halifax travel alone

Halifax Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Halifax , Canada? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• Founded in 1749, Halifax is the capital of Nova Scotia and has a population of around 420,000 .
• An important seaport , it is the largest urban area in the Atlantic provinces of Canada.
• A popular tourist destination, Halifax is known as the home of Alexander Keith’s Pale Ale.
• Nickname: The City of Trees.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  Canadian Dollar  (CAD).
• Spoken languages: predominantly  English .
• Best time to visit: from  May  to  October .   Summers are mild and not too humid, while winters are cold (though far from the coldest in Canada!)
• Arriving via airport: public transportation by bus costs $4.25 CAD per ride (exact fare is required). Taxis from the airport to downtown cost approximately $70 CAD .
• Uber is not always readily available at the airport. For those pressed for time, you’re better off pre-booking a taxi from the airport (they will track your flight). A reputable company is Deeplink Airport Taxi (+1 902 412 8832).

WHERE TO STAY

• Best hostel for solo travelers: Halifax Backpackers . The main draw here is the downtown location – just a 15 minute walk to Argyle Street (where all the action is). Clean rooms, decent common areas, and friendly/welcoming staff. As good as hostels get in Halifax – make sure to book ahead!
• Anywhere downtown would be convenient for a city trip.
• Great neighborhoods include: Dartmouth , Bedford , and the Harbour area.

GETTING AROUND

• Halifax operates MetroTransit, a public transportation system that includes buses and a ferry service. The cost for bus or ferry services is $2.75 per ride . MetroX (express buses) cost $4.25 per ride .
• Instead of bothering with taxis, consider calling an Uber (using their smartphone app). It’s generally cheaper and faster than a regular cab.

HALIFAX NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 19 and last call is 3 AM to 4 AM , depending on the bar.
• Fun fact: Halifax has more pubs per capita  than any other city in Canada!
• Main nightlife areas:  Sackville Street , Grafton Street ,   and Brunswick Street .
• College scene:  Argyle Street , Gottingen Street or Barrington Street .
• Great bars to start your night: The Brown Hound Public House, Niche Lounge, The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse, Henry House (British pub), Propeller Arcade (video arcade bar), Roxbury Urban Dive Bar (younger crowd), The Split Crow Pub, and The Loose Cannon.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• Halifax Public Gardens  – a Victorian inspired garden that has been open to the public since 1875. One of the city’s best nature walks.
• Citadel National Historic Site  – an 18 th Century fort with fabulous views of Halifax – one of the most visited historical sites in Canada.
• The Fairview Lawn Cemetery is best known as the final resting place for over 100 victims of the RMS Titanic . There is also a memorial for the victims of the Halifax explosion.
• Lawrencetown Beach  A 1.5km long beach that has great surfing conditions but the water tends to be on the cold side here. This is a popular beach and is family friendly.

INTERESTING WALKS

• Chain of Lakes Trail is a 7.25 km walk that takes visitors through the Bayers Lakes Industrial Park to the Lakeside Business Park.
• Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk is a 3.8 km walk along Halifax’s famous and beautiful waterfront. Visitors can also take a carriage ride along the boardwalk and see incoming cruise and cargo ships.
• Urban exploration : start from the steps of the Maritime Centre on Barrington Street and explore the surrounding areas.

LOCAL WISDOM

• Halifax has a strong connection to the  Titanic  tragedy – many of the recovery ships came from the city. There is a permanent Titanic Museum at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
• Great restaurants to try in Halifax: Verano Food Purveyors, El Chino Snack Bar, Kanpai Izakaya, Aster Cafe (Ethiopian), Shiraz Restaurant (Persian), Kee Heong (cheap dim sum!), The Imperial Bombay.
• Dangerous areas : Halifax is generally a safe city, but has a few troubled areas. At night, it is recommended that you avoid  Highland Park , Preston , Cherrybrook , and Central Halifax (near the MacDonald Bridge) .  

Recommended trip duration: 1-2 days

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18 Delightful Things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia (+ Historic & Hidden Gems)

Planning a trip to Canada’s Ocean Playground anytime soon? We’ve got you covered in our one stop guide to all the best things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia. This beautiful maritime city is chocked full of fun things to do revolving around its deep relationship and history with the Atlantic Ocean.

We knew going into our visit that we were going to enjoy Halifax, but what we discovered is that we LOVE Halifax and how easy it is to get to from the NorthEast US!

We’ve suggested the best Halifax attractions to check out on your next trip whether you’re a first time visitor or a return visitor our guide will help you pick what to do in Halifax. From museums to finding local gems (plus all the lobster you can handle) we curated our favorite things we checked out during our trip.

Also, be sure to check out our Nova Scotia road trip itinerary guide to help you plan your amazing trip.

And special thanks to our good friend and local Haligonian Cailin of Travel Yourself for being our personal Halifax tour guide! Be sure to check out her blog and Youtube channel for all her amazing content on the area.

Disclaimer: This post contains commissionable links.

Brief Background of Halifax

Before your trip and exploring all the best Halifax attractions, we recommend brushing up on some history and interesting facts about the city and its history.

The Tragic Halifax Explosion

Did you know the world’s largest man-made explosion before the atomic bomb happened right here in Halifax’s harbor? The famous Halifax explosion happened on December 6, 1917, when the Norwegian vessel SS Imo and the French cargo ship carrying explosives, SS Mont-Blanc collided in the harbor.

The impact caused a huge explosion that took the lives of over 2,000 people and injured over 9,000 people while completely destroying the city of Halifax. 

If that wasn’t devastating enough, the blast caused a chain reaction of events including a tsunami wave that wiped out a community of Mi’kmaq who were indigenous to Nova Scotia and part of the First Nations. 

If you look closely you can still see the scars of this tragic event that took place and it’s deeply connected with the history of the city to this day. Be sure to see one of our best things to do in Halifax below for one of the most well-known legends tied to the explosion at St. John’s Church.

Halifax’s Connection to the Titanic

Halifax has a connection to one of the deadliest and worst maritime disasters in history. When the Titanic sank off the coast of Newfoundland on April 14, 1912, Halifax was the closest major port to the incident. Relatives and immigration officials of the victims on the Titanic came from New York City to Halifax where the city was commissioned to send ships to recover bodies.

There were 209 bodies brought back to Halifax and 150 are still present as their final resting place throughout three different cemeteries including Fairview Lawn Cemetery which has the most Titanic victims, Mount Olivet Cemetery, and Baron de Hirsch Cemetery.

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, one of our picks for top things to do in Halifax, is also home to the largest collection of wooden artifacts recovered from the Titanic and is worth checking out!

History in the Name

Did you know Nova Scotia means New Scotland? Early Scottish settlers in 1621, under Sir William Alexander, convinced the King of Scotland that they needed a New Scotland, which in Latin is Nova Scotia.

What to do in Halifax

Halifax waterfront boardwalk.

Easily one of the best things do to in Halifax during your trip is walk along North America’s longest wooden boardwalk at Halifax waterfront! Plenty of what to do in Halifax is actually located on the boardwalk or just steps away.

Plenty of our top picks for fun things to do in Halifax are actually right here on the waterfront. From shops, restaurants, bars, and other Halifax attractions you can find them along the boardwalk.

During our visit, a section of the boardwalk was actually removed and replaced with a floating boardwalk because of construction. This was actually quite interesting to walk on because you’re walking on water and you’ll need to bust out our sea walking legs for this portion.

Besides having a great selection of eateries, places to grab a drink, and shop you can also just come down to the waterfront and enjoy the view. There are hammocks and Adirondack chairs where you’ll find locals and visitors relaxing by the water.

Halifax Citadel Hill National Historic Site

Another great Halifax attraction to visit just a few steps up a steep incline is Citadel Hill, or Fort George known as Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

The fortress was built here in 1749 by the British when they colonized Halifax to defend the city from their enemies located perched on this hill so it was easy to spot and defend from any potential threats. 

Although, it’s worth noting that this citadel actually wasn’t ever attacked during it’s time as a fortification and today it serves as a historic landmark and museum for visitors.

You can visit the Halifax Citadel Army Museum inside the citadel entrance or if you want a free fun thing to do in Halifax you can come at 12 noon when they shoot the daily canon off the top of the citadel to signal its midday.

This Halifax attraction is a great spot to visit to also get a view of the harbor and city from a higher point!

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

One of the best things to do in Halifax if you want to learn more about Nova Scotia’s maritime history is visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. This museum houses a collection of over 30,000 artifacts including the world’s largest collection of wooden artifacts recovered from the Titanic , exhibits on the Halifax explosion, and multiple buildings along the waterfront housing collections as well as a rotational exhibit.

The Titanic section was particularly interesting because the rescue and first responders to the Titanic were from Nova Scotia. They were able to recover and collect a perfectly intact wooden deck chair from the Titanic as well as other wooden objects that were floating after the sinking.

During our visit, there was an excellent temporary exhibit on Nova Scotian women and their relationship with the sea called, “The Sea in Her Blood.”

Another Halifax attraction not to be missed at the museum is the restored 19th-century Robertson Store, a former ship supply store that feels like it was frozen in time.

Another exhibit includes the HMCS Sackville, a WWII warship on the waterfront.

Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

One of our favorite museums and things to do in Halifax was visit the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia. Their collection features over 17,000 works that have strong ties to Nova Scotia housed in two different buildings with many different exhibits featuring many historical and modern Canadian artists among other international artists.

What made this Halifax attraction extra special to us would be the Maud Lewis exhibit here. Lewis was a local folk artist who passed away in 1970. She received most of her recognition in the 1960s for her folk art and work.

Critics argue that while she was famously known for her paintings, her home was actually her best piece of work. Her tiny home that she shared with her husband in Marshalltown, Nova Scotia was a living piece of art. Lewis handpainted the interior and exterior of the home. 

Today, you can find the original home on display here in the art museum as well as several pieces of her work which I had a strong personal connection with. Her work included much of the local culture and heritage from sap collecting for maple syrup to the adorable cats. 

Don’t miss a visit to the gift shop either where they have some Maud Lewis souvenirs you can buy to take home a little piece of Nova Scotia folk art home with you. If you want to learn more about Maud’s life be sure to check out the 2016 film, “Maudie,” starring Ethan Hawke and Sally Hawkins.

This is definitely a top pick for what to do in Halifax for art and museum lovers, and definitely worth checking out for Maud Lewis’ works alone!

Halifax Seaport Farmers Market

Our next pick for what to do in Halifax is visit North America’s oldest continuously operating farmer’s market! Operating since 1750, the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market is a great place to go if you’re looking for some fresh local produce, food, and other local goodies from maple syrup to local rum.

The farmer’s market has actually moved to various locations throughout the city in its lifetime including being hosed in Alexander’s Keiths Brewery building before making its way to its modern and permanent location on the waterfront boardwalk.

Visiting the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market is one of the most fun things to do in Halifax on the weekends when it’s most lively, but you can visit on week days too! There are over 250 vendors so get ready to do some shopping.

We missed visiting on the weekend and it was pretty dead on a Monday morning, but if you happen to be in the area it’s worth stopping in to get a look at this famous Halifax attraction and the great view of George’s Island and lighthouse.

