tours in halifax

THE 10 BEST Halifax Tours & Excursions

Halifax tours.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Peggy's Cove Express Small Group from Halifax

2. Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour

3. Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.

4. Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)

5. Halifax Harbour Hopper Tour

6. Half Day Small Group Tour in Peggy's Cove and Titanic Cemetery

7. Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax

8. Private Halifax Harbour Boat Tours

9. Historic Halifax by Foot

10. Private Tour in Halifax by a Luxury Vehicle with Informative Guide

11. Bay of Fundy / Hall's Harbour

12. Wine and Lunch Escape

13. Best of Halifax Small Group Tour with Peggy's Cove and Citadel

14. Peggy’s Cove/Mahone Bay & Lunenburg

15. Halifax Harbourfront Small Group Food Walking Tour

16. Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Annapolis Valley

17. Halifax Segway City Tour

18. Tall Ship Silva Sailing Cruise

19. JFarwell Adventure Yacht Sailing in the Halifax Harbour

20. Valley Wine Tour

21. Wine Enthusiast Tour

22. Halifax Small Group Walking Tour with Citadel + Maritime Museum

23. Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Nova Scotia's South Shore

24. Golden Hour Silva Cruise from Halifax Harbor

25. Peggy's Cove Day Trip from Halifax

26. Halifax & Peggys Cove & Coastal

27. JFarwell Moonlight Yacht Cruise from Halifax Waterfront

28. Halifax Hop On Hop Off Bus

29. JFarwell Sunset Wine and Cheese Yacht Sailing

30. Lunenburg Small Group Express from Halifax + Lobster Roll Lunch

What travelers are saying.

• Peggy's Cove Express Small Group from Halifax
• Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.
• Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour
• Half Day Small Group Tour in Peggy's Cove and Titanic Cemetery
• Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)
• Halifax Titanic Historical Tours
• Local Tasting Tours
• Anchor Tours
• I Heart Bikes
• Harbour Hopper Tours
• ToursByLocals
• AM PM Limousine Halifax
• J Farwell Sailing Tours
• Great E.A.R.T.H Expeditions
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• Harbour Watercraft Tours & Adventures

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18 of the Best Halifax Tours

August 1, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

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If you’re looking to find the best Halifax tours, you’ve come to the right place.

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Halifax, the vibrant and historic gem of Canada’s East Coast. This bustling maritime city has something for everyone, including history, art, outdoor adventure, great food, and a lively music scene. History buffs will be delighted by Halifax’s deep-rooted past, which can be seen at the impressive Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, the captivating Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, or the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, just to name a few. If you’re a foodie, prepare to tantalize your taste buds with mouthwatering seafood, like the famous lobster rolls and fresh fish and chips, as well as a classic Halifax donair. Then, of course, there’s the lively and beautiful waterfront, which is home to a picturesque boardwalk, quirky shops, charming cafes, and street performers. Don’t miss the chance to take a scenic Halifax boat tour of the harbour as well, where you might catch sight of adorable seals or even majestic whales!

As you can see, there are lots of fun things to do in Halifax , Nova Scotia! So whether you’re looking to set sail for an evening on the water, take a tour around the city with a local guide, or take a day trip to one of the many nearby scenic towns, we’ve got you covered in this guide to the best Halifax tours.

Halifax Tours Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase, we get a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use and help keep these travel guides free .

Our Top 3 Picks: Halifax Tours

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax ✔️ Learn about the city ✔️ Visit top attractions ✔️ Transportation

Sunset Wine and Cheese Yacht Sailing ✔️ Go sailing in Halifax ✔️ Enjoy wine and cheese ✔️ Be hands-on if you like

Nova Scotia Day Tour – Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley ✔️ Visit famous destinations ✔️ Local guide ✔️ Hotel pick-up

1. Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (90 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  6 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

As the capital city of Nova Scotia, Halifax is beautiful and rich in history, which is why it’s one of our favourite cities in the country. Rather than wandering around alone, get the most out of your visit by joining this small-group tour that explores Halifax with a knowledgeable guide that will fill you in on fascinating details, from the legacy of the Titanic to that of the Halifax Explosion. This history-focused guided tour of Halifax includes Dartmouth and Fisherman’s Cove.

Our tour was fabulous!!! Paul was very knowledgeable!!! He was very courteous, kind and helpful, Dressed in a suit is very professional!! Our tour was so impressive that my friend from Digby, who came for a visit after many years, learned more from this tour than anything else!!!! very informative, lunch was great, van was clean, water supplied, extras on the tablet was great!!! our highlights were the n.x. explosion and the Titanic. Learned alot from Paul!!! -Anna ( see more reviews )

This 6-hour tour of Halifax includes:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Bottled water
• WiFi on board

Click Here to See Reviews, Pricing, and Availability.

2. Sunset Wine and Cheese Yacht Sailing

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (46 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

No visit to Nova Scotia would be complete without enjoying some Halifax boat tours, which is why we recommend this small-group sunset cruise out of Halifax Harbour . Sail down the narrows of the Northwest Arm as the sun sets over the beautiful homes as you toast the experience with four wine and cheese samples.

We visited Halifax on a vacation from Rhode Island, USA. We knew we wanted to get out on the water so this tour seemed a perfect choice….and it was! The weather could not have been more perfect – following some dreary days prior! We were welcomed aboard a beautiful sailboat by three very friendly crew mates! Anna greeted us with a chilled glass of wine and the table was spread with a very inviting charcuterie board. We soon met our shipmates, three lovely ladies, two from Australia and one from Ontario. Caleigh was our captain and Andrew her first mate. They shared the perfect amount of details about the area and were very open to questions. Anna did a great job introducing each wine with interesting tidbits of information about the vineyards. She obviously loves wine like we do! The views and sunset were beautiful, the company was lovely and we can’t think of a better way to spend an evening in Halifax, NS! Cheers!! -Richard ( see more reviews )

This sailing tour of Nova Scotia includes:

• Experiential Sailing
• Alcoholic Beverages

3. Halifax Harbour Hopper Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (490 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 1 Hour | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for Halifax tours that travel on land and in the water, you’ll definitely want to consider the Harbour Hopper tour , which travels aboard a really cool, renovated amphibious Vietnam War vehicle. This unusual method of transportation gives you an overview of some of Halifax’s key landmarks, including St Paul’s Cathedral, Citadel Hill and Halifax Public Gardens, before splashing into Halifax Harbour for stunning views of the waterfront.

The ambiguous vehicle made this tour extremely enjoyable and the street and water tour was amazing. I loved all the sites and recommend this to anyone who is questioning. The price is affordable and definitely worth it! -Linda ( see more reviews )

This cool tour of Halifax includes:

• Guided tour

4. Alexander Keith’s Brewery Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (140 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 1 Hour | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Whenever people ask us about our most memorable Halifax tours, we always think of Alexander Keith’s Brewery in Halifax . While most brewery tours become the same after a while, what makes Alexander Keith’s different is both its history and the overall performance of the tour itself. First off, this is one of the oldest breweries in North America. Founded in 1820, the beer is still wildly popular from coast to coast and you’ll get to visit the facilities, learn about the brewing process and the brewery’s history, sample a number of beers, and enjoy some good east coast entertainment.

