Overview
Halifax doesn't often spring to mind as an excellent city break destination; however, we think it is one of Canada's best kept secrets and is the perfect stopover on a fly drive. Providing the perfect base to explore the enchanting coastlines of the Maritimes and quaint colourful towns of Nova Scotia, Halifax is a vibrant and cultural city, so you can really enjoy the best of both worlds.
Nova Scotia is Atlantic Canada's most popular and vibrant province, so it is no surprise that it is home to the bustling port city of Halifax. The history surrounding this area is enchanting and a must is a visit to Pier 21, Canada's Museum of Immigration. This is where 1.5 million immigrants from Europe, Britain and Ireland passed through from 1928-71 seeking new lives and grand opportunities in Canada. Perhaps you have some distant relatives that you can trace back for a really unique day out.
When on your Halifax holiday you are in the perfect position to explore some of the most scenic coastal landscapes and impressive natural wonders in Canada. Take a trip to Peggy's Cove Coastal Region, just 30-minutes’ drive from Halifax on Nova Scotia's Bluenose Coast, dubbed by the locals as 'Mother Nature's Playground'. Encompassing the shores of the lovely St. Margaret's Bay, walk around and discover the scenic coves, harbour and natural beauty, and enjoy a whole host of outdoor and water activities on offer.
Things to do
Popular things to do in Halifax
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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
Browse our amazing range of holidays in Halifax
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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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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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Alt Hotel Halifax Airport
from £66
This contemporary hotel is conveniently located within the Halifax Airport area and is even linked directly to the terminal building via a walkway on the ...see more
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Cambridge Suites Halifax
from £57
The Cambridge Suites is a modern hotel with an excellent location opposite the historic Citadel Hill and just a few minutes from the city’s main ...see more
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Hampton Inn by Hilton
from £56
The Hampton Inn is a contemporary hotel in a fantastic position at the base of the Halifax Citadel in the heart of downtown Halifax.
Rooms are ...see more
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Hotel Halifax
from £71
The Hotel Halifax is an elegant hotel situated on the harbourfront in downtown Halifax, offering a spectacular view of the city and the harbour.
From ...see more
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The Barrington Hotel
from £59
The Barrington Hotel is in an excellent location in the heart of the city.
Accommodation ranges from the standard room, to the more spacious ...see more
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The Prince George Hotel
from £64
The Prince George is a grand hotel with an excellent central location next to Citadel Hill and with an indoor walkway to the waterfront.
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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Halifax Short Break
from £1,100
Halifax doesn't often spring to mind as an excellent city break destination; however, we think it is one of Canada's best kept secrets! This is why ...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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Capital Adventures of Atlantic Canada Holiday
from £1,300
Welcome to Halifax, Nova Scotia, a city that deftly blends the past with the present and St.John's, NewFoundland & Labarador, one ...see more
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Eastern Rail Experience Holiday
from £1,865
Embark on a captivating historic rail route starting in the bustling maritime city of Halifax, travelling through Québec and Ontario along the path ...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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Circle Newfoundland & Labrador Holiday
from £4,790
Explore the striking landscapes and history of Newfoundland and Labrador. Along the way you will travel from the northernmost tip of the island of Newfoundland ...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
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Landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes Holiday
from £5,793
Experience the true beauty of the Canadian Maritimes with the best blend of land and sea on this guided tour. It all begins in Nova Scotia’s capital city ...see more
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Bay of Fundy Explorer
from £2,565
The Bay of Fundy and its surrounding area offers a unique landscape, marine eco systems as well as cultural heritage. Bay of Fundy itself is one of the ...see more
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Beaches, Islands, Lobster, Moose and More
from £3,017
Make your leisurely way through a land where traditional farming, fishing, and logging are still carried out every day. This is a land where life is lived ...see more
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Canada Maritime
from £2,583
This trip leads you from the southern coast of Nova Scotia, a mosaic of picturesque fishing villages, rocky points, forested islands, and broad sand beaches, ...see more
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Lighthouse and Hidden Treasures of Nova Scotia
from £2,464
Nova Scotia is the crown jewel of Canada's East Coast. Composed of a peninsula and its surrounding islands, it offers you the chance to indulge yourself ...see more
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Maritimes Marvels
from £2,506
Explore the Maritimes like never before! Starting in Halifax this trip will display the most scenic and historical destinations that the Maritimes has ...see more
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Nova Scotia Canada's Ocean Playground
from £1,887
Get to know some of Nova Scotia's most beautiful areas whilst sampling the culinary excellence of the province. Seafood Chowder is only one of the many ...see more
Top tips
Here are our top tips for your holiday to Halifax:
Top tips for visiting Halifax
Top Tip 1
• Visit Fisherman’s Cove – this tightly knit community offers a real sense of what it’s like to live and work in Nova Scotia. Watch the fishermen come in with their daily catch – Halifax is known for having some of the world’s freshest seafood.
Top Tip 2
• Take the boat ride across to McNabs Island and visit the historic remains of Fort McNab
Top Tip 3
• History buffs should definitely visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, which is the Canadian equivalent of Ellis Island. See where over one million people travelled to begin a new life in Canada.
Top Tip 4
• Watch a beautiful sunset in Lower Prospect on a local kayak tour while on your holiday to Halifax for a truly magical memory.
Top Tip 5
• Visit the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. This star shaped naval station sits on top of a hill in the heart of downtown Halifax. Take a look around this living museum courtesy of a costumed tour guide who will lead you around the musket galleries, garrison cells and more.
Top Tip 6
• Foodies should try a culinary walking tour of downtown Halifax. Led by entertaining local guides, embark on a journey around the city, sampling ethnic dishes to all-butter baking, trying new foods whilst learning about Halifax’s exciting culture and exploring unique restaurants.
Top Tip 7
• Take a stroll around the Halifax Public Gardens – this beautiful Victorian inspired garden has been open to the public since 1875 and is one of Halifax’s most cherished attractions.
Top Tip 8
• Keen surfers should catch the waves at Lawrencetown beach, the panoramic views are a must see.
Top Tip 9
• Explore the oldest continuously running farmer’s market in North America at the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market.
Top Tip 10
• Enjoy a romantic walk along the Halifax Waterfront and pop into one of the city’s eclectic shops. In the evening dine out at one of the waterfront restaurants and sample some of Atlantic Canada’s best seafood. The lobster in Halifax is a must!
If you’d like more information about booking your holiday to Halifax call one of our dedicated team of experts who will help you plan the trip of a lifetime!