple and friendly advice!

is halifax travel ready worth it

February 19, 2023 at 6:51 PM

Thank you so much for the tips John! What a great site!!! A bunch of friends and I are taking a cruise and only have 1 day in Halifax so this really helped narrow down the must see list. Do you know by any chance if there are (electric) scooters or bikes to rent to scoot around downtown for the day?

is halifax travel ready worth it

October 26, 2019 at 4:33 PM

This is a phenomenal post for Halifax! Thanks for a TON of tips and suggestions. Glad I stumbled upon it. Getting that jump on planning for a visit in Summer 2020!

is halifax travel ready worth it

October 28, 2019 at 2:16 AM

So glad it’s proved helpful! Hope you have a great trip to this awesome city! 😀

is halifax travel ready worth it

August 10, 2019 at 9:05 PM

Very helpful article, thank you! As a quick note, you might want to double check that 18-20 are all listed as “drunken lampposts “!

August 13, 2019 at 12:09 PM

Thanks for catching that and alerting us. 🙂 I’ve just updated to correct those subheadings.

is halifax travel ready worth it

July 29, 2019 at 6:18 AM

Great post and really well put together! makes me want to go back to nova scotia now. Thanks

is halifax travel ready worth it

July 23, 2019 at 12:19 AM

Wow…you have given us a lot to think about!!! Great tip about Driver Dave!!! The no Uber/Lyft was a big surprise; we have found the service so inexpensive when we travel whether we drive or fly so we don’t need to draw straws for who will be the DD. So yikes…now we need a car for a couple days and look at that!! You provided that info as well!! Out of curiosity, are taxi’s expensive in the city for short distances?

This is so well thought out and researched, thank you for all the tips and suggestions. This will be my 2nd trip to Halifax and I cannot wait!! Six more sleeps 😉

July 26, 2019 at 1:05 PM

Yes, Driver Daves is really convenient and certainly the most economical private ride transfer from the airport into Halifax. Yeah, it’s too bad they don’t have rideshares available in Halifax as we’ve found it to be so convenient and often affordable in many places around the world. Taxi prices for short distances around Halifax are quite pricey, at least by our standards. But we always have such a pleasant time walking around the city, so we never feel a need to splurge on taking a taxi within the city. The relatively inexpensive rental cars helped for when needing to get to further-flung locations. Hope you have a great return trip back to Halifax with lots of beer and empty plates – cheers!

is halifax travel ready worth it

June 15, 2019 at 11:41 PM

This is truly a very helpful guide! You wrote it with so much passion and caring attitude for us which I liked most. Thank you so much! Me, my husband, our son will be visiting our daughter who study there. I will keep your instructions in-front of me to get the best of Halifax from a short visit. Sending best wishes from Bangladesh.

June 19, 2019 at 7:14 PM

Thanks so much for taking the time to drop us a comment. We just recently updated this post, so makes us happy to hear that it’s getting out there and people are finding it useful! Hope you have a great visit. Halifax is truly such a pleasant and welcoming place, as I’m sure your daughter must be experiencing. ধন্যবাদ 🙂

is halifax travel ready worth it

September 24, 2018 at 9:31 PM

I’ve never heard of the drunk lampposts. I might need to check those out.

I’ve also never heard of “The West Arm”, it’s actually called the Northwest Arm.

September 25, 2018 at 9:24 AM

The drunken lampposts are a funny sight. If you take a southerly stroll along the waterfront, you’re bound to stumble into them.

Ah, yes, it’s Northwest Arm, not West Arm. Not sure how we let that slip through, but we’ve just edited to correct, so thank you. 🙂

is halifax travel ready worth it

June 2, 2018 at 11:17 PM

Thanks – very helpful. Will be traveling in early August. Can’t wait!

June 5, 2018 at 10:28 AM

August should be a beautiful time to visit Halifax – hope you have a fantastic trip! 🙂

is halifax travel ready worth it

May 15, 2018 at 4:31 PM

We are traveling to Halifax in just a few weeks and so glad to have stumbled upon this page. So much great info and recommendations, thanks for putting this together!

May 25, 2018 at 1:16 PM

Awesome! We hope you have an great trip to Halifax ahead. What a great way to kick-off the summer fun! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment with your feedback. 🙂

is halifax travel ready worth it

April 27, 2018 at 3:16 AM

Fantastic post. Halifax is in my bucket list so I found your post very helpful also the budget table is very useful to plan a trip accordingly. All the places seems very interesting so I would love to visit them all.Keep sharing such posts.

May 9, 2018 at 10:51 AM

Thanks and we hope you make it to this great city one day! It’s definitely a place to tick off the bucketlist and makes a great base to explore Nova Scotia!

is halifax travel ready worth it

November 28, 2017 at 8:40 AM

I wouldn’t leave out of any the options that you have listed here! They all sound like wonderful experiences, and the place is so laid-back and relaxed that I would probably need a few days here to complete all of that 🙂

is halifax travel ready worth it

November 28, 2017 at 4:59 AM

This is an awesome guide for visiting Halifax!! Thank you so much for creating it! It’s amazing how many things you can do for free there. I love how many of your suggestions are for outdoorsy activities. The city looks gorgeous! Your tips on using public transport, including the local ferry instead of an expensive boat cruise, are super helpful. Will definitely add Halifax to our Canada itinerary!

is halifax travel ready worth it

November 27, 2017 at 10:25 PM

Great post. Really comprehensive. Walking along the waterfront, canoeing, going on the warship and looking at Street Art seem like activities I would enjoy. Pinning this to my Budget Travel board.

November 29, 2017 at 10:14 PM

Oh thanks! The waterfront and canoeing are certainly two of our favorites in Halifax. Also, glad to hear you’ve added this to your Pinterest travel board and sharing. 🙂

is halifax travel ready worth it

November 27, 2017 at 2:37 PM

thank you for this thorough guide to Halifax. There are plenty activities to enjoy for free that allow visitors to enjoy the waterfront and the culture of the city. I would love to go during a festival and enjoy some of the outdoors activities.

November 29, 2017 at 10:10 PM

Yeah, those summer festivals in Halifax are pretty nice and the amazing summer weather seems to make any outdoor pursuit there even more enjoyable! 🙂

is halifax travel ready worth it

November 27, 2017 at 11:39 AM

This list is epic and I am so impressed that you wrote this with so much detailing. It’s interesting that sometimes even presumably expensive cities can be done on a budget 🙂

The most fascinating bit was the final resting place of the most Titanic victims…I had no idea such a place even existed. And a visit there is free…

November 29, 2017 at 10:09 PM

Yes, we had feared Halifax may not be in our budget so we were really pleasantly surprised to discover reasonable accommodation, cheap restaurants, and so many free things to do in Halifax! Am hoping the detail we’ve included in this Halifax travel guide will help others to experience all that this city has to offer.

is halifax travel ready worth it

November 27, 2017 at 11:12 AM

I loved the way you actually listed down all the things with their approximate costs! Superb! Halifax certainly looks a very pretty place with lots to see! The boats along the waterfront makes for such a pretty sight and I am sure I’d love a canoe ride and a visit to the farmer’s market! I love markets and the delicious sights and smells on display! The colours of houses along the fisherman’s bay look amazing! Big Big fan of street art so glad you covered that too. What a lovely coverage you have here! 🙂 Bookmarking this!

