Introduction
Welcome to Halifax, a vibrant coastal city in Nova Scotia known for its maritime history, culture, and scenic beauty. This 7-day itinerary will guide you through Halifax and nearby destinations, offering a mix of urban exploration, coastal adventures, and cultural experiences.
Day 1: Arrival in Halifax
Morning: Arrival and Check-In
- Arrival: Arrive at Halifax Stanfield International Airport.
- Check-In: Settle into your accommodation in downtown Halifax or near the waterfront.
Afternoon: Halifax Waterfront and Citadel Hill
- Halifax Waterfront: Explore the bustling Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
- Citadel Hill: Visit the iconic Citadel National Historic Site for panoramic views of the city and guided tours.
Evening: Dinner in Historic Properties
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner in Historic Properties, a waterfront area with charming eateries and pubs.
Day 2: Halifax City Exploration
Morning: Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and Pier 21
- Maritime Museum: Dive into Nova Scotia’s maritime history at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
- Pier 21: Discover the immigration stories and cultural heritage at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.
Afternoon: Public Gardens and Art Galleries
- Halifax Public Gardens: Stroll through the Victorian-era Halifax Public Gardens, featuring floral displays and pathways.
- Art Galleries: Visit local art galleries like the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia for exhibitions of Canadian and Maritime art.
Evening: Halifax Brewery Tour
- Brewery Tour: Join a guided tour of Halifax’s craft breweries, sampling local beers and learning about brewing traditions.
Day 3: Day Trip to Peggy’s Cove and Lunenburg
Morning: Departure for Peggy’s Cove
- Drive or Tour: Take a day trip to Peggy’s Cove, approximately 45 minutes from Halifax.
Afternoon: Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse and Coastal Views
- Peggy’s Cove: Explore the picturesque fishing village of Peggy’s Cove, known for its iconic lighthouse and rocky coastline.
- Lunenburg: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, with colorful buildings, maritime history, and Bluenose II.
Evening: Return to Halifax
- Drive Back: Return to Halifax in the evening, savoring memories of coastal beauty.
Day 4: Halifax Historic Sites
Morning: Historic Properties and Old Town Clock
- Historic Properties: Discover historic buildings and shops in the Historic Properties district.
- Old Town Clock: Visit the Old Town Clock on Citadel Hill for a glimpse into Halifax’s past.
Afternoon: Alexander Keith’s Brewery and Province House
- Alexander Keith’s Brewery: Take a tour of Alexander Keith’s Brewery for a taste of Halifax’s brewing heritage.
- Province House: Explore Province House, Canada’s oldest legislative building and a National Historic Site.
Evening: Dinner Cruise on Halifax Harbour
- Dinner Cruise: Enjoy a scenic dinner cruise on Halifax Harbour, admiring waterfront views and city lights.
Day 5: Explore Dartmouth and Eastern Shore
Morning: Ferry to Dartmouth
- Ferry Ride: Take the Halifax-Dartmouth ferry for panoramic views of the harbor.
Afternoon: Dartmouth Waterfront and Fisherman’s Cove
- Dartmouth: Explore Dartmouth’s waterfront, shops, and Dartmouth Heritage Museum.
- Fisherman’s Cove: Visit Fisherman’s Cove, a historic fishing village with shops and eateries.
Evening: Seafood Dinner
- Dinner: Indulge in fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant in Dartmouth or Eastern Shore.
Day 6: Halifax Nature and Parks
Morning: Point Pleasant Park and Halifax Public Gardens
- Point Pleasant Park: Enjoy coastal walks and scenic viewpoints at Point Pleasant Park.
- Halifax Public Gardens: Return to the Halifax Public Gardens for a tranquil morning stroll.
Afternoon: McNabs Island or Lawrencetown Beach
- McNabs Island: Take a ferry to McNabs Island for hiking, picnics, and historic sites.
- Lawrencetown Beach: Visit Lawrencetown Beach for surfing, beachcombing, and coastal scenery.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
- Dinner: Have a farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant, reminiscing about your Halifax adventures.
Day 7: Halifax Departure or Final Explorations
Morning: Final Sightseeing
- City Views: Visit viewpoints for panoramic views of Halifax skyline and harbor.
- Shopping: Explore local markets or shops for souvenirs and gifts.
Afternoon: Departure or Extended Stay
- Option 1: Depart from Halifax Stanfield International Airport.
- Option 2: Extend your stay for additional explorations or relaxation in Halifax.
Conclusion
This 7-day itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Halifax and its surrounding areas, showcasing the city’s maritime heritage, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. From historic sites to coastal adventures, immerse yourself in the charm and allure of Nova Scotia’s capital city and nearby destinations on this maritime journey through Halifax and beyond.