Welcome to Beautiful Nova Scotia Canada!

A weekend getaway to Halifax, Nova Scotia is exactly what we all want and need isn’t it? Soaking in those east coast maritime vibes had me loving Canada more and more. 

Halifax is definitely worth visiting. Especially when Canada’s new budget airlines make roundtrip tickets from Toronto only $90.00 CAD.  Trust me when I say I’ve never been more revved up for unlimited seafood options, local Nova Scotian breweries and coastal sightseeing! So, where to start? Because we only have 3 days to see it all! 

Day 1: Exploring All That Halifax Has to Offer

Welcome to downtown Halifax! Buoy oh buoy are you in for a treat. Sea what I did there. Okay, I’ll stop…. Well, there’s no place better to start your trip to Halifax than right downtown where the magic happens! 

Spanning miles and miles of waterfront, Halifax is home to historical sites that date back to the 17th century. With its historical landmarks, stunning harbourfront docks and architectural gems, there are so many things to do and see in spectacular Halifax!

Start the Day With the Best Breakfast in Halifax

Start your day off with some delicious, yet Instagrammable brunch in Halifax. Nothing screams east coast maritime flair than an overstuffed sandwich and an eggs benny just steps away from the harbourfront! Here are 5 spots for an incredible brunch!

→ The Nook for a cute breakfast nook serving up coffees, bagels & vegan friendly options
→ Cheeky Neighbour Diner for a modern diner flair mixing comfort food & local ingredients
→ The Osney Cafe & Social coffee, sandwiches & fresh baked goods, yum!
→ Hali Deli a casual Jewish deli & restaurant serving up breakfasts & overstuffed sandwiches
→ Annie’s Place Café their all-day breakfast is a local fave! Plus everything costs $10 or less! 

Step Inside Canada’s Most Visited Historic Site Halifax’s Citadel 

After brunch, wander up the huge hill in the middle of the city known as the Halifax Citadel. If you want the entire walled city to yourself then get there early. The earlier the better, unless you don’t mind a couple of tourists! You can drive up the hill with parking costing $3.50 CAD and an entrance ticket costing $12.50 CAD.

Once you enter you’ll see why this strategic hilltop location was chosen in 1749 for the fort destined to protect the city. With an incredible view of the Halifax harbour, the Halifax Citadel’s star shaped architecture is equally as impressive. 

Step back in time with the 78th Highlanders and the 3rd Brigade Royal Artillery to learn what it was like for the soldiers and their families to live and work in this historic fort. Learn what roles the fort and its inhabitants played over time. Luckily for you with your entrance ticket comes a free 45 minute guided tour in either French or English!

Grab a Coffee at a Cute Halifax Cafe

After an eventful morning soaking up Canada’s national historic site we are definitely in need of a serious latte. So if you’re still feeling sleepy these cafes will not disappoint!

→ Weird Harbour Espresso Bar for a minimalist & tastefully chic vibe while sipping your coffee
→ The Daily Grind Cafe & Bar for an incredibly cute cafe with delicious lattes & beer on tap
→ Cafe Lara for a trendy cafe to make any hipster’s heart melt
→ Café Lunette for amazing coffees & ambient vibes that will make you feel like you’re in Paris  
→ Bird’s Nest Cafe for a perfect, yet quaint spot to sip your Americano

Stroll the Beauty of Halifax’s 4km Harbour

Halifax, what was once a navy creation is now one of the largest and deepest ice-free natural harbours in the world. Cool. Not only is it the most important Canadian commercial port on the Atlantic seaboard, but there’s no better way to see Halifax than by strolling the harbour. 

Start your stroll at the Historic Properties. Here you’ll find three blocks-worth of warehouses and Victorian buildings dating back to the 1700’s. These beautifully restored buildings are now home to some of the city’s most popular dining spots including Pickford & Black, COWS Halifax and The Lower Deck.

Wander all the way down to the popular watering hole and picture-perfect Bicycle Thief! And definitely be sure to check out Halifax’s coolest art installation, the Drunken Lampposts. 