November 29, 2017 at 10:07 PM

Oh thanks! Yes, there’s certainly a lot to see and do here. The waterfront, markets, canoeing, and the street art were also among our favorite things to do in Halifax! 🙂

is halifax travel ready worth it

November 26, 2017 at 5:28 AM

Love the way you have presented the cost in a table. It would be really helpful while planning a trip to Halifax. The Road train looks so cute, and its amazing that is free or voluntary donation based.

November 26, 2017 at 6:44 PM

Oh, good. Yeah, we wanted to show at a quick glance just how budget-friendly Halifax can be, so hope that cost table help to display that. We kept seeing that road train all over the Halifax waterfront – it’s actually quite popular, sometimes with lines forming to ride on it. But oddly enough, we never hopped on during the entire month we were in there because we always enjoyed walking around the waterfront so much!

is halifax travel ready worth it

November 26, 2017 at 3:22 AM

it is nice to know that there are so many sites to see for FREE! Amazing on all as it definitely a whole lot of experience 🙂

November 26, 2017 at 6:41 PM

Yes, we were amazed to find so many free sites and activities throughout Halifax. The city truly has so much to offer without having to spend a dime. Free canoeing, skating, museums, plays – it’s really pretty incredible!

is halifax travel ready worth it

November 26, 2017 at 3:15 AM

What a great guide to Halifax. I’ve been dying to visit Nova Scotia, so this is so helpful. Maxwell’s Plum sounds like really and truly has some incredible specials. I know that would absolutely help our budget while traveling! I’d definitely have a pint or two at Garrisons Brewery

November 26, 2017 at 6:39 PM

We loved visiting Nova Scotia, so hope you make it there! Halifax made for a great central base to experience many of the sites around the province. And, yes – you really can’t beat the $3 steak dinner at Maxwell’s Plum! And it’s actually a pretty decent steak too. 🙂

is halifax travel ready worth it

November 12, 2017 at 11:48 AM

Thanks for the shout out! I started the Specials Guide around 5 years ago and update it every 6 months or so. I started it so that I could keep track of cheap places to eat and drink, and then figured people would be interested too! I’m living in Tanzania currently, but still managed to update it a couple of months ago. Great post!

November 13, 2017 at 11:11 PM

Thank YOU for taking the time to put that together and update it. It’s a great resource that helped lead us to some deals all around town. I’d imagine many people find it really helpful! I know we did. Wow, enjoy Tanzania – special place!

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Is Travel Insurance Worth It? Evaluating the Value and Benefits

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

  • Travel insurance covers risks like trip cancellations, health emergencies, and lost luggage.
  • Travel insurance costs can range from 4% to 12% of your total trip cost.
  • Travel insurance is best for trips that are long, expensive, nonrefundable, and international.

Vacations can be very expensive. If you're paying a lot for yours, you might wonder if you should purchase travel insurance, especially when some costs are nonrefundable.

The answer isn't always cut-and-dried. Travel insurance isn't necessary for everyone. Whether you need it will depend on a variety of factors. Here are some key points to consider when deciding if travel insurance suits you.

Introduction to travel insurance

When planning a trip, it's essential to think about how you'll protect yourself from the unexpected. That's where travel insurance comes in. It can cover various risks like loss of personal belongings, checked baggage, and more. With the appropriate coverage, you can nullify or mitigate the potential losses. "Plain and simple, travel insurance is a layer of protection against financial loss," says Brad Cummins, owner and principal agent for Insurance Geek , an insurance comparison platform. "Whether it be lost luggage or a lost passport, travel insurance will cover the extra costs during these unfortunate events."

Benefits of travel insurance

Protection against unforeseen cancellation.

One of the top reasons to acquire travel insurance is to cover potential losses from trip cancellations. When canceling a trip due to a covered cause, travel insurance will reimburse you for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses. 

Some covered causes for travel cancellations include:

  • Sickness, injury, or death of traveler or family member of traveler
  • Inclement weather
  • Unexpected work or layoffs
  • Terrorist incidents in a travel location

Some travel insurance covers trip cancellations regardless of the reason. However, you make certain trade-offs when you enroll in a  "Cancel for Any Reason" (CFAR) insurance policy . These policies are more expensive and may only refund a percentage of your trip's cost. You can find our guide on the best CFAR travel insurance  here.

Financial security and peace of mind

While your travel insurance covers any unforeseen issues before your trip, it continues to cover you even after your flight has taken off.

For example, you don't have to be as anxious at baggage claim when your fellow passengers have claimed their luggage and yours hasn't come out yet. Travel insurance offers lost luggage protection and can cover any necessary purchases while you wait for your late luggage to arrive, such as toiletries and a change of clothes.

Medical coverage on travel insurance  can also offer peace of mind as most US health insurers don't provide coverage when you're abroad. A comprehensive travel insurance plan will cover you in an unexpected accident or emergency so you can seek medical attention for an injury sustained while traveling without worrying about mounting medical bills.

Evaluating the cost of travel insurance

The average cost of travel insurance is 5%-6% of your total trip cost. However, the exact cost will vary based on factors such as your age, travel destination, and where you live, and can be as little as 4% of your trip cost or as high as 12% of your trip cost.

If you're wondering whether travel insurance is worth it, you're not alone. There are a few things to consider. If an emergency arises on your trip, travel insurance can reimburse part or all of your vacation expenditure. However, this will depend on factors such as your trip type and whether it's refundable.

Cost vs. potential savings

In general, travel insurance is worth it if you're concerned about losing money if your trip is called off or delayed or if you're worried about medical bills while traveling. However, conducting thorough research and understanding the costs and coverage provided is critical before purchasing a policy.

For example, older travelers or those with pre-existing medical conditions may pay more for their insurance. Similarly, those traveling to high-risk destinations or participating in high-risk activities may also face higher premiums. 

Ultimately, it's important to shop around and compare quotes from different travel insurance companies to find the best coverage and rate for your needs. You can find our picks for the best travel insurance companies here. 

Cost-benefit analysis for different trip types

Travel insurance may be a wise investment if you've already paid for your and can't change or cancel your trip without penalty. Suppose your trip is canceled or disrupted due to a covered cause. In that case, travel insurance will cover the trip's cost and any other nonrefundable expenditures up to a pre-determined amount.

