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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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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Halifax

Day trips from halifax.

• Halifax to Lunenburg
• Halifax to Wolfville
• Halifax to Peggy's Cove
• Halifax to Hall's Harbour
• Halifax to Martock
• 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
• 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 and Lunenburg Tour (small group)

2. Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour

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

4. Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax

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

6. Peggy’s Cove/Mahone Bay & Lunenburg

7. Halifax & Peggys Cove & Coastal

8. Bay of Fundy / Hall's Harbour

9. Wine and Lunch Escape

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

11. Wine Enthusiast Tour

12. Valley Wine Tour

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

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

15. Lunenburg Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour
• Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.
• Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax
• Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)
• Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Nova Scotia's South Shore
• Halifax Titanic Historical Tours
• Anchor Tours
• See Sight Tours
• Arrive In Style Limousine
• TJ's Van & Car Pool Services Inc
• Picture Perfect Tours
• Settled Nomads
• Kayak Halifax

The Best Day Tours from Halifax, Nova Scotia

Last Updated on May 6, 2022

Tourism in Nova Scotia in the Spring and Summer of 2022 is predicted to be huge. However due to the pandemic visitors to Nova Scotia might be limited with where they can visit. There is currently a worldwide rental car shortage. During the pandemic many rental car companies sold off their fleet as the cars weren’t being used. The pandemic however has created a shortage in car parts and computer chips. Now not only is it almost impossible to buy a new car as a consumer right now but car rental companies are having an impossible time refilling their fleets as well.

Before you plan your trip to Nova Scotia this year (2022) be sure the first thing you book is a rental car.

People visiting Nova Scotia this year by car will have no problems exploring our beautiful province. Whether they drive from New Brunswick and further or take the CAT ferry from Bar Habor, Maine or the ferries from PEI or Newfoundland . Aside from gas prices soaring Nova Scotia is open for you to explore. But if you fly into Halifax or take a cruise ship to visit Nova Scotia you are going to be limited with what you can see and explore.

Nova Scotia however is home to some great tour companies that operate day tours from Halifax. I have compiled a list of the best so you can hopefully still get to explore Nova Scotia even if you can’t find a rental car. Here are the best day tours from Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Table of Contents

Ambassatours Gray Line Day Tours from Halifax

Ambassatours Gray Line is the biggest tour company in Nova Scotia. They operate various harbour tours in Halifax, double decker bus tours and tour bus day tours. Whether you just want a tour around Halifax, you want to take a sail on the harbour or you want to visit Peggy’s Cove, then Ambassatours Gray Line has a trip for you.

If you want to get out of Halifax and you can’t book a rental car or you are visiting by cruise then be sure to check out the Ambassatours Peggys Cove Tour by Bus . This 3.5hr tour starts in downtown Halifax showing you some of the highlights of the city before taking you on a scenic coastal drive to this charming fishing village. While visiting Peggys Cove take pictures with the iconic lighthouse, visit some art galleries and a souvenir shop and take in the ocean breeze.

Explore the South Shore on the Ambassatours Lunenburg & Mahone Bay Bus tours. This 6 hour tour takes you to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg where you can see the home of the Bluenose II, get a local guided tour or visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. If you have time be sure to also stop in to one of the great restaurants for some local fish and chips or a lobster roll. You will also get a chance to explore the colourful streets of Mahone Bay a great place to grab a quick bite to eat at a cafe like the Barn Coffee & Social House or do a little shopping. The colourful charming streets of each town and their laid back lifestyle will definitely entice you to want to visit again.

Grape Escapes Nova Scotia Wine Tours

Are you hoping to visit Nova Scotia’s gorgeous wine region in the Annapolis Valley? Then the Grape Escapes Nova Scotia Wine Tours offer the tour you are looking for. Departing from downtown Halifax to Wolfville, Nova Scotia daily they offer a couple different Nova Scotian Wine Tour options.

The Grape Escapes Wine & Lunch Escape tour departs Halifax and is a 6hr tour where you visit three vineyards, learn all about our unique terroir, Tidal Bay wines and enjoy a delicious lunch experience. If you want a bit more of a fancy meal book their Wine & Gourmet Lunch Escape tours on Thursdays where you visit 3 vineyards but also enjoy a two course lunch wine/beer paired lunch at award winning restaurant Le Caveau.

USE CODE: NSExplorer for 10% their tours Monday to Friday.

If you are already in Wolfville then I also recommend the Magic Winery Bus for a great wine tour of the area. There are also many private guides in the area and many B&B’s offer their own wine tours as well.

Atlantic Tours & Travel Company

If you are looking to explore more of Nova Scotia then just a day tour from Halifax but can’t get a rental car then check out Atlantic Tours & Travel. With Atlantic Tours & Travel not only can you take a guided tour of Nova Scotia but they also offer tours throughout the maritime provinces. If you just want to explore parts of Nova Scotia however they have three Nova Scotia specific tours. Best of Cape Breton Island , Nova Scotia City Lights & Country Sights , and Cape Breton Highlands Hiking . There is even a Celtic Colours of Cape Breton tour offered on one day in October only during peek leaf peeping season in Cape Breton.

These tours are more in depth than a day trip and have you touring the province for 3 – 6 days.

Intrepid Travel Tours of Nova Scotia

If you want to tour Nova Scotia with one of the top names in travel around the world then I definitely recommend checking out the tours that Intrepid Travel offers. They offer two great multi-day bus tours of the province also including stops in New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. They also offer an epic expedition cruise trip that takes you to some destinations that aren’t regularly visited like Nova Scotia’s Sable Island, or St. Pierre and Miquelon off of the south coast of Newfoundland. (That tour however starts and stops in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.)

Nova Scotian Provincial Shuttles

If you are looking for a way to commute between parts of Nova Scotia one of the preferred bus companies is the Maritime Bus Company . They can take you from Halifax to many different parts of the province via coach bus. Maritime Bus Company has about 34 destinations that they can take you to all around Nova Scotia. The bus can take you south to Lunenburg and Bridgewater or to New Minas and Wolfville in the Annapolis Valley. Or you can head north to Cape Breton and various stops along the way. Prices vary by destination and age.

If you are looking for a shuttle to other destinations in Nova Scotia, do a google search for the town and shuttle. There are often small business van companies that offer commuting options as well. For example Mariner Shuttle does daily trips between Halifax and Yarmouth.

Car Share Companies in Nova Scotia

I have never used them personally but during this rental car shortage a lot of people have been recommending Turo . It is basically an airbnb service for cars. Anyone can rent out their car to anyone else. If you are stuck finding a rental car in Nova Scotia check out their site and you might just find what you need.

Hopefully the rental car shortage in Nova Scotia and around the world will be resolved in the next few months. Either way I hope you can enjoy exploring our beautiful province and these day tours from Halifax, Nova Scotia soon!

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Cailin is a born and raised Nova Scotian with a passion for exploring the world and her home province.

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Last Updated on May 6, 2022 by Cailin

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Experience the best of Halifax with our Halifax Harbour Tours and Royal Nova Scotia Tattoo package! Dive into the city’s rich culture with tickets to the renowned Tattoo show, filled with music, dance, and military pageantry. Then, unwind on a scenic harbour tour, soaking in panoramic views of the coastline for the perfect summer day adventure.

Each package includes two Adult, B-level lower bowl seats to the 2024 Tattoo, as well as two seats on the Violet Mac by Halifax Harbour Tours, the only fully electric boat on the harbour for an all-electric, ultra-quiet, and no-fumes harbour cruise.

A mini getaway in the city! Sail and unwind.

We’ve partnered with our friends at The Lord Nelson Hotel and Suites to bring together a enjoyable stay at one of Halifax’s premier historic hotels with Halifax’s beautiful, historic harbour! A room and a cruise all in one easy experience. Check them out today!

A Halifax harbour cruise like no other

The Violet Mac is our all-electric, environmentally-friendly 1930s-style harbour launch. With a maximum passenger load of eight people, we provide a truly personable experience. 

Our harbour cruises are all about you. Your certified Captain will plan your excursion based on weather, marine traffic, special events, and expert local knowledge. You could be watching the sunset. No matter, you’re guaranteed to experience the water views of the Halifax skyline. Marine wildlife love our whisper-quiet electric motors, so you are sure to see some of the many birds, mammals, and other aquatic life in our harbour during your tour.

Halifax's Only Zero-Exhaust Harbour Tour

Harbour cruise $40/seat, harbour morning $500/cruise, evening skyline $500/cruise, private cruise starting at $320/cruise, celebration of life $320/cruise, frequently asked questions, what to expect, what will i see on the tour.

Your Halifax Harbour Tour is unique every single time! Your captain will chart a course for your tour based on factors such as weather, marine traffic, and special events, with one goal in mind: to give you the most enjoyable relaxed tour of our beautiful harbour!

Some parts of the harbour you might see on a tour include Dartmouth and Halifax Waterfronts , George’s and McNab’s Islands, and of course, the Halifax Harbour marine wildlife. They love our ultra-quiet electric motor, so you are sure to see some of the many birds, mammals, and other aquatic animals in our harbour during your tour.

Am I expected to leave a tip for our Captain or Tour Guide?

Our crew do not expect guests to leave them tips. That said, our captain and tour guides are allowed to accept tips if offered to them, so if you feel that someone on your tour deserves a tip and you wish to give them one, you are more than welcome to do so — and we thank you for your generosity!

If you wish to leave a tip for your Guide and/or Captain but do not have any cash on hand, ask them about their “digital tip jar” that allows you to send them a tip using your credit card.

What should I wear?

We will always do our best to make sure you are comfortable. The cabin is not fully enclosed, so on cooler, drizzling days, please come prepared for the day’s weather. While there is no heater on board, we have blankets for your use should you need them.

Generally speaking, dress appropriately for the weather, and keep in mind it tends to be a little cooler and breezier on the water and can be quite cool in spring and fall.

Also be sure to wear sun protection, even on cloudy days!

Is the tour suitable for all ages and abilities?

Harbour Tours are suitable for everyone, of all ages. There is no substantial physical effort required to enjoy our tours, but please note that there is a ramp between the wharf and the dock, and a small step up is necessary from the dock into the boat. Of course, we can offer a helping hand. Most able-bodied Guests have no problem with this. Kids LOVE our tours, and so does the rest of the family. We promise!

Checking in

What do i need when i arrive at the dock.

When you arrive at the dock, please present your guide with the booking confirmation that you received by email when you booked your seats. You can show it to us on your phone, or you can bring along a printed copy.

Please arrive 15 min before departure.

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• 19 Exciting Day Trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia

Table of Contents

Are you looking for the best day trips from Halifax?

Look no further, as I have some great recommendations for you.

As a former tour guide and frequent road tripper in the Halifax area, I have discovered some of the region’s best day trips. 

There are plenty of places to explore in the area. So whether you’re interested in historical sites, unique landscapes, or picturesque coastal towns, there are day trip options for everyone! 

Here are 18 of the best day trips from Halifax!

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Best Day Trips from Halifax

I lived in Halifax for 4 years while getting my undergraduate degree at Dalhousie University. To escape the stress of university life, I explored the province as much as possible by taking many of the day trips listed below.

1. Peggy’s Cove 

Peggy’s Cove should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for a quick and easy day trip or tour from Halifax.

Here, you’ll find a picturesque fishing village that has become one of Nova Scotia’s most recognizable landmarks.

Its iconic lighthouse and stunning rocky coastline are the main reasons why. The lighthouse was built in 1915. It is still in operation today and is a popular place to visit.

It’s not just the lighthouse that makes Peggy’s Cove worth a visit, as this quaint town has no shortage of charm, with brightly colored houses clustered around a small harbor.

You can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and watch the fishermen bring in their catch or explore the rocky coastline dotted with geological formations.

I assure you that Peggy’s Cove is the perfect place to spend your day because the entire village and its stunning surroundings make it one of the best day trips you can take from Halifax.

💡 This guided tour lets you experience the mesmerizing beauty of a charming coastal village and the historical Peggy’s Cove in Nova Scotia.

2. Lunenburg

Driving Time : 1 hour and 15 minutes

Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the scenic Lighthouse Route and is known as one of Nova Scotia’s most beautiful towns. Its brightly colored houses and historic waterfront make it one of the province’s most popular tourist destinations.

You can see the town’s rich history in the buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The streets are lined with brightly painted houses and historical landmarks, making it the perfect destination for a day trip.

To make the most of your day, explore Lunenburg’s narrow streets and alleyways, visit galleries and boutiques, or take a tour of the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic to learn about Nova Scotia’s fishing history.

During all that walking, why not take the guided Lunenburg Seafood Walking Tour and try the lobster roll that Nova Scotia is famous for?

🦞 Fill your stomach with the famous lobster rolls of Lunenberg and walk along its stunning waterfront in this Small Seafood Walking Tour!

3. Bay of Fundy

Driving time : 1 hour and 30 minutes

Don’t miss out on the unforgettable experience of witnessing the highest tides in the world with the Bay of Fundy day trip from Halifax – trust me, you will not regret it.

Burntcoat Head Park is the perfect spot to catch tides rising and falling by over 40 feet (12 meters) twice daily. To make the most of your day trip, try to catch both the low and high tides , which average around six hours and 13 minutes.

Among tide-watching at the Bay of Fundy, there are plenty of other things to do , such as walking on the ocean floor, checking out the local galleries and museums, or visiting the stunning Walton Lighthouse.

Another way to see the Bay of Fundy is with a guided kayak tour which you could easily fit in during your day trip from Halifax, or you could try tidal bore rafting for an even more memorable experience.

🛶 Witness the world’s highest tides in action through this exhilirating Guided Kayak Tour of the Bay of Fundy!

4. Kejimkujik National Park

Driving time : 2 hours

This is one road trip from Halifax that you’ll want to do more than once, as there’s always something new to explore.

Kejimkujik is a vast area of pristine wilderness covering 381km (237 miles) of pristine wilderness and is divided into two areas.

The inland area is 18 km (11 miles) from Caledonia, while the seaside area is 100km (62 miles) away towards Port Joli. There are plenty of cultural and historical attractions to explore during your visit to either.

You’ll have plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, including camping, boating, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking.

Or, if you prefer, head to the seaside area to take in the spectacular ocean views as you hike along the trail or relax on the white, sandy beach.

As part of your trip to Keji, you can rent a canoe and take a 2-hour Mersey River tour but don’t forget to photograph the Eastern Painted turtles you’ll see on the rocks as you float by.

⛵ Paddle through the tranquility and lush forests of the Mersey River with this 2-Hour Canoe Adventure Tour!

5. Annapolis Valley

Driving time : 1 hour 45 minutes

A day trip from Halifax to the Annapolis Valley’s charming Wolfville and Grand Pré is ideal for exploring attractions.

In Wolfville, located right by the Gaspereau River, you can wander around its quaint downtown area and stop at Main Street’s cafes, bistros, or pubs after browsing the boutique shops.

Then, head over to Grand Pré, a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site with walking trails and the Monument Lefebvre built to commemorate the deportation of the Acadians in 1755.

If you don’t want to drive, then this half-day tour from Halifax is a great option, as it includes transportation, a guided tour of the areas, and a stop at some local vineyards where you can sample some of the region’s best-tasting wines.