Hop on a Harbour Hopper Tour

Another fun afternoon activity to jump on is Halifax’s Harbour Hopper Tour. Ribbit Ribbit! Climb aboard Atlantic Canada’s most popular boat tour. This fun, fast-paced adventure is sure to introduce you to the best of Halifax by land and sea! Book a ticket HERE!

Take an Alexander Kieth’s Brewery Tour

One of the things you must partake in while in Halifax is the Alexander Keith’s Brewery Tour. I mean who doesn’t like a little history with their beer? 

The year was 1820 and Alexander Keith had served three terms as the city’s mayor so naturally he opened a brewery. This is a fun and thirst quenching Halifax must. Actors in period costumes take you around the historical property and teach you everything you need to know about Alexander and his beer.

You’ll have to book your tickets in advance, but no sweat you can do it online HERE! Their tours tend to sell out so be sure to snatch tickets while you can.

Relax by the Water During Golden Hour

There are so many spots along the harbour where you can kick back, relax and enjoy that salty breeze off the water. Slump into a colourful Adirondack chair or sway the evening away in a popular orange hammock along the Salter boardwalk. Grab an ice-cream or a poutine and enjoy the waterfront!

Indulge in Halifax’s Best Oyster Happy Hours

What a day it has been! But it’s not over yet. I thought I heard someone say oyster happy hour? You just can’t come to Halifax and not indulge in happy hour so here are 5 of the best!

→ Lot Six Bar & Restaurant Wednesday-Sunday 4:00-6:00pm
→ The Five Fishermen Wednesday-Sunday 4:00-6:00pm
→ Waterfront Warehouse everyday from 12:00-6:00pm
→ Eliot & Vine Tuesday-Sunday 4:00-5:30pm
→ Shuck Seafood + Raw Bar Wednesday-Sunday 4:00-6:00pm

These are also amazing restaurants to stay and eat at, but if you want to switch it up after happy hour keep scrolling!

Eat Dinner at the Best Restaurants in Halifax

At last! It’s been a magical day exploring Halifax, but it’s not over yet! Spend the rest of your evening checking out one of these fantastic restaurants! Don’t forget to make reservations in advance as most places tend to fill up quickly!

→ Black Sheep Restaurant for a modern yet local favourites  & craft beer in a swanky tavern
→ Bar Sofia for the vibrant essence of Latin Argentinian cooking & next generation food lovers
→ The Stubborn Goat for craft cocktails, creative tapas & comfort fare like smoked meatloaf
→ Antojo Tacos + Tequila for those airy, vibrant Mexican plates we all crave
→ The Bicycle Thief for an Italian blend of old school style with new school attitude

Extra Evening Excursions! If You Didn’t Get Enough of the Citadel…

→ Join a spirit tasting at Halifax’s Citadel

A fun evening affair is to go for a spirit tasting at the Halifax Citadel. After learning the history of alcohol within the British military, you’ll get to sample your own locally-made spirits while devouring a yummy charcuterie board. You can book this tour HERE!

→ Take a Ghost Tour

Boo! Did I scare you? Well, get scared on a ghost tour around the Halifax Citadel. Guided by candlelight, you’ll explore chambers and alleys while guides share stories that have been reported over the years. You can book this tour HERE!

End the Night by Taking a Stroll Down Argyle Street

Argyle Street, smack dab in the middle of downtown Halifax, is four city blocks and a popular centre for live music, nightlife, theatre and al fresco dining. It’s especially the place to be after dinner to grab some nachos and beer at East of Grafton or listen to live music at Durty Nelly’s Irish Pub. Grab a flight of beer at Gahan House or sip a classy cocktail at Bianca Aperitivo Bar.

Day 2: Day Trip to Peggy’s Cove & Lunenburg

Good morning Day 2! Welcome to the quintessential east coast! Lighthouses, fishing villages, lobster rolls and many many many colourful buildings This is the place to be, this is where Nova Scotia gets its rap and this was by far my favourite place to visit!