Great tour! We walked through 3 separate rooms with 3 different guides who gave us lots of history of the brewery in a fun manner, along with a complementary glass of brew.The last room is a bar where we had more tastings along with some great music performed by 3 talented guides. Lots of fun!! -Jacob ( see more reviews )

This Halifax brewery tour includes:

5. Adventure Yacht Sailing in the Halifax Harbour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (31 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

As we’ve mentioned before, a trip to Nova Scotia just isn’t complete without experiencing some time on the sea. Experience the charm of Nova Scotia as you cruise across the harbour on Halifax’s only wind-powered sailing experience . This small-group tour is a great introduction to sailing as well, allowing you to be as hands-on as you would like to be.

We enjoyed this activity with our two kids and enjoyed everything about the experience: the generosity of the owners who took the time to share a lot of information and were understanding with the kids, the local wines and beers onboard… Also the duration (90 minutes) is perfect. Thank you for the great memories. -Melissa ( see more reviews )

This Nova Scotia sailing tour includes:

• Sailing tour

6. Halifax Segway City Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (59 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Walking is a great way to see a city but riding a Segway is much more fun! On this popular Halifax tour, see the historic sights of Halifax on a Segway , including the waterfront, Public Gardens, the Citadel National Historic Site, and more. Of course, you’ll first get an introduction to the Segway to get comfortable with the machines before joining your guide and a small group for a fun morning or afternoon. This excursion lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including photo stops.

Absolutely the highlight of our vacation. What a blast and such a great way to see the city. Our guide was very informative and knowledgable. You certainly don’t need much experience to ride this great machine…..you just need to trust it. Definitely recommend! -Jackie ( see more reviews )

This Halifax segway tour includes:

• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• Local guide
• HearMe radio headset

7. Private Tour in Halifax by a Luxury Vehicle with Informative Guide

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (19 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for a local to drive you around Nova Scotia in a Lexus, this tour is for you. This half-day tour offers an easy and personalized experience of Halifax and the surrounding area in a luxury vehicle. Take in the coastal scenery and learn about the local history from your informative guide, get a comprehensive overview of Halifax, score insider tips on where to eat and drink, visit Peggy’s Cove, and more.

Having a short time in Halifax with a private driver was a memorable experience. Stewart was on time, in a luxury, clean SUV, very informative and interesting. He took us to all the sights we wanted to see and more. I would highly recommend this company and driver for the a tour of beautiful Halifax at a good price. -Joanie ( see more reviews )

This private tour from Halifax includes:

• Driver / Transportation
• Private transportation

8. Halifax Pedal Pub Crawl along the Waterfront on a Solar-Powered Pedal Bus

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (25 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for some unique Halifax tours, consider this Halifax Pedal Pub Crawl , which involves lovely views of Halifax’s waterfront while enjoying a selection of local restaurants. You’ll travel between stops on a unique solar-powered pedal bus for a fun and active open-air experience. Food and drink is not included, but you will receive discounts at each stop.

We had so much fun doing this! The bars were great and we loved meeting the other people doing it too. Great way to have some laughs! -Laura ( see more reviews )

This Halifax Pedal Pub Crawl includes:

• Restaurant stops for you to enjoy food and drink specials/discounts
• Use of bicycle

9. Morning Family Sailing Experience in Halifax

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (16 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for a more intimate sailing experience, this is one of the best Halifax tours to take. Go sailing in Halifax with this small-group tour designed for families . Instead of being crammed onto a ship just to see the sights, this tour gives you the chance to meet your captain for a morning sail on a 45-foot yacht to experience a wind-powered adventure where you’ll learn new sailing skills and set out along the coastline.

Our captain, Brandon, and first mate, Frankie, we’re very friendly and fun! Our party of 6 had a wonderful time learning about the sailboat, how to sail, and the waters around Halifax! Thank you for providing this enjoyable opportunity for our one day in Halifax. -Linda ( see more reviews )

This Halifax sailing experience includes:

• Lifejackets and PFDs
• Involvement in the sailing process
• Kids get an Official Crew Member certificate

10. Tall Ship Silva Sailing Cruise

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars (122 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Help hoist the sails as you take a ride on the Tall Ship Silva. This afternoon cruise on the Halifax Harbour takes place on a 130-foot schooner and includes the opportunity to join the crew manning the sails, tying knots or even taking a turn at the helm! If you prefer, you can also just sit and relax as you sail by Harbour Bridge, Fort George, McNab’s Island, and Point Pleasant Park with a drink from the onboard bar (additional cost).

We enjoyed the experience all the way through. The host talked and explained everything about the boat and the history of Halifax while also playing music when she wasn’t talking. Staff was very friendly 🙂 -Sara ( see more reviews )

This Halifax boat tour includes:

• All activities
• Live commentary on board

11. Historic Halifax by Foot

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (16 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Discover the nooks and crannies of historic Halifax as you explore the city on this popular walking tour . This small-group tour covers the history, culture, and architecture of this Maritime Canadian city. See the Halifax Public Gardens, the Old Burying Grounds, the Grand Parade, the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, and more.

Well thought out tour route with gradual ascent to the Citadel. Well paced to suit the participants. Very informative. Highly recommend this tour and our guide Ian. -Kim ( see more reviews )

This Halifax walking tour includes:

12. Nova Scotia Day Tour – Visit Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (179 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 9 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you want to get a taste of Nova Scotia but don’t have a lot of time, this is a great tour to take. This relaxed Nova Scotia tour takes you along the coast south of Halifax and fits a lot in without feeling hurried. A number of popular destinations are on the itinerary, but there’s no fixed schedule, so you can see where the day takes you. You’ll get to explore the sights at Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, Queensland Beach, the Lunenburg Historic District, and more. End the day at a vineyard to enjoy some tastings (at additional cost) and admire the views.

Ian was a great tour guide! We learned so much history while visiting these beautiful sites. We all got to know each other a bit, laughed and joked the day away. Even the “dad jokes” were funny! Great experience! Thank you! -Josephine ( see more reviews )

This Full-Day Nova Scotia tour includes:

• Air Conditioned Vehicle
• Hotel Pickup
• Bike Transportation

13. Wine and Lunch Escape in Annapolis Valley

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (341 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  6.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Discover Nova Scotia’s wine country as you embark on a scenic small-group tour through Annapolis Valley . During this popular 5-star-rated tour, you’ll visit three wine estates for guided wine tastings and to learn about winemaking in cooler climates, as well as the manufacturing and terroir. You’ll also enjoy a scrumptious lunch, served with beer, wine, or cider and a picturesque view. Perhaps the best part is you get to avoid driving and truly enjoy the wine.

We loved this wine tour and I am so glad that we booked this trip. We visited 3 gorgeous winery in the Annapolis region and had 12 tastings along with a delicious lunch. The views were breathtaking and very scenic . A special mention to our tour guide Terry, who was very warm and organized, she made sure the day trip was perfect for everyone! Thank you Grape Escapes for making this trip so memorable, we really enjoyed every bit of it. -Ambalika ( see more reviews )

This 6.5-hour Nova Scotia wine and lunch tour includes:

14. Peggy’s Cove, Mahone Bay & Lunenburg

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (87 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  7 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

When it comes to Halifax tours, you really don’t want to miss the chance to travel along Nova Scotia’s Lighthouse Route, which is why we recommend this full-day excursion from Halifax . Stop at several popular locations, including Peggy’s Cove, Mahone Bay, Lunenburg, to see their beautiful and iconic lighthouses. You’ll also learn about the history and traditions that stretch back over 250 years. This is a great tour for those that want to get a taste of one of Nova Scotia’s most iconic areas.