🏞️ Learn more about Nova Scotia’s rich culture, history, and savory wines through this Annapolis Valley Half-Day Tour from Halifax!

6. Cape Split

Driving time: 1 hour 40 minutes

If you’re up for some hiking, Cape Split is the perfect day trip from Halifax. The trailhead is located in Scots Bay, and the hike is about a 14km (8.6 miles) loop that takes around four hours to complete.

The rewarding views are even better since the trail was updated. Now, you can trek up to views of the Minas Basin and look over Scot’s Bay on the trek back down.

Make sure you get a view of the Spires and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy and its dramatic tides. Cape Split is easily up there as one of the best hikes in Nova Scotia.

It’s a great spot for a picnic lunch, so get there early and make a day of it.

7. Mahone Bay

Driving time : 1 hour

Mahone Bay is a quaint seaside town, perfect for a relaxing day trip from Halifax, and is only a few minutes from Lunenburg.

You can stroll along the waterfront, rent a bicycle, admire the colorful boats in the harbor, or explore any of the town’s art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes.

The town is also famous for its iconic three churches overlooking the bay, which is popular with photographers.

As Mahone Bay is so close to Lunenburg and Peggy’s Cove, you take a combined tour to see all three in one day and learn about the history of each town.

🏖️ Get a chance to see the stunning harbor views of the Mahone Bay on this Combined Peggy’s Cove and Mahone Bay Tour!

8. Lawrencetown Beach Provincial Park

Driving time : 40 minutes

This popular sand and cobble beach is known for its great surfing and beautiful scenery and is one of the best day trips from the city.

If you want to learn how to surf the waves, this is a great place to take a lesson. If you want to hit the waves on your own, you can rent a board and wetsuit at the Kannon Beach shop nearby.

The beach is also perfect for swimming and picnicking, with plenty of room along the shoreline to spread a towel or set up a beach chair. There are supervised swimming areas in July and August.

Be sure to stop on the boardwalk for a moment and take in the magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean.

9. Explore the Cabot Trail

Driving time : 30 minutes to 2 hours

Experience Nova Scotia’s rugged beauty at its finest while driving the 298km (185 miles) stretch of the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Island.

As you circle around the tip of the island, you’ll be treated to some of the most stunning scenery that rivals anywhere else in Canada.

You’ll see breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, Cape Breton National Park, and the small fishing villages along the way that you might otherwise miss if you’re the one driving, plus you’ll learn all about the area’s history.

10. Clam Harbour Beach Provincial Park

This is another beautiful beach, perfect for a day of swimming and relaxation.

As soon as you reach the beach from the boardwalk, you’ll be greeted with about two kilometers (1.2 miles) of sandy shores and amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Lifeguards supervise the beach on weekends from July 1 through August 30. There are plenty of activities to try, such as volleyball and beachcombing. Try to visit the famous Clam Harbour Sandcastle Competition held every August for a fun day trip.

There is a coastal hiking trail located on a peninsula at the end of the beach that you don’t want to miss. Timing your visit with the tides will give you a better experience, as low tide gives you more room on the beach and much easier terrain to walk on.

11. Fort Anne National Historic Site

Learn about Nova Scotia’s military history at this national historic site in Annapolis Royal.

Fort Anne is the oldest and most visited National Historic Site in Nova Scotia. The site has been garrisoned for over 300 years, making it an important part of Canada’s military history.

If you’re a history buff, then this is the day trip for you. You can learn more about the site’s history through interactive displays, museum exhibits, and guided tours.

Check out the Officers’ Quarters Museum to get an even greater understanding of the site’s military history. Don’t miss the perimeter walking trail for great views of the fortifications and the Annapolis River and Basin.

12. Joggins Fossil Cliffs

Driving time : 2.5 hours

Joggins Fossil Cliffs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where it feels like you’re taking a step back in time – about 300 million years.

At the Joggins Fossil Centre (open from May through October), you can participate in interactive exhibits and guided tours that provide insight into how the area has changed over time.

The exposed layers of Jurassic-period rock show evidence of life in the “Coal Age.” These rocks are constantly changing thanks to Fundy tidal forces.

Afterward, grab a bite to eat at The Roundhouse Cafe, which has a range of healthy food options.

13. South Shore

Driving time : 45 minutes to 3.5 hours

The South Shore is home to some of Nova Scotia’s most beautiful beaches, including the popular Beach Provincial Park.

On your road trip, you can explore the charming fishing village of Old Town Lunenburg and its historic waterfront or take a scenic drive along the coast to visit other small towns like Peggy’s Cove, Ovens Natural Park, and Hirtle’s Beach.

Other day trip options include a visit to Yarmouth

14. Yarmouth

Driving time : 3 hrs approx

Yarmouth is a town that’s rich in history, and one of its most distinctive features is undoubtedly the Victorian-era buildings and architecture. 

The town has many historic sites that you can explore, such as the award-winning Yarmouth County Museum and the Firefighters’ Museum of Nova Scotia. 

If you’re visiting Yarmouth, you must visit the Cape Forchu Lighthouse, just a short 11km (7 miles) drive from Yarmouth. 

This will be the highlight of your trip as you climb Nova Scotia’s tallest lighthouse and take in the amazing panoramic views from the lantern room.   

15. Tatamagouche

Driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes

The charming small town of Tatamagouche is definitely worth the day trip visit. This little gem on the Northumberland Shore is known for its historic railway station and beautiful beaches.

You can explore the town’s galleries and shops or leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Make sure to check out the Train Station Inn, a unique hotel built in a restored train station.

If you’re a beer lover, don’t miss the chance to visit Tatamagouche Brewing Company, which offers tours and tastings of its craft beers. You might want to come back and stay overnight to take full advantage of this!

A visit to Sugar Moon Farm is one of the best day trips from Halifax you can take. It’s a great way to experience something truly Canadian as you learn about making pure maple syrup and take some home with you.

16.  McNab’s Island

You can get to McNab’s Island from Halifax easily since it’s situated at the entrance of Halifax’s harbor. All it takes is just a 20-minute ferry ride from the harbor to reach the island to enjoy its many historical sites and natural beauty.

Take the opportunity to explore its 1,000 acres on foot along hiking trails such as Garrison Road or spot rare wildlife as you observe nature.

As the island is only 5km (3.1 miles) long and 1.5km (0.9 miles) wide, it’s easy to explore in one day. There are 18km of hiking trails, including Garrison Road.

Historical sites, such as Fort Ives and Fort McNab, are a must-see, as are the stunning views of Halifax Harbour and the city from the island.

17. Prince Edward Island

Driving time : 3.5 hours

Prince Edward Island is a popular day trip destination from Halifax, thanks to its close proximity. You could take the bridge into PEI and take a ferry back to watch the sunset over the ocean.

You can spend your day trip exploring attractions like Cavendish Beach and Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish. Here, you can wander the paths around the home of Anne of Green Gables.

A guided tour such as the Island Drive and Anne of Green Gables would be a great way to explore the area and experience all it offers. You get access to the Green Gables Heritage House, then onto the Gulf of St. Lawrence in Prince Edward Island National Park. Next, you will make a few stops at North Rustico, New Glasgow, The Preserve Co., and Charlottetown.

Prince Edward Island also has lots of outdoor activities to try, like sea kayaking, whale watching , biking, and hiking.

👧 Explore the picturesque landscapes that brought Anne’s journey to life with the Island Drive and Anne of Green Gables Tour in Prince Edward Island!

18. Shelburne

Driving time : 2.25 hours

In Shelburne, you’ll be surrounded by stunning ocean views and centuries-old architecture.

Take a day trip and visit the Osprey Art Centre in Nova Scotia and the Buchanan Gallery. If you’re interested in delving deeper into the area’s past, visit the Black Loyalist Heritage Center and learn about the region’s rich history.

You can take a break from all the sightseeing and enjoy a truly exceptional freshly made seafood chowder at the Ships Galley Pub and Eatery.

At low tide, I recommend a walk out to the Sandy Point Lighthouse and capture some Instagram-worthy photos.

Driving time : 1.25 hours

Truro is located in the heart of Colchester County and is known as the “Hub of Nova Scotia” for its central location and easy access to all province areas.

Truro may be small, but it packs a punch regarding things to do and see.

The downtown area has plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, while Victoria Park and its boardwalks offer spectacular views of the gorge wall and a 175-step climb to the top of Jacob’s Ladder.

A popular attraction in Truro is the Marigold Culture Centre, which puts on cultural programs and shows. It also houses the Colchester County Sports Hall of Fame and a popular art gallery.

Truro is home to several wineries and craft breweries, making it an ideal destination for food and drink lovers as well!

Day Trips from Halifax: FAQs

How many days are enough for halifax.

A minimum of 2-3 days is recommended to explore Halifax’s popular attractions, such as the Halifax Citadel. If you want to visit other parts of the province, such as Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, and the Bay of Fundy, add another 3 days minimum to your itinerary.

What is the best month to visit Halifax?

The best time to visit Halifax is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is mild and sunny. In these months, the city comes alive with festivals, events, and outdoor activities. September and October are also good months for quieter travel and to see the fall colors.

What to do in Halifax in two days?

In two days, you can get a taste of what Halifax has to offer by exploring its popular attractions, such as the Halifax Citadel, Maritime Museum, and Public Gardens. Stroll along the waterfront boardwalk and enjoy a seafood dinner at the famous Salty’s Restaurant. On the second day, take a day trip to Peggy’s Cove or Lunenburg.

Can I get around Halifax without a car?

Yes, it’s possible to get around Halifax by walking or public transportation. The city is walkable, with many major attractions close to one another. Other transportation options to get around Halifax include bike rentals, Uber, and taxis if you prefer not to walk or take public transit.

Wrap-Up: Day Trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia

I hope this list of amazing day trips from Halifax inspires you to hit the road and explore the hidden gems of Canada’s East Coast.

Nova Scotia is home to some of the most stunning natural beauty in all of Canada, and these day trips offer a chance to see it in its full glory. In my opinion, the best trips are a day tour to Peggy’s Cove or an afternoon wine tasting in Annapolis Valley!

No matter your interests, you can find an excursion that’s perfect for you.

Read More About Nova Scotia:

• 22 Pros and Cons of Living in Halifax: Should You Move to Nova Scotia
• 51 Fun Things to do in Halifax: The Best Activities You Won’t Want to Miss!
• 7 Best Whale Watching Halifax Tours: Where to See Whales in Nova Scotia
• 3 Best Halifax Hotels with Waterslides
• 10 Best Peggy’s Cove Tours
• Where to Stay in Halifax: 17 Best Hotels

More Tours in Canada:

• 3 Best Niagara on the Lake Bike Wine Tours
• 5 Best Banff Helicopter Tours
• Top 5 Quebec Dog Sledding Tours
• 22 Best Niagara on the-Lake Wine Tours
• 15 Best Quebec White Water Rafting Tours

Canada Travel Planning Guide

🚑  Should I buy Canada travel insurance?

100% YES!  — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!

💧 Can you drink the water in Canada?

Yes  — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?

Yes  — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. ( Read more )

📲  Will my phone work in Canada?

Maybe  — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?

My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com . For hostels, I use Hostel World . If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).

Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?

For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend  Skyscanner .

🎫  Do I need a visa for Canada?

Likely Not  — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do ( check here! ). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Nina Out and About. She has lived in 18 countries in the past 10 years, explored more than 30 countries, and has done most of it solo. A Canadian native, she also shares her favourite things to do in the True North. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their expat adventures and Canadian trips.

Want to move abroad, but don’t know how to start?

Get an expert’s tips & tricks, pick which country to move to – and do it.

Home » Destinations » North America » Canada » How to Spend One Day in Halifax, Nova Scotia [Itinerary + Tips]

How to Spend One Day in Halifax, Nova Scotia [Itinerary + Tips]

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You Have One Day in Halifax, Nova Scotia? Here’s How You Might Do It!

If you’ve only got one day in Halifax, this is the post for you! Whether you’re just stopping through Halifax on a Canadian East Coast road trip or you’re on a cruise, there’s plenty to do, eat, see, and drink to fill your time!

24 hours in Halifax isn’t enough time to discover all the Canadian attractions this vibrant city offers. That said, you can check off quite a few things with the right planning. That’s where we come in!

We spent a few days in Halifax and we really loved the city. It was our first time in Halifax – but luckily, we had friends who live in the city happily show us around and play tour guide. We got the inside scoop on food, music, attractions, and much more!

So, this itinerary covers what to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia in one day – from breakfast options to evening activities!

Halifax, Nova Scotia Tours

Being the largest city on the Canadian East Coast, the historic city is a popular destination to explore. Luckily, there are many tour options to help you discover Halifax in all different ways!

From foodie tours to history tours and boat tours to explore the harbour, check out these Halifax tour options for yourself!

• Best of Halifax Guided Tour (with Peggy’s Cove!)
• The Famous Halifax Harbour Hopper Tour
• Halifax Foodie Tour
• Ultimate Small-Group Halifax History Tour

Table of Contents

Breakfast at Steve-o-Reno’s

Address: 1536 Brunswick St, Halifax, NS B3J 2G2

To start off your Halifax one day itinerary, you’re going to need a decent breakfast. For this, we’d suggest Steve-o-Reno’s .

Located on Brunswick Street – just a very short walk from the Citadel – this is an excellent spot for a quick bite or a heartier breakfast. Steve-o-Reno’s was opened in 1996 and is a classic local establishment worth supporting. 

Inside, you’ll find a smaller cafe that’s brimming with life. You order up at the counter and you can choose to sit inside (if there’s room), out on their front patio in nice weather, or choose to take away whatever it is that you ordered. 

Our local friends go often so they gave us the scoop about what to get. Eric had their medium roast coffee and the Egg-o-Reno (a breakfast sandwich with scrambled egg, spinach, tomato, onion, cheese, and ham). Lisa had a chai tea latte and a blueberry spelt muffin. Everything was really good!

They are also known for their baked goods. Apparently, they have awesome scones which change every day – you might see chocolate pistachio one day, then lemon cranberry or white chocolate cranberry the next!

Overall, we really liked Steve-o-Reno’s. It’s the kind of place that locals frequent… and it’s where out-of-towners stumble into either because their local connection took them or the reviews speak for themselves.

If you are looking for alternative breakfast/brunch spots, Bliss Caffeine Bar and Terra Cafe are slightly trendier places that are worth checking out.

Getting Around Halifax, Nova Scotia While Halifax has a number of neighbourhoods/areas, as a day visitor, you’ll likely only explore Downtown Halifax and the streets closely surrounding it.  The city centre is quite small, compact, and very walkable – but the terrain varies from flat down by the Harbour boardwalk to very hilly in places. The Citadel is at the highest point in the city for a reason! Public transport is through Halifax Transit which operates buses and ferries (to Dartmouth, for example). You can also bike around the city with more and more biking infrastructure being implemented. The hills can make biking more challenging than in other cities, however.

Morning Activities: Explore Historic Halifax

Now that you’ve got some breakfast fuel and coffee in your body, it’s time to explore. There is so much to do and see in Halifax that you’ll never get it all done in one day. 

That said, with a bit of planning (and this Halifax one-day guide), you can explore the Downtown area and cover a ton of ground – literally!