On the Road: Driving to Peggy’s Cove

If, like me, you like to take photos and avoid those selfie-sticked crowds then I’d recommend waking up at the crack of dawn, jumping in your car, grabbing a Timmies breakfast sandwich and heading straight for Peggy’s Cove. 

Peggy’s Cove is only a 45 minute drive from downtown Halifax and if you get there before 8:30am you’ll most likely have the entire cove to yourself! If the-earlier-the-better is your motto then you’ll need to make a stop at this Tim Hortons along the way for breakfast, timbits and coffee because most restaurants in Peggy’s don’t open until 10:00 or 11:00am.

What to Do in Peggy’s Cove

Home to the most photographed lighthouse in all of Canada (and maybe the world), Peggy’s Cove is an iconic Canadian symbol. 

According to legend, a schooner that was shipwrecked on Halibut Rock, just off the point on which the famous lighthouse sits, had lost everything except for a young woman named Margaret. Margaret survived the wreck and stayed in the area, eventually marrying one of the handsome local men. And it wasn’t long until visitors started referring to the area as ‘Peggy’s Cove’.

Although the best thing to do in Peggy’s is relax by the water and enjoy that sea breeze, there are a few fun things you can do while you’re there! Walk the rocks and enjoy the quaint surrounding village, visit some local shops like Hags on the Hill, The Buoy Shop and Peggy’s Cove Gift Shop Ltd or dive into a little history up the road at Peggy of the Cove.

Best Places to Eat in Peggy’s Cove

If you stuck it out until restaurants opened or just mozied your way to Peggy’s Cove in time, here are the best spots to eat your seafood heart out!

→ Tom’s Lobster Shack for incredible lobster rolls that will make you drool for days
→ Sou’Wester Gift & Restaurant Company Ltd. for deliciously fresh fish & chips 
→ Rhubarb for incredible seafood chowder and tasty haddock 
→ Café l’Acadie for homemade quality meals including fish cakes & maritime classics

On the Road: Driving to Lunenburg

A former rum-running, ship building port town is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its distinctive waterfront, postcard-perfect streets and charming local shops make it a must-stop spot on any trip to Nova Scotia and Halifax. 

Built in the 1700s, the cute and quaint town of Lunenburg is just over an hour drive from downtown Halifax. With over 70% of the original colonial buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, Lunenburg’s colourful façades are always a treat to explore.

This charming town is filled with incredible restaurants, distilleries, breweries, artisans and local shops that will be sure to make your afternoon totally worthwhile!

What to Do in Lunenburg

Take a walk through the gorgeous streets and discover Nova Scotia’s long seafaring history here in Lunenburg! More than taking a stroll alongside ships, schooners, fishing vessels and floating docks, here are some of the best things to do in Lunenburg! 

→ Relax at one of Lunenburg’s very own breweries Shipwright Brewing Company and Lightship Brewery

→ Shop down the streets of Lincoln, Pelham and Montague and be sure to stop into some of the local gems found there like Pearl’s Vintage & Thrift, Jenny Jib Sales, SEEK and Admiral Benbow Trading Company

→ Get an up-close look at life in a fishing community and take a tour through the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic  for an insight into life at sea. Open May through October.

→ Step aboard the infamous Bluenose II and experience a Grand Banks fishing schooner! The Bluenose welcomes passengers twice a day for 2 hours (9:30am and 1:30pm) to cruise the Atlantic and savour the tradition of sailing. Book a ticket HERE!

→ Sip away the afternoon at Ironworks Distillery which creates delectable artisanal spirits, housed in an old marine blacksmith’s workshop

Best Places to Eat in Lunenburg

Such dedication to the finest local ingredients, Lunenburg will unite you with some of the best restaurants, where what’s fresh is what’s for dinner!