Take the Halifax Harbour Ferry to Dartmouth

Our next pick for one of the best things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia is also one of the least expensive ways to get a great view of the city from the water! Hop on the Halifax Transit Harbour Ferry for just $2.75 CAD (cash only) on the waterfront to Dartmouth for an incredible view of the city from the water and to take you to a new area to explore!

The ferry schedule runs around every 15-30 minutes, so this can be a quick and fun thing to do in Halifax to see beyond the historical city center and waterfront boardwalk.

Once you get to Dartmouth you can walk up to a few of the local breweries including a craft cider spot. Walking distance from the ferry are New Scotland Brewing Co. , Lake City Cider , and Brightwood Brewery .

One of our favorite meals was also in Dartmouth at Doraku , they have a great omakase lunch special!

We recommend exploring up and down Portland Street before heading back to the Halifax Ferry Terminal on the Halifax side of the harbor.

Track Theodore Too Tugboat – A Former Halifax Harbour Icon!

Okay, I am so sad to report that one of my favorite Halifax attractions is no longer in Halifax since our first visit in 2019. Theodore Too Tugboat is the happiest and coolest boat I’ve ever seen. With his big orange hat and moving eyes, I couldn’t keep my eyes off of him!

He used to be docked in the Halifax Harbour and take tourists on joyful rides! And if you’re wondering who Theodore Too is, he’s modeled after a classic children’s animation from the 1990s called Theodore Tugboat.

After 20 years in Halifax, he went for sale in 2020 and sold for a half a million buckaroos. When I saw the announcement he was for sale, I really wished I had the funding to purchase and own Theodore Too!

He ended up going to a buyer with plans to bring him to the Great Lakes for conservation and educational purposes.

I know, I should remove Theodore Too from my guide to what to do in Halifax since you can’t physically see him here anymore, but in the spirit of his long-standing tradition in Halifax Harbour, I am keeping him here as you can track his current location on Vessel Finder and think of him when you’re in Halifax.

And when you’re at a local brewery, distillery, or cidery you can pour one out for Theodore Too.

Check Out the Street Art Scene

Something we really love about a city is when it embraces a creative and art scene whether that be through public sculptures and art or through inviting artists to make the city a bit more colorful with murals!

If this sounds like something that resonates with you, one of the best things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia is to do a little impromptu and DIY street art tour checking out all the colorful murals and art around the city.

There are plenty of different murals scattered throughout the city and you’ll most likely encounter some by happen chance while wandering around different Halifax attractions by foot. Others are located a bit out of the walkable city center that you might see while driving by. 

The nature of street art is that it’s not permanent. So many of the murals from our visits in 2019 were no longer there in 2023 when we returned. Part of the beauty is that the walls will periodically change making way for new artwork to be featured..

What’s nice is you’ll likely encounter many while checking out many of the things to do in Halifax featured on this guide, but if you want to seek out some of the murals and artwork intentionally, you can check out this self-guided downtown Halifax art tour and map .

Check out the Colorful Agricola Street

We just love a row of colorful homes! They make for the perfect photos and pops of color just radiate happiness to us! One of the best Instagram spots in Halifax and fun things to check out are the row of colorful homes on Agricola Street.

You can find this row of colorful houses at the corner of Agricola Street and Willow Street. I am not going to lie, when we shared this photo on Instagram we got so many people asking us where this photo was taken! So I am going to consider it a hidden gem since it was thanks to our local friend Cailin who brought us here.

If you’re thirsty, head to Unchained Cider nearby (I swear, Nova Scotia has some of the best cideries ever!) or if you’re hungry you can dine at Agricola Street Brasserie.

Visit the Halifax Central Library

Whether you’re a bibliophile or not, visiting the Halifax Central Library was one of our favorite things to do in Halifax! This library is an architectural masterpiece and a work of art in and of itself. Recognized worldwide and critically acclaimed for its architectural features and design, this isn’t your average library.

The modern exterior design of the library resembles a stack of books while the interior is made up of beautiful minimal clean lines and staircases. We aren’t going to lie, the interior of the library reminded us a bit of the gorgeous design inside the Canadian Museum of Human Rights in Winnipeg .

Besides being home to a huge collection of books and being one of the coolest hangout spots to get work done the library also houses a rooftop terrace with a gorgeous view of the city, two cafes, and artwork on display.

It’s no wonder why Halifax Central Library was named one of the most beautiful libraries in the world .

The best part? Maybe this is one of the top free things to do in Halifax too!

See the Head in the Window at St. Paul’s Church

This is one of the more quirky and unique things to do in Halifax that I found on Atlas Obscura tied to the history of the famous and devastating 1917 explosion. There are several legends and stories that go along with what happened to people on this ill-fated day long ago.

This particular legend takes place in the oldest building in Halifax, St. Paul’s Church. If you wander around the church you might notice one of the windows has a strange effect on it and if you examine it closely you’ll notice it looks to be a side silhouette of a man permanently marked in the window.

During the explosion, the windows of the church were blown out. You can actually go inside the church and see a framed piece of the original piece of the window from the day of the explosion on the wall. 

The legend of the mysterious face in the window is said to be one of a deacon who happened to be standing sideways by the window when the explosion took place. The heat and blast of the explosion left that mark on the glass for the rest of time. 

Our local friend Cailin told us that apparently they have tried to replace or fix this strange marking on the window but it keeps coming back! This is one of those fun things to do in Halifax if you like spooky legends or mysteries!

Dine at the Haunted Five Fishermen Restaurant

If you’re a historian or love all things related to the Titanic this next thing for what to do in Halifax is for you! The Five Fishermen Restaurant not only has history tied to the Titanic but also all the tragedies that took place here in Halifax. 

What seems like an upscale seafood dining establishment today has so much more to the history of what took place between these walls. First, the building served as a schoolhouse before becoming a mortuary called John Snow & Co. Funeral Home before becoming the restaurant we see today.

When the Titanic sank off the coast of Newfoundland, Halifax boats were the first responders. However, because where the Titanic tragedy took place was so far away, there were more casualties than survivors as we all know. Many of the wealthier of the casualties were brought to this location where the funeral home was to have arrangements made for their bodies. 

The next big moment in history for this funeral home was during the Halifax Explosion that killed over 2,000 people. As you can imagine, a facility of this size couldn’t handle that many people. What they were forced to do was line up rows of coffins outside on the street to deal with such a massacre. There’s actually a famous photo of this.

Because of the devastating historical catastrophes that took place here, it’s no surprise that many believe that this restaurant is haunted to this day. Dine here if you dare!

J Dawson Grave at Fairview Lawn Cemetery

We regrettably didn’t make it here during our visit, but if you’re a huge fan of the 1997 James Cameron Titanic film and heartthrob Leonardo DiCaprio’s character Jack, you may want to save this on your list of things to do in Halifax!

Fairview Lawn Cemetery in Halifax is home to the most victims’ final resting place from the Titanic. One of the victims of that has a headstone that reads J Dawson, for Joesph Dawson. 

While this is not Jack Dawson, Leonardo Dicaprio’s character in the movie Titanic, people didn’t care or didn’t know any better and flocked to this gravesite to give their condolences to their favorite beloved fictional character played by DiCaprio.

It is said that Director, James Cameron did come to Halifax for some research before the movie but producers and representatives of the movie claim they had no idea there was a gravesite with J Dawson on it.

It wasn’t until a historian revealed that this was a completely different person that people slowly stopped coming to J Dawson’s gravesite. However, even to this day people do still come here because of the connection to one of the biggest movies and tragedies in history of all time that people are just interested in!

Halifax Public Gardens

A great idea for what to do in Halifax on a beautiful day is visit the beautiful Public Gardens. This is a great place to take a walk, have a picnic, find a quiet place to relax, or even read a book. These Victorian gardens are also a National Historic Site of Canada and designed by local architect Henry Busch.

Don’t miss the beautiful bandstand and the adorable cafe housed in the small building near the bandstand for another great place to relax with a cup of tea or coffee.

Harbour Hopper Tour

One of the best ways to quickly see all the fun things to do in Halifax by land and water is join one of the several daily Harbour Hopper Tours. Hop aboard a restored WWII amphibious vehicle with a cheeky local guide who will crack jokes and give you a brief summary of history and point out the best Halifax attractions on your one hour journey.

Halfway through the tour you drive directly into the water where your vehicle magically works as a boat before returning to land.

What’s great is this tour starts and finishes right at the Halifax waterfront boardwalk so you can easily move on to the rest of your day of sightseeing around Halifax’s best attractions.

Hit Up Halifax’s Craft Beverage Scene

Easily one of the best things to do in Halifax is enjoy their phenomenal drinking scene. From distilleries to breweries Halifax has no shortage of places to grab a great drink or sample flights of different local brews and spirits. 

The drinking scene is expanding so much that they even came out with the Good Cheer Trail with a passport to collect stamps as you visit each one of the participating breweries, wineries, cideries, and distilleries. If you get enough stamps you can win prizes which we thought was such a fun idea!

You can pick up one of the Good Cheer Trail passports at any of the participating locations, just don’t forget to ask for a stamp!

Given the amount of time we spent exploring what to do in Halifax, we did visit a decent number of local watering holes. These were some of our favorites.

Alexander Keith’s Brewery – Easily the most famous and popular beers in Nova Scotia, Alexander Keith’s IPA is one of the most famous beers in Canada and one of the oldest breweries in Nova Scotia founded by this Scottish immigrant in 1820. If you have time, be sure to enjoy one of the tours of their amazing facility which gives you the history of the brewery and Alexander Keith and an opportunity to try their beers straight from the source!

Stubborn Goat Beer Garden –  Another great place to grab a drink is at the outdoor Stubborn Goat Beer Garden along the waterfront next to the Salt Yard. You can grab drinks on the lower deck or sit at the higher level and order bar snacks and food. This is more of a weather permitting place to enjoy a drink if the weather is terrible consider just heading to the Stubborn Goat brewery instead.

Garrison Brewing Co. – Located next to the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market this is another popular local brewery to check out and do a nice flight tasting at.

New Scotland Brewing Company – Located in Dartmouth, this is the perfect thing to do in Halifax if you took the harbor ferry over from the waterfront to Dartmouth. Plus you’re just walking distance away from Lake City Cider & Brightwood Brewery.

Sourwood Cider – This fun stop is one of the newest in town during our visit and a great thing to do in Halifax if you love trying hard cider. The funky bar has a fun vibe and this is the perfect place for a hangout, date, or walking break.

Brightwood Brewery – Another great brewery with really interesting beer flavors located in Dartmouth just steps away from the harbor ferry terminal. This brewery shares the same space as Lake City Cider so beer lovers and cider lovers can drink together in their open space establishment.

Lake City Cider – Located in the same space as Brightwood Brewery serving delicious cider flavors in a fun hang out space in Dartmouth steps away from the harbor ferry terminal.

Halifax Distillery –  Learn the history of rum-running during the prohibition while sipping on a delicious flight of different local rums. The sweet one was probably our favorite and a perfect boozy treat for the holidays. We are still kicking ourselves for not grabbing a bottle to take home. There are also tours of the distillery here and its conveniently located across the street from the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.

Explore the Local Foodie Scene

Just like the drinking scene, one of the best things to do in Halifax is enjoy the foodie scene! While we only had a few meals in Halifax we can attest that the food scene here is no joke, we ate back-to-back delicious food and we highly encourage everyone to take full advantage of the fresh seafood caught off the shores of Nova Scotia.