So, to take on the morning in Halifax, we’d suggest staying inland a few blocks towards the Public Gardens and the Historic Citadel for some scenic and historic exploration. 

These are great Halifax attractions to check out to start off your walking route. Don’t worry, the lively waterfront and historic Halifax Harbour will get their time in the afternoon!

About Peggy’s Cove: If you absolutely must visit Peggy’s Cove or Lunenburg, you could also do that in the morning. With a car, you can easily travel there yourself. Otherwise, we’d suggest a half-day Peggy’s Cove tour that also showcases a bit of the city centre (like the Citadel).

Halifax Public Gardens

Address: Spring Garden Rd. &, Summer St, Halifax, NS B3J 3S9

For a quieter, tranquil start to the morning, head for the Halifax Public Gardens . Established in the 1870s (but with roots – pun intended – that go back to the 1830s), this beautiful area is a special place in Halifax.

The Public Gardens are an example of the best surviving Victorian-era gardens – and the history and attention to detail really show. Once you walk through the large iron gates, you’ll be transported into a world of natural beauty everywhere you look. 

There are lots of walking paths that snake through the gardens. You’ll stumble across different ponds, streams, bridges, statues, benches, and water features throughout.

In the gardens, you’ll also find a nice cafe – Uncommon Grounds . We had an oatcake (a local specialty) and coffee – both were very good. Apparently, the ice cream is good, too!

The Gardens are free to enter so it’s a great way to start the morning. Spend some time here but get a move on because the next stop – the Halifax Citadel – is worth exploring for a few hours!

Depending on which way you walk, you might want to check out these stops along the way:

• The Robert Burns Statue at the top end of Victoria Park
• Bliss Caffeine Bar for their pastries (if you need another one)
• Spring Garden Road – like Toronto’s Queen Street where you’ll find shopping
• The Old Town Clock – a historic photo spot with the hill towards Downtown and the Harbour behind

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Address: 5425 Sackville St, Halifax, NS B3J 3Y3

It would be silly to spend 1 day in Halifax, Nova Scotia and not explore its (arguably) most famous attraction – the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site !

Founded back in 1749, the current Halifax Citadel atop Citadel Hill is actually the fourth fortification in a long line of fortification attempts.

The current star-shaped citadel was completed in 1853 and is a National Historic Site run by Parks Canada.

Buy your tickets at the booth facing Downtown (look for the Old Town Clock). Once inside, you’ll be thrust back into the mid-1800s. 

From the open-air courtyard, there are many exhibits which you can just wander into such as the old soldier barracks.

Other exhibits are more self-guided. You can learn about the history of the fort and Halifax, and explore the Army Museum which focuses on 20th-century history.

Our highlight was walking the upper ramparts where the cannons are. From up here, you get 360° city views so it’s worth going up!

Oh, and you cannot forget about the live-action demonstration of rifle shooting (with blanks, of course) or the famous 12 o’clock cannon which goes off every day at noon.

You can easily spend hours there getting caught up in history. We really liked how once inside you could just go wherever there was an open door. There’s also a cafe onsite if you need a refreshment.

Halifax is part of Kjipuktuk – Mi’kmaw for “Great Harbour” – on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People covered by the “Treaties of Peace and Friendship” signed by the Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) Peoples and the British Crown in 1725.

Lunch at The BG (Halifax Beer Garden)

Address: 1599 Lower Water St, Halifax, NS B3J 1S2

Now that it’s lunch and you’ve spent a few hours at the Halifax Citadel, you’re probably going to need a break and a bite to eat for lunch. For this, we’d suggest grabbing something on the way down the hill towards the water from the Citadel or finding a place to sit if you want to rest your legs. 

If you want to head right for the waterfront (your afternoon stop on this one-day itinerary), then you might check out The BG – Halifax Beer Garden . 

Located right on the boardwalk, The BG is a popular spot for beer but also lots of different lunch foods like sausages, tacos, burgers, flatbreads, salads, and other shareables.

We usually give one or two lunch options but because there are so many places to eat that work for this particular walking route, we’ll name a few more options below!

• Antojo Tacos + Tequila has good Mexican
• Gahan House Nova Centre is more of a pub that brews their own beer
• “Pizza Corner” (located close to Blowers Street and Argyle Street) is packed with on-the-go options like pizza ( Pizza Corner – Sicilian Pizza has massive slices ), poutine ( Willy’s ), and donair (a Halifax specialty).

Afternoon Activities: Explore the Halifax Waterfront

Location: 44°38’57.4″N 63°34’18.0″W

After lunch, it’s time to explore the feature of the city that makes it famous: the Halifax waterfront and harbour area! 

Running the length of Downtown but at the water’s edge, the long boardwalk snakes through buildings, around wooden piers, by food stalls and statues, and all the way down to the main Seaport commercial area and piers (at Pier 21, roughly).

Of course, on the way there, you might be interested in other attractions like the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic (which is all about boats, naval history, and more) and the HMCS Sackville (a World War II Corvette [ship] that you can explore by donation).

If you want good ice cream, COWS hilariously has three shops along the same Waterfront path that you can stop at! 

There is no shortage of things to explore, stuff to eat, and much more. We’d suggest just walking south towards the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 (the eventual stop for the afternoon).

Our Tip: To actually get out on the harbour, the famous Harbour Hopper tour shows off the city by land and sea! It’s a great activity if you’re visiting Halifax with kids.

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Address: 1055 Marginal Rd, Halifax, NS B3H 4P7

Be sure to leave some time after lunch and after the Harbour walk, because this next afternoon stop is also worth investing some time into!

The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is one of Canada’s most popular attractions because of its rich history that continues to shape the nation to this day.

The Pier itself – 21 – is another National Historic Site of Canada as it served as the “gateway to Canada” between 1928 to 1971. We even have a personal connection to the place – both sides of Eric’s family came through Pier 21.

Once inside, the museum is broken up into several different rooms and exhibitions like The Canadian Immigration Story Exhibition and The Pier 21 Story Exhibition.

Get your entry ticket for The Canadian Museum of Immigration here .

We recommend a free guided tour of the Pier 21 Story. We did it and found it really interesting to hear stories about people who came through Pier 21.

The main floor houses a gift shop and the Scotiabank Family History Centre where visitors can speak with an archivist to research family members who have come through Pier 21. It’s a pretty moving experience for visitors to retrace their family’s steps – speaking from personal experience.

Overall, the Museum is worth the stop if you’re interested in peoples’ stories and a piece of Canada’s backstory. You could easily spend a whole day there but a half-day would be just fine.

Late Afternoon Break

Depending on how long you spend down at the waterfront and/or at the Canadian Museum of immigration, you might want a bit of a break before dinner and the evening.

For this, we always like to give two options: Garrison Brewing Company or Gingerbread Haus for coffee and sweets!

Garrison Brewing Company

Address: 1149 Marginal Rd, Halifax, NS B3H 4P7

If you’d like a beer at a local establishment, a stop at Garrison Brewing Company is a good option.

Located right across the street from the entrance to Pier 21, the brewery prides itself on an inclusive, fun atmosphere – and on making good beer.

Inside, they have a large tap room where you can grab a pint and have a seat. They also have a large outdoor patio area if the weather is nice. 

The brewery is dog-friendly and they are known for their grab-n-go fridges where you can stock up on their latest and greatest creations if you don’t want to stick around. 

We had Garrison beers throughout the trip – we really liked their classic Tallship Pale Ale and their Irish Red Ale. They also do a Spruce Beer which is like drinking Christmas in a bottle – it’s an experience for sure!

Gingerbread Haus

Address: 1138 Queen St, Halifax, NS B3H 1P8

If you want more of a sweet stop, Gingerbread Haus is the place for you. Located a short walk from the Museum at Pier 21, this European-style bakery is known for its European-style baked goods like cookies, bread, and pastries. 

Our local friend loves the place for their cinnamon rolls. Naturally, with Lisa being from Germany, we had to check it out. We ended up with a German pretzel (which was actually fairly good).

They had some classic German cakes like Bee Sting Cake and Austrian cookies like Linzer cookies. It’s takeaway only but it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re craving a sweet treat!

Optional (Sunset) Activity – Harbour Wine and Cheese Cruise

Address: 1655 Lower Water St, Halifax

Depending on how much time you spent at museums in the afternoon and how hungry you are before dinner, you might want to participate in a classic small-group wine and cheese cruise .

This one starts at 6:30 pm so you’d be on the water through dinner time but with some drinks and stuff to munch on you might consider eating before or committing to a late dinner on shore! Just another fun option you might want to squeeze in.

Read More: Our Canada Packing List – All Areas & Seasons!

Dinner at Waterfront Warehouse

Address: 1549 Lower Water St, Halifax, NS B3J 1S2

It’s dinner time in Halifax and there are so many places you can go to grab a nice dinner. Seafood is a classic go-to option (since you’re on the coast!) but there are restaurants that serve up all kinds of dishes. We liked our dinner at Waterfront Warehouse .

Located right down at the water off the waterfront walking path, Waterfront Warehouse was this big old converted warehouse with a massive outdoor patio in front and seating inside. 

They focus on seafood – so if you want seafood, this is the place to do it. Eric had the fish and chips and a Galaxy IPA from Propeller Brewing Company (a local Halifax brewery) while Lisa had the seafood chowder and a Nine Locks Dirty Blonde. Everything was really good! 

We sat outside on the front patio and it was fun to be amongst the hustle and bustle of the waterfront as the evening got dark. Depending on the night, it might be very busy so be sure to put your name down if you want a spot!

For more dinner options down on/near the waterfront, check out McKelvie’s Restaurant , Saltys , or Sea Smoke .

Evening Activities/Ideas

Well, it’s after dinner in Halifax and this one-day itinerary is coming to a close. If you’ve still got some energy left, you should definitely make the most of what Halifax has to offer. 

What you end up doing depends on a few factors like where you are staying and your interests. That said, the city isn’t huge so you’re never too far from night activities.

For this Halifax itinerary, we’re going to give you three potential options for things to do in Halifax at night. This way, you get to choose what works best for you!

The options are: Go for Drinks & Live Music, Join a Ghost Tour or Hop on a Midnight Cruise!

Drinks and Live Music

There may be nothing more “East Coast” than going out to the pub or bar and enjoying a little bit of live music. Luckily, there are many places you can go to get a taste of Halifax’s musical nightlife. 

We went to both The Split Crow Pub and The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse – both located right in the heart of Downtown Halifax. The Old Triangle was more of a pub with Guinness and a bunch of local beers on tap. 

The Split Crow was more of a lively bar with an acoustic duo who was really good at playing what the crowd wanted!

If those places are full/busy, you can also check out Bearly’s or The Lower Deck for live music. 

If you just want drinks and no music, you can do that too. We really liked Henry House when we went for drinks in the basement pub and The Brown Hound Public House is also an option.

If you don’t care for beer, Obladee is a popular wine bar in the heart of Downtown!

Alternatively, head for Argyle Street where you’ll find lots of other pubs and bars – it’s the place for lively nightlife! You might also find evening live music at the Grand Parade – the square outside City Hall!

Moonlight Yacht Cruise

You might be looking for an excuse to get out on the water one last time before you leave. For this, you might consider a Moonlight Yacht Cruise!

Starting at 9:30 pm, this adult-only cruise is all about experiencing the evening under the dimming sky.

You can even get drinks as you sail which might make for the perfect evening activity if you want to combine evening drinks with a bit of scenery and being social!

Check out this Halifax Moonlight Yacht Cruise here .

The Halifax Ghost Walk

Address: The Old Town Clock, Brunswick Street, Halifax, NS B3J 3Y3

Last, but certainly not least, if you’re looking for something a little spookier, you might want to try out The Halifax Ghost Walk .

Starting up on Citadel Hill at the Old Town Clock, this tour will take you around Halifax and uncover some of the creepiest, eeriest parts!

It should come as no surprise that a city as old as Halifax would have a ghost story or two.

Related Articles

For those planning a Canada trip and looking for more helpful guides, check out our other East Coast Tips:

• Awesome Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia
• Where to Stay in Halifax – Accommodations and Areas
• Peggy’s Cove, Mahone Bay, & Lunenburg Day Trip Itinerary
• Going From Halifax to Peggy’s Cove – All Options
• Halifax to Lunenburg – All Options

And there you have it – our detailed guide on how to spend one day in Halifax, Nova Scotia! Following this post would definitely allow you to see the top sights in Halifax – but there’s so much else you could do. Feel free to pick and choose what interests you and you can’t go wrong!

As always, Happy Halifax Waddlin’,

– L&E

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• PEGGY'S COVE & LIGHTHOUSE
• Halifax Titanic & Fisherman's Cove
• ANNAPOLIS VALLEY /  BAY OF FUNDY
• LUNENBURG AND THE SOUTH SHORE
• OAK ISLAND AND SOUTH SHORE COASTLINE
• EXPERIENCE BOTH LUNENBURG & PEGGY'S COVE
• EXTENDED DAY TO PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
• CUSTOMIZED MULTI-DAY TOURS
• TESTIMONIALS
• REVIEW YOUR TOUR
• TOUR PACKAGES
• Tour Articles

Guiding Unforgettable Journeys Since 2013 Experience Nova Scotia and Her Beauty 1.902.222.2934

• DURATION 5 Hours or 6 Hours

BOOK YOUR 5 HR Peggy's Cove TOUR NOW

BOOK YOUR 6 HR Peggy's Cove TOUR NOW

Peggy's Cove is Nova Scotia's most popular tourist attraction and is a small rural community located on the eastern shore of St. Margaret's Bay in Nova Scotia's Halifax Regional Municipality, which is famous for the Peggy's Point Lighthouse.

This tour features a drive from Halifax to Peggy's Cove along the beautiful Lighthouse Trail.  Known for it's stunning coastline, east coast charm, and yes, the famous lighthouse (most photographed in Canada), Peggy's Cove is also home to restaurants, local art, preservation area and an active fishing village. 

Recent updating of infrastructure including roads, walkways, extensive boardwalk and mobility friendly viewing deck that overhangs the rocks, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural landscape for a unique experience.   For lunch enjoy Lobster, Fish and Chips and other local favorites at an additional cost. A typical tour includes a stop to the Fairview Lawn Cemetery to learn the historical Halifax connection to the Titanic.  Coastal drives as we pass small fishing villages and amazing views, meal/lunch stops and so much more. Other areas we can arrange based on interest and time is Swiss Air Memorial Site, the Acadian Maple Shop, Peggy’s Cove Glass artisan shop  

As with all of my tours, it can be customized to suit your interests. Meal stops with various options are available along the route at an extra cost. I have my standard 5 hour Peggy's Cove tour, but the demand over the years was very high to have more time to see more sites and spend more time in the areas visited.  So there is the option for a 6 hour tour. The extra hour allows this flexibility and well worth the time added. Max seating is six guests based on typical sized adults/children. The number of passengers should be reduced for over-sized/taller passengers to ensure comfort & accessibility.  See FAQ  for more details.

A Perfect Tour for a Cruise Shore Excursion or Day Trip. 