If you're heading to a country where your health coverage doesn't apply, or if you don't have any health insurance at all, travel insurance might provide the protection you need. Travel insurance can also assist you in case of medical emergencies. It's vital to understand that not all travel insurance policies are created equal. Be sure to carefully study the details and understand what is and isn't covered before purchasing one.

Scenarios where travel insurance is essential

Expensive vacations and long-term travel.

It's a good idea to insure trips with a high, nonrefundable price tag because you'll never forgive yourself if your expensive, once-in-a-lifetime trip gets canceled and your money and planning go down the drain. For these vacations, you'll want to find a policy that covers 100% of expenses.

Similarly, if you have long-term travel plans, you'll want to have a policy that protects against travel interruption in case something cuts your plans short. You'll also want medical coverage during extended stay outside the country.

High-risk destinations and activities

High-risk destinations include regions facing political instability, war zones, and areas prone to natural disasters. Travelers headed to these areas should look into travel insurance in case their trip is canceled due to an unforeseen event. 

Additionally, certain areas are known for the thrilling activities they offer, like skydiving and bungee jumping. If you have extreme sports on your itinerary or believe you might build up the courage to plunge down a canyon, you may want to invest in a travel insurance policy. Keep in mind that some travel insurance policies don't cover high-risk activities, so shop carefully.

When travel insurance may not be necessary

Low-risk, short, or domestic trips.

There are also some situations in which you might not need travel insurance. If you are traveling within the US, you do not need travel insurance for health reasons since most health insurance plans will cover you even if you're not in your home state. 

Additionally, travel insurance may not be necessary if you're only traveling over the weekend or exclusively booked refundable experiences.

Making an informed decision

There are a few key considerations when buying a travel insurance policy. The cost of the policy is one factor, but it's also important to look at the coverage limits and what is included and excluded in the policy. Be sure to read the fine print carefully and compare policies between different companies. 

It's also important to consider the purpose of your travel insurance policy. If you're going on a trip where you'll be doing adventurous activities, ensure your policy covers those activities. Finally, remember that travel insurance is there to protect you in case something goes wrong on your trip, so don't hesitate to use it if you need to.

If you decide that you need travel insurance, here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a policy:

  • Read the fine print of any policy you are considering to understand what is and is not covered. This is especially important for those who want to add special coverage options. 
  • Compare policies from different providers to find the best coverage at the best price.
  • Purchase your policy well in advance of your trip so that you are covered in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
  • Ensure you're covered for pre-existing conditions because a number of policies will exclude pre-existing conditions if you don't pay extra for a waiver or additional coverage. 

Buying travel insurance can be a pretty quick and painless process, thanks to insurance aggregator sites like SquareMouth .

Using SquareMouth is one of the easiest ways to see multiple coverage options simultaneously. Once you've entered some personal details and information regarding your trip, you'll see a variety of insurance providers and plans from which to choose.

Assessing personal and trip risks

The first consideration you should factor into travel insurance is how much of your trip is already paid for. If you've prepaid for most or all of your travel expenses, you may want to purchase travel insurance if you have to cancel.

Another thing to consider is where you will be traveling. If you are visiting multiple countries, getting insurance that covers you in all of them might be a good idea.

Your age and overall health can also determine whether you need travel insurance. Suppose you are older or have pre-existing medical conditions, for example. In that case, it might be a good idea to purchase travel insurance if you need to cancel your trip or incur unexpected medical expenses.

Lastly, the value of your luggage can also be a factor to consider. If you plan to bring expensive items with you on your trip, it might be worth purchasing travel insurance to cover lost or stolen luggage.

Reviewing policy options and exclusions

When it comes to travel insurance, the ease of use will depend on the provider you choose. If you're working with a reputable insurer, then the process should be relatively straightforward. However, it's still important to understand what is and isn't included in your policy before you purchase it. This way, you can be sure that you're getting the coverage you need and that you won't be caught off guard by any fine print.

Travel insurance isn't necessary for everyone or every trip. But it can bring a lot of peace of mind during your travels and can certainly translate into significant savings if you're faced with a medical emergency while on your trip. It's best to do your research, compare plans, and understand your own level of risk when it comes to deciding whether or not to purchase coverage.

Travel insurance frequently asked questions

Travel insurance is highly recommended for trips that are long and expensive. For example, you should buy travel insurance for any international trips, cruises, adventure travels, and trips with significant pre-paid expenses.

To say that travel insurance will save you money in the long run isn't entirely accurate. Travel insurance will save you money when things go wrong, but it won't save you any money if your trip goes smoothly.

Short domestic trips don't necessitate travel insurance. Most health insurance policies cover you from state to state, so unless you're worried about unexpected cancellations, travel insurance isn't a must-have.

Travel insurance policies commonly exclude coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, extreme sports injuries, and travel to high-risk countries.

Cost-benefit considerations should include the total cost of your trip, the refundability of your expenses, your destination's healthcare costs, and your personal health and travel risks.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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Halifax Travel Guide: A Family-Friendly Canadian Getaway

Written by Becca

Updated on March 8th, 2024

A woman holding a baby in front of a boat in Halifax, Canada.

What are the best things to do and see in Halifax with kids or a family? Check out our list of all the sights we saw in Nova Scotia for a fun family trip.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Posted in Canada

Table of contents

  • Best of Halifax
  • Why Halifax is a great destination for families
  • How to get to Halifax
  • Where to stay in Halifax
  • What to do in Halifax with a baby or kids
  • Where to eat in Halifax (with babies & kids)
  • Family day trips from Halifax
  • Tips for traveling to Halifax
  • Background on Halifax

The first time you take a big trip with a baby or young children, you think to yourself, “Gosh, I hope where we’re traveling is going to be a family-friendly type of place.” For me, this is what went through my mind as we strategically packed our bags for an adventure to Nova Scotia with our eight-month-old daughter.

I shouldn’t have even spent a minute on this thought, though — not after experiencing Halifax and the surrounding area and seeing what a truly excellent region this is for family travel.

We wish our short trip to our first destination in Canada’s Maritimes was much longer than the four-day stint that it was, and that’s because of how much fun we had as a family. Halifax is a safe, clean, welcoming and friendly city with so much to offer in terms of history, culture, dining, vistas and overall good vibes.

In this guide, you can see for yourself what you can do with a family trip to Halifax, Nova Scotia. This is a trip you’ll remember forever.

A person is standing on a boardwalk in Halifax, Canada.

Best of Halifax

  • Best downtown & waterfront accommodation: The Muir Hotel
  • Best place to eat: Bar Sofia
  • Best place for coffee: The Daily Grind
  • Best ice cream: The Fog Company
  • Best things to do with kids: Discovery Centre & Halifax Citadel
  • Best family day trips: Old Town Lunenburg & Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

A person walking down a grassy hill in front of the city of Halifax, Canada.