Just like the Good Cheer Trail has a passport for different places to grab a drink, there are actually two more food-oriented trails in Nova Scotia, The Lobster Trail and The Chowder Trail. Be sure not to miss grabbing a passport and try to collect stamps during your visit.

Here were some of our favorite food experiences in Halifax.

King of Donair – Don’t miss out on trying a local delicacy, the Donair! Similar to a doner kebab, but different enough to be its own foodie experience. Donair was brought to Halifax by Lebanese immigrants with a twist. There is special seasoning in the meat and a special secret sweet sauce that accompanies your meat-filled pita. This is also one of the least expensive delicious meals you can enjoy on your trip. Be sure to check out our good friend Cailin’s video on donair in Halifax!

SaltYard –  The SaltYard is another fantastic place to enjoy a meal and one of the best things to do in Halifax no matter what time of day. This outdoor plaza located on the waterfront has tons of small independently run eateries from poutine to beaver tail desserts. Our favorite was the fish n chips at Katch Seafood.

Fortune Doughnut – Looking for one of the most Instagrammable things to do in Halifax while you’re hungry? Check out Fortune Doughnut for their daily fresh donuts and surprising flavors in their fun funky establishment perfect for donut selfies. – Sadly this is permanently closed now.

Willmans Fish and Chips – Another great spot for Fish and Chips in Halifax located a bit away from the waterfront. This is a more local spot that we were introduced to by our friend Cailin! The fish and chips here are to die for.

The Bicycle Thief – a not-to-be-missed Italian restaurant with plenty of incredible seafood options! This is a popular spot, so you’ll want to secure a meal here by getting a reservation. Make sure you try the mussels with a side of the garlic bread.

Take a Tour From Halifax

One of the best ways to do all the great things to do in Halifax is by tour. Another is to is actually get in a car and explore more of Nova Scotia! There are some incredible tours of Halifax and day trips from Halifax from fishing villages to lighthouses to the home of the highest tides in the world! 

Tours in Halifax

Halifax Like a Local Private Tour: Create a customized experience based on your favorite things to do with a local! Your tour is fully customizable based on your likes or the guide can give you their recommendations on this walking tour. The best way to have an authentic experience is through a local. This is also a great way to get your bearings of the city if you do it right at the beginning of your trip. See more information or book here.

Halifax Bucketlist Pass: This is your all in one stop for seeing and doing all the best things to do in Halifax. Save yourself HOURS OF TIME by skipping lines by purchasing this pass that includes priority entrance to all of the best museums, exhibits, and things to do in Halifax. Save yourself that valuable time by getting this pass. See more information or book here.

Best of Halifax Tour: This is an awesome experience and tour that not only takes you to the best things to do in Halifax but also takes you to the iconic and famous Peggy’s Cove where you can see the famous Peggy’s Point Lighthouse with pick up and drop off at your hotel! Your guide will give you all the information, history, and details to know while you explore the historic downtown of Halifax as well as Peggy’s Cove. This tour also includes all entrance fees and transportation too! It doesn’t get much more convenient than this. See more information or book here.

Bay of Fundy Tour

The Bay of Fundy is home to the world’s highest tides located between both Nova Scotia and New Brunswick and just over an hour drive from Halifax making it a perfect day trip. The Bay of Fundy is also one of the seven natural wonders of North America and a popular bucketlist item for many people.

We recommend checking out Burntcoat Head Park where the highest tides in the world ever recorded was from here at 56.7 feet.

While you’ll need to stay a half of a day to actually see the full swing of the tides you can visit during low tide and walk on the ocean floor. Every 13 hours 160 billion tons of water flow daily in and out of the bay. 

Be aware that you won’t be permitted to walk on the ocean floor anytime outside the summer months as it’s too dangerous. However, even if you do visit in the off-season months you can enjoy the old lighthouse on the property and view the Bay of Fundy from above.

You can easily enjoy some time here, just be aware that in order to see a dramatic change in the tides you’ll have to stay for hours.

If you’re considering visiting be sure to check out all the other wonderful things to do in Annapolis Valley .

Join a Tour to Lunenburg

Lunenburg is just a one hour drive from the city and what to do in Halifax if you want to see a beautiful fishing town straight out of a postcard and UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Lunenburg is one of the most colorful cities in all of Nova Scotia and close enough to Halifax to make an easy day trip. Trust us though, it’s going to be hard to leave because this place is so beautiful and there are so many amazing things to do in Lunenburg .

Walk along the waterfront and see the famous Bluenose II schooner that you might recognize from the 10 cent piece. There are many museums, restaurants, cafes, and amazing shops to explore the streets.

If you want an incredible view we recommend heading over to the golf course where you can see the town of Lunenburg and its reflection in the water from afar. Or, hop on a boat tour.

Be sure to stop at Ironworks Distillery where you can sample and buy some of the best rum in Nova Scotia including rum thats been aged in barrels on a boat and other unique types of rum.

We also recommend checking with Lunenburg Walking Tours , they host daily tours through Lunenburg and also offer unique tours in the evenings like ghost tours and a culinary and rum themed tour called Lunenburg Distilled that’s out of this world.

Check out this: Tour and day trip from Halifax to Mahone Bay and Lunenburg that starts and ends in Halifax this  tour of Lunenburg, Peggy’s Cove, & Mahone Bay.

Tour to the Famous Peggy’s Cove

Another one of the most popular things to do in Halifax is drive to the infamous Peggy’s Cove, one of the most photographed and recognizable locations in all of Canada. This picturesque fishing village is quaint and offers a range of different shops and restaurants you can relax at among the colorful homes in this fishing village.

What’s most popular though would be the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse atop the granite stones overlooking the water. You can walk around the lighthouse on the rocks and enjoy this majestic view from different vantage points.

Be very careful not to go on the black rocks. There are signs but people seem to ignore them, especially when you see other people walking on them or close to the water. This is EXTREMELY DANGEROUS and Peggy’s Cove has claimed many lives over the years from tourists who don’t listen.

There are rogue waves here so while the sea may seem very calm it still is very dangerous. Once you’re in the water it is almost impossible to get out because of the rocks and undertow. Please enjoy this beautiful place but use caution and follow the rules during your visit.

Take a tour!

Don’t want to rent a car and drive yourself? Check out this tour which picks you up and drops you off at your hotel in Halifax with a guide plus you get special access to some of the great historic sites in Halifax too! See more information or book here.

How to Get Around Halifax

Getting around to enjoy all the awesome things to do in Halifax has never been easier. Most of the best Halifax attractions are in walking distance and easy to see by foot. 

If you need to get around you can use public transportation including the bus system and ferries. You can find the fares and time tables here.

Before, there were no rideshare apps available in Halifax, but now things have changed and you’re able to call a ride on Uber or Lyft.

If you plan on doing any day trips or a road trip we recommend renting a car in advance from the Halifax International Airport. Check out rates on Expedia here.

Where to Stay in Halifax

Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites  is a great option to stay while exploring what to do in Halifax during your trip.  The historic hotel is in a landmark building from 1928 with a gorgeous vintage lobby and reception area. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. You’re located directly across the Halifax Public Gardens and just a 10 minute walk to the waterfront.

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Westin Nova Scotian is another fantastic option for where to stay while exploring all the best and fun things to do in Halifax. Located right along the waterfront and close walking distance to everything downtown in Halifax. The rooms are spacious and refined. There’s also a restaurant on-site and you’re right across from the Halifax Farmer’s Market.

Halifax, Nova Scotia, is best known for its rich maritime history, the Halifax Explosion, and its role in the aftermath of the Titanic disaster. The city offers vibrant cultural experiences, historic sites, and stunning coastal landscapes.

Spending 3-4 days in Halifax allows you to explore its historic sites, vibrant waterfront, museums, and nearby attractions like Peggy’s Cove or Lunenburg. It provides a balanced experience of the city’s cultural, maritime, and natural offerings.

Yes, Halifax is a walkable city, especially in its downtown area. Many attractions, waterfront shops, and restaurants are within walking distance. The city’s layout makes it convenient to get around by foot.

The best time to visit Halifax is during late spring and summer (May to September) when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities, festivals, and events are in full swing.

Halifax experiences mild to warm summers with temperatures typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). While not extremely hot, it offers pleasant conditions for outdoor activities.

Liked this post on the best things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia or found it helpful? Use this Halifax attractions guide to help you plan your trip by bookmarking for later or sharing the love below on Pinterest. Happy Travels!

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A Perfect One to Three Day Halifax Itinerary

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: September 16, 2020  - Last updated: February 23, 2024

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Growing up in the province next door, I’ve been to Halifax many times before but haven’t spent a lot of time there as an adult. So when I traveled to Nova Scotia to drive the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton this summer, I decided to add on Halifax to my itinerary. It was a great decision – there are so many fun things to do in Halifax.

Whether you’re enjoying the vibrant neighborhoods, stuffing your face with lobster at amazing restaurants, or on a day trip to nearby islands and charming small towns, there are so many awesome places to visit in Halifax. If you’re planning a trip, this post will help you map out a perfect Halifax itinerary!

Part of my time in Halifax was in partnership with Nova Scotia Tourism. I am so thankful to them for supporting local creators during this time!

Day 1 Halifax Itinerary: Explore Downtown Halifax

Walk the harbourfront.

Halifax has changed a lot since the last time I was there. The city has done a great job developing the waterfront and downtown core, which has an amazing atmosphere. Atlantic Canada isn’t known for having big cities, and Halifax is the largest that you’ll find. It may not be the metropolis of Toronto or Montreal , but Halifax has its own unique maritime charm that will make you quickly fall in love.

Start your day by walking along the harbourfront. There’s a lot going on and it’s a great place to kick-off your Halifax itinerary. I have to say, I was a bit jealous coming from St. John’s Newfoundland . I wish our harbourfront was as pedestrian-friendly!

Stop by the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market on the South end of the Harbourfront where you can grab a local coffee and stock up on fresh produce if you’re renting an Airbnb and want to cook for yourself.

Right next door to the farmers market is the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 . This is a great place to visit if you’re interested in history. Many years ago, Halifax was a major port of call for European travelers and anyone who was immigrating to Canada would have to pass through Pier 21. At the museum, you can learn about the experiences of immigrants as they arrived in Canada.

You can also visit the The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic on the waterfront, to learn more about Nova Scotia’s rich maritime heritage.

The Halifax waterfront doesn’t take long to walk from end to end, but there is a lot going on down there. There are many restaurants if you want to grab a bite – Bicycle Thief is a popular choice. If you want something quick, there are several food shacks. I highly recommend COWS ice cream – this is what my childhood dreams were made of! There’s also a couple of beer gardens, which is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon with friends.

On the other end of the harbourfront, there are these amazing hammocks you can hang out on and enjoy the views of Georges Island. I love how chill Halifax is!

Halifax itinerary ideas: Enjoy it on the water

For a different view of the harbourfront, rent jet skis or join a kayaking tour with Harbour Watercraft. We took a kayaking tour on a sunny Sunday morning and it was such a lovely experience. Being out in the water is so nice on a hot summer day. You get great views of the city and can paddle out to George’s Island to check out the lighthouse there. I also saw cute seals in the water!