• COST 5 Hours -  $550 CND; approx. $400 USD,  includes local Tax (15%)  
• COST 6 Hours - $660 CND; approx. $485 USD,  includes local Tax (15%)  
• All booking costs are in Canadian Funds.    
• All tours are PRIVATE which means we do not fill seats.  
• No other group/persons will be joining your tour.
• Contact me to customized this tour !

Itinerary Outline

Driving from Halifax to Peggy's Cove, we'll get to know each other & talk a little history with opportunities to stop for photos. stretch your legs & take in the beauty.

• P/U  - Cruise Ship Port; Local Hotel or other location
• Learn some local history of Halifax including events such as the Halifax Explosion of 1917 and Halifax's connection to the Titanic.
• Visit the Fairview Lawn Cemetery (Titanic Graveyard)
• Head off the beaten track to small fishing village(s), rocky coastlines
• Peggy's Cove with iconic Lighthouse and Fishing Village
• For lunch enjoy Lobster, fish and chips and other local favorites (additional cost).
• Travel back to Halifax while enjoying the beautiful sites

Optional stops based on route, timing & customer interest.

• Swiss Air Memorial Site
• Acadian Maple
• Peggy‘s Cove Glass
• Citadel Hill
• Fort Needham Memorial Park (Halifax Explosion)

Note that Peggy's Cove is about 1 hr directly from Halifax.

Gratuities are not included and are never expected but always appreciated.

Tour Vehicle  

• Dodge Grand Caravan
• Clean, Comfortable & Sanitized
• Air-conditioned
• USB Ports for phones/tablets
• Free WiFi on board
• Booster seat available upon request *
• Seating arrangement – up to 6 persons - 1 in the front passenger, 2 in middle bucket seats, up to 3 in the rear bench seat. Max seating based on typical sized adults/children. The number of passengers would be reduced for over-sized/taller passengers to ensure comfort & accessibility.
• Commercially inspected and licensed as per the requirements of the Motor Carrier Licensing & the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board.
• Commercial Licensing & Insurance to operate in Nova Scotia and Interprovincially to Prince Edward Island & New Brunswick

All tours are senior and kid friendly ... However, please note the following:

• Kid Friendly -  Please advise if a booster seat is required and we can provide.
• I am unable to accommodate child/baby car seats in the vehicle. 
• Please advise of any mobility issues and if a guest has a walker, so I can ensure room the day of the tour.  I don't always have room for folding walkers. (I usually have cleaning suppliers and a cooler onboard)  I have very limited space for storage. But can fold down back seat if only a group of 4. Contact me with any questions at all. Ty 
• Wheel Chair -  I am generally not able to accommodate wheel chairs or motorized scooters due to available space. Having said that I have accepted some in the past on a case by case bases. Guests must be able to enter and exit the vehicle safely unassisted. This combined with a lower number of guests to accommodate space requirements.  (ie. Room in back or folded down back seat)   Please contact me before booking if this is a request.   Showing up for a tour without advising of a wheel chair or mobility scooter may result in delaying the tour or cancellation     due to lack of space/preparation.
• Thank you for your understanding.

Other Information

• All Nova Scotia Health & Safety protocols are followed to ensure a safe experience including cleaning/sanitation of vehicle before and during tour.
• Hand sanitizer and extra masks are available for our guests who wish to wear them.
•  As of March 21, 2022 Nova Scotia has lifted all restrictions including mask mandates, other than in Hospital settings.
• More information on COVID 19 Protocols  

DURATION - 5 Hours 

BOOK YOUR 5 HR Halifax Titanic & Fisherman's Cove TOUR NOW

Discover the Halifax connection to the Titanic & visit the Fairview Lawn cemetery, (Titanic Graveyard site), enjoy a local fishing village with your Private Tour from Halifax. Learn various historical facts of Halifax including the 1917 Halifax Explosion. Experience amazing views from high above as you travel across one of the two bridges connecting to Halifax to Dartmouth, traveling to Eastern Passage and Fisherman's Cove.

Our tour begins with a glimpse into the history of Halifax and connection to the Titanic as we take you to the Fairview Lawn Cemetery where many of the victims from the sinking of the Titanic are buried. We will talk about the Halifax Explosion of 1917 and how it changed the cities of both Halifax and Dartmouth.  

Your private tour continues as we travel across one of the two bridges to the Dartmouth area and on to Fisherman's Cove, located in Eastern Passage. We will tour some local sites including a boardwalk which crosses a pond and leads you to the incredible ocean . . keep an eye out for the local Moose that is known to be in the area of the Silver Sands Beach.

Fisherman's Cove is both frozen in time and constantly evolving.   A wonderfully quaint, restored 200 year-old fishing community that is still active, it is also home to a unique collection of colourful gift shops, museums and art galleries, delicious restaurants, coffee and bake shops, and ice-cream canteens. Enjoy the shops, get up close to the fishing boats, learn about the fishing and lobster traps.

Max seating is six guests  based on typical sized adults/children. The number of passengers would be reduced for over-sized/taller passengers to ensure comfort & accessibility.  See FAQ  for more details.

A Perfect Tour for a Cruise Shore Excursion or Day Trip.  

• DURATION 5 Hours
• COST $550 CND; approx. $400 USD,  includes local Tax (15%)   
• All booking costs are in Canadian Funds.  
• No other group/persons will be joining your tour. 

Your Private Tour is flexible based on your interests and wishes.

• P/U Cruise Ship Port; Hotel or other location
• Local history, Halifax Explosion of 1917, Halifax's Titanic Connection
• Fairview Lawn Cemetery Titanic Graveyard Site; 121 Graves
• Fisherman's Cove area, discover local sites away from any touristy crowds
• Explore the shops/eateries where you will find delicious food, Maritime crafts, local paintings, unique folk art & souvenirs
• Grab a bite on the go or a sit down meal to enjoy the tastes of Nova Scotia
• Enjoy the scenery on our return with highlights & maybe a quiz !

Other options based on guest interests, time permitting:

• Mount Olivet RC Cemetery, 19 Graves
• Citadel Hill (a favorite place to stop for pictures of Halifax City
• Cole Harbour, Home of Pittsburgh Penguins Sidney Crosby "Sid the Kid"

DURATION - 6 Hours 

BOOK YOUR 6 HR Annapolis Valley and the Bay of Fundy  TOUR NOW

Explore the beauty of Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley and the Bay of Fundy . Home of amazing wines including Tidal Bay, and some of the highest tides in the world! There is so much to see and explore its truly a site to see. You will see how the tides cycle the Minas Basin from a low to a high of over 50ft as we tour throughout the day.

Nova Scotia has a rich history of growing grapes dating back to the 1600's. As your knowledgeable guide I have some great choices to taste some amazing wines, including true Ice Wine! We can always mix in options for Apple Cider, Beer or Distilled beverage stops.    Additionally, we can just focus on the sights and scenery ! As we make our way out of Halifax you will learn some of the local history of the area. There is a bit of highway driving (approx. 60 min) as we travel to the Annapolis Valley. We'll get to know each other and soon it'll be like chatting with an old friend. On our journey, enjoy learning the history of Halifax and Nova Scotia while taking in the countryside, spectacular views of orchards and wine country tapestry that the Annapolis Valley is known for. You will see how the tides cycle the Minas Basin from a low to a high of over 50ft as we tour throughout the day. There is time to experience the area, from breathtaking scenery to delicious foods and so much in-between. Enjoy the tastes of Nova Scotia from our famous Lobster to fish & chips and other local favorites.

• DURATION 6 Hours
• COST $660 CND; approx. $485 USD,  includes local Tax (15%)   

From Halifax there is a little highway driving (approx. 60min) as we make our way to Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley,  This gives us time to get to know one another and to learn some local history of the area. Highlights and touring stops in the valley has many options including:

• Wineries for tastings - up to 3 locations - I've selected some amazing choices
• Driving through small towns and country sides
• Scenic Look Off areas great for photos
• Lunch to enjoy some local favorites of food and beverages 
• Return to Halifax 
• Cider Tasting
• Beer - Distillery - Port Williams
• Fox Hill Cheese Factory a sixth generation family farm
• Walk the Ocean Floor -  (depending on tide schedules - must advise ahead of time)
• Skip the 'beverage' stops and focus just on site seeing 

-----------

BOOK YOUR 6 Lunenberg and the South Shore HR TOUR NOW

Explore the history and beautiful site with your Private Tour from Halifax. Picturesque Lunenburg lies nestled along the scenic shores of southern Nova Scotia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, National Historic District, winner of the Communities in Bloom most beautiful small town in Canada. Home of the fishing schooner Bluenose II.  Travel from Halifax to Lunenberg with return travel via Mahone Bay, Chester Basin and a mix of coastal and highway driving.

This 6 hr Private Tour from Halifax to Lunenburg with return travel via Mahone Bay, Chester Basin has a mix of beautiful coastal and highway driving. We can stop at different sites to take in the beauty of Nova Scotia and get that post card photo. We begin our day by traveling along the waterfront area of Halifax as we make our way to the highway & onwards to Lunenburg. (Approx. 1hr 15min) The time will pass by quickly as we share informational highlights and history of Nova Scotia, Halifax and surrounding areas. Lunenburg is known for its narrow streets & unique architecture (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and is also the home port of Nova Scotia's sailing ambassador, the Bluenose II. Founded by German & Swiss Protestant settlers in 1753, much of the town of Lunenburg's architecture predates the 1900's. This makes it one of the most authentic colonial settlements in North America. You can still see tall ships moored in the harbour & at times hear blacksmith's hammer in a waterfront warehouse. Lunenburg is truly a walking town and some hills with everything centrally located and just a short distance from one another. Wander the old town's distinctive waterfront with its colourful buildings or visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic (additional fee will apply) on the waterfront. Stop into the former Blacksmith Shop, now Ironworks Distillery & try local Spirits that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Leaving Lunenburg we travel to Mahone Bay, a peaceful, tranquil destination with a captivating seafaring past. It is also famous for its views of The Three Churches across the waters. We will then head towards Chester and Chester Basin.. We will mix coastal and highway driving on our return to Halifax.

Travel along the waterfront of Halifax as we make our way to the highway & onto Lunenburg. Time will pass by quickly with highlight information & history of Halifax & Nova Scotia.

• Learn local history including events such as the Halifax Explosion of 1917 and Halifax's connection to the Titanic as we make our way to Lunenburg
• Lunenburg - known for its narrow streets & unique architecture. Wander the old town's distinctive waterfront with its colourful buildings or visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic (additional fee will apply) on the waterfront.
• Mahone Bay, a peaceful, tranquil destination with a captivating seafaring past. Famous for its views of Churches from across the bay
• Plenty of time for photos and a meal stop in either Lunenburg or Mahone Bay
• Coastal driving while enjoying the beautiful sites, making our through the Chester Basin on our way back to Halifax 
• Blue Rocks 
• Fairview Lawn Cemetery - Titanic Graveyard 
• Acadian Maple Shop 
• Citadel Hill (a favorite place to stop for pictures of Halifax City)

BOOK YOUR 6 HR Oak Island and South Shore Coastline  TOUR NOW

A 229 year old mystery ... Oak Island is a privately owned island on the south shore of Nova Scotia and is best known for various theories about possible buried treasure or historical artifacts and the many associated explorations that have taken place there since the 1850s.  

NOTE: 2024 — The Oak Island Visitor/ Interpretive  Centre currently remains closed to the public.    For full details on this announcement by the owners of the island, please visit this link . Due to the island being closed, our Oak Island Tour can be modified to explore the local areas of Lunenburg, Mahone Bay and Chester. Additionally, we can arrange and recommend seeing Oak Island by boat.   Please contact me for more details.  Thank you for your understanding.

Your tour begins from Halifax with some narrative history as we head directly towards The Famous Oak Island. Could it Be ? Yes ! It is a real place !   Driving will mix highway & coastal making our way to/from the Famous Oak Island, location for the popular TV series, 'The Curse of Oak Island'.

We will cross the narrow causeway to the island & you will be able explore the Interpretation Center which house a vast amount of information and history of the dig along with many artifacts from the exploration.

The island is an active site with digs & filming throughout the season and we can not be held responsible for the island being closed unannounced. Thank you. **

For lunch you can enjoy lobster, fish & chips and other local favorites (an additional cost) at The Mug & Anchor (Mahone Bay) or other based on timing and availability.

• Local History & "Theory Discussions"
• Highway & coastal to Oak Island (appr. 1 hr)
• Cross the causeway to the mystery *2024 Island remains closed … all tours go only as far as the causeway.  Thank you for your understanding. 
• Oak Island Interpretation Centre *2024 Island remains closed … all tours go only as far as the causeway.  Thank you for your understanding.
• Lunch Mug & Anchor at Madders Wharf or other based on availability
• Highway & coastal return to Halifax
• Citadel Hill (a favorite place to stop for pictures of Halifax City and the waterfront)

DURATION - 8 Hours 

BOOK YOUR 8 HR Lunenburg and Peggy's Cove TOUR NOW

This full 8 hour private day trip from Halifax will allow us to visit both picturesque Lunenburg and beautiful Peggy's Cove. Both perfect for artists & photographers, we will make various stops throughout the day to take it all in. We travel to Lunenburg via the hi-way and then work our way back to Peggy's Cove, blending highway & coastal driving enjoying the scenic villages, coastlines and views.

Founded by German & Swiss Protestant settlers in 1753, much of the town of Lunenburg's architecture predates the 1900's. This makes it one of the most authentic colonial settlements in North America. Lunenburg is truly a walking town and has some hills. Everything is centrally located and just a short distance from one another. Lunenburg is UNESCO World Heritage Site, National Historic District, winner of the Communities in Bloom most beautiful small town in Canada Peggy's Cove is Nova Scotia's most popular tourist attraction. A small rural community located on the eastern shore of St. Margaret's Bay, famous for the Peggy's Point Lighthouse & fishing village founded in 1811. Built in 1915, Peggy’s Point Lighthouse still keeps watch over surging ocean waves and working lobster boats. Wander over giant rocks worn smooth by the sea and share in the view. Make sure you give the Lighthouse a 'hug & kiss' ... it's a tradition ;) Note that Lunenburg is located approx. 1hr 15min from Halifax via highway.

• DURATION 8 Hours
• COST $880 CND; approx. $540 USD,  includes local Tax (15%)   

• Travel through Mahone Bay, a peaceful, tranquil destination with a captivating seafaring past. We will stop for some photos of the 3 Churches from across the bay.
• Head to Peggy's Cove with iconic Lighthouse and Fishing Village
• Swiss Air Memorial Site 

DURATION - 12 Hours 

BOOK YOUR 12 HR Prince Edward Island TOUR NOW

A full day-trip from Halifax to Prince Edward Island via the Confederation Bridge. Visit various areas based on you wishes from Cavendish Beach, Anne of Green Gables, Scenic Heritage Roads or Charlottetown before returning back to Halifax.

Enjoy this extended day trip from Halifax to Prince Edward Island and explore the beauty the island has to offer. This tour does have some highway driving as it is approximately 3 hrs from Halifax to PEI. Enjoy some commentary about Halifax and Nova Scotia as we make our way out of the area and head towards New Brunswick and the Confederation bridge. 