We’d like to thank the following partners for sponsoring this trip for us: Halifax Stanfield International Airport , Air Canada and Discover Halifax , which all made our travels to Halifax possible via the Air Canada nonstop flight from EWR-YHZ.

Why Halifax is a great destination for families

It can be overwhelming to even try to visualize taking your first (or second, or third) trip with a baby or kids. How will you know if the destination is child-friendly? Will there be things to do that make toddlers or kids feel welcomed and entertained?

The good news is that Halifax, Nova Scotia, and the surrounding area, is one of the best family-friendly destinations for travel . In downtown Halifax alone, we saw countless strollers, parents wearing baby carriers, parents holding the hands of toddlers and families of multiple kids enjoying the boardwalk and the waterfront. We were welcomed right away.

Canadian flag on a dock in Halifax, Canada.

As I left our hotel, within only a few minutes of our arrival, to get our daughter into a nap in our baby travel carrier and explore our surroundings, I saw several other families with young babies.

For the next few days on our trip, we saw what can only be described as a ton of baby- and child-friendly things to do around Halifax, and on the day-trip excursions we took. People were incredibly nice and friendly in Halifax, and we got a lot of compliments about our baby and how cute she was (admittedly, she is very cute — at least we think so).

A man holding a baby in Halifax, Canada.

Everyone we came into contact with, from our hotel to restaurant staff, was understanding if we had any child-related issues (like the hotel staff, who offered us a sound machine to use for the night!).

As we got to “know” Halifax, it was clear that this is an awesome place for a family trip.

A building in Halifax with a view of the water.

From the free toddler music class we happened upon at the Queen’s Marque (so cute!) to the family with a baby we met at Bar Sofia who lent our daughter a pair of pants when it got cool in the evening (this really happened!), it seems like going to Halifax with your family is the thing to do!

A person is holding up a children's guide to Halifax, Canada.

How to get to Halifax

There are two main ways to get to Halifax, Nova Scotia, and both are doable, depending where in the US (or Canada) you’re located!

A woman standing in an airport in Halifax, Canada.

Flying to Halifax

Nyc to halifax.

We flew to Halifax nonstop on Air Canada from Newark Airport (EWR), one of NYC’s three major airports . Believe it or not, it was our first time flying on a plane with our baby !

Air Canada operates one flight a day from Newark to Halifax, as well as one flight a day from Halifax to Newark. Luckily, both flights had good times during the day that coincided with our daughter’s naps (ha!).

A plane is parked on the tarmac at Halifax Airport in Canada.

The flight from Newark is listed as 2h5m, and in the end, it was only one hour and 40 minutes. Before we knew it, we had sipped our seltzers and Dan had eaten the Air Canada pretzels, and we were on the descent into Nova Scotia.

With the flight being under two hours from NYC, it’s a perfect distance for first-time travelers flying with babies or kids. It’s even closer if you’re in New England. We weren’t sure how our 8-month-old infant would do on her first flight, and we’re glad that (1) she did well, and (2) if she was squirmy or unhappy, two hours is much better than a six- or seven-hour flight to other destinations, like Western Europe.

A Halifax-based airliner proudly displaying the Canadian flag on its side.

TSA PreCheck inside info: We’re glad we had TSA PreCheck when flying out of the US, because it meant we barely needed to take anything out of our carry-on bags (laptops, etc.); however, we weren’t surprised that the frozen milk we brought in the cooler and the contents of the diaper bag needed to be checked by a TSA agent.

Other destinations to Halifax

If you’re not located in NYC, note that you can also fly nonstop to Halifax from Boston (year-round), Philadelphia (summer season), and Washington (summer season). Within Canada, there are many more nonstop origins, including major cities like Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Winnipeg, St. John’s, Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver . Halifax is the largest airport in Atlantic Canada and one of the busiest in the country.

Baby tip here: Air Canada allows one diaper bag as a personal item for a lap infant, and I was also able to bring on a backpack of my pump and a cooler of frozen milk.

Leaving Halifax

Leaving Halifax was much like arriving in Halifax, with the added bonus that the airport was so empty when we arrived . I’m the type who always gets to the airport early to beat the lines, but when we arrived at 8am for our flight, we were in a line of 0 people at check-in and baggage check. We were also the only people in line for security (until we had to have our car seat scanned as an oversized item, and then we had a few people in front of us). Magical!

We were surprised to find US Customs and Border Protection (rather than regular Canadian passport control) before we got to our gate. This was ideal because we didn’t have to wait in immigration when we landed. We both have Global Entry , so we wouldn’t have even thought about it.

At Halifax Stanfield (US Departures), there are a few food options at the US departing gates. There’s a Hudson News where I picked up some fun fun gluten-free and vegetarian travel snacks , as well as a few Nova Scotian souvenirs. There’s also a small cafe for takeaway called JJ’s Snack Bar, where Dan got a breakfast sandwich and I got some orange juice.

A display of magnets in a store in Halifax, Canada.

There is a family restroom as well as a changing table in the ladies’ washroom near the gates. It was handy to have my Kibou diaper bag fanny pack .

Driving to Halifax

When I first started looking into Halifax, I wondered just how far it was from NYC. I knew it was somewhere past Maine, but how far?

Actually, it would only take about 13.5 hours to drive, if you didn’t leave during rush hour and if you didn’t stop at all. Pretty surprising.

When we were at the Queen’s Marque new district on the Halifax waterfront, I met a mom from Florida, and she and her husband had driven up from Florida with their three tiny kids. The drive from a city like Miami is about 32-35 hours of driving from Halifax, and they did it over two weeks.

If you plan to drive from Toronto, it’s about 17-18 hours (Canada is huge, as you already know), and from Montreal, it’s 12 hours with no traffic!

A man driving a Toyota Prius on a road in Halifax, Canada.

Getting around Halifax

Halifax has a walkable downtown and waterfront area. For day trips, a car or a day tour excursion package is necessary!

Do you need a car in Halifax?

You might not need a car if you go to Halifax for a few days and take a taxi to and from the airport. If you are interested in day trips from Halifax like Lunenburg and Peggy’s Cove, you can take a guided tour with transport, to either or both, as an option.

Based on the cost of the car rental, this might be a good deal if you want to spend the rest of your trip walking around the city or taking short taxi rides.

Renting a car

We had a car rental from Alamo , one of the several rental car operators located within the Halifax Stanfield International Airport . After landing and getting our bags from the baggage claim, we followed signs from Arrivals right to the car rental area across the street. (Also, oops — we forgot to take out cash, and I’ll get to that later).

Within ten minutes, we had our stack of luggage ready to load into our Toyota SUV for the next four days, and we set up our baby’s car seat.

Dan did all our driving, and he thought that driving around Nova Scotia was simple. The roads are pretty empty (by our NY Metro area standards) and we drove during rush hour, which was pretty relaxed.