If that’s not your thing, you can also join a tall ship sailing tour to explore the harbourfront. During a sailing tour, you’ll get a guided tour of the harbor with notable sights such as the Harbour Bridge, Fort George, McNab’s Island, Point Pleasant Park, and the Historic Properties.

Spring Garden Road

After strolling the harbourfront, walk 15-minutes North to Spring Garden road. This is a major commercial and cultural district in Halifax where you’ll find great shopping and dining options. Check out the Garden Bar Lounge and Cafe. The interior is beautiful and they’ve even got hammocks in their outdoor seating. Nothing goes better with brunch then a hammock!

Walking along Spring Garden Road, you’ll undoubtedly notice the gorgeous Halifax Central library. It’s a beautiful piece of architecture inside and out. It’s refreshing to see a city investing in its library!

Visit the Halifax Public Gardens

Keep walking along Spring Garden road and you’ll come across the Halifax public gardens. This is such a lovely green space right in the city center. It is one of the finest surviving examples of a Victorian garden in North America. The public gardens are a perfect place to go and take cute photos!

Visit Citadel Hill National Historic Site

Right next to the public gardens is the Citadel Hill National Historic Site , which is one of the most popular places to visit in Halifax. Strategically located on a hill looking over the city, the Halifax Citadel was part of the incredibly impressive Halifax defense complex used during the world wars. While visiting Citadel National Historic Site, you can step back and time and learn what roles the fort and its inhabitants played. The views of Halifax from Citadel Hill are also wonderful.

Join a spirit tasting at Citadel Hill

Another fun thing to do at Citadel Hill is join a spirit tasting. A local distillery is making spirits at Citadel Hill, and Nova Scotia Tourism arranged a tour for us to taste some of them.

After a guided tour of Citadel Hill where we learned about the history of alcohol in the British military and how it was used to rally the troops, we headed into the barrel room to pick a spirit to try.

After opening the barrel, we headed inside to sample it alongside three other spirits and a delicious charcuterie board. Honestly, I’m not a big spirit drinker (I’m a beer gal), but I have to say these were very good. This is a really fun way to spend an evening in Halifax!

After the spirit tasting, we went on a ghost tour around Citadel Hill. Only guided by candlelight, we explored the chambers and alleyways while the guide told us ghost stories that people have reported over the years. I’m actually pretty terrified of ghosts, so I’m grateful I had some whiskey courage! If you’re into ghost stories, this is a great thing to do in Halifax.

Join a segway tour

If you’re short on time and want to see a lot of Halifax, a great thing to do is join a guided segway tour . I used to think these were lame, but I tried it while in Italy earlier this year and it’s actually so much fun. I saw so people on segways while I was visiting Halifax!

Day 2: Neighbourhoods and Islands

Now that you’ve explored downtown Halifax by foot, it’s time to venture out to nearby islands and neighborhoods.

Visit George’s island

One of the newest things to do in Halifax is to visit George’s Island national Historic Site. You can see this island from the harbourfront, but it only opened up to the public at the beginning of August. George’s Island is another part of the Halifax Defense Complex.

It’s just a quick 5-minute boat ride from the harbourfront to the island, where you can do a self-guided tour of the fort or join a guided tour of the tunnels.

We did the guided tunnel tour which was so neat to walk through. Georges Island also has a beautiful view of the skyline of Halifax. You can even see wildlife there. Okay, I’m talking about snakes. You have been warned!

George’s Island is only opened on Saturdays and Sundays to the public. The tours have been extended until October 11th so get there soon if you want to visit this year!

Fisherman’s Cove Heritage Center

Fisherman’s Cove Heritage Center is a really cute place to visit near Halifax, it’s just a 20-minute drive. This small fishing village is made up of colorful cabins with a boardwalk, where you can find local gift shops and dining options. You can also join kayaking tours from Fisherman’s wharf with Kattuk Expeditions.

Right next door to Fisherman’s Cove is McCormacks Beach Provincial Park, which is a great place to soak in nature and watch the sunset.

McNabs islands 

I just love how there are so many islands to visit near Halifax! McNabs is one of the larger ones in the harbor, which you’ve probably already guessed – was part of the Halifax Complex Defence. It’s a lot bigger than George’s island, you could spend the entire day walking around McNabs.

If you don’t know someone with a boat to get to McNabs, you can hire a boat to take you from Halifax or Fisherman’s Cove. We got a boat from Fisherman’s Cove which took about 20-minutes and cost $15 each.

On McNabs island there are gorgeous hiking trails, forts to explore, and stunning beaches. It’s a lovely place to go swimming. If you’re craving nature while visiting Halifax, McNabs Island is the perfect place to go.

North End / Hydrostone Market 

One of the best parts of visiting Halifax is that there are a number of different cute neighborhoods to explore. One that I really enjoyed was Hydrostone market in the North End. It’s just a small street but it’s lined with cute restaurants and boutique shops that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to Europe.

The north end of Halifax used to be considered a no-go zone for Tourists but in recent years it has gentrified and now has some of the best restaurants and breweries in the city. I recommend Agricola Street Brasserie, a French-style restaurant where I had a delicious lobster and avocado focaccia for brunch. Halifax does brunch really well!

Another neighborhood that’s turned itself around in the last few years is Dartmouth. It’s across the harbor from Halifax, so you can get there by driving over the bridge or taking a short ferry ($3.50). What’s cool about taking the ferry is that it gives you a chance to get photos of the Halifax Skyline from the water. Dartmouth has many awesome restaurants and breweries where you can try some of the awesome craft beer Halifax has. The Canteen is a great choice! 

Day 3: Take a Day Trip

Another great thing about Halifax is that there are so many day trip options less then hours drive from the city. If you’ve got an extra day on your Halifax itinerary, rent a car and visit one of these stunning places.

Halifax Itinerary Ideas: Peggy’s Cove

Less then an hour’s drive away from Halifax is one of the most iconic lighthouses in North America – Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse. Built in 1915, this stunning lighthouse stands on a gorgeous rocky landscape facing the Atlantic ocean. It’s an amazing place to take photographs, especially at sunrise or sunset. Peggy’s Cove itself is also quite picturesque and still an active fishing community today.

If you don’t have your own car, there are also many guided tours to Peggy’s Cove you can join.

Mahone Bay & Lunenberg

If you want to see more charming towns in Nova Scotia, continue driving along the South shore. Known as the lighthouse route, this part of Nova Scotia is lined with gorgeous small towns. One you don’t want to miss is Mahone Bay, an area popular for sailing.

Just a 15-minute drive from Mahone Bay is Lunenberg, a UNESCO world heritage site that has become one of the most photographed towns in Nova Scotia. There are so many colorful houses here, it’s hard not to fall in love! If you want a view of Lunenberg like above, head to the golf course across the water.

Just a 10-minute drive away from Lunenberg is Blue Rocks, a very small and quiet picturesque fishing village.

Hit the Beach

If you’re craving beach time, there are plenty to choose from less then an hours drive from Halifax. Lawrencetown Beach is a popular choice – you can actually go surfing there!

Shubenacadie Tidal Bore Rafting

If you want an adrenaline-filled day, head out to the Shubenacadie River and join a guided tidal bore rafting adventure. This is a pretty unique experience, and unlike any other rafting tour I’ve experienced. What’s unique about this rafting is that the rapids are caused by the tides changing directions in the bay of Fundy.

On the tour, we headed out on zodiac boats and first got the chance to go mud sliding. Don’t worry, the river is great at cleaning you off! From there, we waited for the tides to come in, and then the guide took us through the rapids. We got absolutely soaked – it’s a blast!

Where to stay in Halifax

I was hosted at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hote l which is a great option if you’re looking to stay downtown.

I highly recommend basing yourself on or near the harbourfront in Halifax, that way you have so many amenities right outside your door.

Steps outside the Marriott, there were restaurants, beer gardens, and even a COWS ice cream. So convenient! The rooms also have ocean views which are so nice to wake up too.

Halifax has a wide variety of apartments, B&B’s, and budget hotels to choose from which I’ve covered more in-depth in my where to stay in Halifax guide.

There are also a few hostels to choose from in Halifax which is a great option if you’re on a limited budget or traveling solo and want to make friends. HI-Halifax is centrally located downtown and has great reviews!

FAQ: Halifax Itinerary Guide

What is halifax best known for.

Halifax is renowned for its rich maritime history, vibrant waterfront, and the iconic Citadel National Historic Site.

How do I spend a day in Halifax Nova Scotia?

Spend a day exploring the Halifax Citadel, strolling along the waterfront boardwalk, and indulging in local seafood delicacies.

Is Halifax Nova Scotia worth visiting?

Absolutely, Halifax offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Canada.

Is Halifax walkable from cruise port?

Yes, Halifax is highly walkable from the cruise port, with many major attractions within easy walking distance.

What is Halifax most popular food?

Halifax is famous for its fresh seafood, especially lobster, fish and chips, and donair, a local favorite.

What is the best month to visit Halifax?

The best months to visit Halifax are from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and the city is alive with events.

Do you need a car when visiting Halifax?

While Halifax’s downtown area is walkable, a car is useful for exploring surrounding attractions like Peggy’s Cove and the Annapolis Valley.

What is high season in Nova Scotia?

The high season in Nova Scotia runs from June to August, featuring warm weather and numerous festivals.

What is the coldest month in Halifax?

January is the coldest month in Halifax, with chilly temperatures and snowfall common.

Can you swim in the ocean in Halifax?

Yes, you can swim in the ocean in Halifax during the warmer months, with several beaches nearby offering pleasant swimming conditions.

I hope this post could give you some inspiration for planning your Halifax itinerary! It’s a wonderful city well worth spending a couple of days in. Have you been before? Let me know what your favorite thing to do in Halifax is!

Pssst – Halifax is a great addition to an East Coast Canada road trip. If you’re planning a trip through Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, or Newfoundland combined with Nova Scotia – this guide has all the info you need.

Traveling in Nova Scotia? Check out these posts!

• How to Plan an Epic East Coast Canada Road Trip [2023]
• A Perfect Cabot Trail Itinerary in Cape Breton Nova Scotia
• Where To Stay In Halifax Nova Scotia
• The Best Places to Stay on the Cabot Trail

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Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

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12 Awesome Things to Do in Halifax, Canada

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Make the most of your next trip to the Maritimes with this awesome guide to the best things to do in Halifax, Canada!

As the capital city of Nova Scotia, Halifax is packed with interesting tourist attractions and cool things to see and do.

Halifax boasts the world’s second-largest ice-free natural harbour, making it an economically important seaport for Eastern Canada.

It sits centrally on the east coast of Nova Scotia and was given the nickname “Warden of the North” because of its strong military presence.

There is a very strong maritime influence and culture in Halifax, and on the city’s many beaches pirates were hung until 1844. 

The city was established by the British in 1749 when Edward Cornwallis arrived and brought 2,500 settlers.

The British were lured there by the large port and hopes of great fishing. Halifax was aptly named after the 2nd Earl of Halifax and then became the capital of Nova Scotia. 

Winters are mild and summers are cool due to the gulf stream currents in the Atlantic Ocean.

Year-round precipitation is high and most days the city is covered in coastal fog.

But don’t let that keep you from visiting this beautiful city in Nova Scotia!