A beautiful trip to a quaint Peggy’s Cove, a charming town of Lunenburg and Mahone Bay. We had a great weather to enjoy and enough time to explore around town. Jonathan was our excellent guide and have a great sense of humor so you’re always entertained. I would highly recommend this tour. -Jane ( see more reviews )

This 7-hour tour of Nova Scotia includes:

• Guide/Driver

15. Best of Halifax Small Group Tour with Peggy’s Cove and Citadel

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (162 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

While there are lots of great things to see in Halifax, there are also lots of cool things to see nearby. This is why we recommend this tour, which explores two very popular destinations in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable guide that will bring it all to life with history and stories. With admission fees plus pickup and drop-off at your downtown Halifax hotel included, visit top attractions such as the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site of Canada and Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse.

It was a wonderful and informative excursion that gave us a great feel for Halifax. We had three must see’s and this tour hit them all. Love doing these tours instead of a cruise line tour because it is more intimate and tailored to what we want. -Margaret ( see more reviews )

This tour of Nova Scotia includes:

• All Fees and Taxes
• Professional Guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere in Downtown Halifax

16. Peggy’s Cove Day Trip from Halifax

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (211 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re short on time but would really love to see Peggy’s Cove and the most famous lighthouse in Canada, this 3.5-hour guided trip from Halifax is a great choice. After an informative overview of the area, you’ll get to explore this small fishing village, which is located on the eastern shore of St. Margaret’s Bay. You’ll also visit Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, one of the world’s most popular lighthouses, as well as local shops, restaurants, and cafes. Round-trip transportation is included.

Perfect in every way! Tour guide was wonderful and the bus driver was fun. Let’s of information provided. My only regret was not booking a longer tour! -Christina ( see more reviews )

This 3.5-hour tour of Peggy’s Cove includes:

• Professional guide

17. The Classic Vintage Car Wine Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (17 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 4.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking to sample some of the best wine in Nova Scotia, what could be better than driving out to the Annapolis Valley in a classic car on a personalized route for an unforgettable day of wine tasting? That’s what the Vintage Vino tour is all about, cruising you around in a vintage 1940s automobile through Nova Scotia’s wine country . Perfect for small groups of 2-4, these tours are intimate, personal, and customizable, bringing you to wineries, breweries, cideries, historic sites, and more.

Absolutely fantastic, highly recommend. Brennan is an excellent tour guide, and definitely knows his way around the valley. The tour was personal, relaxed… and the wine was fantastic. The area is absolutely beautiful too… really worth it to be able to visit a few vineyards in a day, and really get a sense of what the region is all about. -Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

This classic vintage car wine tour of Nova Scotia includes:

• Umbrellas for rain and sun protection, Cooler to store purchased wine

18. Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Annapolis Valley

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (20 reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 6 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Located just over an hour’s drive from Halifax, the Annapolis Valley is beautiful, historic, and full of incredible wineries. It’s one of the most popular regions in the province and this is your chance to discover the culture and history of Nova Scotia’s wine country on this half-day, small-group tour of Annapolis Valley . Get picked up at your hotel in Halifax and set out on a multi-faceted itinerary that includes the Grand Pre National Historic Site, Hall’s Harbour, and the historic village of Wolfville. Sample wines and products at Fox Hill Cheese for a small fee and admire views of the Bay of Fundy.

Amazing tour, covers many villages in the area, beautiful points of view where we stopped to take a pictures. Great spot we stopped for a lunch that was recommended! We also visited some great wineries in the valley. Paul is a great guide, very kind and tells interesting stories. Tour is well organized, on time, excellent communication. We enjoyed the tour! -Irina ( see more reviews )

This tour of the Annapolis Valley includes:

Looking For Even More Things to Do?

As you can see, there are many different Halifax tours to choose from. Whether you’re into history, food, scenery, or a little bit of everything, you’re bound to have a great time in Canada’s largest Maritime city. However, there’s so much more to do in Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada, so for more ideas, check out these travel guides below:

• Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore
• Camping in Nova Scotia
• Driving the Cabot Trail
• Fun Nova Scotia Facts

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

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Excursions & Tours

Halifax by Land & Sea

Historic Halifax by Foot

Nova Scotia's Peggy's Cove

Halifax Dinner Cruise

Halifax and Nova Scotian Wine Discovery

Halifax Highlights by Yacht

Halifax History and Flavors Eco-Pedal Waterfront Experience

Halifax Rise and Sail

Private Halifax and Peggy's Cove

Private Halifax Introduction

Halifax tours & shore excursions.

Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia and also more commonly known as "The City of Trees" has all the right ingredients for a great vacation destination. This quaint city has so many highlights and a rich culture that makes it a pleasure to spend an afternoon there exploring the city life and the countryside on our Halifax shore excursions. Shore Excursions Group will make sure you won't miss a thing, from Peggy's cove shore tours to a taste of the region's exquisite wineries. Tantalize your senses, as you taste some of the fresh products of the area, including coffee, cheese and wine with our Taste of the Valley Tour or the Annapolis Valley Wine Tour. See the most popular attractions of Halifax when you book our Best of Halifax and Peggy's Cove Excursion.

The #1 Boat Tour in Halifax, Nova Scotia!

All aboard halifax's most popular boat tour – the harbour hopper tour - a fun, fast-paced adventure by land and sea.

Your journey begins on land where the Harbour Hopper makes its way along the hilly, winding roads of Halifax.

You'll make the trek way up to see the city from its highest traversable point - the top of Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Head down to the water's edge and SPLASH into the Halifax Harbour! Your driver is now your Captain and there’s more to explore and much to see!

Are you ready to experience the Harbour Hopper Tour?

It was a great fun time. I totally loved it. Thanks to the captain & host of the harbour hopper. I will surely recommend this activity to everyone who wants to know Halifax and wants to enjoy land & ocean at same time.

Both the driver and the tour guide were amazing ... it was great experience to find out lots of information about this amazing city in such a fun way!

I took my 5 year old grandson and he thoroughly enjoyed the day. Our tour guide Alex was lovely and had a great way of telling the story of Halifax. I’d recommend it to anyone.

THE 10 BEST Halifax Bus Tours

Bus tours in halifax.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Peggy's Cove Express Small Group from Halifax

2. Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour

3. Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.

4. Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)

5. Half Day Small Group Tour in Peggy's Cove and Titanic Cemetery

6. Private Tour in Halifax by a Luxury Vehicle with Informative Guide

7. Bay of Fundy / Hall's Harbour

8. Wine and Lunch Escape

9. Best of Halifax Small Group Tour with Peggy's Cove and Citadel

10. Peggy’s Cove/Mahone Bay & Lunenburg

11. Valley Wine Tour

12. Wine Enthusiast Tour

13. Peggy's Cove Day Trip from Halifax

14. Halifax & Peggys Cove & Coastal

15. Halifax Hop On Hop Off Bus

16. Lunenburg Small Group Express from Halifax + Lobster Roll Lunch

17. Eat Halifax Food Tour

18. 4- Hour Private Tour of Halifax Including Peggy's Cove

19. Peggy’s Cove

20. Private Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites Half-day Tour

21. Peggy’s Cove Small Group Sunset Tour from Halifax

22. Peggy's Cove Sunset + Halifax Dinner Small Group Night Tour

23. Cruise Ship Shore Excursion

24. Halifax Now & Then

25. Lunenburg Tour

26. Black History & Heritage Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Peggy's Cove Express Small Group from Halifax
• Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.
• Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour
• Half Day Small Group Tour in Peggy's Cove and Titanic Cemetery
• Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)
• TJ's Van & Car Pool Services Inc
• Alternative Routes
• Gray Line Halifax
• TayMac Tours
• Canada Airport Transfers

When you’re travelling it can be fun to get off the beaten path to pursue a niche interest or specific passion that lights you up. But it can also be intimidating to explore without a guide. This is when a tour is the perfect idea. Take a local tour led by experienced guides and explore what interests you most.