Take out cash at the airport for bridge tolls if you’re arriving without Canadian dollars in your wallet, and if you plan to be driving around Nova Scotia. If you are arriving at the Halifax airport from the US, you can find a bank machine near the US gates when you first arrive. After you get your luggage, you can also find a bank machine on the main level of the airport near the food court.

Walking around Halifax

We found Halifax very walkable, especially in the waterfront harbor area, as well as in the downtown city grid itself. One thing to know is that the Halifax downtown district is essentially on a giant hill, reminding us both of San Francisco, so whether you are stroller-ing, baby-wearing or walking with a toddler or small child, be prepared to take breaks or zig-zag!

A city street with tall buildings and a large body of water in Halifax, Canada.

Where to stay in Halifax

We stayed in two hotels in Halifax, and are glad to recommend both: the five-star Muir Hotel and the Alt Airport Hotel !

Where you stay will depend on your budget, of course, as well as the type of place you like to be in. For example, one morning on the boardwalk I met a family from the US with three tiny kids who were staying in an Airbnb on the other side of the city.

Regarding hotel cribs: We (as first-time parents) were originally worried about what both hotel cribs would be like, and both turned out to be no problem. The crib at the Muir was very nice and the mattress felt similar to the one we have at home. The crib at the airport hotel was passable, but our daughter slept better in that crib, so who are we to judge!

A marble coffee table in a living room with flowers in vases located in Halifax, Canada.

The Muir Hotel

The Muir Hotel is part of the Autograph Collection under the Marriott umbrella of properties. Quite frankly, it blew us away, and was a great hotel to be in with a baby.

The hotel itself is exquisite, having opened in 2021. The design elements are splendid, from the coastal palette of tones in each room, to the incredible staff, amenities offerings and naturally, the top-notch location on the harbor.

I’ll detail a few of the things that made it so lovely for our first time in Halifax, and as a family of three.

A Halifax teddy bear sits on top of a bed.

A bit about the Muir Hotel: Halifax

If you enjoy an upscale escape from home, the Muir is an excellent choice for your accommodation in Halifax.

From the beautiful touches in the room like dried flowers, the unique mini bar and the rain shower, and turn-down service with chocolates and macarons before nighttime, to the perfect view of the Queen’s Marque area and the harbor, this hotel is almost too good to be true!

We thought the location couldn’t be beat, as the Queen’s Marque area has it all: new dining options, shopping, great maritime vibes and a location at the foot of downtown. By walking in either direction, the boardwalk had tons of offerings for us and for kids.

A tray with macaroons from Halifax, Canada.

The friendly touches for children

Upon arrival, and as I hurriedly checked in with our infant in a baby carrier as Dan took care of the car, one of the staff working at the reception presented our daughter with a small Muir Hotel teddy bear that she immediately got excited about. It was such a thoughtful welcome, as traveling with a baby can be so tiring!

Our room (the Signature King) had a crib, which we were able to push toward the window. There was an entire blackout curtain, which I was thankful for, and outlets galore, which assisted with plugging in our travel sound machine near the crib.

The last adorable and thoughtful touch from the hotel was a baby travel bath kit, as a little gift for our baby. Inside was a baby sponge, and travel-sized baby shampoo and organic soap. You can see more of our tips for future stays in our guide to staying in a hotel with a baby .

A teddy bear sitting on a bed in Halifax.

The amenities for adults

This is the good part! Aside from the convenient valet service for our rental car (which cost just as much as general parking, so go for it!), the Muir has a new gym and gorgeous spa and wellness center. There’s also (shhh) a speakeasy on the premises called BKS: Best Kept Secret .

To see more about this five-star stay in Halifax, see our detailed Muir hotel review here.

A gym room with several exercise bikes and a TV, located in Halifax, Canada.

Alt Airport Hotel

We only stayed at the Alt Hotel for one night before our 10:35am nonstop flight on Air Canada back to Newark, NJ (EWR). We were greeted by incredibly friendly staff at the reception desk, and our room on the 14th floor had a panoramic view of the Halifax Stanfield Airport runways and airplanes!

Dan and I both agreed that this is the one airport hotel we have both stayed in that was “as close to the airport as you can physically get” without being in the airport itself.

A Halifax-based restaurant.

In the morning, after having coffee and some breakfast items at the restaurant, we packed up and walked up a ramp and across a bridge, directly into the airport. It was pretty special.

A man from Canada walking down a Halifax hallway with luggage.

This hotel is very convenient for dropping off a car and going right to baggage check, if you would need to do that with your timing. It’s almost like you’re staying at the airport. You can drop off your car and be back in your room in five minutes flat.

The Alt Airport Hotel at Halifax Stanfield Airport provided a crib in our room. I noticed in the main areas, which had chairs and some tables where you could probably work remotely during travel , that there was a high chair, too.

What to do in Halifax with a baby or kids

Kids, babies and teens are more than welcome in Halifax, and there is something for everyone, no matter how young or old. We mean that! We saw families with children of all ages enjoying all the multitudes of things to do in Halifax. Here are the best things to see and do, for families of any type.

A woman standing in a hallway with a baby in a carrier in Halifax, Canada.

Halifax Waterfront & Boardwalk

The Halifax boardwalk and waterfront were undoubtedly the highlights of our trip, especially because they were right on the doorstep of where we stayed at the Muir . The variety of things to see and do was a true delight, from the visit-friendly boats docked, to the food stands, sculptures, playgrounds, restaurants and pretty views.

Two yellow chairs on a pier overlooking a body of water in Halifax, Canada.

The Way Things Are Sculptures

These funky abstract sculptures are melted light poles, and they make for a funny photo! One is even named “Got Drunk, Fell Down.” Check out the pin on Google Maps , not far from the famous Bicycle Thief restaurant.

Submarine Playground & The Wave

On my first walk to the waterfront, while our daughter was napping in the baby carrier, I saw children playing at this fun nautical playground for kids not far from the Queen’s Marque. It’s just another reason for us to come back when our baby is walking! Check out the pin on Google Maps .

A children's playground in Halifax featuring a submarine.

This ship, docked on the boardwalk near the Queen’s Marque, is a historic boat museum that anyone can visit. Kids will find it so interesting! Check out the pin on Google Maps .

Halifax Citadel Historic Site

Probably the most iconic of the landmarks in Halifax, this historic fort with views of the city is open all year round and offers so much to learn. While our baby slept through her visit there, kids of toddler age and older may like to see the cannon and explore the grounds. Check out this list of family programs at the Citadel .

A person walking down a grassy path in Halifax, Canada.

Discovery Centre Hands-On Science Centre

This fabulous science museum for toddlers, kids and even teens is open Wednesday to Sunday from 9am to 4pm and is so much fun. Interactive exhibits like dinosaur skeletons, a bubble room, a kid-size model of the Halifax Citadel and a farm animal room will entertain kids, which is great if they’ve been craving some time like this during the trip.