READ MORE: Check out our Canada travel guide to help you make the most of your visit to the Great White North.

Halifax is a very unique city and although one of the lesser travelled to cities in Canada, it shouldn’t be left out!

It has a multicultural population, a median age of 39, and a huge college scene.

The nightlife is plentiful, the music scene is abundant, and Halifax has more pubs per capita than any city in Canada.

You will find plenty of things to see and do for all ages.

From museums rich in maritime history and immigration, the friendly Haligonians who welcome you, to the historic landmarks and beautiful waterfront.

Table of Contents

1. Go on a Free Walking Tour of the City Along the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

2.  spend time in the maritime museum of the atlantic, canada’s oldest and largest maritime museum , 3. visit the halifax citadel national historic site, 4. stroll through the halifax public gardens, 5. enjoy alexander keith’s brewery tour , 6. wander through the halifax seaport farmers market, 7. take in scenic views of the halifax waterfront while riding the halifax harbour ferry to dartmouth , 8. check out the canadian museum of immigration at pier 21, 9. ice skate at emera oval, 10. pay respects in st. paul’s church, 11. watch a shakespearean play on the water at point pleasant park, 12. observe the views from peggy’s cove, the best hostel in halifax nova scotia – hi-halifax heritage house hostel, best budget accommodation for couples – atlantica hotel halifax, best mid-range hotel in halifax – barrington hotel, best luxury hotel in halifax – prince george hotel, stories fine dining, the 12 best things to do in halifax nova scotia.

Just a short trip away from all the top-visited attractions in Nova Scotia, like Peggy’s Cove and the Bay of Fundy, Halifax is the perfect resting place between day trips to these spectacular destinations in Nova Scotia.

Some of the best attractions are right on the Halifax waterfront boardwalk. There are strategically placed forts in several of Halifax’s city parks. 

Regardless of your interests, plan to build out a great itinerary from our list of what to do in Halifax Nova Scotia.

The best way to get acquainted with what to do in Halifax Nova Scotia is to go on the free walking tour offered by the city! 

Learn about the history and culture of Halifax while seeing a few of the best sites the city has to offer.

You will start at the entrance to the famous National Historic Citadel , a fort built to protect the city.

From there you will see the city’s iconic three-story-tall clock tower that was built in the 1800s.

Heading towards the coast, you will walk along the Halifax waterfront, one of the longest waterfront boardwalks in the world.

No doubt one of the best things to do in Halifax is strolling around its beautiful waterfront!

Be on the lookout for the vibrant art murals and the beloved drunken lampposts. The boardwalk is lined with many shops, cafes, patios, restaurants and beer gardens.

You will be sure to find something to visit or do later on your trip!

The tour lasts around 60 mins and covers all the highlights of downtown Halifax. 

Explore many maritime exhibits and view over 30,000 artifacts at Halifax’s most popular museum: The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic inside the Nova Scotia Museum.

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic was conceived by several Canadian Royal Navy officers. They wanted a place to preserve navy artifacts and share its history.

The museum plays host to a variety of model ships and portraits throughout maritime history.

One of the more popular exhibits is the Shipwreck Treasures of Nova Scotia .

There you can find many artifacts recovered from the RMS Titanic.

Nova Scotia played a major role in helping recover bodies from the sinking of the famous ship. Also visit the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, a memorial to those who died in the Titanic.

If you are into history, this museum in downtown Halifax is definitely worth a visit. You could easily spend a few hours browsing the several exhibits.

You will gain an understanding of Nova Scotia’s maritime heritage, and how events and the sea played a part in shaping the culture of this amazing city!

When you climb Citadel Hill and walk through the gates of the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, you will see why the fort was built here to protect the city.

The expansive views of the city and the Halifax Harbour from Citadel Hill will take your breath away!

Though it never saw a battle, the fort was still strategically important to the city and its people and holds plenty of Halifax history behind its walls.

Go at noon to watch the changing of the guards and hear the blast of the cannons.

Along with barracks, period rooms and watching 78th Highlanders in their uniforms, there is also a museum to explore at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site! 

READ MORE: Don’t miss our list of what to do in Winnipeg !

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the boardwalk and revel in the beauty of Halifax’s national historic Victorian Gardens.

Located on Spring Garden Road, the gardens are a favourite Halifax attraction by both locals and tourists.

Enclosed by an ornate wrought iron fence, the gardens span 16 acres in the middle of the city.

Wander over beautiful bridges, through hundreds of trees, past ponds and lush colourful flower beds.

The gardens are definitely one of the prettiest spots in downtown Halifax! Other attractions are just nearby as well, like the Halifax Central Library and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Would you like a little history to go along with your beer? If so, you can’t miss grabbing a pint at Alexander Keith’s Brewery in Halifax Nova Scotia!

Founded in 1820 by the Scottish Alexander Keith himself, it is one of the oldest breweries in North America.

Go on an unforgettable tour where you will be led along by a guide dressed in 1820’s attire and taught the history and brewing process of the company.

You will also witness musical storytelling and are guaranteed a Nova Scotian good time! Of course with plentiful amounts of ale.

Alexander Keith’s Brewery is definitely one of the top Halifax attractions!

Right on the waterfront, you will find the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market, North America’s longest-running farmer’s market.

Originally started as a meat and cattle market in 1750, it now hosts over 250 vendors and has a variety of crafts, flowers, seafood, meat and locally grown produce.

There are even celebrations held there, like the Canada Day Kitchen Day , and live music!

If you are looking for a cheap lunch when visiting Halifax, the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market is the place!

Grab some tasty local fare like a donair or a mouth-watering lobster roll while browsing the different vendors.

Hop on the longest-running saltwater ferry in North America and cross the beautiful Halifax harbour to Dartmouth.

There are two different ferry routes and at just $2.50 each way, and a ferry ride is the best way to see the harbour and it’s easy on the wallet.

If you want to explore further, ask for a free bus transfer and take the bus from Dartmouth to the historic Fisherman’s Cove .

When you decide to return, hop on a different ferry to complete a full loop of the harbour.

The public ferry is the best cheap way to see the Halifax waterfront!

Visit the website for more info on the Halifax Dartmouth Ferry schedules and prices.

Similar to New York’s famous Ellis Island , Pier 21 was once the ocean liner terminal where over one million immigrants passed through from 1928 to 1971.

A National Historic Site, it is now home to the Canadian Museum of Immigration .

Established in 1999, the museum was started to celebrate the 1.5 million immigrants who passed through its gates into Canada.

When you step inside the museum, you will go on a journey through different halls and experience what it was like to immigrate to Canada through Pier 21.

There are thousands of artifacts and stories to be seen and read at the Canadian Museum of Immigration.

There are also interactive exhibits for young and old to enjoy! 

Skating at the Emera Oval is one of the most fun things to do when visiting Halifax during any season.

And best of all it’s entirely free!

The oval is an outdoor skating rink that is as large as 3 NHL hockey rinks.

In the summertime, rollerblading/skating and bike riding are popular activities.

In the winter the oval is frozen and you can go ice skating.

Free rentals include everything you would need like helmets, bikes, skates, scooters and even sleds!

All you have to bring is yourself and a government-issued ID to get in on all the fun! Visit the Halifax Oval website for more info about events and skate times.

Certainly one of the best things to see in Halifax is St. Paul’s Church.

Dating back to 1749, the church is the oldest building in Halifax. And it is the oldest Protestant church in Canada!

The church has a simple appearance, but it was actually modelled after the St. Peter’s Church in London.

When you tour the church you will notice some interesting details.

There is a metal shard embedded in one of the walls and if you look closely at one of the stained glass windows you will see a silhouette of a man, all remnants of the famous Halifax Explosion of 1917 .

It’s creepy yet definitely worth taking a look at when sightseeing in downtown Halifax. 

READ MORE: 17 reasons to plan to visit Quebec City !

Want to enjoy a local outdoor event? Then grab a blanket or chair and head on down to Point Pleasant Park in downtown Halifax Nova Scotia.

Every day (except Monday) in the summer you can catch a live Shakespearean play or another popular classic.

Go for a hike in the park in the morning and then settle down for a matinee performance that will be sure to delight you.

Shakespeare by the Sea Theatre Society is a not-for-profit organization that started in 1994 with hopes of providing classic Shakespearean entertainment to audiences at Point Pleasant Park.

They are also committed to the development of Canadian theatre artists.

The plays are free, but they will gladly accept donations; it goes to a good cause!

Peggy’s Cove can’t be passed by when you’re just a short drive away.

One of the most visited destinations in Nova Scotia, the famous red and white lighthouse in Peggy’s Cove is still in use today by the Canadian Coast Guard.

Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, built in 1915, has become one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world!

Local folklore says Peggy’s Cove was named after a young shipwreck survivor who was adopted by a family who had settled there.

The little girl was too young to remember her name so the family decided to call her Peggy. She then became known as “Peggy of the Cove”.

The tiny fishing village of Peggy’s Cove is a must-see from the rustic houses and buildings that line the cove to the colourful fishing boats bobbing in the harbour.

And you can’t leave before capturing the iconic photo of Peggy’s Point Lighthouse!

Halifax Nova Scotia Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do in Halifax, we want to help you make your other plans as well by sharing the best accommodation and places to eat in the city.

Best Accommodation – Where to Stay in Halifax Nova Scotia

Depending on your travel style, taste and budget you can find any number of hostels, hotels and bed and breakfasts that offer a variety of amenities.

While not as cheap as travelling in a third world country, Halifax is one of the cheaper Canadian cities for accommodations. 

If you are a budget-savvy traveller you will find a few traditional hostels in the area or you can even rent an empty dorm room at a local university.

If you don’t mind splurging on a nicer hotel, you will find many options right in the middle of downtown Halifax or one with an expansive harbour view. 

With that said, these are a few of the best options you will have as you spend time in Halifax sightseeing and exploring the city. 

Stay right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city in a historic old house!

HI-Halifax Heritage House Hostel is one of the best hostels to stay at because of its proximity to both the bus and train stations and the top things to do in Halifax are literally just a short walk down the road!

HI Halifax offers both private and dorm-style rooms. Dorm choices are for either male/female or mixed dorms with at most 6 beds.

The amenities offered are top-notch, with key points being a large well-equipped kitchen that is self-catered, free wifi, a tidy common area, coin-operated laundry and security lockers.

Rated high for location, value, security and cleanliness, HI-Halifax is the perfect hostel for the outgoing traveller looking to be close to all Halifax has to offer. 

With rooms starting at USD$26 for a 6 person mixed/male/female dorms, you can expect great value considering all the amenities HI-Halifax has to offer.

An exceptional value for its location and amenities offered, the Atlantica Hotel Halifax is a great option for any couple seeking both comfort and accessibility during their stay in Halifax.

There is a variety of room selection, ranging from a superior king room or two double beds.

Amenities include an indoor swimming pool and hot tub, free wifi in rooms and common areas and a breakfast buffet.

And a bonus is that the hotel is pet-friendly so if you are travelling with your fur baby you can plan to stay here without worrying about sneaking him or her in!

There is a bar on-site where you can grab a drink before heading out for a night on the town.

When you stay at the Atlantica you are within walking distance to key attractions such as the Citadel, Halifax public gardens and the Museum of Natural History.

