Halifax

Canada, North America

Halifax, the vibrant capital of Nova Scotia, is known for its rich maritime history, lovely waterfront, and lively arts scene. Visitors are drawn to its iconic Citadel Hill, the picturesque harbor, and the fascinating Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. Plus, with its seafood shacks and local breweries, the culinary experience is a highlight. Whether exploring historic sites or enjoying the nightlife, Halifax offers a mix of charm and excitement, making it an appealing destination year-round.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Halifax

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Halifax

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Halifax Waterfront

Stroll along the vibrant waterfront with shops and eateries.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration

Discover Canada’s immigration history and its impacts.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Halifax Citadel

Explore a historic fortress with stunning views.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Nova Scotia's seafood

Indulge in fresh lobster and local delicacies.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Walk through Point Pleasant Park

Enjoy nature trails and ocean views in a park.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market

Shop local produce and crafts every Saturday.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Learn at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Explore maritime history and shipwreck artifacts.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Halifax Public Gardens

Wander through beautifully landscaped Victorian gardens.

No booking required
9

Est. 2.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo

Experience the world's largest annual indoor show.

Booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a ferry to Dartmouth

Enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the harbor.

No booking required
11

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Relax at Lawrencetown Beach

Surf or sunbathe at a popular beach spot.

No booking required
12

Est. 2.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Halifax Mooseheads game

Cheer for the local junior hockey team.

Booking required
13

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

Admire local and international art collections.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~15-20%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

12 (#1 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Canadian Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Poutine

V

Fries topped with cheese curds and gravy (National dish)

Tourtière

Savory meat pie from Quebec

Montreal-style Bagels

VE

Chewy, sesame-seeded bagels from Montreal

Butter Tarts

V

Sweet pastry filled with butter and sugar

Nanaimo Bars

V

Layered dessert bar with chocolate and custard

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)