Even babies will enjoy the Discovery Centre because of the colors, shapes, lights and action.

A discovery sign in front of a building located in Halifax, Canada.

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

I’d say this museum is geared toward older children and teens who can appreciate the history of the place. This was a museum that I personally wanted to visit, and if you’ve been to Ellis Island in NYC, it’s a lot like that.

A display of food and other items in a museum in Halifax, Canada.

Immigrants from all corners of the world came through Pier 21 to immigrate into Canada, and the museum spells out stories of individuals and groups of newcomers to the new land. There are historic objects, films and even a train car, with lots of information to absorb.

A room with a view of Lake Halifax in Canada.

Find out more about visiting at the museum website .

Halifax seaport map in Canada.

Halifax Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

This excellent museum is most well-known right now for the exhibit on the Titanic and its relationship with Halifax. Visitors can learn about the Titanic through artifacts and stories. Check out the museum’s website here .

Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

While we personally did not have time to make it to the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia , this is a place I’d like to visit when we come again in the future. This highly-recommended museum is the provincial home for art, featuring traditional exhibitions as well as thought-provoking features on the art of First Nations peoples.

Where to eat in Halifax (with babies & kids)

As a gluten-free dairy-free traveler (me) and a vegetarian traveler (Dan), we’re always intent on seeking out destinations that fit both our diets with no issue. Halifax turned out to be an overwhelmingly easy gluten-free travel destination as well as a great place for vegans and vegetarians . We were always able to find awesome restaurants that were delicious (and we were able to find high chairs).

A person in Halifax, Canada, holding a cup of ice cream and sunglasses.

We liked Bar Sofia so much that we went twice: for dinner on our first night, and for takeaway on our third. The staff catered excellently to my gluten and dairy-free diet, as well as any questions for vegetarians and vegans.

A person in Halifax, Canada is holding a plate of food.

Kids and babies are more than welcome here, and our first night, we sat down next to a friendly family with a baby. And as for the food and service, five stars from us!

The interior of a restaurant in Halifax, Canada with people sitting at tables.

The Fog Company

The ice cream at The Fog Company can’t be beat, and kids will go nuts for the specialty cones that have soft serve with toppings, mermaid tails and whales.

The Halifax-based ice cream company poster.

The coconut sorbet was the best sorbet I’ve ever had in my life, if that’s possible. The location is perfect, in the Queen’s Marque below the Muir Hotel .

A woman holding up a cup of ice cream on a dock in Halifax, Canada.

The Daily Grind Cafe

This coffeeshop and brunch spot has a great location both near the Boardwalk and near Alexander Keith’s Brewery in downtown Halifax. There is a great deal of outdoor seating, spanning the entire cafe in a U-shape, where we fed our daughter on two occasions, both mornings of our trip. We tried the coffee, lattes, smoothies, omelets and homemade peanut butter-oat ball snacks. Highly recommend!

A coffee shop in Halifax with plants hanging from the ceiling.

This chic Mediterranean restaurant is conveniently located within the Queen’s Marque , and is located at the end of a dock, so the views are splendid. There’s ample outdoor seating where I was able to quietly feed our daughter while waiting for the food. The vibe toward evening is a bit more on the happy hour side, with groups of businesspeople. If choosing to come with active kids, I’d recommend going for lunch between 11:30-3. The food was excellent.

A table with a view of the water in Halifax, Canada.

Sapori Italian Street Food

This fast casual Italian restaurant near the Queen’s Marque is good if you have squirmy babies, toddlers or kids. There is both indoor and outdoor seating, and high chairs available! In fact, when we arrived, there were about five moms with young babies sitting in a booth.

This restaurant was VERY vegetarian, vegan and gluten/dairy-free-friendly!

A restaurant in Halifax with red umbrellas and tables outside.

Peace by Chocolate Halifax

Peace by Chocolate is a lovely chocolate and sweets shop in the Queen’s Marque complex. It’s an excellent place to pick up Canadian gifts to bring home for friends and family.

A person in Halifax, Canada holding up a chocolate cupcake in front of Peace by Chocolate.

Family day trips from Halifax

Leading up to our trip, I did my research on places to see outside of Halifax. If you look into the same topic, you’ll undoubtedly find Lunenburg and Peggy’s Cove as the must-see excursions outside Halifax . I wondered if going to both in one day, with a small baby, would be the right thing for us to do, and thankfully… it was!

Both excursions are well worth the short trip down the highway to the west. Here’s what to see in both, with some kid-friendly commentary!

A woman strolling down a pier in Halifax, Canada with a stroller.

Lunenburg is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site located an hour and 15 minutes outside Halifax along the south shore of Nova Scotia’s coast. It’s a historic colonial British fishing (and rum-running) settlement from the 18th century, and the wooden buildings are painted all the colors of the rainbow. When I saw photos online of Lunenburg, I knew we had to go!

It was totally worth it to schlep out to Lunenburg with our baby in the car (I recommend syncing the drive with nap time!). Once we got there, we parked easily right at the waterfront parking lot and got the camera out to start taking photos of the multi-colored picturesque buildings against a perfect blue sky.

A view of Halifax, a town on a body of water in Canada.

Tour the waterfront

It’s no surprise that a day trip out to Lunenburg is very popular with tour buses and cruise ship travelers. If you’d like to beat the crowds and if you’re flexible (with kids, I’m not sure how feasible this is, but you’ll know best!), go early, or on the later side (it’ll also be gorgeous for photos). In the summer, keep in mind that the sun sets in Nova Scotia in June around 9pm.

Walk around the Lunenburg waterfront , and enjoy the Adirondack chairs set up in pairs for people-watching and boat-watching.

A woman holding a baby in front of a sailboat in Halifax, Canada.

A nice pier to visit is Zwicker Wharf, where you’ll find a public washroom nearby that has a baby-changing station.

A woman strolling down a Halifax dock with a baby.

Eat at Salt Shaker Deli

Is it time for lunch in Lunenburg? This highly-rated lunch spot is bright and airy, with both indoor and outside patio seating, and fun maritime artwork on the walls. Staff is friendly, and they let us store our stroller near the restrooms. We were also able to feed our daughter at our table.

For food, the salads are delicious, and you can add chicken or seafood add-ons. I thought the gazpacho starter was delicious, and Dan enjoyed the vegetarian quinoa salad with two fried eggs.

Two menus on a table in Halifax featuring salt and pepper shakers.

Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic

This museum may be interesting for slightly older kids and toddlers, as you can learn about sailors and the fishing industry through great exhibits. There are youth tickets, and children under 5 are free. There’s also an on-site restaurant and a washroom we used that has a changing table for babies. You can see more about admission here.

Ironworks Distillery

For those into liquors and spirits, a visit to Ironworks Distillery is a very “Lunenburg” thing to do. Note, however, that only children over 12 are allowed on the tours, and samples are only offered to those of drinking age or older.