This tour can be customized based on interest. If you are an Anne of Green Gables fan we will hit all the hi-lights and locations. I can also customized longer times and overnight tours. Contact me for details & pricing.

A Perfect Full Day Tour to see the beauty of the Island ! 

• COST $1,320 CND; approx. $980 USD,  includes local Tax (15%)   
• Includes bridge tolls/fees

A full day traveling which is always flexible based on guests interests.

• P/U Hotel or other location; Note that this is a full 12 hour+ day and recommend a pickup from 7:30 am - 9:00 am
• Travel from Halifax to Cape Jourimain, New Brunswick to the Confederation Bridge, approx. 3 hrs travel time
• A stop the visitor center and a short walk to experience the bridge up close before crossing to PEI.
• Travel across the bridge which crosses the North Cumberland Strait (approx. 13KM/8Miles) to Borden-Carleton PEI.  

Our day is flexible based on interests as there are many things to see and experience.  A typical tours outlined below:  

• Drive along the Shore Road in the Dalvay-Brackley National Park 
• Covehead lighthouse & beach 
• The Dunes Gallery with their eclectic gift shop & beautiful gardens
• Rustico and North Rustico (usually a lunch stop in North Rustico)
• Cavendish Beach/Boardwalk via the Cavendish National Park  
• Anne of Green Gables Museum at Silver Bush
• Return drive back to Halifax
• Matos Winery & Vineyards
• The Island Honey Wine Company
• Prince Edward Island Perseveres Company
• Drive thru Charlottetown, with option to stop at waterfront.

DURATION - Various  

”Nova Scotia has been on our bucket list for years!”  

Guests are looking to explore more, staying longer and want to travel to see as much as possible.  They don't want to be packed on a bus with 30 or 40 other strangers.  They want a Private Guide/Driver that knows the area(s) and can travel with the flexibility to stop longer, stop more often or veer off the planned itinerary if the desire arises.    

The Customized Touring has really grown for me the past couple years.  I have planned longer day itineraries to overnight 3 - 10 days to even longer seventeen day itineraries.

What does a customize tour look like ?  For a day tour, it can be as simple as using our private day tours listed and adding to it or taking something away, based on your interest.  The touring price is still based on the hourly rate. 

For longer overnight tours or multi-day tours,  I take the time to listen to the guest(s) to get a good sense of what they want to see but also, what they want to 'Experience'.

An outline is created taking into consideration routes, bridges, ferries, accommodations' and the must see and do.  Working with feedback, a finalized outline including an itinerary summary, accommodation listings, pricing, payment schedules, cancelation policy, etc.   is reviewed for approval.  

Once the customized multi-day tour is approved and a deposit is made, a more detailed itinerary is sent out which includes daily maps and routes, a bit more details on the areas being visited etc. 

Pricing for multi-day touring varies based on the length of touring, routes, accommodations and meal requirements for guests/guide as well as the areas we travel to.  We may need to take into consideration tolls for bridges or ferries or tickets to local events.     

For multi-day touring, there are usually two main options. Option One - guests based in Halifax and we do day trips and return to Halifax each day/evening. Pricing would be based on my tours listed under my profile. (pricing is per tour not per person) Pretty easy to added up the costs plus your local hotel costs etc.

This option gives guests a home base and no need to pack and unpack etc. Option Two - Road trip ! ... This option can be more exciting but is definitely more involved with planning and pricing as you can well expect. This options allows guest to venture further from Halifax to other areas of Nova Scotia and at times into Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick*. I have planned many custom multi-day tours over the past few years using a base outline and customize based on my guests interests/bucket lists etc. The multiday touring is definitely an increasing trend.

An example of a multi-day tour out of Halifax could be traveling to Cape Breton for a couple days/nights to explore the area including the Cabot Trail; ferry across to Prince Edward Island for a couple more days/nights; taking the Confederation Bridge back to mainland New Brunswick to Hopewell Rocks; returning to the Annapolis Valley and overnight before exploring the South Shore areas of Lunenburg to Peggy's Cove and Halifax.   

Don't forget we can take a full day to tour Halifax and it's local history and beauty.   There are endless options and no two tours are the same. Multi-day touring does take some planning and needs to take into consideration availability of the guide as well as accommodations of areas being visited, especially in peak tourist season.     

We take care of everything from the mapping of routes to the booking of accommodations.  Most multi-day tours are planned months and even a year or more in advance.

*We are currently have limited dates ranges available for 2024 multi-day touring due to high booking confirmations.  We are actively planning tours for 2025. 

A max of 4 persons is recommended, 2 to 4 works really well.   With the inquiries we have received, we are also in the position to offering multi-day touring for larger group of 8 to 12 in 2024/2025. Send us an email or call and we can plan an unforgettable adventure !

A Perfect Tour for guests with a 'Bucket List" or wish to see a whole lot more.

• DURATION - Various - typical 8 Hours
• COST Various - taking into consideration the number of days, local day trips to on the road trip, accommodations which vary in cost based on time of year, ferry crossings, National Park Fees, etc
• Contact me to discuss your trip of a life time !

I NQUIRE ABOUT A MULTI-DAY TOUR

LINK TO TOUR PHOTOS FOR  RUSSELL B.

Your Private Tour is flexible based on your interests and wishes.   A sample outline of a 8 day touring 

• Day 1 Guests Arrive - Airport Transfers can be arranged
• Day 2 – Halifax local touring - from history and sights, and a chance to get locally adjusted. (Similar to my Halifax Titanic/Fisherman’s Cove Tour)  Halifax overnight
• Day 3 Halifax to Baddeck, Cape Breton - visit Alexander Graham Bell Museum, or The Gaelic College; or local hike to waterfalls or just relax – Baddeck overnight
• Day 4 Baddeck to Baddeck, Cape Breton; traveling the Cabot Trail; many sightseeing stops for photos and short walks - Baddeck overnight
• Day 5 – Baddeck to Grande Pre/Wolfville – bit of a travel day with some nice stops along our route - arrive mid to late afternoon. Take in a winery or just relax -  overnight Grande Pre/Wolfville
• Day 6 -Explore Annapolis Valley and area – Highest tides in the world at over 50’ -see the change from low to high – maybe walk the ocean floor, Grande Pre National Historic Park/center – Halls Harbour - overnight Grande Pre/Wolfville
• Day 7 - Grande Pre to Lunenburg – Mahone Bay – Oak Island (could it be ?  anyone a fan of the Curse of Oak Island Show ?) – Peggy’s Cove – Halifax Overnight
• Day 8 – Guests return home - or chose to extend your stay
• Note: Various options from adding another day in Cape Breton to take in the Fortress Louisbourg;  add in whale watching, overnights in other areas of Cape Breton such as Cheticamp or Mabou; crossing over to Prince Edward Island for a couple of days ... what's on your bucket list ?!

LINK TO TOUR PHOTOS FOR SANTA AND GALS

LINK TO TOUR PHOTOS FOR JIM AND LAURA

* In order to offer touring into other provinces, there are further rules and regulations.  I have all the Commercial Licensing & Insurance to operate in Nova Scotia and Interprovincially to Prince Edward Island & New Brunswick.

• Peggy's Cove and Lighthouse Route - TOP TOUR ! 
• Halifax Titanic & Fisherman's Cove - History and a quaint fishing village
• Annapolis Valley & The Bay of Fundy - From local wines & ciders to the high tides
• Lunenburg and the South Shore (including Mahone Bay) - World UNESO Site & coastal beauty
• Oak Island and the South Shore -  A 229 year old treasure hunt ... Could it Be !?
• Experience Both Lunenburg and Peggy's Cove - See them both in one day !
• Extended Day to Prince Edward Island - Cavendish Beach, Anne of Green Gables & more
• Multi-day Touring - All areas of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick
• Port Pickup and drop off return.
• Tours designed to fit your time in port
• Worry free return with plenty of time to board
• Pickup and drop off return anywhere within HRM (Halifax Regional Municipality)
• Tours designed to fit your time in town.
• Worry free return with to meet your time constraints.
• Owner/operator of Down East Tours.
• 10+ years of Guiding Experience (since 2013)
• Nationally Certified Tour Professional, certified by the Tourism Council of Canada
• Class 4 Commercial Drivers License
• Guided thousands of guests from all over the world
• Loves meeting new people and showing them the Maritimes.
• Born and Raised in Nova Scotia and has lived in Toronto and Edmonton
• Background includes Electronics Engineering, Martial Arts, various sports including soccer
• Well traveled – Canada, United States, England, Caribbean, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Mexico and recently, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand.
• COVID-19 Vaccinations/Boosters (4 doses).
• Based out of Eastern Passage (Halifax), Nova Scotia
• Commercial Licensing Insurance & Government Licensed to operate in Nova Scotia and Interprovincially to Prince Edward Island & New Brunswick.
• Member of his local community Business Association - Board of Directors – Chair
• PA System for clear sound of commentary ... also can be used for Karaoke ;) 
• iPad 10.9" screen used for supplemental information/photos to enhance the touring experience
• Seating arrangement – up to 6 persons - 1 in the front passenger, 2 in middle bucket seats, up to 3 in the rear bench seat. Max seating based on typical sized adults/children. The number of passengers would be reduced for over-sized/taller passengers to ensure comfort & accessibility.
• Please advise of any mobility issues and if a guest has a walker, so I can ensure room the day of the tour.  I don't always have room for folding walkers. (I usually have cleaning suppliers and a cooler onboard)  I have very limited space for storage. But can fold down back seat if only a group of 4. Contact me with any questions at all. Ty 
• Touring Season – early April to first week of November
• September & October is the busiest time of year with typically a cruise ship in port every day and sometime up to 5 
• 100 – average number of tours given per year 
• 400 to 500  - total number of guests on tour per year
• 63% - typical tour with between 2 to 4 guests
• 2023 Top Tour – Peggy’s Cove over 60%
• Nova Scotia Tradition – Hug and Kiss a Lighthouse ! (truth or fiction ?)
• Mel enjoys fishing and his largest catch is 40" Stripe Bass 
• Mel is Bald by choice ! 

Just some of the many reviews from our wonderful guests.

Isaac nissan.

Mexico City, Mexico

Valley Wine Tasting & The Bay of Fundy - DATE: Oct 29/23 - Great knowledge of the area and the history, availability to accommodate specific choices and activities no rushing and extra time if needed. Really enjoyed this trip

United States

Extended Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Oct 25/23 - Wonderful day touring Halifax with Mel. He is very informative and easy to talk to and planned our day based on our needs and wants. Enjoyed some delicious fish and chips and Peggy's Cove. Would definitely book with Mel again.

ROBERT E. MITCHELL

Henderson, KY, United States

Extended Lunenburg/Peggy's Cove - DATE: Oct 24/23 - We had an incredible and amazing experience with Mel. Mel was professional, personable and made sure that we had an experience of a life time. He took us to all the right spots and kept us away from the crowds and ahead of the cruise ship tour groups. We could not have asked for a better experience or guide. Thank you Mel for a great time and a wonderful day!

CAROLYN TWOHILL

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Oct 23/23 - Mel provided us with a great introduction to Halifax, Nova Scotia. He was organized, friendly, and very attentive to our needs. Additionally, he used technology skillfully to enhance our tour. I would highly recommend him.

KAMI HUNTZINGER

Extended Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Oct 20/23 - Mel was fabulous! Lots of interesting information and stops. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

NANCY MURPHY

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Oct 19/23 - Great tour. Mel was superb. Peggy's cove was charming. Lunch was good. All in all a great day

LISA MUSICK

Extended Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Oct 16/23 - Mel was a great tour guide! He was very accommodating with my older parents. His vehicle was clean, and couldn't have asked for anyone better to show us around! Don't hesitate to hire Mel ! They beat the lame ship tours in price and quality! Thank You Mel!

DEBORAH ODOWD

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Oct 15/23 My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our tour with Mel. The vehicle was spacious and clean. Mel was very informative and friendly. He tailored the tour to our interests and gave us plenty of time to enjoy Peggy's Cove. We highly recommend booking a tour with Mel.

MICHAEL COLLINS

Santa Clarita, CA, United States

Extended Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Oct 14/23 - Mel gives a fantastic tour! He is extremely knowledgeable about the Halifax and surrounding area! If he doesn't know an answer to a question when it's asked, he finds out the answer and gets back to you with it in a very short amount of time! He gives a lot of fascinating details about the Great Explosion in Halifax and also about the Titanic, and presents it to you not only in an extremely interesting way, but provides visuals with an IPad!!! His tour is one of the best!!!

GREG ANKROM

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Oct 11/23 - Mel was extremely personable, very accommodating with our special requests, and provided just the right amount of interesting information, especially about the Titanic passenger graves. Highly recommend!

LISA OZMENT

Lunenburg and the South Shore - DATE: Oct 10/23 - Excellent tour. Mel was very knowledgeable and was prepared. Will take another tour with Mel.

Experience Both Lunenburg & Peggy's Cove - DATE: Oct 7/23 - Mel has a passion for what he does. Our group of 4 enjoyed our day with him in Halifax, Lunenburg and Peggy's Cove. He was very accommodating to our needs and made great recommendations for our day. We will definitely be recommending him to all of our friends that will be traveling to his area.

DORIS PENNINGTON

San Antonio, TX, United States

Lunenburg and the South Shore - DATE: Oct 3/23 - Mel met us at our shuttle stop from our ship and we were off for a day of adventure. We went to Lunenburg, Mahone Bay for lunch, and wound up our day at the cemetery where Titanic victims are buried. Mel is very personable and made history come to life as he explained Canadian history in the area. He will try to honor any request made, and we found him to be exceptional. All of us feel like we learned a lot from our tour.

THOMAS FLYNN

Extended Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Oct 1/23 - Mel was waiting for us soon as we exited the ship. He is most knowledgeable of Halifax history. I highly recommend Mel for a great tour of Halifax, the surrounding area and Peggy's Cove.

AILEEN SIMONS

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Sep 29/23 - Mel was a wonderful tour guide! He was very knowledgeable and kept us interested throughout the day. He also went out of his way to tailor our tour to our specific tastes. We would definitely recommend him!

Valley Wine Tasting & The Bay of Fundy - DATE: Sep 26/23 - Mel is an excellent tour guide. He is willing to take you on paths that are not just the ordinary path all tourist go to. He is a very pleasant person to be with and his van is very comfortable. As he gets to know you better during the day he is not afraid to change the schedule when he thinks of something he knows we will like to see. Our trip with Mel was the highlight of our entire trip and if we are in the Halifax area again we will certainly book with him again.

JON KIMMINAU

TUCSON, AZ, United States

Halifax, The Titanic & Fisherman's Cove - DATE: Sep 25/23 - Mel was an outstanding tour guide. Great personal stories and back-street tours. He took us places busses can't possibly go. He took wonderful care of us - very professional, but personal. One of the highlights for us is that he understands geocaching and made sure we got the opportunity to look for several. He even joined in the fun! Our father has limited handicap, and Mel took great care of him. His PA system made it very easy to hear him. We enjoyed our day very much, and highly recommend him.

JAMES OATMAN

Sun Lakes, AZ, United States

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Sep 24/23 - Mel is a terrific tour guide. We did a tour around Halifax and down to Peggy's cove. Mel Had a wealth of information about the area, was extremely friendly and enjoyable conversationalist. We stopped at a great restaurant near Peggy's cove for lunch. I would highly recommend Mel.