Or hop on a city bus or request a taxi or Uber ride to take you to nearby sites. With rates starting around USD$68 you won’t be able to beat the value for the location.

For those looking for a great value while exploring the best Halifax activities, the Barrington Hotel is everything you could need or want.

Rated high for its historic charm, location, comfort and friendly service there is very little more that you could ask for. 

All rooms are clean and well furnished, with free WiFi, flat-screen tv, large ensuite bathroom and comfy beds.

There is also a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center for those who want to treat themselves.

If you want to feel like royalty during your stay in Halifax, the Prince George Hotel gives you the opportunity to splurge a little without breaking the bank.

Exceptionally rated for room comfort, cleanliness, amenities and location.

Situated near Halifax Harbor in the city centre, the top things to do in Halifax Nova Scotia are literally right outside your front door. 

But if you’d like to stay at the hotel and relax, this is one of the best options you have.

With a hot tub and an indoor heated pool within the hotel, you can expect to set back and enjoy your stay.

And if you’d like to throw in a little exercise, there’s a fitness centre as well. 

The Prince George Hotel features a great restaurant and bar.

There is also room service if you aren’t in the mood to go out or want to relax in your room watching television after a long day of Halifax sightseeing. 

Rooms start around USD$130 and offer you the opportunity to book a deluxe queen room, king or double beds.

You can also upgrade to a king suite if you’re feeling particularly luxurious while staying in Nova Scotia’s capital city! 

Best Restaurants in Halifax Nova Scotia

Halifax is full of delicious options for places to eat while you enjoy your stay in the city.

From casual quick bites to luxurious fine dining experiences you can expect a range of dining atmospheres. 

Halifax is of course known for its delicious seafood.

And you can’t leave the city before trying a famous lobster roll or a tasty plateful of haddock fish and chips.

There is also another famous food stable in the city called a donair. 

It’s possible to make Halifax a destination for the food alone! 

Here are a few of our favourite places to eat in Halifax Nova Scotia. 

You can’t say you’ve visited Halifax Nova Scotia without trying the city’s official snack, the Halifax donair!

King of Donairs was the first restaurant in Halifax to offer the delicacy in 1973 and it’s still located in the same building today. The sandwich closely resembles a gyro, but without the lamb and tzatziki sauce.

Instead, its shaved spit-roasted beef with a sweet yet garlicky sauce. Perfect hangover food!

One of the top-rated restaurants in Halifax Nova Scotia, Edna is sure to offer up tasty Canadian fare with great ambiance. Try some local seafood like the steamed mussels or seared scallops.

If you’re not in the mood for seafood, their pork chops come highly recommended! Pair the meal with a delicious cocktail or beer and your tastebuds will definitely be delighted.

Prices start at $10 for an appetizer to $38 for a large ribeye. 

Stories Fine Dining has consistently rated the #1 restaurant in Halifax Nova Scotia for good reason!

With specialties such as ahi tuna and sea scallops, duck, and beef striploin you can embark on an excellent fine dining experience.

You will certainly be paying top dollar for what you get. But if you are looking for a fantastic dinner with exceptional service in a great atmosphere, you won’t be disappointed here.

Lindsay Harvey

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Thanks for this! As an Australian whose travel agent tells me that Nova Scotia is obviously my spiritual home, I despair of finding write ups of anything Nova Scotia outside of North America. Here in Australia, travel ‘writers’ don’t seem to know that anywhere outside of Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary & Whistler actually exists! I have four days in Halifax and really want to make the most of it. Previous visits never seem to get me past the Maritime Museum of the Atlantics! (Mostly, I hang out up the NW corner – Springhill, Pugwash and the golf course!)

Have a wonderful trip Mary. Halifax is a great city to explore. 🙂

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

My First Solo Road Trip: Nova Scotia

November 23, 2016 by Tracey Nesbitt

Part of the welcoming committee at Trout Point Lodge.

On July 25 th , 2016 at the age of 49, I received my driver’s licence.

Two weeks later I flew to Halifax, Nova Scotia, picked up a rental car, and embarked on my first solo road trip.

It. Was. Awesome.

Not only was it my first solo road trip, but it was also my first trip to Nova Scotia , a part of Canada that I had long wished to visit. Each evening, I posted a summary of the day on my personal Facebook page to let friends and family know that I was still alive, so part of the story will be told through those messages. But first, a bit of the backstory.

Table of Contents

The Backstory

For all of my adult life, I have lived in large cities, close to public transportation, so I have not felt a need to drive. Over the last few years, though, as Janice and members of the Solo Travel Society have written posts and shared photos of the solo road trips that they have taken, I have begun to wish that I could do the same.

Where I live, it is an expensive and time-consuming process to acquire a driver’s licence. Let me tell you, it was a humbling experience to sit in a classroom with 25 teenagers for several days—especially when one of them offered to let me copy her homework and the answers from her test paper, assuming, I guess, that it would be too much for me at my advanced age.

But if that was embarrassing, the in-car lessons were much worse. Hour after hour I drove around residential streets in Toronto with my instructor, practicing parallel parking, changing lanes, and navigating intersections. More than once, the lesson ended with me in tears, frustrated at my lack of progress and terrified that 48 years of being a passenger had rendered me incapable of mastering the necessary skills to become a licenced driver.

Then, one day, the instructor declared that I was ready to take the government road test, so I did. Sadly, the examiner did not agree with his assessment that I was safe to be let loose on the roads. The trip that I had been planning had to be postponed, because I would not be able to drive alone.

I spent a couple of weeks feeling sorry for myself. Then, I started to think about what I was missing: driving Romania’s Transfagarasan , like Lia; exploring the back roads of Emilia Romagna , like Janice; taking a soul-searching road trip through Patagonia , like John. Surely, I thought, I can do this. I booked a few more lessons and made an appointment to take the test again. In this case, the second time was the charm!

Day 1: Halifax to Kemptville

Just getting out of the airport on Day 1 was an adventure. As I filled out the paperwork for the rental car, I thought, “There is no way that they are actually going to give me a car.” Surely, I thought, they will see the fear in my eyes. Well. if not the fear, maybe the fact that I couldn't figure out how to start the car! First lesson learned: always ask the staff at the rental lot to run through with you how all the different features work. It can be different on every car, and even if you are an experienced driver, it's a good idea. It will prevent you from doing things such as driving onto the shoulder while looking for the rear window wiper control. Not that I'm saying I've done that. Ahem.

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Leaving the airport, I came to a “T” in the road. In the underground parking, the GPS hadn't started working. But as I crested the hill and had to decide which way to turn, the portable GPS and the GPS on my phone (I hadn't decided which one I would use) suddenly began giving me instructions at the same time. I couldn't decipher what they were saying. Worse yet, one was giving me directions to Trout Point Lodge , my actual destination, and the other was giving me directions to the last destination that had been entered into it: Oakville, Ontario. Argh!

I had to make a quick decision: would I turn left or right? I had a 50 percent chance of choosing correctly. Fifteen kilometers later, I was able to turn around and correct my mistake.

After that, though, I was off and running! To tell you the truth, most of the drive from Halifax to Kemptville is a bit of a blur in my memory. I was concentrating so hard on following directions, keeping to the speed limit, and maintaining my death grip on the steering wheel that I can't remember what I saw. Except for the deer that jumped out in front of the car – THAT I remember! I slammed on the brakes, then, like a scene in a Disney movie, the deer and I sat in silence and stared at one another. It was a bit surreal. Unfortunately, it didn't occur to me to take a photo. After a couple of minutes, we went our separate ways.

When I finally reached Trout Point Lodge, I was afraid my fingers would not unfurl from the steering wheel. I realized that I had not thought to stop, have lunch or coffee or use the washroom for the entire trip. But I made it! I experienced a real feeling of accomplishment that day. And the setting could not have been more ideal for helping me to unwind and relax. You can read all about my brief stay in Trout Point Lodge: More than a Culinary Dream Trip.

A chair for one at Trout point Lodge.

Day 2: Kemptville to Argyle

I spent the morning and early afternoon at the Lodge, then headed out to Argyle, where I was planning to have dinner and watch the famous sunset from the wraparound porch of Ye Olde Argyler . I didn't really want to admit to myself that I got lost (again!), but I'm pretty sure I passed through the same town twice along the way. The great thing about a GPS, though, is that it just keeps recalculating every time you fail to follow the instructions that it has given you. And recalculate it did. Repeatedly.

As I got closer to my destination, the fog began to roll in. By the time I was checked in and headed to the dining room, I could only see across the lawn to the edge of the water, not beyond. So much for watching the sun set. On the upside, dinner was delicious! You can read about it in Flavors of Nova Scotia: My Top 5 Tastes .

The path from Ye Olde Argyler to the parking lot might be 30 feet long – which is about as far as I could see in the fog.

Day 3: Argyle to Wolfville

If it was foggy when I went to bed, it was really foggy when I got up. By coincidence, Janice, who was traveling in another part of the Maritimes, called to see how I was making out, and gave me advice on driving in the fog. Thank goodness! It was quite a scary driving day, as there were long stretches of curvy roads, with very low visibility. But I did it! And thank goodness for that, as I would have been incredibly disappointed if I hadn't made it to Wedgeport for my Tusket Island Tour . It was so much fun. Heading out on a lobster fishing boat with about 25 other people, it was one part education (about lobster fishing and the lifestyle of those who dedicate their lives to it), one part family dinner (we were invited into the LeBlanc family shanty for homemade chowder), and one part down-home party, complete with musical entertainment and drinks.

After getting back on land, I headed for Wolfville, but added to my itinerary a stop at a gas station to provide some entertainment to the local police as I pulled in, got out of the car, and realized that I had pulled in on the wrong side of the pump. I pulled out, drove around to the other side, got out of the car and realized that while I was now on the right side, I was too far away from the pump. So out I went, and back in again, as some men in blue got their laugh for the day. You're welcome, officers.

On Big Tusket Island. Those are fishing shanties in the background.

Day 4: Wolfville & Hall's Harbour

Heading out from Wolfville the next morning, I had a wonderful lesson on lobster – and then ate a gigantic one – at Hall's Harbour Lobster Pound . You can read more about that in this post . At Hall's Harbour, you park on one side of the harbour, then walk around to the other side to access the restaurant and gift shop. In the middle are boats, which, if your timing is right, you can watch sink to the bottom as the tide goes out, or rise to the top as it comes in. The tide was mostly out when I arrived, and the sandy bottom was entirely exposed by the time I left. But that wasn't the only surprise waiting for me after lunch. More embarrassing than being a laughingstock at the gas station, not being able to start the car, as described above, took the cake for ridiculous situations that I encountered on my first solo road trip. On the other hand, I will always know what to do if I ever encounter a locked steering wheel again. Oh wait – I did it again the very next day, in Lunenburg. But I knew how to fix it. I'm learning.

Hall's Harbour at low tide. And my car.

Day 5: Wolfville to Lunenburg

By Day 5, I really felt that I was getting the hang of things, at least as far as highway driving went. On the way to Lunenburg, I made a stop in lovely little Mahone Bay. Being a Sunday, the town was absolutely jam-packed with both people and cars. After my many hours of highway driving over the course of the previous few days, maneuvering through very narrow, very busy streets, was quite nerve-racking–as was trying to find a washroom that didn't require me to also sit and enjoy lunch. I will admit that I drove around and around and around the tiny downtown until I realized that what I really needed was that most Canadian of institutions, the local Tim Horton's coffee shop. How many times has a road tripper been saved by Tim's? It is quite possibly the worst quality coffee available, but when you really need it, it seems like the best, most familiar and comforting taste in the world–and 24 hours a day, you can use the facilities.