→ The South Shore Fish Shack for seaside favourites, sourced locally & classically prepared
→ The Half Shell for a menu hyper-focused on seafood where oysters are just the start
→ No 9 Coffee Bar for a cute & quaint cafe serving pastries and tasty treats
→ Smoke Pitt BBQ for a Caribbean BBQ experience on the Lunenburg waterfront
→ The Beach Pea Kitchen & Bar for delicious locally sourced dishes in a summery chic bistro
→ The Old Fish Factory for a drool worthy lobster roll & a stunning wharf side ocean view
→ Bar Salvador for a small space with biggggg tapas flavour
→ Salt Shaker Deli & Inn from seafood pizza to pad thai this spot has something for everyone

Day 3: Exploring Halifax & Jumping Ship to Dartmouth

Rise and shine! It’s day 3 in Halifax and there is still so much left to see! Before I dive into your itinerary let’s get some brunch across the water in Dartmouth!

First things first, let’s head down to the Halifax Ferry Terminal and hop on the Alderney Ferry from Halifax to Downtown Dartmouth. At just $2.75 CAD, this 15-minute ride across the harbour is a must even if it’s for the views!

Yay, we made it to Dartmouth. Now let’s get some grub.

Start the Day With the Best Breakfast in Dartmouth

Starting your day off strong will keep you fueled until it’s time to say bon voyage to this magical pocket in Canada! So without further adieu, here are some of the best brunch spots right downtown Dartmouth.

→ Portland Street Creperie for tasty gourmet sweet & savoury crêpes 
→ Two If By Sea Cafe for a bright & busy café witch fantastic coffee & quality bites
→ Café Good Luck for savoury piled high breakfast plates, delicious pastries & excellent coffee
→ The Canteen on Portland is serving up chef-inspired seasonal fare for lunch, brunch & dinner

Wander the Streets of Dartmouth

Over the past few years, a wave of small businesses have been opening around the downtown and a quick trip across the harbour to see what Dartmouth is all about is a great way to spend the morning.

Its downtown has become a hip and urban centre with an evolving dining scene staking out places all over Portland Street. Art galleries, tattoo parlours and barbershops have popped up and indie boutiques selling records, furniture and artisan crafts can be found on almost every corner!

Visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

After jumping on the ferry back to Halifax you’re going to want to head to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. From the late twenties to the early seventies, Pier 21 was Canada’s ‘front door’ to over a million immigrants, refugees, troops, wartime evacuees, war brides and their children. Including both of my grandfathers!

Now, it has been turned into an incredible museum. Stunning exhibits detail the experiences of those who made their way to Canada on ships through first-person accounts, photos and artifacts. It pays tribute to how immigration continues to shape Canada today and offers opportunities for you to map your own family tree!

Take a Pit Stop at Garrison Brewery

Right next door to Pier 21 is Garrison Brewery! A must stop in my opinion! Who doesn’t love a good thirst quenching beer?

Brewing science and art with over 20 years experience, the crew at Garrison doubles down on passion and skill and they’re all about keeping the “craft” in beer. Relax in true Halifax fashion as you sip your flight of local faves!

They aren’t serving up any food here, but you are free to bring your own if you please!

Grab Lunch at One of These Mouthwatering Halifax Restaurants

It’s been an epic morning exploring, so you must be getting pretty hungry! Check out one of these fantastic restaurants for a tasty late lunch that will surely make you drool!

→ The Mercantile Social for a trendy bistro offering mouth watering international dishes
→ Tony’s Famous Donair 1976 for time-tested classic Halifax style donairs
→ Henry House for a real, true high end pub atmosphere serving up fish cakes & chowder
→ Indochine Banh Mi for Vietnamese staples, banh mi & pho and tasty fusion choices
→ Piatto Pizzeria + Enoteca for… you guessed it… pizza!

Take a Stroll Through Halifax’s Colourful North End

The hip, trendy, stylish North End! Known for cool and edgy restaurants like The Brooklyn Warehouse and Agricola Street Brasserie, hipster cafes like Sidekick Cafe and Espresso 46, indie boutiques and of course the magnificently colourful houses. This is where the locals come to hang! 