CLEMENTINA CLOSE

Halifax, The Titanic & Fisherman's Cove - DATE: Sep 23/23 - Loved it!! Four of us took this private tour on the day our cruise ship was in Halifax. Mel was punctual and his car was clean and comfortable. We learned about the history of Halifax, and about the great Halifax fire of 1917. Then we went to the Titanic grave sites, all the while hearing Mel talk and tell stories. Then we went to Fisherman's Cove where we had a nice seafood lunch. Had a great 41/2 hours with Mel and highly recommend this tour.

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Sep 22/23 - Fantastic tour with Mel around Halifax. I read previous reviews and was paying attention to the many facts he told us, and was ready for his pop quiz! The tour was nicely planned, and he knew all the places to stop with good views for photos.

YVONNENKA EVANS

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Sep 19/23 - Mel was a fun, jokester but so full of historical knowledge and little known facts that kept our interest. He personalized our trip by stopping at McDonalds.

GABRIEL BARNA

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Sep 15/23 - Mel provided a highly informative tour. He has a wealth of detailed information on historical events and presents it in an interesting fashion. We spent an enjoyable five hours with him. I fully recommend him as a local guide.

Julie Scrivener

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Sep 13, 2023 We had an amazing day with Mel! It was a wonderful and very informative tour. He kept our group of 6 engaged the entire day. Really enjoyed seeing Halifax with him! We will absolutely refer Mel to anyone visiting the area!!

DIANE DOTTERWEICH

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Sep 6/23 - Mel is an amazing tour guide! He tells fascinating stories about Halifax and the Titanic on the ride between the various sites which made the tour even more interesting. In addition to seeing the Titanic gravesite and the beauty of Peggy's Cove, we also made stops for scenic views to take some great pictures. We would definitely book Mel again when in Halifax! Wonderful tour! Thank you!

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Sep 1/23 - We had a wonderful tour to Peggy's Cove with Mel. Car was comfortable and his knowledge was great!! A perfect day!!

SHAREECE B.

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Aug 29/23 - Mel was totally the best guide we have ever had! He shared his wealth of knowledge, his humor, and wanted to personalize our tour to make it the best day for us! Highly recommend Mel when visiting Halifax.

DIANNE KANE

Valley Wine Tasting & The Bay of Fundy - DATE: Aug 24/23 - Mel allowed us to customize our tour visiting only wineries that we were interested in. He provided a detailed history of the Halifax area to us and while we had all been there before, he managed to give us insights to details we hadn't heard before. We had a great day and would highly recommend Mel as a tour guide!

NANCY MCGUFFEY

Halifax, The Titanic & Fisherman's Cove - DATE: Aug 10/23 - We spent 5 very enjoyable hours with Mel. He was very informative about Halifax including interesting stories and facts about the 1917 Explosion and the cemetery where Titanic victims are buried. We would highly recommend Mel. He is very knowledgeable, friendly, and flexible. He adjusted our itinerary to meet our interests. Mel's vehicle is comfortable and clean, and he drives safely.

Extended 7 hour Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Aug 21/23 - We very much enjoyed our custom tour of Halifax, the Aspotogan Peninsula and Peggy's Cove with Mel. He was at our cruise ship early. Our first stop was the Titanic graveyard. We arrived before any other traffic! He provided a wealth of information at our stops, as well as during the car ride. The couple that joined us also had a great time. Mel was happy to customize our tour as requested to include the two Swissair Flight memorials, as we had heard the impact while on a vacation in Hubbards in 1998.

Extended Lunenburg/Peggy's Cove - DATE: Aug 16/23 - Mel was very knowledgeable, he was able to fill the time driving with a variety of Canadian, Halifax, & maritime information. He drove well & knew the road conditions avoiding closures.

Halifax, The Titanic & Fisherman's Cove - DATE: Aug 14/23 - Excellent Guide and Tour. Local knowledge a bonus as we were driven around our sites, the beach, coves and the City. Great personality and enough information to keep you attentive and interested. Highly recommended would give 10 stars if I could. Thank you.

6 Day Private Touring of Nova Scotia (Cape Breton), New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island - DATE: Jun 27 to July 2, 2023 - Mel is very highly recommended. He is very experienced and knowledgeable about the local area. Fantastic communication. He put an enormous amount of effort into tailoring this multi-day trip to suit the interests and abilities of his guests.

BRENDA LARION

Valley Wine Tasting & The Bay of Fundy - DATE: Jun 25/23 Mel showed up early for our tour, professionally dressed, his van was clean and he had water bottles for us plus a cooler if it was needed. He took time to get to know us and offered us a personal experience based on our interests, level of physical activity and local 'must sees'. He was a very polite and conscientious driver as well as a fun traveling companion. We loved visiting Blomidon Winery and Wayfarers Tap Room plus the 'off the beaten path' spots where we got some great pictures. We loved it all!

Brenda Larion

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Jun 24, 2023
 Mel showed up early for our tour, was professionally dressed, his van was clean and he had bottles of water and a cooler for our use. He exceeded our expectations in getting to know us and offered a tailored experience based on our interests, level of physical activity and the local must sees. We loved that he went off the beaten path at times He is a very polite and conscientious driver as well as just a great traveling companion. We loved the whole experience and would recommend him in a heartbeat.

California, United States

Experience Peggy's Cove - DATE: Jun 11, 2023
 Mel Z. is an amazing & fun guide! This is our first time in Halifax, he was very welcoming, giving us pins & postcards. Aside from the popular spots, we had a wishlist that Mel was flexible to. He is a wealth of knowledge, we learned so much of the history of Halifax within the 5 hours we were together. At the end of the tour, Mel gave us a map of the waterfront to make sure we didn't get lost getting back to our cruise ship. Highly recommend if ever in Halifax! Thanks Mel! We had a wonderful time.

Terry Hanna

Valley Wine Tasting & The Bay of Fundy - 
DATE: Jun 8, 2023
. We had a great day. Mel is very knowledgeable without sounding like a canned tour guide speech. He was very good at adapting to what we liked.

Karen Mitchell

The Curse of Oak Island, Could it Be !? - DATE: May 29, 2023
 My family and I thoroughly enjoyed our tour of Halifax, Nova Scotia with Mel Z. We let Mel choose the itinerary and he did not disappoint in the slightest! We visited the Titanic graveyard at Fairview Lawn Cemetery, spent time in Lunenburg and Mahone Bay, and even had a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant recommended by Mel. From start to finish, Mel's tour was top-notch. I think it speaks volumes for Mel that even my 17-year-old son was thoroughly engaged. I would highly recommend Mel!!

Extended Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Nov 4/22. - Mel was very considerate of our sites that we wanted to visit. He also threw in a couple we didn't expect. Would definitely recommend him highly.

Extended Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Oct 29/22 - Mel is an outstanding guide! He's thoroughly knowledgeable about the history as well as the current affairs of Halifax and Peggy's Cove. We (a group of 6) asked for any background or information he might have about the Jewish history of the area and he took the time to prepare as much as he could, even taking the trouble to bring us copies of original land grant records showing several grants made to Jews! We really appreciated that effort. You will thoroughly enjoy your tour if you book it with Mel!

Extended Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Oct 28/22 - Our guide Mel Z was excellent. Kind, humorous, knowledgeable, great driver, and all around caring. WE would go with him again.

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Oct 21/22 - Fun, informative and personal! A return visit to Halifax "inspired" by Mel!

Extended Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Oct 17/22 - Time flew by! Mel was amazing and the consummate professional. Very attentive to our personal needs and flexible. So impressed with his local knowledge and took us place the Tour buses don't go. Highly recommend this service!

The Curse of Oak Island, Could It Be ?! DATE: Oct 12/22 - Really enjoyed the tour. Original tour was suppose to be to Oak Island, however, the island was closed to visitors. Mel was able to find out that it was because they (Oak Island) were taking extra precautions due to Covid. We still had an amazing time, learning about the local history, seeing the best views of our destinations and stopping by some extra places like the Titanic graveyard and ... the Oak Island Causeway. Thanks Mel for making this trip extra special!

Extended Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Oct 11/22 - We very much enjoyed the tour given by Mel. He was very knowledgeable on all the areas of the tour given.

Halifax, The Titanic & Fisherman's Cove - DATE: Oct 3/22 - Mel provided an excellent tour - he is knowledgeable, personable and a pleasure to be with. We highly recommend him for any tour of Halifax.

Valley Wine Tasting & The Bay of Fundy - DATE: Sep 16/22 - Nice choice of winery and spot for lunch. Mel is very responsive to requests to personalize the tour. Highly recommend Mel for any tours in the Halifax/Nova Scotia area. Thank you!

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Aug 26/22 - Mel was a wealth of knowledge and entertaining. He took us to all of the popular sites in addition to less popular sites that were very interesting. He was very accommodating and flexible in structuring the tour. We highly recommend Mel and would use him again if returning to Halifax.

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Sep 14/22 - Mel is an absolutely fantastic tour guide. He's very personable and incredibly knowledgeable about the history of Halifax and Nova Scotia, and presented it in an informative and exciting manner. He was also adept at timing visits to local sites so that we avoided the large tour busses as much as possible, and at finding interesting places off the beaten path. The Titanic cemetery and Peggy's Cove in particular were highlights. We very much enjoyed out day with Mel and would recommend him highly.

SUE & VINCE B.

Experience Both Lunenburg & Peggy's Cove - DATE: Sep 9/22 - Fantastic! We saw so many lovely places & learned so much about the culture & history of Nova Scotia.

Experience Both Lunenburg & Peggy's Cove - DATE: Aug 29/22 - We had a great day with Mel. He was willing to adjust the schedule to accommodate us. We were able to see all the amazing sites of Halifax and still have time to look around on our own before having to board our ship. A great day!

Lunenburg and the South Shore - DATE: Aug 16/22 - We had an outstanding experience with Mel on our tour from Halifax to Lunenberg and the South Coast. He is very knowledgeable about the history of Halifax and the entire region and shared wonderful stories and insights. He's highly professional and very personable, and it was a pleasure to spend the day with him. Highly recommended!

Oak Island and Mahone Bay Boat Tour -Customized Tour - DATE: Aug 11/22 - Mel made this tour extraordinary! Even though the island was closed, he planned a fabulous boat tour around island, we ate at the Mug and Anchor and we drove across the causeway!! Mel had many great stories about the island and Halifax. He was great company and very knowledgeable. When the island opens I will definitely book another tour with Mel. Great tour, great guy, great day! He really went over and above! Best Tour Guide EVER! Thanks Mel!

Lunenburg and the South Shore - DATE: Aug 5/22 - Mel was really great, very knowledgeable, enjoyable and he tailored the tour to us. Thank you Mel, we had a great time!

Extended Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Aug 1/22 - Mel was a very gracious and informative guide. We felt we were visiting a friend & enjoying his home town and we loved it. We would highly recommend Mel as a guide as I feel sure he would be intuitive and respond positively to your interests and level of activity as he did with us. Thank you Mel for a great day.

Mr. & Mrs. Claus (and sister Trenette)

Cincinnati, Ohio United States (Summer Home) - North Pole (Winter Home)

Customized Touring of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island - Multi-day - July 12 - 28, 2022 - Mr. & Mrs. Claus and Trenette - This multi-day tour was in the works for almost three years with rescheduling many times due to Covid 19. Mel was always reachable as we planned the touring. The focus was on Oak Island and when we finally rescheduled for last time, our days on tour went from 12 to 17 days. Mel didn't skip a beat ! He made all the arrangements, including accommodations. Mel even presented us with a 50+ page itinerary booklet with daily information, maps and photos. So many highlights to mention. From the Fortress Louisburg and meeting locals upclose with lobster and snow crab to Prince Edward Island with its beautiful countryside. The highlight for us was Oak Island itself with chartered boat tour around oak island with Tony Samson. Later that day we visited New Ross Farm and spent close to 45 minutes chatting with Carmen Legg. Mel ended up treating us like family, including hosting a Family BBQ to celebrate our anniversary. The whole time was special beyond words. Such a high recommendation for any tour. GUIDE NOTE: Please see the gallery for this special tour.

Jim & Laura G.

Peggy's Cove & Prince Edward Island - Customized Multi-day - June 30 - July 8, 2022 - Mel designed and organized a comprehensive tour of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island for us taking into consideration our interests and desires. He drove us in his comfortable van and was charming and entertaining throughout. During the tour, he was always thoughtful and considerate of our needs, and we enjoyed our time with him very much. We would recommend him highly. GUIDE NOTE: Such a wonderful time touring with such well traveled guests. Nothing slowed them down and the smiles on their faces tell me they had a wonderful time. I have added just some of the many Tour Photos taken while on tour.

Extended Peggy's Cove to Experience More - DATE: Jun 16/22 - Awesome experience!!! Mel was so knowledgeable of the area and took us off the beaten path. Definitely would recommend a private tour with him over the crowded bus tours.

Lunenburg & Peggy's Cove Customized Tour - June 15, 2022 - Did a sibling vacation in Halifax and toured with Mel , on a private guided tour with Down East Tours! Absolutely amazing! Beautiful scenery and Mel fit right in with our Family! 😊 Highly recommend Down East Tours! We couldn’t find a car rental but this was much better! Mel knows the area . We didn’t have to worry about a thing! He was very knowledgeable and knew exactly where to take us! We will definitely be back and will definitely call on Mel! Thank you Mel for such a wonderful experience! He can also customize your tour! Since it was our first time we just let him take us where he thought we would enjoy! It was perfect! I would say don’t rent a car! Call Down East Tours instead! Worry free!

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Jun 9/22 - Mel Z. was prompt, professional & super friendly with a sense of humor and wit that'll slice you like warm butter on a freshly steamed lobster, if you let him! Communication before the tour was quick and concise. Car was clean, had bottled water ready and his knowledge and stories, 1st rate! Personality, fugetaboutit, AWESOME. Even had parting gifts for us, are you kidding me!!?? Stop reading, book the man, have a blast.

KATHLEEN ANN C.

Maryland, USA United States

Lunenburg and the South Shore, Halifax - DATE: Jun 4/22 - We had a great trip to Lunenburg with Mel. His local knowledge of this beautiful town made our visit most memorable. Our stops included the Ironworks micro-distillery located in a 19th. century marine blacksmith's shop and the fabulous Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. On the way back to the hotel, Mel took us by the Halifax Public Gardens and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. Mel is a highly competent, knowledgeable, and friendly guide who was very accommodating to all our needs!

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Jun 3/22 - Our tour to Peggy's Cove with Mel began with stops at the Fairview Lawn Cemetery (final resting place for victims of the Titanic sinking) and the Halifax Explosion Memorial Bell Tower. On the way to Peggy's Cove Mel suggested that we visit the S.S. Atlantic Interpretation Center at Terrence Bay. What a great experience we had there! Throughout the entire tour, we found him to be extremely accommodating, knowledgeable, friendly and courteous. We highly recommend Mel!!

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: May 30/22 - Mel did a great job for our group of 6. Especially enjoyed the little fishing villages along the way and the lunch stop for some lobster rolls. He definitely knows his stuff.