Welcome to Halifax

P'jilita'q wla kjipuktuk.

Halifax is in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people. The people of the Mi’kmaw Nation have lived on this territory for millennia, and we acknowledge them as the past, present and future caretakers of this land.  Historically, a land acknowledgment is a traditional practice shared amongst Indigenous groups to recognize the Indigenous land and territory they are visiting. Today a land acknowledgement remains a way to express one’s gratitude to the Indigenous people for being stewards of the land that we live and work on.

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Halifax Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Halifax. We've got 72 adventures going to Halifax, starting from just 5 days in length, and the longest tour is 41 days. The most popular month to go is August, which has the largest number of tour departures.

72 Halifax tour packages with 1,838 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Taste of the Maritimes

Very well led. Enjoyed all the items on intinerary. Accommodations in good locations as well as clean and comfortable.

Atlantic Canada (6 Days)

Very safe and well organized

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

The Maritimes: Nova Scotia

Luc was the best tour guide ever. He kept our group on time and informed. Every stop was interesting, and the hotels and lodges were very good.

A Taste of the Maritimes

Wonders of the Bay of Fundy

The wonders of the Bay of Fundy tour was the best tour I’ve ever been on. We were a small group who enjoyed each other’s company and shared many varied and interesting experiences. As a solo traveler I was welcomed by everyone in the group and never felt on my own. Our tour director, Eunice, was welcoming, knowledgeable and went the extra mile to ensure we really experienced the local culture and delicacies. Our coach driver, Hank, who was also welcoming and knowledgeable, had a quietly confident manner which made you feel extremely safe when on the road. He also went the extra mile to ensure we got the most out of every experience. I would highly recommend this tour.

Wonders of the Maritimes & Scenic Cape Breton (11 destinations)

Bus driver and tour guides were excellent: very knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. Breakfasts were fine, most lunches and dinners provided to us were good, as well. All hotels, with the exception of the Silver Dart, were excellent. At the Silver Dart, we had to request a room change because of the heavy mildew in the room. The carpeting was also stained in several spots.This hotel needs updating and dehumidification. This was the only hotel that was far from the center of town, which made dining out a challenge, and was far below our standards. We met wonderful people and even exchanged phone numbers with a few. Despite the disappointment with the Silver Dart, the overall tour, meals, accommodations and fellow passengers made up for it! Excellent overall!

Enchanting Islands Escape

well organized, comprehensive tour of maritimes with lots of variety

• Coach / Bus

Enchanting Canadian Maritimes (10 Days)

Absolutely fantastic tour guide, dexterous coach driver !!

Highlights of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island

We had a fine experience with the Tours of Distinction trip to Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, which began and ended in Ellsworth, ME. The tour director, Julie, did an excellent job, the bus driver was pleasant and provided a safe trip, and the local guides with whom the tour contracted helped our group understand local history and culture. Especially helpful to me was learning about Acadian history: the Acadian roots in southern France, British expulsion of them from Atlantic Canada, and their eventual return to the Maritimes. The one piece of history I wish had been discussed more was that of the Gaelic settlers. Given the name of the province, Nova Scotia ("New Scotland"), it would have been helpful to hear more of their history in the area.

Best of the Canadian Maritimes

• Walking Adventure

Landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes (Classic, 12 Days, Halifax Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

• Train & Rail

Wonders of the Maritimes & Scenic Cape Breton with Ocean Train to Montreal

It was an amazing experience. Scott was a great tour guide. I found it was a great mix of showing us things and free time to wander on your own. Would definitely do it again. The only down side was when the train did not leave and we had to figure out how to get to Montreal our selves

Ontario & French Canada with Ocean Train to Halifax

Canadian Maritimes Adventure

French Flair and Coastal Charm: Halifax to Montreal by Rail

What people love about halifax tours, tours starting from halifax.

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Nova Scotia Bucket List: 18 Best Things to Do

Planning a trip to Nova Scotia? Keep reading for a list of the top things to do in Nova Scotia for your Nova Scotia bucket list!

Nova Scotia, a gem in Eastern Canada, offers a mix of scenic landscapes and cultural richness.

This Maritime province is home to historic sites, wine and nature tours, and some of the most stunning coastlines in Canada.

I spent nearly a week in Nova Scotia. If I hadn't been visiting locals who knew the area well, I would have been overwhelmed with choices while deciding how to spend my time.

After my trip to Nova Scotia, I worked with a few Nova Scotia experts to put together this ultimate Nova Scotia bucket list .

This list includes some of the top things to do in Nova Scotia, including insider tips to make the most of your experience!

On this list, you’ll find some of  Nova Scotia’s must-see attractions  along with some of the province’s  top hidden gems .

Ready to check things off your Nova Scotia bucket list? Keep reading for a guide to the best things to do in Nova Scotia!

1. Spend a Day in Peggy's Cove

Peggy's Cove , located on the eastern shore of St. Margaret's Bay, is a quintessential stop for those exploring Nova Scotia's maritime heritage.

The ideal time to visit Peggy's Cove is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild and the Atlantic views are at their most picturesque.

A visit to Peggy's Cove isn't complete without seeing its iconic lighthouse.

Standing on granite rocks, the Peggy's Point Lighthouse, built in 1915, offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a perfect backdrop for photos. In fact, it's one of the most photographed spots in Canada!

The village of Peggy's Cove itself looks like a postcard, with its historic houses and buildings painted in bright, coastal colors.

Throughout the village, you'll find local artisans and quaint shops selling unique Nova Scotian crafts and souvenirs, as well as the typical kitschy souvenirs found at popular tourist destinations.

For a deeper dive into the area's history, the deGarthe Museum showcases the works of artist William E. deGarthe, famous for his paintings of Peggy's Cove.

Peggy's Cove is one of the most popular day trips from Halifax, and it's very easy to get there. You can book a day tour of Peggy's Cove from Halifax or make the scenic drive yourself, offering a chance to experience more of Nova Scotia's stunning coastline.

This is the best day tour of Peggy's Cove from Halifax !

2. Go Wine Tasting in the Annapolis Valley

The Annapolis Valley, a lush agricultural region in Nova Scotia, is a haven for wine enthusiasts that's sometimes known as the Napa Valley of the Northeast.

You can easily spend a day winery-hopping while also admiring the Valley's picturesque landscapes.

A must-visit destination in the Annapolis Valley is Luckett Vineyards. Known for its panoramic views and the unique phone booth in its vineyard, Luckett offers some of the best wines in the Valley.

Their tastings often include a selection of their best reds, whites, and the much-loved phone box wine.

You can also enjoy a meal at their on-site restaurant, which offers dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Don't miss their fries with the truffle aioli!

Another must-visit is Benjamin Bridge Vineyard, renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines that have gained international acclaim.