Guided tour option with transport to Lunenburg

If you haven’t rented a car during your trip to Halifax, check out an option of a guided day trip from the city to Lunenburg.

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse & Village

Peggy’s Cove is about 45 minutes from Halifax, and (interestingly enough) about an hour and 15 minutes from Lunenburg. As they’re in the same direction to the west from Halifax, we chose to go to both in one day.

Visit the famous lighthouse

The Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse is one of the most famous in Canada, and several sources say it could be the most-photographed lighthouse in Canada. It’s picture-perfect on the smooth white rocks and against the blue water.

A lighthouse located in Halifax, Canada, with people standing on top of it.

Peggy’s Cove is definitely a family-friendly place to visit, as kids will enjoy climbing on the rocks with you, (do take care to stay off the slippery black rocks) and even teens will probably find the unique terrain a bit thrilling. There is a visitors’ center and gift shop, and parking was free.

A small red house sits on top of a rocky cliff overlooking the ocean in Halifax, Canada.

Tips for traveling to Halifax

Here are a few trips for traveling to Halifax, whether you’re with a family, or not!

A boat docked in Halifax, Canada.

For Americans or other non-Canadian passport holders traveling to Halifax, make sure you have your passports! Even babies need passports, so if you need guidance with getting your baby a passport, check out our guide to learn how to get a passport for babies and children .

What to pack

Be sure to check the weather leading up to your trip to Halifax and Nova Scotia! I was pretty prepared with packing windbreakers for both me and Dan, and we wound up not needing them. Had we been out more at night, we likely would have worn them as layers over our sweaters, but with a baby, we were in for the night by 8pm!

I would surely recommend having sweatshirts for everyone in the family, as it can start getting cooler by around 6pm during summer. By 7pm in August, it was time to be wearing pants and a hoodie, even though just hours before we were wearing shorts and T-shirts. This is why Halifax is a great summer destination with cool weather .

Background on Halifax

Halifax is the largest city in the Canadian Maritime provinces. It’s located on the water on the south coast of Nova Scotia, which is attached to the Canadian mainland via a land bridge with the province of New Brunswick.

A man descending stairs in Halifax, Canada.

What’s Halifax like?

Culturally, Halifax and Nova Scotia have a coastal vibe, which means a maritime environment with lots of seafood and history connected to the sea. Halifax is a historically important port, having served throughout centuries during wars and important events as a place where boats docked, immigrants came ashore and trade happened.

A boat is traveling down a body of water in Halifax, Canada.

Is Halifax a big city?

Halifax is still a major city in terms of what you can find if you need anything. We needed to buy a baby thermometer when our daughter ran a fever after we arrived, and had no problems locating one at a supermarket. Also, the Muir Hotel was brilliant in bringing Dan to the nearest market in the hotel’s Range Rover/private car with a driver.

A street in Halifax, Canada.

Is Halifax a popular vacation destination?

Halifax is a popular destination for Canadian travelers! That makes sense, as it’s a great destination for cooling off during summer and for enjoying foliage during autumn.

We talked to a lot of people from other parts of Canada, namely Montreal and Toronto, where a quick flight can get you from those cities to Halifax for a long weekend.

I think that Halifax still has popularity to gain with Americans, who could learn what it’s like and what you can do there to enjoy a Nova Scotian trip! Hopefully this travel guide helps with that.

A woman holding a baby on a wooden boardwalk in Halifax, Canada.

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How Safe Is Halifax for Travel?

Halifax, Canada

Canada : Safety by City

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  • Quebec City
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Halifax is the capital city of Nova Scotia and the largest city in the Atlantic Provinces of Canada.

Today, Halifax is a busy Atlantic seaport and the economic and cultural hub of Eastern Canada.

Halifax is a small city with fresh sea air and calm but exciting nightlife.

There a lot of food bars and craft breweries, where you can experience gastro-tourism.

There are also many interesting places to visit: Waterfront, Harbor Hopper, Canoe the Northwest Arm, and so on.

Along with festivals that attract tourists – Busker Festival and Nova Scotia International Air Show.

  • Warnings & Dangers in Halifax

OVERALL RISK: LOW

The city is quite calm and safe. There may be problems with drug dealers, but usually, they do not concern tourists. Certain areas should be avoided. Beware of black ice when driving through the streets.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

In the city there are many taxi services to choose from, all have a taximeter. The primary forms of public transportation are standard transit buses and a new bus-rapid transit system. Public transportation is safe and convenient. Use common sense if you rent and drive in vehicles.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

The risk of pickpocketing is low, but it can happen in dangerous areas of the city or if you are caught drunk. Be careful in crowded bars and transports. You can become a victim of pickpocketer only if you don’t keep an eye in your pockets as usual.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

The region, severe and unpredictable weather such as flooding, blizzards, and hurricanes, can occur. Unusually cold winter can cause inconvenience to travelers. Take care of warm clothes so as don't get too cold.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Grave armed robberies or kidnappings do not happen in Halifax. However, avoid dangerous areas and have common sense. Do not mess with people who offer you a drink, if you don’t know how to drink, you may be the victim of a robbery in the end.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Canada's current terrorism level is medium, meaning that a violent act of terrorism could occur, and has been at this level since October 2014. So, in Halifax, this risk also remains. Avoid political demonstrations and explore the news before the visit.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Scam rarely happens. If you use common sense, you are unlikely to encounter fraud here. Sometimes text messages are possible from people pretending to be a bank asking them to transfer their data.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Traveling women are safe in Halifax. Be cautioned in public transport at night, and you'll be ok. In bars and nightclubs, alone women are likely to attract a lot of attention, but if you don't want company, men will respect your "No."

  • So... How Safe Is Halifax Really?

Index of crime in Halifax is moderate and usually drug-related, and do not concern to the travelers.

There exist a group of people who harass and robbing people on the streets, but they rarely assault tourists.

However, in some areas of Halifax, there is an imminent danger, and travelers should avoid it. Be especially careful at night in some regions of Gottingen Street and Uniacke Square.

It is strictly not recommended getting involved with drunk people and participate in drunken fights.

Certain areas in North Dartmouth, Spryfield, and Fairview are known for their crime problems but are generally safe during the day.

There are many pedestrian crossings in the city, and usually, drivers always let pedestrians pass.

However, in order not to lose vigilance, you need to be alert because of suddenly appearing zebra crossings that the driver may not react to.

Another danger in the city may be imperceptible ice in the cold season.

Rapidly changing weather means that black ice abounds in winter, and it’s particularly nasty when combined with the city’s hilly topography.

So you should watch your steps and drive carefully.

Explore traffic and weather conditions in advance.

With that said, you shouldn’t have too many problems in most areas of the city.

