Overview
Nova Scotia, on Canada’s Eastern coast, is a great destination to include on any holiday to Canada. One of Canada’s four Maritime Provinces, this beautiful province is surrounded almost completely by water, making it ideal for strolls along the beach and water-based activities such as kayaking and paddle boarding.
The continental climate means the summer months are warm so you can enjoy spending plenty of time outdoors. Explore the province by car, by bike, on foot, or even by boat and canoe, with stops to see the local sights and culture.
Nova Scotia has an incredible 13,300km of coastline so there is plenty of water to enjoy. Try tidal bore rafting on the Shubenacadie River, located along the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia, kayaking in Kejimkujik National Park, or even mud sliding along the Shubenacadie riverbed! Animal-lovers should look out for seals, porpoises, seabirds and at least 12 different species of whales in the Bay of Fundy.
Nova Scotia is full of Canadian history and this is apparent in the 150+ lighthouses dotted around the province. Take a trip to visit Peggy’s Cove and see the lighthouse built in 1868, which is the most photographed in Canada. Also discover three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 26 national historic sites and 28 provincial museums in Nova Scotia.
Nova Scotia is one of Canada’s most delectable provinces! The fresh sea food is legendary - sample local lobster, the famous Digby scallops, or the mussels from Mahone Bay. Also home to 16 wineries and vineyards, you can taste the flavours of Halifax in the local vintage, or in a glass of traditional ice wine. Sipped whilst looking across the water, this is a really relaxing way to end your day.
The province’s capital, Halifax, is the largest city in Atlantic Canada. A vibrant and cultural city, this is one of the country’s best kept secrets. History buffs should visit visit Pier 21, Canada’s National Immigration Museum, and Halifax Seaport Farmer’s Market is great for foodies.
Only a 6-hour flight from the UK to Canada, you’ll be feeling the rhythm of the ocean and fresh salt air in your lungs in no time on an exciting holiday to Nova Scotia!
Map
Things to do
For those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground, hike along the spectacular coastal cliffs of Cape Chignecto Provincial Park or simply relax in the serenity of an unspoiled coastal landscape at Martinique Beach.
Discover what life was like for some of Canada’s earliest settlers in one of Nova Scotia’s many historical sites. Joggins Fossil Cliffs is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site home to 300 million year-old fossils. A trip to the capital city, Halifax, is also a must. Learn more about the province’s connection to the Titanic at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic before enjoying fresh local food in a restaurant overlooking one of the world’s deepest harbours.
Nova Scotia is renowned for its seafood and your holiday will not be complete without sampling Digby scallops, or mussels from the pristine waters of Mahone Bay, to name but a few. With history at its heart and beautiful scenery along the shores, an unforgettable holiday is waiting for you in Nova Scotia.
Popular things to do in Nova Scotia
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Lunenburg and Mahone Bay tour
from £99pp
Departing from Halifax, explore the South Shore, filled with the history of fishing, boat building, the pirates of Oak Island and the rum running along this craggy coastline. Lunenburg is home to Nova Scotia’s largest fishing fleet, the Lunenburg Academy, extraordinary architecture, supreme shops and more. Enjoy a guided walking tour of Lunenburg or entrance to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. Continue to Mahone Bay, famous for its churches along the coastline and picturesque beauty.
Duration: 6 hours
Departures: Sun, Tue, Thu, Sat between Jun 1 - Oct 15 -
Peggy’s Cove Tour
from £65pp
Peggy’s Cove has been an artist and explorer's paradise for well over 150 years. This picture-postcard village, located on rugged Atlantic shoreline, stands on solid rock above the crashing surf, and its lighthouse is the most photographed lighthouse in the world. Enjoy some free time to exploring the rocks, the trails, the village and the gift shops.
Duration: 3 hours
Departures: Daily between Jun 1 - Oct 27
Holidays
A visit to Nova Scotia would be incomplete without photographing the abundance of wildlife – whales, seals and porpoises swim below kayakers as thousands of seabirds fly above hikers.
The province is also home to a wealth of historical sites for those who wish to immerse themselves in Canadian history while on holiday. With a thriving culinary scene, sit back and reflect on the day’s adventures as you enjoy freshly caught seafood and taste the flavours of Nova Scotia in the local vintage wines.
Browse our amazing range of holidays in Nova Scotia
Popular Nova Scotia holiday ideas
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Atlantica Hotel Halifax
from £47
The Atlantica Hotel Halifax is in a great location in downtown Halifax, and offers a calming retreat after a busy day sightseeing. Guestrooms range from...see more
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Inverary Resort
from £47
Inverary Resort is a lovely lakeside hotel only a few minutes walk from the centre of Baddeck village.