The colors of Lunenburg are every bit as wonderful as you would expect them to be.

Driving in Lunenburg was different again. It involved a lot of either accelerating or braking, as the town is built on a very steep hill. And when I say steep, I mean steep . So much so, that when you walk downhill towards the water, you have to lean back to keep your balance. Luckily, the walking tour of the city that I took with Lunenburg Walking Tours was all downhill.

Day 6: Lunenburg to Halifax

Although part of me was thrilled to turn the driving over to Taste Halifax and allow them to whiz me around the city to experience some of the best of their food and drink, I was actually sad when I had to return the car in Halifax. Not just because I was finally feeling comfortable behind the wheel–my two runs at that roundabout on the way into Halifax notwithstanding–but because I had fallen in love with the people and the landscape and the food and the culture of Nova Scotia. Everyone was so kind to me, from the woman at Trout Point Lodge who took my keys out of my hand and replaced them with a glass of wine when I arrived looking shell shocked after my first long drive, to the people who stopped to help when my car wouldn't start in Hall's Harbour, to the taxi driver in Lunenburg who declared, “You're alright. You're not nearly as stuck up as I expected a Torontonian to be.”

I declare my first solo road trip a success! If you have not taken one, I encourage you to give it a try. Trust me, if I can do it, anyone can. Now that I've got one under my belt, I can't wait to start planning the next. You'll find lots of tips and advice in A Solo Road Trip – Why You Can & Why It Will Be Fabulous!

I have to give a shout-out to my driving instructor, Joel. He repeatedly told me that the only thing holding me back was my lack of confidence. It seems he was right. And it seems I found it in Nova Scotia.

My sincere thanks to the folks at Nova Scotia Tourism , who are just now discovering that they set a completely inexperienced driver loose on the good people of their province. 

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Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

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The Best Things to Do in Halifax Nova Scotia: a Complete Travel Guide

If you are planning a trip to Nova Scotia, chances are you are more than likely traveling into Halifax. This darling Canadian city is full of friendly locals, great eateries, and a perfect blend of 18th and 19th century architecture. Great for exploring on foot, you can discover museums, galleries, libraries, and take in the views along the waterfront. If a Nova Scotia trip is in your future, make sure you allow for at least two nights to see all this brilliant capital has to offer!

The Best Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia:

 day 1 in halifax nova scotia.

Check In: Arrive in Halifax and check into the Westin Nova Scotian . Recently renovated and offering luxurious suites, this hotel is located in the heart of the Halifax Seaport District. Within walking distance to everything this modern hotel offers all the comforts you need to explore the bustling city.

Lunch: Once settled in head across the street to The Henry House , a National Historic Site of Canada. This cozy English stone house is a pub with moody tones, and brick fireplaces, offers a menu variety of local beers and English style ales, along with delicious pub grub. I opted for a seat by the fire and the crab cake special.

Afternoon: Directly behind the Westin is The Halifax Farmer’s Market – this is the oldest farmer’s market in North American. Although the farmer’s market is busier on weekends {boasting over 140 vendors} it is worth walking through to see the local fare any day of the week.

Next door is Pier 21, the Canadian Museum of Immigration {our version of Ellis Island}. This museum has bright interactive displays appealing to kids, and adults, of all ages. It goes through the history of immigration in Canada and how it shaped Canada’s culture and lifestyle. They also have people on hand that can track your ancestors if you have a Canadian background.

I am part French Canadian, and I was shocked to find that my first french ancestor came over in the mid 1600s. He was apart of the first Acadians in the maritimes. This history is something I will definitely delve into more, and it only took 20 minutes for them to find the information.

Across the way from Pier 21 is Garrison’s where you can grab a Halifax craft beer. Halifax has created quite the reputation for their craft brews so I highly suggest you give them a try while visiting.

 Day 2 in Halifax Nova Scotia

Breakfast: Choose to sleeping in and enjoy breakfast in bed from Elements On Hollis , or opt to head down to the dining room to enjoy an amazing breakfast buffet, or choose from the menu. The buffet offers a large selection of breakfast items from meats and cheeses, to eggs, bacon, and hash browns, to pastry treats! They also have an omelet and a waffle bar. The waffles are insane!

Morning: The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site is a national landmark showing Halifax’s role as a key naval station in the British Empire. Sitting on a large hill you can gain impressive views of the city while learning about the city’s history with Britain. In the summer there are concerts on the hill with some impressive artists, it’s worth checking the schedule if you are in town.

Discover the Halifax Central Library . Designed to look as a stack of books this bright and cheerful library was named one of the Top 10 most beautiful libraries on earth by WIRED.

Stroll down Spring Garden Road , a lively street full of shops and cafes. Explore the locally owned shops while enjoying people watching.

Lunch: I stepped into Sushi Nami Royale , a highly recommended sushi bar on a side street off Spring Garden Road. Warm up with a bowl of miso soup and order a roll or two for lunch.

Afternoon: Make your way to the Halifax Waterfront and step into the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic . Meet Merlin, the museum mascot, a spectacular macaw full of life. He has a webcam that you can check in and watch his playful antics on a live webcam any time of day! Hint: Parrots sleep 12 hours at night so I would check during the daylight hours.

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic has an intriguing exhibit on the Titanic, featuring the world’s finest wooden artifacts from Titanic. Halifax was the closest major port to the Titanic sinking and all the artifacts, and bodies recovered, were brought to Halifax.

You can also learn the story of the Halifax explosion, which nearly wiped out the city in this devastating man made disaster.

Nearby is the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, where you can see a wide range of exhibits unique to the region, including the Maud Lewis collection. The museum even has her tiny house that Maud painted almost every piece in bright, bold, colorful paintings.

Hop on the Halifax-Dartmouth Ferry and head to Alderney Landing. This is the oldest saltwater ferry in North America and the second oldest in the world! Once in Alderney gaze upon the glittering skyline of Halifax {try to time this an hour before sunset for optimal lighting and colors}. The ferry is $2.50 each way in cash and departs every 15 minutes. Stay and explore the Dartmouth area, or head back to Halifax for dinner!

Right next to the ferry terminal is the Nova Scotian Crystal shop . The owner hails from Waterford, Ireland and started his business In Nova Scotia. They create gorgeous crystal pieces worth looking at. If you are deterred from buying because you are scared you’ll break the beautiful piece at some point in time, don’t worry! They offer warranties on every piece!

 Day 3 in Halifax Nova Scotia

Breakfast: Take part in Elements on Hollis breakfast buffet and be on your way to discover what else Nova Scotia has to offer!

Alternative:  Staying another night in Halifax at the end of your Nova Scotia trip? Enjoy your last night in Halifax being pampered at The Prince George Hotel. Start your last evening at the Obladee Wine Bar with a wine flight, and then dine at the stylish Gio , within the Prince George.

PS: Loving these things to do in Halifax Nova Scotia? You’ll love this Quebec City travel guide , click here now to see it!

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Why Halifax Is Perfect For Solo Travellers

Have a one-on-one with halifax.

Travelling alone is one of the most exciting things a person can do in their lifetime. You always hear people reflect on how rewarding it is to thrust yourself into an unknown environment, completely immerse yourself in something new, without any ties to your life back home. What you hear less is how intimidating it can be to travel alone. And let’s face it, there are some places that amplify rather than ease this fear. No two people will have the same travel experience, but voyagers from all over the world agree that Halifax is a particularly great place to travel alone.  

Credit: AskMen

Economically speaking, Halifax has a couple of centrally located-hostels that are great alternatives to hotels or B&Bs. Hotels can be expensive if you’re travelling alone . If you’re concerned about meeting other people or where to get information about the city, you can kill two birds with one stone by opting for a hostel. You’ll definitely meet likeminded travelers in this environment, as well as having access to friendly staff with the answers to any questions you might have.

Although every major city is has a handful of hostels of their own, what sets Halifax apart is the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the city. Other top travel destinations, big cities across Canada, have a hustle and bustle that Halifax just does not have. The fussiness that often accompanies sprawling metropolises can be especially wearisome when travelling alone. It’s hard to take in the scenery and relax among the sounds of rush hour traffic. Even things as simple as picking up lunch for the next day can be difficult if you have to walk fifteen minutes just to reach the nearest grocery store. Yeah, you can bust out a map, but if you’re like me, maybe you like to try to blend in with the locals.

Credit: Pixabay

In terms of getting out and having solo adventures, you really couldn’t ask for a better place to take in the sights alone. There are so many outdoor activities: harbour tours, Citadel Hill, the maritime museum, and more. Halifax really has a great selection of tourist attractions that cater to solo travelers. If you want the full maritime landscape experience, Halifax is also the main departure point for a number of multi-day travel tours, which is why the area is a haven for ornithologists and avid nature lovers. These are the sorts of things in life that are best enjoyed alone. No offence to your friends.

Halifax is a city where many of its finest characteristics are best enjoyed at an individual pace. The city itself is warm, and the people inviting. If you’re looking for a destination that that is completely unique to your own experience, without outside noise, Halifax should be at the top of your list.

Alma Talbot

Contributor.

Alma Talbot grew up in Toronto, and moved to Montreal to study Creative Writing at Concordia. Since graduating in 2015 she has been working as a freelance writer and editor. To see more of her “work” follow her on Twitter: @AlmaTalbot.

Read more from me!

Best sushi restaurants in halifax, best ottawa pizzerias to satisfy your craving, a full day in ottawa for under 50$.

Compared to conurbations such as Vancouver and Toronto, Halifax barely qualifies as a city, but this seaside town punches well above its size: it's dotted with red-brick heritage buildings, public parks and a landmark citadel, blessed with some first-rate museums, and home to a truly epic 4km seafront boardwalk. True, relentless downtown redevelopment has done little to enhance the city's charm: boxy office blocks and uninspiring concrete carbuncles are rising where handsome ironstones and Victorian townhouses once stood, although some exceptions (notably the new Central Library) show what can be achieved when planners exercise a little more quality control.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Halifax. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Citadel Hill National Historic Site

Perched atop the grassy hillock looming over town, this star-shaped fort played a key role in Halifax's founding. Construction began in 1749; the current…

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

There's an argument that this dockside museum is Canada's most important institution. Between 1928 and 1971, Pier 21 was the Canadian version of the USA's…

Halifax Central Library

Built on a former parking lot, this stunning modern library, composed of glass boxes stacked artfully on top of each other, was opened in 2014 and has…

Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

The province's premier art institution is a must-see. It has a strong collection of local art, particularly the work of folk artist Maud Lewis, including…

Halifax Public Gardens

Established in 1867 to mark Confederation, but formally opened to the public in 1875, Halifax's delightful 6.5-hectare public gardens are a fine example…

Fairview Lawn Cemetery

When the RMS Titanic sank, the bodies of those not lost at sea were brought to Halifax. Among other sites, there are 19 graves at Mt Olivet Catholic…

Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park

Eighteen kilometers south of Halifax, near the village of Sambro, this gorgeous provincial park boasts three distinct beaches in separate coves; the third…

St Paul's Church

The oldest surviving building in Halifax is also the oldest Protestant place of worship in Canada. Established in 1749 with the founding of Halifax, St…

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Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Halifax

Dec 9, 2019 • 4 min read

While a weekend isn’t nearly long enough to experience all Halifax has to offer, you can still see plenty of cool spots during a short trip.