The vineyard uses traditional methods and has a unique microclimate that contributes to the distinct character of its wines.

Don't miss trying the Nova 7, a refreshing wine that has become a signature of Nova Scotia's wine scene.

For those planning a visit, the Annapolis Valley is easily accessible from Halifax either by car or through organized tours.

One of the most fun ways to experience wine tasting in Annapolis Valley is the Classic Vintage Car Wine Tour .

The small-group tour, which picks up in Wolfville, takes you around in a vintage 1940s car to some of the best wineries in the Valley.

BOOK NOW: The Classic Vintage Car Wine Tour

3. Walk on the ocean floor at Burntcoat Head Park

Burntcoat Head Park, located along the shores of the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia, is a unique destination for those intrigued by natural wonders and maritime history.

The park is famous for having some of the highest tides in the world. Visitors can walk on the ocean floor at low tide and witness the dramatic rise and fall of the tides.

The highlight of the Burntcoat Head Park experience is exploring the ocean floor, where you can see the patterns etched into the seabed by the powerful tides.

The park offers guided tours that explain the unique geology of the area and the diverse marine life that inhabits the tidal zone.

Another highlight is the Burntcoat Head Lighthouse. The lighthouse and adjacent interpretive center provide insights into the local history and the significance of the Bay of Fundy's tides.

When planning your visit to Burntcoat Head Park, make sure to watch the tides and plan for visiting at low tide so that you can walk on the ocean floor.

While the park is still beautiful at high tide, being able to walk on the ocean floor at low tide is one of the most unique experiences that you can have on your Nova Scotia bucket list.

As you can probably guess, the ocean floor is a bit slippery and uneven. Wear sturdy, comfortable soles with good traction to keep from falling!

4. Explore the Halifax Waterfront

Exploring the Halifax Waterfront is one of the top experiences to add to your Nova Scotian bucket list.

The waterfront, stretching along the city's downtown area, combines historical charm with modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination.

The best time to explore the Halifax Waterfront is during the summer months, when the boardwalk is bustling with activity, and the harbour views are at their most stunning.

The area is a hub of entertainment, with street performers, local artisans, and waterfront festivals adding to the atmosphere.

For the perfect lunch on the waterfront, head to The Bicycle Thief , a renowned restaurant known for its "North American food with an Italian soul".

The Bicycle Thief is one of the top Halifax restaurants. It's perfectly located overlooking the harbour. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu!

For a sweet treat, trying Moonmist ice cream is a must.

This uniquely Nova Scotian flavor, a combo of banana, grape, and bubblegum, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It can be found at Sugah!, an ice cream shop along the waterfront.

Another iconic Canadian treat to try is a BeaverTail. These delicious pastries are hand-stretched to resemble a beaver’s tail and topped with a variety of sweet toppings. There is a BeaverTail stall located on the waterfront.

If you want to try all of the best foods along the waterfront, consider taking a Halifax Harbourfront food tour .

Aside from dining, the waterfront offers a range of activities.

You can explore maritime history at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, enjoy a harbour cruise , or simply relax by the water's edge, watching the boats go by.

5. Get spooked on the Halifax Ghost Walk

If you're interested in learning more about the haunted history of Halifax, consider adding the Halifax Ghost Walk to your Nova Scotia bucket list.

There are a couple of different guides who lead the ghost walk, with many of them being led by Dusty, a master storyteller and expert on Halifax's haunted past.

The tour starts at the Old Town Clock, a landmark steeped in history, then winds through the shadowy lanes and byways of Halifax.

Participants are taken to various locations known for their paranormal activity and historical significance, such as the Old Burying Ground and Saint Paul's Church.

My favorite stop on the tour was the one at Saint Paul's Church.

After the Halifax Explosion in 1917, a silhouette resembling a human face mysteriously appeared in one of the church's windows.

Despite attempts to clean or replace the glass, the image persisted, leading to various legends about its origin.

The tour eventually ends at the waterfront, with a couple of the spookiest stories being saved for last.

The Halifax Ghost Walk is a fun experience for anyone who enjoys hearing spooky stories and visiting historic sites.

Pro tip: The walk begins at the very top of Citadel Hill (you'll walk to the top after meeting at the clock) and ends all the way down at the waterfront.

If you want to avoid too much of an uphill journey at the end of the tour, I recommend parking somewhere halfway between the Citadel and the Waterfront.

Tours run from June to October. To book your spot on the Halifax Ghost Walk, send a message on Facebook or follow these instructions .

6. Stroll through the Halifax Public Gardens

Visiting the Halifax Public Gardens is one of the top things to do in the city.

These historic gardens, established in the 19th century, are a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a relaxing break.

The gardens are open yearly from May 1 through November 1. Visiting during the summer is best as there are blooms everywhere!

One of the standout features is the Victorian bandstand, which often hosts live music. Guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the garden's history and the plants it houses.

7. Visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

by Riana from Teas poon of Adventure

One of the best things to do in Halifax is visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 to learn about how Canada has become one of the most multicultural countries in the world.

From 1928 to 1971, one million immigrants arrived at the port in Halifax to begin their new lives in Canada.

Start your journey at the Canadian Museum of Immigration by following in the footsteps of an immigrant arriving at Pier 21.

Walk along the side of a ship, enter the processing office, and look into recreated suitcases of what immigrants brought with them to Canada.

On the other side of the museum, the scope broadens to look at immigration to Canada outside of just Pier 21 in Halifax.

In addition to recreated rooms, there are interactive games, videos, and lots of artifacts to discover. You can even meet with an archivist to trace your own family’s immigration history through Canada.

As a Canadian, visiting the museum at Pier 21 was extremely impactful. I was filled with so much pride hearing from immigrants who made the move to Canada.

I also really appreciated that the museum didn’t shy away from Canada’s uglier history when immigration wasn’t open to everyone. 

My favorite part of the museum was a section where visitors could write about their own immigration experiences.

It was incredibly moving to read notes about how someone's grandparents arrived in Canada through Pier 21 or how happy they were that their families chose to move to Canada.

Give yourself lots of time to enjoy this incredibly well-put-together and emotional museum!

BOOK NOW: Canadian Museum of Immigration Tickets

8. Visit the Historic Town of Lunenburg

by Audrey from That Backpacker

The historic port town of Lunenburg is one of the jewels of Nova Scotia's South Shore, and it's a must-visit destination for travelers wanting to learn more about the province's fishing heritage.

The best time of year to visit Lunenburg is during the summer months when most tours and attractions are up and running for the public.

First on your list should be a visit to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic which is housed in a former fish processing plant.

Here you can learn about Lunenburg's fishing heritage and the best part is that there are volunteers and retired fishermen on site who are more than happy to answer questions and share stories.

Boat tours are aplenty in Lunenburg. The 1-hour harbour tour offers postcard-perfect panoramic views of the town, but there are also fishing tours, whale-watching tours, or sailing tours depending on your preference.

The Lunenburg Chandlery is another must-visit spot for a dose of fishing and shipbuilding history.

Just head east on Bluenose Drive until you see the red building with hundreds of colorful buoys out front.

This warehouse deals in supplies and equipment for ships and boats, plus you can also pick up some unique souvenirs.

And if you time your visit to Lunenburg right, you might just be able to set foot aboard the Bluenose II or even go for a sail!