Halifax, The Titanic & Fisherman's Cove - DATE: May 10/22 - Mel was wonderful and very attentive to our custom tour. He thought of everything. We would highly recommend him for any group tour.

Valley Wine Tasting & The Bay of Fundy - DATE: Oct 7/21 - Mel was everything we hoped for and more. He worked with us before our tour to ensure it worked for us, and make all the necessary bookings. He arrived right on time, and provided us with lots of interesting info on our way to wine country - not all factual, but he confessed later LOL. He had the day organized perfectly and we had the best time. He recommended a cidery and a vineyard to us, and both were great picks. I would unhesitatingly recommend Mel to others, and would book him again. Thanks Mel!

Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites - DATE: Sep 27/21 - Mel was very knowledgeable, funny and considerate. The tour was easily adjusted to our preferences. Highly recommended!

Experience Both Lunenburg & Peggy's Cove - DATE: Sep 17/21 - Thanks Mel we really enjoyed out tour!

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Nov 13/19 - Beginning with the initial contact and continuing throughout the trip this small company provided amazing guidance and service. Our group of six adventurous women selected the Extended Peggy's Cove and Lighthouse Route. Mel our guide was outstanding and engaging and provided us with in-depth information. All of our questions were met with enthusiasm and professionalism. A fun and great way to spend the day!

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 24/19 - Mel was amazing!! This was my parents 1st cruise and Halifax was the highlight of our trip cuz it was my dad's birthday... Mel volunteered to get a small personalized cake and brought it to Shaw's Landing to surprise him after lunch. His knowledge of the area as well as his engaging personality and humor made the tour fun. He also had a mic that hooked up to his audio system so everyone could hear his commentary. he truly cares about his clients experience. definitely whole heartedly recommend!!

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route, Halifax - DATE: Oct 22/19 - Mel proved to be very professional and reliable. He was flexible despite not having lost sight to be back on time to the ship. Mel, thank you so much for letting us enjoy our hours in Halifax!

Peggy's Cove Customized Coastal Tour - DATE: Oct 18/19 - We spent a great day with Mel yesterday. He was filled with good humor and good information, having lived in Nova Scotia for most of his life. Our visit to the Titanic graveyard and sites of the 1917 Halifax Explosion and memorial were deeply moving. Then driving down the coastline perfectly concluded our 2-week vacation. We stopped at Acadian Maple for treats, at story time with a colorful faux-mariner and for photos along the way -- especially at Peggy's Cove. It was a wonderful day in every way.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 16/19 - Very knowledgeable and professional. Had a great sense of humor. He got us to our tour destination and took us to some very picturesque spots along the way. Would highly recommend.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 13/19 - Mel met us at the dock and over the next 5 hours we covered a lot of ground. We visited the 1917 Explosion Memorial, the cemetery holding the remains of over 100 passengers from the Titanic, and other interesting sites. Highlights included the beautiful leaves on the trees and the visits to two lighthouses, including Peggy's Cove. Mel gave us interesting and knowledgeable commentary wherever we went and was a pleasure to tour with. We would recommend Mel as your tour guide when you visit Halifax.

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 10/19 - We very much enjoyed our tour with Mel to Peggy's Cove with stops along the way as outlined in the tour description. Prior to leaving Halifax there was a stop at the Citadel as well as the ship yard. Mel provided a very interesting narrative of the Halifax Explosion, an event about which we were previously completely unaware. At Peggy's Cove we saw all of the big busses with the cruise ship excursion passenger crowd...and were glad that we had chosen a personal tour instead.

Peggy's Cove; Customized Private Tour - DATE: Oct 7/19 - Very fun tour with Mel. He knows the area and is very flexible depending on our needs.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 5/19 - Mel is knowledgeable, attentive, and adaptive. I had such a good time on our tour. I also appreciated his sense of humor. I will be telling everyone to book a tour with him.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 3/19 - We had a very good tour with Mel today. My wife and o rate him a 5 out of 5 . He is very knowledgeable on the history of the region. We had mentioned that we where interested in the harbour explosion that took place in First World War. He gave us a tour of the memorial and explained the layout of it and what it represented. We truly appreciate the thought and attention that made for a good day around Halifax .

United Kingdom

Halifax Titanic & Fisherman's Cove - DATE: Sep 28/19 - Mel is an excellent, knowledgeable, flexible and lots of fun. We had a great day - would thoroughly recommend him as a guide.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 23/19 - Mel was a great guy. He was comfortable with himself, and exhibited a very real interest in his town and province. He does a lot of reading on his own to be well informed. He was relaxed, did not rush us, let us determine what was most important--in other words, very adaptable and enjoyable to be with.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 19/19 - Our group thoroughly enjoyed our tour with Mel. He was very knowledgeable, easy going and accommodating. He truly made it our experience as we could stay as long or short at any stop he made. He also diverted from any problems on the road so that we would not waste any time. He also had a great sense of humour. He is a definite 5 star tour guide.

Halifax Titanic & Fisherman's Cove - DATE: Sep 16/19 - Mel was an amazing guide. He showed us the most wonderful places in Halifax and showed us out of the way hot spots. His knowledge and they way he told stories made it very entertaining. After talking with others from the ship that did other tours, I feel we had the best deal. If I go back or have friends that do I will definitely recommend a tour with him!!!

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 14/19 - Mel Z provided a entertaining and knowledgeable day. Definitely worth it. We were able to see some spectacular views while learning about local culture, area history and events. We were able to tour some areas not typically visited by group tours where we took some priceless photos. If you want to stop for a bite to eat during the tour ask about Shaw's Landing. Food and service were excellent.

Lunenburg and the South Shore - DATE: Sep 13/19 - Mel is an excellent guide. He spent time explaining various sites and adjusted the schedule based on our needs. He also stopped multiple times for photos. He is highly recommended!

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 11/19 - Informative and entertaining tour. Saw some things we don't think would have possible without Mel's help.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 9/19 - What can we say except, Mel was a fabulous guide! He kept in contact with us ahead of the tour and on the day of our tour, Mel was waiting with our name on a BLUE sign as he had said. The colored sign was easy to sot among all the white ones on the pier! Mel was professional, courteous and extremely knowledgeable of the area. While tropical Dorian had done some damage to the area, Mel took us to all areas as promised! From the Titanic graveyard to Terence Bay, Peggy's Cove. Personable tour guide!

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 6/19 - We had a great day - the memorial on the Halifax explosion, the Titanic graveyard, the Swiss Air memorial, Peggy's cove , and more. What a sunset!!! Mel was able to change our tour at the last minute to avoid Hurricane Dorian and we sure appreciated his flexibility.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 5/19 - Mel was a great tour guide. Emailed the day before to double check our arrangements and was on time for the pick up. He took into account the specific things we asked to definitely make sure we did and made them happen and took us to extra places that were great. He's informative and funny and made the day very worthwhile. He even dropped us off at a museum we wanted to go to on the way back to the ship and airdropped us pictures he had taken during the day. Highly recommend.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Aug 30/19 - Mel gave us an extremely enjoyable day, including some off-the-beaten-path stops that we did not expect. He is a terrific guide -- well spoken as well as a good listener. Highly recommend.

Halifax Titanic & Fisherman's Cove - DATE: Aug 21/19 - Mel was a great tour guide. He went out of his way to make our day enjoyable. I was with my family so the day was planned to keep them interested. Our first stop was at my request (visiting a synagogue) He then took us to the Titanic burial site and was able to get us into the Jewish site also. On our way to Fisherman's Cove he showed us his vast amount of knowledge of the region. His ability to communicate with my teenagers was a big bonus. The day was fantastic and I would recommend him as a guide

Lunenburg and the South Shore - DATE: Aug 16/19 - We were fortunate enough to have the opportunity of spending last Friday (08/16/19) with Mel Z as he took us around parts of Halifax, Oak Island and Lunenburg. Mel offered all sorts of pertinent information and conducted the tour in a safe and efficient manner which made our day extremely enjoyable. Mel was very accommodating and courteous throughout the day (6 hour tour) and allowed us to create our own tour (asked us what we wanted to see upon pick-up). We would give Mel Z the full 5 stars

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Aug 15/19 - Great tour and excellent guide. Mel is knowledgeable, flexible, friendly, and really funny. Highly recommend!

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Aug 5/19 - Absolutely 5 stars from start to finish - very knowledgeable, personable, and fun to be with. Great choice for lunch. Can't recommend highly enough - should be 6 stars!

ELISABETH C.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Aug 1/19 - Mel was awesome! He is very knowledgeable about the important historical events of the area. He went out of his way to accommodate us making sure we were comfortable and gave us more time than he was required to give. He is also funny! We loved the tour!

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Jul 31/19 - We had a wonderful time in Halifax with Mel Z!!!! Friendly, knowledgeable and customized the tour to our requests. Definitely a five plus star experience!!!! Highly recommend!!!!

Extended Lunenburg/Peggy's Cove and the South Shore - DATE: Jul 30/19 - This was a wonderful tour that allowed us to see many different attractions in one day. Mel was a knowledgeable, friendly and humorous guide who gave us so much insight into the south shore of Nova Scotia. Highlights of the tour included Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg. Mel was very accommodating and added a stop to Oak Island at our request. There was comfortable seating for the four adults that went on the tour. Highly recommended. You'll see things that would be difficult to find on your own.

Annapolis Valley / Wine Tasting / Bay of Fundy - DATE: Jul 14/19 - What an outstanding time. This customized tour had something for everyone in our party. Mel was a great host and a lot of fun to travel with. The wines, beers and ciders were excellent and the Annapolis Valley was beautiful. Amazing to watch the tide shifts and learn bits of history about Nova Scotia and Halifax. This is our second time here and we have enjoyed it more than the first. We love the city, region food and people. Thanks Mel for a wonderful time. All 6 of us had fun!

Extended Lunenburg/Peggy's Cove and the South Shore - DATE: Jul 12/19 - We had an exceptional day with Mel at Peggy's Cove and Lunenberg. We got in late to our hotel and was supposed to have a 9am pick up, Mel was very accommodating and picked us up, at 10 so we could get a little more rest. He was very knowledgeable about the area and accommodated all our needs along the way. We had to pick up our rental car and dropped us at the airport on the way back so we wouldn't have to make an extra trip. I would highly recommend Mel

Annapolis Valley / Lunenburg / Peggy's Cove - 2 Day Customized Touring - DATE: Jul 5/19 - We had a wonderful time with Mel. His knowledge of the area allowed us to see places we wouldn't have even thought to look for on our own. His friendly personality and sense of humor made for a fun-filled, joyous adventure.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Jul 2/19 - Knowledgeable, likable, responsive, good driver driving good car. Good fun. You can put "very" in front of all of these. A joy.

Annapolis Valley / Wine Tasting / Bay of Fundy - DATE: Jul 1/19 - Great tour!!! Highly recommend Mel!

CHRISTINA K.

Extended Lunenburg/Peggy's Cove and the South Shore - DATE: Jun 30/19 - What a special day and Mel even took me to the Peggy's cove authors house and I got to meet and hear about how the story was created. I had 2 amazing days with Mel and his knowledge of the area was amazing. He managed to even tell tall tales which added to the enjoyment of the day.

.Annapolis Valley / Wine Tasting / Bay of Fundy - DATE: Jun 29/19 - Mel was enthusiastic and willing to take me off the beaten path and change things up. He took the time to make sure I was well hydrated and fed and educated me during the entire tour. I enjoyed the tour and would recommend him as a guide.

Switzerland

Annapolis Valley / Wine Tasting / Bay of Fundy - DATE: Jun 23/19 - Hooray! Mel brought the sun and gave us a great day viewing the Fundy low tide. We also got glimpses of the charming towns and farms outside of Halifax with a few stops for scenic photos along the way. However, beware of the dumpster detours (with a "u") and be grateful if you don't have to ride home with old windows in your laps. Mel's a fun guy (despite the corny jokes!) and showed us another great, fish n' chips day. Hope to see you again, Mel.

, Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Jun 21/19 - Despite the uncooperative weather, a very nice day of foggy photo ops to and from Peggy's Cove. Mel's one of the good guys - easy to talk to, aims to please and takes you to great lunch places! Looking forward to Sunday, Mel. Bring the sun!!

Canada / China

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Jun 7/19 - Great time tour to Peggy's cove, Mel is best tour guide, he is very friendly, funny, helpful, very patient, very knowledgeable for all the history sites in Halifax. His vehicle very clean make sure every detail give customer a best comfortable experience. Thank you very much for the great tour!

PALM SPRINGS, CA, United States

Extended Lunenburg/Peggy's Cove and the South Shore - DATE: Jun 3/19 - Mel was an excellent guide, always looking out for our interests. He was flexible in modifying the itinerary due to weather conditions and never rushed us. He was very knowledgeable about the area and his love for touring made the tour special. I would recommend Mel to anyone who wants a personable guide with positive energy and professional attitude.

Halifax Titanic & Fisherman's Cove - DATE: May 22/19 - GREAT TOUR!! We did this as a cruise excursion and all 6 of us enjoyed the tour. Mel is a funny & social tour guide but also very knowledgeable of the area. I would recommend this tour in a heartbeat. The private tours can't be beat especially when you have a tour guise like Mel! ::two thumbs up::

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: May 9/19 - We had a great tour with Mel. Went to some neat out-of-the-way places and he timed our visit to Peggy's Cove to avoid the tour busses. Finished with lunch at a small spot with great food and a quick drive through some of the nice residential areas of Halifax.

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Apr 12/19 - Mel was friendly, knowledgeable and went out of his way to make us comfortable during the tour.

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Nov 6/18 - We planned a full day's exploration with Mel but didn't plan on a day-long rainstorm. Mel improvised a new plan and showed us wonderful sights in and around Halifax and out to some charming fishing villages. A memorable day, even if a wet one. (Damp) hats off to Mel!

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 30/18 - Our tour of Halifax with Mel Z was wonderful. He was very informative and flexible. Some of our party had difficulty walking and he was able to accommodate us all. I would highly recommend him for your Halifax excursions. He knew exactly where to go to miss the crowds from the cruise ship and we got to see all of the sites before the ship's buses arrived. Thanks Mel - We enjoyed the lobster lunch! - Lisa and Jeff

Oceanport, NEW JERSEY, United States

Peggy's Cove Customized - DATE: Oct 25/18 - What an incredible day we spent with Mel! Mel made the the day so memorable and the knowledge he shared about the region was so interesting. We wanted to travel to Annapolis to visit some wineries but the 'pull' to visit the memorial for the Swiss Air crash victims was something we will never forget. The restaurant Mel selected for lunch was spectacular, He was so thoughtful . . . umbrellas to protect us and wine to share at the various breath taking views. Thank you Mel for the wonderful day!

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route, Halifax - DATE: Oct 23/18 - Our tour guide, Mel was wonderful. Very knowledgeable about the history of the area. We had a last minute changes in plans, he was very accommodating in making it work. Well worth the cost. I was concerned about getting in and out of the vehicle because I have a bad knee. Contacted Mel ahead of time and he assured me he had a sturdy stool to use, it worked great. I highly recommend this tour. It was the highlight of our trip.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 18/18 - Mel is an excellent guide thanks

Leander, TX, United States

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 14/18 - We just got back from our tour with Mel and he was a fantastic tour guide! He is very knowledgeable and tailored our trip to our interests...we couldn't of had a better day! Mel you ROCK! Thanks for a wonderful day and wonderful memories! From the 4 crazy Texas ladies!