The hotel has a large variety of rooms...see more
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Oak Island Resort and Conference Centre
from £43
This beautiful seaside hotel is perched on the shores of Nova Scotia, with fantastic views across the bay and great amenities.
Accommodation...see more
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The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites
from £59
In a lovely location opposite Halifax Public Park in the centre of downtown Halifax, The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites is a beautiful and historic...see more
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Westin Nova Scotian
from £67
The Westin Nova Scotian is an elegant hotel in a great central position on Halifax Harbourfront.
Rooms are contemporary and light and include...see more
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Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa
from £79
The Digby Pines Resort is a grand castle-style hotel in pretty grounds overlooking the Bay of Fundy.
Accommodation comprises of elegant rooms...see more
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Enchanting Maritime Coastal Holiday
from £1,458
Exploring Canada’s most spectacular and pristine coastline, you’ll find lush vistas and uncrowded beaches, breath-taking scenery and a vibrant and welcoming...see more
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Scenic Splendour of Maritime Canada Holiday
from £1,781
This remarkable itinerary tours across New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, known as the Maritimes. All three share stunning sea-coasts,...see more
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Trails of Eastern Nova Scotia Holiday
from £1,576
This route through the Eastern part of Nova Scotia offers the very best trails through its stunning landscape. Dive deep into Nova Scotia's Coastline and...see more
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Western Coastline of Nova Scotia Holiday
from £1,458
This remarkable itinerary takes you along the western Coastline of Nova Scotia along the lighthouse Route all the way to the phenomenal Bay of Fundy....see more
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Nova Scotian Adventures Holiday
from £1,781
This tour is perfect to explore all the wonders Nova Scotia has to offer! Our suggested Itinerary takes you all along the coastline from Halifax to the...see more
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Atlantic Maritimes Tour Holiday
from £4,704
Experience the Maritimes of Eastern Canada and discover the Scottish, Acadian and Native heritage widely celebrated in the Atlantic Provinces. Visit...see more
Top tips
Top tips for visiting Nova Scotia
1. Take to the waves
• Nova Scotia has an incredible 13,300km of coastline so there is plenty of water to enjoy. Try tidal bore rafting on the Shubenacadie River located along the Bay of Fundy, kayaking in Kejimkujik National Park, or even mud sliding along the Shubenacadie riverbed.
2. Wildlife watching
• Animal-lovers are in for a treat here - look out for seals, porpoises, seabirds and at least 12 different species of whale in Nova Scotia’s waters.
3. Hike your way
• Grab your walking boots and hike the world-renowned trails of Cape Chignecto on the Bay of Fundy or Cape Breton’s Skyline Trail – Nova Scotia is popular with those seeking the perfect walking holiday.
4. Heritage in bucket-loads
• Soak up the local history by visiting Peggy’s Cove to see the lighthouse built in 1868, which is also the most photographed in Canada. Discover three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 26 national historic sites and 28 provincial museums in Nova Scotia.
5. Sample the seafood
• Sample some of the world’s freshest seafood, such as the local lobster, the famous Digby scallops, or mussels from the Mahone Bay. Also home to 16 wineries and vineyards, you can taste the flavours of Halifax in the local vintage stores, or in a glass of traditional ice wine.
6. Atlantic Canada's largest city
• Visit Halifax, which is the largest city in Atlantic Canada. A vibrant and cultural hot spot, this is one of the country’s best kept secrets. History buffs should visit Pier 21 - Canada’s National Immigration Museum, and Halifax Seaport Farmer’s Market is great for foodies.
7. Live like a local
• Meet the local people who will welcome you to the region with open arms. Nova Scotia is a province of talented storytellers, artists and musicians, who want nothing more than to share the history and beauty of their land.
8. Mind the weather
• Carry a sweater – the regions moderate climate means that temperatures regularly fluctuate. If you spend the morning in Halifax, the afternoon in Wolfville and end up in Yarmouth for the evening, the weather and temperatures can be differ greatly. But remember, Nova Scotia is Canada's warmest province on average, so you'll never be too cold!
9. Get active
• Leave the hire car behind for the day and make the most of being outdoors – cycle, walk or even canoe around the province for a refreshing active holiday!
If you’d like more information about booking your holiday to Nova Scotia call one of our dedicated team of experts who will help you plan the trip of a lifetime!