This is a replica of an iconic fishing and sailing schooner that won many races and became known as the "Queen of the North Atlantic". The Bluenose can be seen on the Canadian dime and is the pride and joy of Nova Scotians.

You can book a day tour of Lunenburg from Halifax , or visit independently by taking a Maritime Bus from Halifax or driving yourself.

This is the best day tour of Lunenburg from Halifax !

9. Check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

by Kim from Explore Your Bucket List

The location of Nova Scotia on the Atlantic Ocean has meant that many significant events have happened along these shores.

The Maritime Museum explores many of the incidents that have happened within its proximity, and it happens to be the oldest maritime museum in all of Canada.

The museum is located on the Halifax waterfront and the permanent exhibitions cover several interesting facts related to Nova Scotia’s maritime roots. 

They explore the history of shipbuilding in the Maritimes and describe the naval involvement during World War II. But the most significant and best-known exhibit is the devastating story of the Titanic and the important role that Halifax played.

Being the closest major port to the wreck site, many of those who perished in the sinking were brought to Halifax along with important personal artifacts including letters and photographs as well as pieces of the ship.

It is an impressive display that has been carefully curated to tell the story of that fateful day.

While it is a sobering exhibit, it does an excellent job of giving a full description of the ship's creation, life onboard, and the sinking and its aftermath.

The museum is open every day except Mondays in the winter season.

When planning a visit, be sure to check out the different admission rates depending on the season as well as the available discounts – see the museum website for eligibility requirements.

10. Go Whale Watching off Digby Neck

by Joanna from The World in My Pocket

Going whale watching is one of the bucket list experiences that you must do when you visit Nova Scotia.

One of the most popular places to go to see whales is the Digby Neck, located 40 minutes away from the town of Digby.

The best time to see whales in Nova Scotia is between July and September. After September, most of the companies stop running tours. In September you will also notice a reduced schedule, so make sure to book ahead of time.

The whale-watching companies are located in East Ferry, Tiverton, Freeport, and Westport. To reach them you will need a car, as there is no public transport available.

Also, bear in mind that you will need to cross by ferry, either once or twice, depending on where you are going, so keep in mind the crossing timings. The passage is free.

The whale watching experience is incredible. You will board a small fishing boat and go search for them in the Bay of Fundy.

The crew includes two marine biologists who can spot where the whales are, as well as answer any questions you may have about them.

The most common whales in the Bay of Fundy are the Humpback and the Minky. Besides whales, you can also see seals and different types of birds.

The tours last between 2 and 3 hours, depending on how close the whales are to the shore.

When you return to Digby in the evening, don’t miss having the famous seafood platter from The Crow’s Nest restaurant. They are serving some of the staples of the food in Nova Scotia , such as fried clams, lobster, and, of course, the Digby scallops.

11. Drive the incredible Cabot Trail

by Erin from Wanderlust with Kids

The Cabot Trail is an incredible drive in Cape Breton that is among the most scenic road trips in the world.

With breathtaking scenery and plenty of outdoor opportunities, this famous drive is one of the highlights of visiting Nova Scotia.

The Cabot Trail winds its way along rugged coastlines, through lush Acadian forests, and into charming coastal communities.

It passes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where you can stop at one of the many scenic viewpoints for stunning views of the coastline.

In addition to the stunning scenery, there are scenic trails to hike and campgrounds where you can stay overnight. There is an entrance fee of $8.50 for an adult (youth are free) to enter the park, even if you’re not staying overnight.

The Cabot Trail then continues through small fishing villages and coastal communities, where you can stop for a bite to eat or an overnight stay.

Keep an eye out for moose, eagles, and whales along the way, especially as you pass through Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Cape Breton has a strong Acadian and Scottish heritage, and you’ll see road signs in both English and Gaelic, as well as Acadian French.

The Cabot Trail is a 298-kilometer (185-mile) loop and while it can be completed in a day, it’s recommended to take your time and make the drive a 2-day, or even longer if you have the time.

You can also purchase an audio tour of the Cabot Trail , which will guide you along the trail's points of interest and best views.

As the Cabot Trail is a loop, there’s no start and end point, but many start the journey in Baddeck, Cheticamp, or Ingonish.

Wherever you choose to begin the Cabot Trail, you’re in for an amazing journey. 

BOOK NOW: Cabot Trail Audio Tour

12. Visit the Halifax Citadel

by Chelsea from Adventures of Chels

A site to see on your Nova Scotia bucket list should be the Halifax Citadel.

Located right in the heart of Halifax is the historical citadel. The city was founded in 1749 and four fortifications have been built on this site to protect the city from enemies.

In 1935, the Citadel was declared a National Historic Site in Canada and is open year-round for visitors. It’s maintained by Parks Canada and was restored to the way it looked during the Victorian era.

While visiting the Citadel you’ll learn about the city and military history of Halifax and have a chance to visit the Army Museum.

During peak season (June 1 to September 15) admission to enter the fort is $12.50 for adults (18-64 years), $10.75 for seniors (65 years or older), and for youth (under 17 years) it’s free.

During shoulder season (May 1st-31st and September 16th-October 31st) prices are $8.50 for adults, $7.00 for seniors, and still free for youth.

While there’s an admission to go inside the Citadel, the space outdoors is free to walk around. Enjoy a stroll around the fort and take in the scenic views of the surrounding city and harbour.

Enjoy your visit to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site!

13. See adorable puffins on a Puffin Tour

by Erin from Nova Scotia Bucket List

Nova Scotia is home to some incredible scenery and unique experiences, among those, the chance to see puffins in their natural habitat.

While other areas of the North Atlantic are more well-known for their puffins, Nova Scotia is also home to these cute seabirds.

Puffins spend most of their lives at sea but come ashore each year to nest.

The rugged coastline and rocky shores of Nova Scotia’s offshore islands provide a perfect place for puffins to nest.

However, since they don’t live on the mainland, a boat tour is necessary to view these incredible birds.

The best place to see  puffins in Nova Scotia  is the Bird Islands, just off the coast of Cape Breton.

Several companies offer puffin boat tours , which last a few hours and welcome adults and kids of all ages.

During the tour, you’re sure to see other seabirds, including terns, cormorants, eagles, and razorbills.

It’s also possible to take a puffin tour from Peggy’s Cove to Pearl Island, which is just off the shore of Mahone Bay, and one of the most southern nesting places of puffins in Nova Scotia.

Brier Island, which is known for whale-watching, also offers boat tours where you’ll have the chance to see dolphins, whales, seals, as well as puffins and other seabirds.

These puffin tours are an incredible experience and a memory that you won’t forget. 

14. Hike the Skyline Trail on Cape Breton Island

by Marianne from The Journeying Giordanos

The Skyline Trail in Cape Breton is a must-visit for anyone considering a trip to Nova Scotia.

This iconic trail is known for its jaw-dropping views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the incredible Cape Breton Highlands.

The Skyline Trail is located on the western side of Cape Breton Island, midway between Chéticamp and Pleasant Bay.

Just a heads up, the trail is situated inside Cape Breton Highlands National Park . This means that you will need to purchase a Day Pass from the Parks Canada Visitor's Centre in Chéticamp before you hike.

With a distance of around 8.7 kilometers (5.4 miles), the Skyline Trail is rated as easy to moderate, making the hike perfect for all skill levels. The loop trail takes about 2-3 hours to complete, going at an easy pace.