Extended Day to Prince Edward Island - DATE: Oct 6/18 - Mel personalized this tour for us. It was a long day, but well worth the time. We toured PEI and thanks to Mel's vehicle we were able to see sights that no bus tour would be able to offer. We traveled over the Confederation Bridge, saw potatoes being harvested, visited Anne of Green Gables history sites, saw incredible scenery, learned many interesting facts..... and enjoyed many laughs. I would give more than 5 stars if I could!!!

Alberta, Canada

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 4/18 - Mel was awesome! He went above and beyond as he took many photos of us at Peggy's Cove which he air-dropped to us later. Not only is he an fantastic tour guide, he is an accomplished photographer. We also appreciated his concern for our safety on the rocks and near the ocean.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 4/18 - What a great day! Mel met us as we left the cruise ship and took us on a great local journey. He set up the day to avoid larger tours in key places like Peggy's Cove. We enjoyed all of his personal places to visit and lunch in a cozy harbor area. He is very knowledgeable about the area and enlightened us on all of the history of the Halifax area. Thank you for a great day!

Annapolis Valley / Wine Tasting / Bay of Fundy - DATE: Oct 1/18 - We could not have been any happier with Mel! I would highly recommend Mel, as he was knowledgeable, courteous, punctual and FUN!

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 30/18 - This was absolutely spectacular, informative, fun tour! Mel has extensive knowledge of history, geography, and great sense of humor! 100% recommended.

Peggy's Cove Customized - DATE: Sep 28/18 - Tour was fantastic, Mel did a great job of taking us to lovely little beaches and coves and avoiding the crowds. He even managed to find us quiet spots at Peggy's Cove so we could experience the ocean and the Cove away from all the big Tour buses there that day. Delicious lobster lunch as well. We highly recommend Mel and his tours. Janifer and Beth from Australia

Peggy's Cove & Lunenburg Extended - DATE: Sep 25/18 - We worked with Mel over a number of months to design a one day coastal tour of Nova Scotia. And the end result was perfect. We had a marvelous 8 hours touring in the Jeep to major towns and hidden coves with lunch at the lovely Kiwi Café in Chester (owned by a New Zealander!). Thank you Mel.

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 22/18 - A fantastic day with Mel. We saw everything we wanted to see. He also showed us some out of the way locations. Highly recommend Mel for Halifax.

Lunenburg and the South Shore - DATE: Sep 21/18 - This was a great time. Mel showed us a lot of Halifax and was a very great person. Would recommend him to everyone.

Seven Day East Coast Highlight Tour - DATE: Sep 14/18 He was terrific! He took us where the normal person wouldn't go, saw lots of side roads, back roads, a great way to see the country. He truly exceeded our expectations. He was the number one man to do this for us!

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 13/18 - Mel was extremely helpful to us. My husband uses a wheelchair and Mel made it easy or us to get around. He even pumped up the wheel chair tires for us when that became necessary. He also selected a delightful restaurant for lunch.

Annapolis Valley / Wine Tasting / Bay of Fundy - DATE: Sep 12/18 - Mel provided a great tour of Annapolis Valley. The timing of our trip gave us an opportunity to see the difference between low and high tide. It was a very enjoyable time. When we come back to the area, we will schedule another tour with him.

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 11/18 - Mel was the perfect tour guide! He responded quickly to questions and greeted us with a smile as soon as our cruise boat docked. He was attentive to our every need throughout the day and was a wealth of interesting facts about Halifax. My elderly dad had hurt his leg and was having some trouble getting around and Mel was so kind and helpful. He carried a chair around for my dad so that he could sit down whenever he needed to. It meant a lot to us. Thanks Mel! We enjoyed our day with you!!

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 7/18 - Great fun traveling in the Jeep and this is the way to get a local's perspective to experience stunning Halifax. We thoroughly enjoyed our day. Mel was a great guide and left us with great memories. Thank you!

Annapolis Valley / Wine Tasting / Bay of Fundy - DATE: Sep 3/18 - Such a lovely afternoon we spent in Halifax with our guide Mel! What a personable, courteous, informative & funny gentleman. He customized our tour and we saw exactly what we were interested in seeing. He also helped us with a dinner reservation and drop-off for that same evening. As we only had less than a day in Halifax, we feel we saw all of the highlights. Mel even emailed us with directions and sites to see along the way for our next day's itinerary! Thanks Mel! Highly to be recommended!

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Aug 27/18 - We hired Mel Z for a tour of Halifax. What a absolute gem! He is an excellent tour guide, both knowledgeable and experienced. Couple that with his entertaining personality - made this tour one to remember. Very flexible and accommodating. I would highly recommend him.

Annapolis Valley / Wine Tasting / Bay of Fundy - DATE: Aug 15/18 - Mel was very knowledgeable and tailored the tour to our special needs. He was very courteous and considerate and we really enjoyed our tour and the selection of places to visit was perfect.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Jul 30/18 - My husband and I decided to book a private tour while on a cruise ship, hoping that we would see a little more than if we took a ship tour. Mel was very personable and worked hard to give us the tour we wanted. Could not fault the day. We enjoyed every place he showed us. He had a lot of local knowledge and was very informed about all the locations he took us to. Our seafood lunch was awesome. Highly recommend.

Oak Island and South Shore Coastline Tour - DATE: Jul 10/18 - Mel was a complete gentleman and we very much enjoyed our trip to Oak Island. He was very knowledgeable and had a joke for everything. If you do take the tour stop by the Mug and Anchor for lunch, spectacular harbor views from the patio.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Jun 25/18 - Mel was a great tour guide. He was very knowledgeable about Peggy's Cove and it was fun riding in his Jeep. He recommended a great place for lunch called Shaw's Landing. The lobster grilled cheese and lobster bisque was awesome. He was very accommodating and friendly. His Jeep tour sure beat any bus tour we took the rest of the week! Thank you Mel!

Annapolis Valley / Wine Tasting / Bay of Fundy - DATE: Jun 26/18 - Our group of four truly enjoyed the tour of the Annapolis area with our guide Mel. He planned the tour according to our wishes taking into account his vast knowledge of the area. He was extremely knowledgeable, very cordial and had a great sense of humor. He made the day go by in a most enjoyable way. We would recommend him without any reservations. Gail & Artie

Oak Island and South Shore Coastline Tour - DATE: Jun 18/18 - Our tour was amazing! Mel and Karl accommodated all 8 in our group, ranging from ages 68 to 14. The jeeps were comfortable and fun. Both guides were informative, relaxed, and a joy to be around. They had great personalities and they worked specifically to ensure we received a personalized tour based on what we requested. Oak Island was neat to see. We would love to come back and be able to tour the dig site. Lunch was phenomenal and the Titanic burial site was a cool piece of history. Thanks again!

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route, - DATE: May 10/18 - This was by far the best guided tour my wife and I received. We decided to have the tour just for the two of us. Comprehensive, professional, great car, we stopped for an amazing lunch location suggested by our guide Mel and it was amazing, absolutely the best fish and chips as well as the rest of the lunch. Greatly recommend Mel. NO COMPLAINTS AT ALL, NOT EVEN A SUGGESTION. It was the best * * * * * stars absolutely.

Extended Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: May 6/18 - Great tour! Mel knew all the facts, history, lore and even the tall tales of the area. A pleasant day long excursion.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 29/17 - We had the highlight of our Silversea cruise with Mel. Great 6 hours. Mel very knowledgeable about Halifax and took us to the real Halifax wonderful stops. Highly recommend Mel when in Halifax.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 18/17 - Mel was great

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Oct 13/17 - Great guide, funny and personable. I would highly recommend him to anyone wanting a great tour.

North Port, FL, United States

Fisherman's Cove - DATE: Sep 14/17 - Thank you Mel for showing us the Halifax and Fisherman's village area. We enjoyed meeting you and spending the day with you as you showed us around Halifax and the drive to Fisherman's Village. Nice lunch in a local restaurant and time in the Fisherman's Village area felt part of the area. Thanks to your keen eye sight you were able to spot and get us up close to "Murray the Moose". Thank you and here is to many happy tours in the future.

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 13/17 - Tons of fun!! Mel and Karl "caravanned" our party of 6, three in each jeep. It was obvious from the time we stepped off the cruise ship that this was very much our personal tour with 2 very fun and happy guys!! Wonderful conversations, Mel had many stories to share and it was a blast. We saw much more than Peggy's Cove since we took fun side trips along the way helping us to understand a lot about Halifax!! Mel Rocks!!

Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse Route - DATE: Sep 11/17 - Mel met us as planned at the port building with my name on a sign. Since the day was windy and a touch overcast, he has the top on the Jeep. We discussed our plan and headed out. He did a great job of mixing regular tourist stops with out of the way, uncrowded spots, for us to visit. He called ahead for our table at a superb local spot for lunch. Mel was full of information on the area. We had a great tour and returned on time to our drop off spot. Thanks again!

Annapolis Valley / Wine Tasting / Bay of Fundy - DATE: Aug 28/17 - Mel did a great job and helped customized our experience.

Frequently Asked Questions Answered Here

Corona virus / covid-19 update.

• Travelers should not go on tour if you, or someone with whom you have been in contact, are sick or are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms (such as cough, fever, shortness of breath). Travelers can contact us if they need to cancel their tour at the last minute.
• Avoid physical contact between guide and traveler; no hugs/handshakes.
• Hand sanitizer, spare masks and wipes will be available at all times.
• Wear masks while in enclosed spaces such as in vehicles and suggested in other enclosed spaces such as museums.
• Be aware of and respect local health and safety regulations and advisories.
• Vehicles will be deep cleaned/sanitized before and after each tour, including all surfaces to be properly sanitized.
• Confirm ground rules, to make them aware of local regulations and advisories, and to gauge their level of comfort with any associated risks.
• Provide travelers with the information and time they will need to make any necessary preparations for the tour (e.g. arranging personal supplies such as water, food, sanitizer, masks, wipes).
• Arrange meeting locations which allow for optimal physical distancing - for instance, open areas free from crowding.
• Actively protect travelers from others who are not respecting their space or adhering to safety measures.
• Plan routes and itineraries to avoid crowds and busy periods.
• Schedule regular hand washing breaks.
• Wash/sanitize hands frequently;
• Cough or sneeze only into a closed elbow
• Avoid shared items
• Maintain physical distance between yourself and those outside your bubble.

How do I book a tour ?

How much does a tour cost and what are taxes , what payment methods do you accept , what is your payment, refund and cancellation policy, how do i customize a tour , where can you pick me up , we are arriving on a cruise ship. how much time do we have for a tour , we are arriving on a cruise ship. how will we find you , how much spending money do i need and in what currency , what is the tour vehicle , do you have any passenger restrictions , have questions that need answering, send us a message and we will respond within 24hrs. thanks mel z..

• Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
•   +1-902-222-2934  -  Down East Tours
•   [email protected]

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Peggy's Cove & Lighthouse

Discover the beauty of Peggy's Cove and its iconic lighthouse, as you immerse yourself in the rich maritime history and natural splendor of the area.

Halifax, Titanic & Fisherman's Cove

Discover the captivating tales of the Titanic and immerse yourself in the picturesque charm of Fisherman's Cove with our exclusive tour package. Book your private tour today !

Annapolis Valley & The Bay of Fundy

Indulge in the breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders of the Annapolis Valley and Bay of Fundy on our exceptional tour. Nova Scotia wines and the highest tides in the world. Book your private tour today !

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Discover the rich maritime heritage and stunning coastal landscapes of Lunenburg, Mahone Bay and the South Shore on our personalized excursions.

Oak Island and the South Shore Coastline

Embark on an adventure to uncover the secrets of the Oak Island with the beauty of Nova Scotia's coastline with a private tour.

Experience Both Lunenburg & Peggy's Cove

Experience the best of both worlds as you explore the quaint streets of Lunenburg and the rugged coastline of Peggy's Cove.

Extended Day to Prince Edward Island

Make the most of your time on Prince Edward Island with our extended day service, providing convenient transportation and added flexibility for your island adventure.

Customized Multi-day Tours

Discover the joy of personalized travel with our customized multi-day tours, where we work closely with you to design a one-of-a-kind journey packed with memorable experiences and exciting adventures.

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•   Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

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Nova Scotia Tours & Trips from Halifax

An adventure starting in Halifax is a great way to see Nova Scotia. We have 22 tours that range from 5 days up to 13 days. The most popular time for tours from Halifax is September, which has the most tour departures.

22 Nova Scotia tours from Halifax with 639 reviews

• Train & Rail

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

Our overall experience was good, but were very disappointed by our stay in the last hotel, the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth in Montreal.

• In-depth Cultural

Landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes (Small Group, 12 Days)

Atlantic Maritimes

What an amazing tour, it was perfect! The tour guide and driver were exceptional. The tour is perfectly structured, I would definitely travel with Atlantic tours again????

Best of the Canadian Maritimes

Canadian Maritimes Adventure

Landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes (Classic, 12 Days)

This was our 7th trip with Insight and this was a nice paced tour of the Maritimes. The tour director was excellent as well as the coach driver. As long as my wife and I can keep traveling we'll be going with Insight.

• Walking Adventure
• Sightseeing

Canadian Maritimes and Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2025)

• Coastal Walks
• Hiking & Trekking

Maritimes Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2024)

I had a great experience on this Colette tour with Bernadette and Dave. They were excellent guides and drivers, and the tour was well-organized. I would recommend it.

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

Wonders of the Bay of Fundy

Excellent tour guide, excellent sight seeing with knowledgeable guides, covered highlights in the area traveled and the weather was great which certainly added to my enjoyment

The Maritimes: Nova Scotia

My husband and I did the tour of the Martimes in Nova Scotia. It was beautiful country. Our tour guide, Louise, was fantastic. She is so kind and caring; she is an amazing safe driver. She's always there for you. The only thing I didn't like about the trip was the motel in Baddeck. It was so old; musty smelling. Needs a total renovation. Everything about it was pretty awful. No-one on the trip was happy with this hotel. Other than that, we did enjoy the rest of the trip. the other hotels were fine. The Picnic Louise arranged was a lot of fun and the hike was awesome on the Cabot trail.

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

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

It was an excellent trip!

• Coach / Bus

Enchanting Canadian Maritimes (10 Days)

Fantastic trip. Well organised and friendly, approachable staff. Was so easy to see so much more than we could have organised on our own. Met some lovely people. So much fun! Will definitely do a tour again and highly recommend.

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

What people love about Nova Scotia Tours from Halifax

What an amazing tour, it was perfect! The tour guide and driver were exceptional. The tour is perfectly structured, I would definitely travel with Atlantic tours again?

This was our 7th trip with Insight and this was a nice paced tour of the Maritimes. The tour director was excellent as well as the coach driver. As long as my wife and I can keep traveling we'll be going with Insight.

Tours starting from Halifax

• Halifax to Halifax tours (19)
• Explorer from Halifax (18)
• Family from Halifax (13)
• In-depth Cultural from Halifax (12)