Even if you just take a stroll along Agricola Street, you’ll be able to soak in all that maritime happiness that this local area emulates.

Step Back in Time at the Titanic Memorials Fairview Lawn Cemetery

On her maiden voyage from Southampton, England, the RMS Titanic struck an iceberg in the North Atlantic on the night of April 14, 1912. In less than three hours the ship descended to its final resting place at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. Of its 2,228 passengers and crew, 1,518 lost their lives. 

Cable ships were dispatched from Halifax in the aftermath to recover bodies from the frigid waters, however it became clear that only those who made it into the lifeboats had survived. 150 persons on board would be buried in Halifax, 121 of which were laid to rest at the Fairview Lawn Cemetery. 1200 bodies, sadly, would never be found. 

Halifax is forever connected to this tragic piece of history and memories of it linger in parts of the city.

Checkout the Best Resto-bars in Halifax

It’s been quite a day and I bet you’re hungry! Let’s grab some drinks with our dinner before we say goodbye to this beautiful harbourfront city!

→ Highwayman this gorgeous, artsy haunt offers excellent cocktails & inventive Spanish eats
→ The Press Gang for choice seafood & divine dishes in a rustic 18th-century space
→ Bar Kismet for intimate dining with oysters, creative seafood entrees & cocktails
→ Julep Kitchen & Cocktails for yummy small plates, hearty mains & craft cocktails 
→ Kyo Kitchen & Bar for casual Japanese dishes, rice bowls, ramen & cocktails

How to Get Around Halifax

Halifax’s public transit system and pedestrian-friendly streets make it super easy to get around this city!

🚗 By Car: One of the best ways to get around is by renting your own car for the weekend! Rentals can be found all over the city, but it’s easiest to hop off the plane and straight into your car from the airport. We used Thrifty as it was the least expensive!

🚌 By Bus: Travel worry-free by bus around the city! Halifax’s Transit system offers a great way to see the sights. Checkout the bus route and more HERE!

🛴 By E-Scooter: Experience Halifax by e-scooter. Download the HFX e-Scooters app, find an available e-scooter, hop on and experience Halifax like never before.

👟 By Foot: Halifax is ranked one of the most walkable cities in Canada and that’s because, well, it is! This easily walkable city will allow you to get those steps in on the daily!

🚕 By Taxi: We all know and love Uber for the sole purpose of getting around the city safely and comfortably! Plus the prices of Uber here are almost half of that in Toronto, woohoo!

Where to Stay in Halifax

Now that we’ve got everything down pat, where are we gonna sleep? Here are my 3 favourite spots for luxury, mid-range and budget in Halifax!

Luxury Accommodation in Halifax

Halifax’s Muir Autograph Collection is beyond stunning. Chic and elegantly modern, guest rooms and suites blend intelligent design with sumptuous materials. Here you can enjoy a unique upscale accommodation located directly on the waterfront. Enjoy elevated hospitality and service inspired by the spirit, culture and natural beauty of Nova Scotia. 

Check prices for the Muir Hotel HERE!

Check prices for the Muir Hotel HERE!

Mid-Range Stay in Halifax

The Atlantica Hotel Halifax has a nice and modern atmosphere. Located only a short distance from the citadel, its design is sleek and offers free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers and comfortable beds.

Check prices for the Atlantica Hotel HERE!

Check prices for the Atlantica Hotel HERE!

Budget Stay in Halifax

Located just a 16-minute walk from Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, Halifax Backpackers Hostel is a clean and comfortable place to stay. Their helpful and friendly staff have a wealth of local information and their cool cafe-bar features a terrace and regular events like poetry readings and live music!

Check prices for Halifax Backpackers Hostel HERE!

Check prices for Halifax Backpackers Hostel HERE!

Still Looking For A Place To Stay in Halifax?

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If you have any questions or just want to see some more travel content find me on Instagram at @agirl.enroute! I’m always happy to chat!

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