The majority of the trail is made up of crushed gravel, making it very accessible for families with young children, as well as people with varied mobility. The last section of the hike is comprised of a wooden boardwalk.

Just be aware, that the section of the boardwalk going down to the headlands is made up of a series of stairs. This is the most challenging part of the hike.

While the Skyline Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Nova Scotia, you will find plenty of parking at the trailhead. There is even parking for RVs and campers.

When planning your visit, consider going early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and have the best chance for wildlife sightings. In fact, a sunset hike is one of the most epic ways to experience the Skyline Trail.

15. Check out the town of Wolfville

by Kamila from Expat in Canada

Wolfville might be a small town but it definitely doesn’t lack in charm. It sits in the lushest part of Annapolis Valley, dotted with orchards and vineyards.

The city is home to historic Acadia University and the beautiful Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens .

The gardens are open to the public and free to visit, so you won’t want to miss it.

It’s a tranquil area with multiple trails and perfectly groomed plants to walk around. There is also an aesthetically pleasing historic greenhouse.

For a small town, Wolfville has a surprising number of cafes and restaurants. I recommend Troy , which serves Mediterranean cuisine, or Naked Crepe Bistro for delicious crepes.

Church Brewing is a cool spot to sample local craft beer. The brewery is in a former church and has stunning stained-glass windows. Their outdoor patio is a perfect place to enjoy a drink or two on a summer day.  

For cider lovers, Annapolis Cider Company is a must-visit. You can do a cider tasting to sample the top-notch ciders made from Annapolis Valley apples, and perhaps buy a bottle of cider to take home with you as a souvenir.

Their ciders are amazing, and they have interesting varieties like a combination of Earl Grey and blueberry. 

Timing is everything, and Wolfville is at its best in the summer or autumn seasons when the harvesting at local farm markets is in full swing. 

One of my favorite things to do in Wolfville is fruit picking at local U-pick farms - Elderkin’s, Hennigar’s, or Stirling’s. 

16. Explore Annapolis Royal

by Cate from Intentional Traveling

A great place to include on your Nova Scotia bucket list is the historic town of Annapolis Royal.

Annapolis Royal is a small town that can be fully explored in a day, but it is worth staying overnight in the summer,

During the day, be sure to visit the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens. These exquisite gardens are considered to be one of the top five most beautiful gardens in North America.

With eleven acres to wander, you can easily spend an hour or two here. The rose gardens were my personal favorite!

You can also spend some time perusing the little shops and cafes on St. George Street.

For dinner, make a reservation at Restaurant Compose , where you can enjoy a stunning sea view during sunset. Make sure to take a stroll on the boardwalk along the water before or after dinner.

After dark, don’t miss the award-winning Candlelight Graveyard Tour at Fort Anne National Historic Site.

This tour only takes place in the summer months, but it is a fun and engaging way to learn about the history of the town!

If you want to stay overnight, I suggest staying at the historic Queen Anne Inn . This Victorian bed and breakfast will make you feel as though you have stepped back in time. 

Make sure to add this small historic town to your Nova Scotia itinerary! 

17. Visit Meat Cove

by Stefanie from Open Road Odysseys

If you’re looking for a place in Nova Scotia that’s a little off the beaten path, you should take a drive to Meat Cove.

Meat Cove is the northernmost settlement in Nova Scotia. The village itself is quite small but holds a lot of charm. It’s located about 28 kilometers (17.3 miles) from Cape North and the Cabot Trail, and the drive to get there takes approximately 35 minutes.

While Meat Cove may be tiny, there are quite a few things to see here to make the detour worth the drive.

One of the most popular things to do is camp at the local campground and get delicious seafood from Lawless Lobster , the food truck on site.

If camping isn’t your thing, they also offer cabins and a chalet guesthouse for those wanting to spend more time in the area in comfort.

Perhaps one of the most rewarding activities in the area is hiking. There are two popular trails here.

The first is the Meat Cove Overlook Trail . While it may be short, it offers gorgeous seaside views, a stunning vantage point of Meat Cove Beach, and is a short, fairly easy hike.

If you want more of a challenge, Meat Cove Mountain Trail fits the bill.

Other things to do in Meat Cove include checking out the community center, walking the boardwalk to the beach, kayaking around the coast, and eating at the Chowder Hut, which is also located at the campground.

One thing to note: the last 6 kilometers of road to Meat Cove is not paved, but is in decent shape, so any vehicle should be able to make the drive to the village with no problems.

18. Check out Ovens Natural Park

by Jenny from Traveling In Focus

Ovens Natural Park is an exquisite oasis tucked inside a private campground along the Atlantic coastline.

For a small day fee (unless you are staying at the park), you can enjoy this area steeped in history and natural beauty.

The park's roots date back to 1861 when there was a short but impressive gold rush. Today, you can indulge in the prospecting experience by sifting through beach sand at Cunard's Beach for specks of gold – a fun homage to the park's past.

But the main attraction of the park is its majestic sea caves, affectionately known as "ovens."

To see the sea caves, you will take the rugged coastal trail high on the cliffs. It's an easy trail with breathtaking panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean.

Along the trail, there are several locations where you can descend into the caves, if you dare, and get an up-close view of the caves from within.

One, in particular, has an excellent view of the ocean as it pours into the mouth of the cave just below the platform you stand on. But watch out for the blow-hole, or you might be drenched for the remainder of your walk!

If the trail wasn't enough and you want more time exploring the caves, the park also offers kayaking tours to see them from a different perspective.

With its unique "ovens" and gold rush history, Ovens Natural Park shouldn't be missed on a visit to Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia Bucket List: Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are so many amazing things to do all around Nova Scotia to include on your Nova Scotia bucket list.

Even if you can’t knock everything out in one visit, you’ll be ready to go back to the province for more exploring!

Have you been to Nova Scotia? What’s on your Nova Scotia bucket list?

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Fans are following Taylor Swift to Europe after finding Eras Tour tickets less costly there

By Lisa Leff, The Associated Press

Posted May 8, 2024 03:02:04 AM.

Last Updated May 8, 2024 08:15:14 PM.

LONDON (AP) — Thousands of ride-or-die Taylor Swift fans who missed out on her U.S. concert tour last year or didn’t want to buy exorbitantly priced tickets to see her again found an out-of-the-way solution: Fly to Europe.

The pop star is scheduled to kick off the 18-city Europe leg of her record-setting Eras Tour in Paris on Thursday, and planeloads of Swifties plan to follow Miss Americana across the pond in the coming weeks. The arena where Swift is appearing said Americans bought 20% of the tickets for her four sold-out shows. Stockholm, the tour’s next stop, expects about 10,000 concertgoers from the U.S.

A concert might sound like an odd raison d’etre for visiting a foreign country, especially when fans can watch the Eras Tour from home via the documentary now streaming on Disney+. Yet online travel company Expedia says continent-hopping by Swift’s devotees is part of a larger trend it dubbed “tour tourism” while observing a pattern that emerged during Beyoncé’s Renaissance world tour .

Some North American fans who plan to fly overseas for the Eras Tour said they justified the expense after noticing that tighter restrictions on ticket fees and resales in Europe made seeing Swift perform abroad no more costly — and potentially cheaper — than catching her closer to home .

“They said, ’Wait a minute, I can either spend $1,500 to go see my favorite artist in Miami, or I can take that $1,500 and buy a concert ticket, a round-trip plane ticket, and three nights in a hotel room,” Melanie Fish, an Expedia spokesperson and travel expert, said.