  • How Does Halifax Compare?
  • Useful Information

A foreign national wishing to enter Canada must obtain a temporary resident visa from one of the Canadian diplomatic missions. A visa to enter Canada for tourists that stay less than 180 days is not obligatory for certain nationalities, and that can be checked online. A valid passport is a must.

The official currency in Canada is the Canadian dollar (It is often called "loonie"). The Canadian dollar has a symbol: $ and code: CAD. It is divided into 100 cents. The Canadian dollar is popular with central banks because of Canada's relative economic soundness, the Canadian government's strong sovereign position.

The best times to visit Halifax for ideal weather are from June to October. Temperatures feel cold for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a chance of rain or snow throughout most of the year.

Halifax has Stanfield International Airport - is a Canadian airport in Goffs, Nova Scotia, located 36 km from the city. It handles international and domestic flights. Halifax Stanfield is the 8th busiest airport in Canada by passenger traffic.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Halifax Weather Averages (Temperatures)

  • Average High/Low Temperature

Canada - Safety by City

  • Where to Next?

Windsor, Canada

4 Reviews on Halifax

Safe and charming.

I have family in Halifax, as of a few years ago. Shame I have not been able to visit since COVID started. They moved there and it has been difficult keeping in touch. I am hoping we can get together this year (2022). The city is wonderful and one of the safest I had ever been, much safer than major cities here in America.

Budget friendly city

One of the best budget friendly places to visit in Canada. It might just be me but coming from the modern jungle of New York, Halifax is a cheap place. LOL! You just need to know where to look, I kid you not me and my boyfriend enjoyed an all you can eat seafood place for $10. It is a waterfront city I would come back to once this pandemic is over.

There is no way that Toronto and Vancouver are safer than Halifax. I have not heard of anyone ever being stabbed to death on the bus in Halifax. And, where does the terrorism warning come from? There has never been a terrorist incident in Halifax as long as I can remember (I am 52).

Get your grade 10

Halifax is the capital of Nova Scotia, you see Ricky, you are just as smart as anyone else, and you’re gonna get your grade 10.

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Article Contents

  • Halifax : Safety by City
  • Overall Risk
  • Transport & Taxis Risk
  • Pickpockets Risk
  • Natural Disasters Risk
  • Mugging Risk
  • Terrorism Risk
  • Women Travelers Risk
  • Weather Averages (Temperatures)
  • User Reviews
  • Share Your Experience

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Halifax   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Veronica Bogaerts | Getty Images

is halifax travel ready worth it

Getting Around Halifax

The best ways to get around Halifax are on foot or by bus. Despite its hilly terrain, central Halifax is extremely compact and walkable, but you'll need stamina and sturdy walking shoes. You can also rely on Metro Transit, which operates buses throughout the city and ferries to nearby  Dartmouth . However, if you're planning on venturing outside Halifax, you will need a car. You'll find major rental agencies both in town and at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ), located about 20 miles north of downtown.

Explore More of Halifax

Halifax Public Gardens

Things To Do

The Sutton Place Hotel Halifax

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Haven't booked a spring break trip yet? 4 things to know about pricing, destinations

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“With spring break officially kicking off, airports are expected to be crowded throughout the coming weeks, and travelers may face flight disruptions depending on their departure location,” Collin Czarnecki, a researcher for aGamble, told USA TODAY in an email.

“It might not be surprising that a majority of airports with the most flight disruptions are located in spring break destination hotspots such as Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Las Vegas, and Miami,” Czarnecki said. On the other hand, the airports with the best on-time departures during the spring break period last year were Pittsburgh International Airport in Pittsburgh and Portland International Airport in Oregon.

Czarnecki also added that the second and third week of March will be the busiest at security checkpoints, so be sure to arrive at the airport with ample time. 

The worst airports for spring break travel

  • Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International in Florida – 34.87% of flights delayed, 4.63% canceled 
  • Harry Reid International in Las Vegas – 31.44% of flights delayed, 1.47% canceled 
  • Orlando International in Orlando, Florida – 31.06% of flights delayed, 1.52% canceled 
  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall in Baltimore – 31.26% of flights delayed, 1.22% canceled 
  • Chicago Midway International – 29.04% of flights delayed, 1.32% canceled
  • Miami International – 29.22% of flights delayed, 0.88% canceled 
  • Newark Liberty International in Newark, New Jersey – 25.81% of flights delayed, 2.53% canceled
  • Dallas-Forth Worth International – 25.11% of flights delayed, 2.49% canceled
  • Denver International – 26.51% of flights delayed, 1.04% canceled
  • John F. Kennedy International in New York – 25.06% of flights delayed, 2.23% canceled

The best airports for spring break travel

  • Pittsburgh International – 83.8% on-time flight departures
  • Portland International – 83.2% on-time flight departures
  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International – 82.2% on-time flight departures
  • Washington Dulles International in Virginia – 82% on-time flight departures
  • Ronald Reagan Washington National in Arlington, Virginia – 81.9% on-time flight departures
  • Minneapolis-St. Paul International – 81.8% on-time flight departures
  • Indianapolis International – 81.7% on-time flight departures
  • Seattle/Tacoma International – 81.6% on-time flight departures
  • Cleveland-Hopkins International in Ohio – 81.3% on-time flight departures
  • Philadelphia International – 80.9% on-time flight departures

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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Our debit and credit cards are accepted worldwide. at over 26 million locations..

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You can use your debit card to withdraw £500 or equivalent per day. We’ll make the following charges when you use your debit card to make a transaction in a currency other than pounds:

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Compare the cost of spending or withdrawing €100 outside the UK using our credit or debit cards*.

*The exchange rates used were the applicable rates for transactions processed on 5th June 2023.

Our exchange rates for card transactions are determined by the payment scheme provider for the card. For further information and other exchange rates and currencies see  MasterCard  or  Visa . For travel money, the exchange rate is determined by us.

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^For debit card transactions in Euro within the EEA the foreign currency cash fee of £1.50, the foreign cash fee of £1.50, and the foreign currency purchase fee of £0.50 were removed on the 13th December 2019.

The European Economic Area (EEA), which means the countries in the European Union plus Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein.

**This example assumes you allow us to convert the transaction from foreign currency to pounds. If you choose to allow the provider to convert the transaction to pounds, they may make a separate charge for conversion.

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Compare the cost of spending or withdrawing €100 outside the UK using our credit cards*.

To help you compare our credit card currency conversion charges with other providers you can  find the percentage mark up over the European Central Bank rates here

**This example assumes you allow us to convert the transaction from foreign currency to sterling. If you choose to allow the provider to convert the transaction to sterling, they may make a separate charge for conversion.

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  23. Halifax UK

    Final statement amount. Credit card. £88.60. Debit card. £88.93. Comparing the cost of spending or withdrawing €100 outside the UK using our credit or debit cards. Cash withdrawal**. Credit card. Debit card.