Halifax holidays
Cool sea air mingles with maritime history, urban buzz and laid-back charm in Nova Scotia’s capital. Despite being best known for its historic harbour, which played a key role in the Titanic story, Halifax has also gained a reputation for exceptional food, craft beer and live music. The best holidays to Halifax start at the waterfront, where you’ll find ocean views, dockside shops and outstanding seafood restaurants.
The best neighbourhoods in Halifax
Downtown Halifax
If you’re wondering where to stay in Halifax, the Downtown area around the main harbour is a winner. Check out the boardwalk’s maritime museums and head to the Entertainment District for seafood, music and drinks on Argyle Street. This is also the best launching point to nearby fishing towns like Peggy’s Cove, home to the most photographed lighthouse in Canada.
Good for: Museums, live music, restaurants
Dartmouth
For an outdoorsy stay, take the short ferry ride to Dartmouth. Known as the City of Lakes, this area is great for swimming, sailing and hiking. The restaurant and brewery scene is thriving. Grab a cold beer and lobster roll or savour acclaimed Nova Scotian cuisine. Make sure to check out the waterfront farmers market on Saturdays.
Good for: Lakes, hiking trails, restaurants
Bedford
The suburban community of Bedford is the best area to stay in Halifax for families and a taste of local life. Green parks, walking trails along the Bedford Basin and waterfront restaurants make days easy to fill. Once you’re ready to head downtown, Halifax’s top sights are within easy reach by bus or car.
Good for: Families, parks, walking trails
Things to do in Halifax
Whether you’re hunting for local art, lively festivals or coastal outdoor adventures, there are things to do in Halifax for every kind of traveller.
Places to eat
The city’s oceanside location means you’ll find plenty of fresh fish on the menus in Halifax, including oysters and creative twists on seafood chowder. Make sure to visit King of Donair to try the original recipe for Halifax’s signature ground beef in pitta bread. Other iconic eats include ‘hodge podge’ (vegetable stew), ‘rappie pie’ (made with potato and chicken) and deep-fried pepperoni.
Beaches
Beaches in Halifax are easy to come by, with sheltered sands, boardwalks and surfable waves in reach. If you rent a car, you’ll have plenty of choice. Head to Rainbow Haven Beach for picnics and paddling. Trek Taylor Head Provincial Park’s epic coastal trails. On a clear day, try to spot North America’s oldest surviving lighthouse from Crystal Crescent Beach.
Take in the culture
Rain or shine, the museums in Halifax are a must-see. The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic dives into seafaring life, including artefacts from the Titanic. At the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, explore the stories of generations of Halifax immigrants. Snap sweeping city views at Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, where the Noon Gun cannon is fired daily.