That was the experience of Jennifer Warren, 43, who lives in St. Catharines, a city in the Niagara region of Ontario. She and her 11-year-old son love Swift but had no luck scoring what she considered as decently priced tickets in the U.S. Undeterred, Warren and her husband decided to plan a European vacation around wherever she managed to get seats. It turned out to be Hamburg, Germany.

“You get out, you get to see the world, and you get to see your favorite artist or performer at the same time, so there are a lot of wins to it,” said Warren, who works as the director of research and innovation for a mutual insurance company.

The three VIP tickets she secured close to the stage — “I would call it brute-force dumb luck” — cost 600 euros ($646) each. Swift subsequently announced six November tour dates in Toronto, within driving distance of Warren’s home. “Absolute nose-bleed seats” already are going for 3,000 Canadian dollars ($2,194) on secondary resale sites like Viagogo, Warren said.

TOUR TOURISM: IS IT REALLY A THING?

Hard-core fans trailing their favorite singer or band on tour is not a new phenomenon. “Groupie” emerged in the late 1960s as a somewhat derogatory word for the ardent followers of rock bands. Deadheads took to the road in the 1970s to pursue the Grateful Dead from city to city.

More recently, music festivals like California’s Coachella and England’s Glastonbury, and concert residencies in Las Vegas by the likes of Elton John, Lady Gaga and Adele, have attracted travelers to places they wouldn’t otherwise visit, Fish noted.

Travel and entertainment analysts have also spoken of a pent-up consumer demand for “experiences” over material objects since the coronavirus pandemic. Some think the willingness of music lovers to broaden their fandom horizons is part of the same mass cultural correction.

“It does seem like it’s more than a structural shift, maybe a personality transformation we all went through,” said Natalia Lechmanova, the chief Europe economist for the Mastercard Economics Institute.

As Swift hopscotches across Europe, Lechmanova expects restaurants and hotels to see the same boost that Mastercard observed within a 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) radius of concert venues in the U.S. cities she visited in 2023. The U.S. dollar’s strong value against the euro may also increase retail spending on apparel, memorabilia, beauty products and supplies for the friendship bracelets fans exchange as part of the Eras Tour experience, the economist said.

Former college roommates Lizzy Hale, 34, who lives in Los Angeles, and Mitch Goulding, 33, who lives in Austin, Texas, already had tickets to see the Eras Tour in L.A. last summer when they decided to try to get ones for Paris, London or Edinburgh, Scotland, too. They saw a Europe concert trip as a makeup for travel plans they had in May 2020 to celebrate Goulding’s birthday but had to cancel due to the pandemic.

Goulding managed to secure VIP tickets for one of Swift’s three Stockholm shows. He, Hale and two other friends scheduled a 10-day trip that also includes time in Amsterdam and Copenhagen.

“As people who enjoy traveling and enjoy music, if you can find an opportunity to combine the two, it’s really special,” said Hale, who is pregnant with her first child.

FOR STOCKHOLM, 120,000 SWIFTIES CAN’T BE WRONG

The local economic impact of what the zeitgeist has termed “Swiftonomics” and the “Swift lift” can be considerable . It’s no wonder the exclusive arrangement Singapore’s government made with Swift to make the city-state her only tour stop in Southeast Asia earlier this year aroused regional jealousy .

No European governments have complained of their countries not being among the dozen selected for the Europe leg of the Eras Tour, although some fans have expressed surprise that Gelsenkirchen, a city with a population of about 264,000 is one of the three cities in Germany that made the cut.

Airbnb reported Tuesday that searches on its platform for the U.K. cities where Swift is performing in June and August — Edinburgh, Liverpool, Cardiff and London — increased an average of 337% when tickets went on sale last summer.

Not to be outdone when it comes to trend-spotting, the property rentals company cited the demand as an example of “passion tourism,” or travel “driven by concerts, sports and other cultural events.”

In Stockholm , 120,000 out-of-towners from 130 countries — among them 10,000 from the U.S. — are expected to swarm Sweden’s capital this month, Stockholm Chamber of Commerce Chief Economist Carl Bergqvist said. Stockholm is the only Scandinavian city on Swift’s tour, and airlines added extra flights from nearby Denmark, Finland and Norway to bring people to the May 17-19 shows, he said.

The city’s 40,000 hotel rooms are sold out even though prices skyrocketed for the tour dates, Bergqvist said. Concert visitors are expected to pump around 500 million Swedish kroner, or over $46 million, into the local economy over the course of their stays, an estimate that does not include what they paid for Swift tickets or to get to Sweden, he said.

“So this is going to be huge for the tourism sector in Sweden and Stockholm in particular,” Bergqvist said.

Nightclubs, restaurants and bars are seizing the opportunity to cater to fans with Taylor Swift-themed events, such as karaoke, quizzes and after-concert dance parties.

Houston resident Caroline Matlock, 29, saw Swift more than a year ago when the Eras Tour came to the Texas city. Now she’s making more friendship bracelets and trying to learn a few words of Swedish as she prepares to see the 3 1/2-hour show in Stockholm. The idea of seeing Swift in Europe was her friend’s, and Matlock needed some persuading at first.

“I was like, ‘I only want to go if it’s a country I haven’t been to. I’ve seen Taylor Swift,’” she said.

Visiting the Scandinavian cities of Oslo and Gothenburg is on their itinerary. The concert is the last night of the trip and Matlock looks forward to interacting with Swifties from other countries: “Americans tend to have a very obsessive culture, especially Taylor Swift-related, so I’m curious if the crowd will be more toned-down.”

WILL TOUR TOURISM ENDURE AFTER ERAS?

It remains to be seen if the music tourism trend has legs as long and strong as Swift’s and Beyoncé’s, and if it will carry over to Billie Eilish, Usher and other artists with world tours scheduled next year. Expedia’s Fish thinks other big-name artists in Europe this summer will prove that booking a foreign trip around a concert is catching on.

Kat Morga, a travel consultant based in Nashville, isn’t so sure. Morga saw Swift perform in Nashville last year and helped two clients with school-aged children book European family vacations this summer that include seeing Swift in concert. But she thinks the difficulty of navigating ticket purchases through language barriers, currency conversions, international banking regulations and the risk of cancellations will limit the appeal of regular gig getaways.

“I think this is an anomaly,” Morga said. “People aren’t typically going to build their $20,000 huge family vacation only because Taylor Swift is there. She’s the one-off. She’s special.”

Booking Holdings CEO Glenn Fogel, whose company operates Booking.com, priceline.com, agoda.com, Kayak and OpenTable, is even less enthusiastic about concert tours as a tourism instigator. The Swift Effect causes a “little blip” when the superstar goes to smaller destinations, but for the worldwide travel industry, “one star touring around does not make a difference,” he said.

“It may just shift it a little bit. A person was going to go to the Caribbean for a week vacation. Instead that person (says), ‘Let’s travel to the Taylor Swift thing,'” Fogel said. “It doesn’t increase it. It just moves it from here to there.”

AP journalists Colleen Barry in Milan, Chisato Tanaka in Stockholm, Anne D’Innocenzio in New York, David Koenig in Dallas, Thomas Adamson in Paris and Brian Melley in London contributed reporting.

Lisa Leff, The Associated Press

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