Dec 5, 2019 • 5 min read

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Getting Around Halifax

The best ways to get around Halifax are on foot or by bus. Despite its hilly terrain, central Halifax is extremely compact and walkable, but you'll need stamina and sturdy walking shoes. You can also rely on Metro Transit, which operates buses throughout the city and ferries to nearby  Dartmouth . However, if you're planning on venturing outside Halifax, you will need a car. You'll find major rental agencies both in town and at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ), located about 20 miles north of downtown.

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The Top Cities in Canada for Solo Travelers to Visit

Canada is a fantastic country to explore alone. Its west and east coasts are very different, in terms of architecture and landscape, while its locals are known for being too polite. Here are the best cities across the Great White North you need to visit as a solo traveler. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling,

Vancouver, british columbia.

Vancouver is the perfect city for traveling alone. The public transport infrastructure is excellent, with the world’s longest automated driverless train system. There are also economical and centrally located hostels such as Samesun Vancouver . Some of the best parks in the city include Stanley Park and Queen Elizabeth Park, plus there are cool neighborhoods such as Main Street, Gastown, and Commercial Drive. Science World and the Granville Island Public Market are a couple of the must-visit attractions. However, locals recommend avoiding the intersection of Main and Hastings Street at night if alone.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

The best thing about Halifax in Nova Scotia might just be the excellent day trips available from the city. Visit Peggy’s Cove and Peggy’s Point Lighthouse (perhaps the most photographed lighthouse in the country), as well as Mahone Bay and Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Halifax, there are plenty of breweries, museums, and historic sites to keep you busy. For some cheap eats, check out the following streets: Fenwick, Robie, Oxford, Young, and Spring Garden Road.

Toronto, Ontario

Canada’s largest metropolis, and one of the world’s safest and most diverse cities (50% of the population are not Canadian-born), Toronto is a great city to explore alone. The city’s public transport system includes buses, a light rail, streetcars, and a subway system. There are also many worthwhile attractions, such as Toronto Island, CN Tower, Kensington Market, and the Distillery District. But make sure you venture outside of the city and visit the extraordinary Niagara Falls on a day trip too.

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Whistler, British Columbia

Although Whistler is a doable day trip from Vancouver, it’s perfect for solo travelers too, especially the adventurous ones. Because a lot of the town’s staff is seasonal, the local hostels are always filled with people ready to team up for a Whistler adventure. Depending on the season, there is a lot to do in the area. Of course, in the winter, Whistler Blackcomb becomes one of North America’s best ski resorts. During the summer, there are many pristine lakes and hikes to enjoy.

St John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

With just over 200,000 friendly people calling St John’s home, this city is one of Canada’s best-kept secrets. Many people don’t venture as far north as St John’s, but those who do are pleasantly surprised. The capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador has a very low crime rate, and it’s easy to explore on foot. Hike up to Cabot Tower on Signal Hill, take too many photos of the colorful buildings on Jellybean Row, and enjoy a meal on George Street, the nightlife epicenter.

Ottawa, Ontario

The nation’s capital, Ottawa , is another easy city to explore on foot. For a unique experience, spend the night at HI-Ottawa Jail Hostel . As the name suggests, it was, in fact, a former prison, and it is now one of the most haunted places in Canada. By day, there are many must-see attractions in the city, including Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and ByWard Market. Depending on when you visit, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rideau Canal is great for skating in winter and for boat tours in the warmer months.

Montreal, Quebec

Although French is the primary language in Quebec, the majority of people speak English as well. So don’t let the slight language barrier deter you from visiting this incredible city. Wandering through the Montreal streets will have you thinking you’re in Europe. Begin your Quebec experience right with a visit to a bakery in the morning. Other places worth visiting include Mont-Royal, Old Montreal (don’t miss the Notre Dame Basilica), the Montreal Biodome, and Parc Jean Drapeau.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg is fast becoming a top travel destination in Canada. Located in the middle of the country, Winnipeg is known for its frigid winters but gorgeous summers. In the winter, ensure you visit Festival du Voyageur, and skate along the world’s largest natural ice skating trail. Any time of year, go on a museum crawl and check out Musée de Saint-Boniface, the Royal Canadian Mint, the Manitoba Legislature Building, and the impressive Canadian Museum for Human Rights . The Forks is also one of the city’s biggest attractions, complete with markets, shops, and National Historic Sites.

Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec City is known as one of the most beautiful cities to visit in winter —if you can handle the cold temperatures! But no matter what time of year you visit, you are guaranteed to have a safe and enjoyable time alone in the only walled city north of Mexico. Explore the Marché du Vieux-Port (Old Port Market), take the ferry from the city to Lévis across the Saint Lawrence River, and enjoy UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Quebec. Don’t forget to capture Le Château Frontenac , which is one of the world’s most photographed hotels.

Victoria, British Columbia

Located on Vancouver Island , Victoria , the capital of British Columbia, is a beautiful city waiting to be explored. It is easily accessible from Seattle and Vancouver, and its architecture is one of the city’s defining features—from Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University to Craigdarroch Castle to the stunning ivy-covered Fairmont Empress hotel and finally the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. Definitely check out the Inner Harbour, the Royal British Columbia Museum, and Butchart Gardens.

Banff, Alberta

Although it’s not a city, you can’t visit Canada without experiencing the amazing Canadian Rockies . Banff is the best place to base yourself, as it’s an easy bus ride (or drive) from Calgary, and it’s built for tourism. There is public transport, various activities within walking distance, and hostels for the budget-minded solo traveler. Spend the day soaking in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, walking along the Bow River, and visiting Vermilion Lakes. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are also a perfect half-day trip away.

Edmonton, Alberta

The Alberta capital is often overlooked for its counterpart Calgary, but Edmonton is a better solo traveler choice—primarily because it is home to West Edmonton Mall , where you could spend your entire vacation. It’s the largest shopping mall in North America. There are over 800 shops and services, plus attractions such as Galaxyland Amusement Park, World Waterpark, Sea Life Caverns aquarium, and the Mayfield Toyota Ice Palace skating rink. Outside of the mall, there are other attractions, including the Royal Alberta Museum, Muttart Conservatory, and Fort Edmonton Park.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Ladies, 8 things to know before travelling solo in Canada

Solo female travel is hot, it’s here, and few places are as primed for it as Canada. Safe, easy to get around and blessed by Mother Nature with more beautiful vistas and adventure activities than there are wild moose, Canada consistently earns rave reviews, not least by solo female travellers.

Last updated . 29 January 2020

With female solo travel at an all-time high, here’s what you need to know about exploring Canada on your own, from someone who did it herself, Alissa Jenkins .

Perhaps it’s the effects of social media making travel feel more accessible than ever, perhaps it’s the 11-year anniversary of Eat, Pray, Love (the novel, that is), or perhaps it’s the fact that, well, it’s 2018 and women can travel alone if they damn well please.

Either way, 2018 is quickly shaping up to be the year for solo female travel, with widespread trends showing plane loads of women are seeking adventure… and they’re wanting to do it alone.

A quick squiz on Google Trends shows the number of hits on the search term “solo female travel” has more than doubled in just the past two years. As a result of this growing market, the number of women-only travel companies across the world is also skyrocketing, while established tour operators are seeing a dramatic rise in their female participants.

Among them is Intrepid Travel , who in just the first few months of 2017 reported a 35 percent increase in women booking trips, while REI Adventures also saw 60 percent more women since 2010.

Suffice to say, solo female travel is hot, it’s here, and few places are as primed for it as Canada. Safe, easy to get around and blessed by Mother Nature with more beautiful vistas and adventure activities than there are wild moose, Canada consistently earns rave reviews, not least by solo female travellers. But before you go, some words to the wise to spur your own solo mission…

1. Apps, apps, baby

Use that smartphone for more than just Facebook updates and download some nifty travel apps that will make your solo adventure a bazillion times easier. Check out PackPoint for a little digital suitcase-packing assistant, Tourlina to connect with like-minded solo female travellers in your area.

2. Get connected on tour

Starting out on a solo mission can be daunting, especially if you’re venturing into a remote area. Happily, Canada is home to several great tour operators that cater to those going it alone, with various age groups in mind. For those at the younger end of the spectrum, check out Moose Travel Network , while personalised, small-group experiences can also be arranged with Momento Travel , Adventure World or Intrepid Travel .

3. Befriend your Airbnb host

While many of us opt for the “entire house” when booking on Airbnb , selecting a room in a shared space is a fantastic way to make connections. Befriend your host, chat to them, and lean on them for advice. After all, they are the local and will be loaded with fantastic insights. My first hosts in Vancouver were incredible, gave countless clever tips, let me tag along on their social outings and we’re still great friends to this day.

4. Sit at the bar

Whether it’s lunchtime or you’re having yourself a cheeky après cocktail, sitting at the bar is one of the best ways to meet locals (on both sides of the bar). It’s also a savvy way to pocket some insider advice on local do’s and don’ts.

5. When it doubt, ask!

Like most destinations around the world, Canadians always appreciate when a traveller is at least trying to learn their local lingo. But if something isn’t clear, from pronouncing street names to asking your bartender “what’s a mickey?” ask! You learn so much more and it saves time. There’s good reason why they say Canadians are so friendly…

6. Trust your intuition

More a general life hack than a tip specific to solo travel, but always trust those gut instincts. Whether the house you’re in doesn’t feel right, or that salesperson doesn’t seem to have your best interests at heart, chances are you’re probably right. Know when you’re being had and how to politely walk away.

7. Write it all down

I know, it’s cliché and listed in every ‘travel 101’ story, but do yourself a favour and write down your adventures in a journal. Take note of it all; the sights, the smells, the battles of going it alone. There’s something totally freeing about travelling alone, spurring thoughts and memories that you won’t want to forget.

8. Book the damn ticket

It sounds obvious enough but the best way to kickstart that solo adventure is to just book it now, plan it later. Book the ticket, submit your leave, and jump on a plane. Go for it, everything else will fall into place.

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Your love and respect for the places you visit and the people you meet shine through in your writing. It’s so refreshing to see.

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Halifax Backpackers Hostel

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How to Travel Solo: What to Know Before You Go

Written by Becca

Updated on February 10th, 2024

Need tips for how to travel alone for the first time on a solo trip? I share what to know for first time solo female traveler safety, and the best destinations for traveling solo.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Table of contents

• Why do people travel alone?
• Budget tips for traveling solo
• What are the downsides of traveling solo?
• Where are the best places to travel solo?
• Apps and websites to help you navigate traveling on your own
• How to travel solo as a woman
• What are the benefits of traveling solo?

Traveling solo is one of the most special things you can do for yourself, whether you’re fresh out of college or in your later adult years, seeking adventure.

Traveling alone doesn’t have to be scary, rough or stressful. There are so many different ways to travel alone, whether you’re away for a long weekend on your own to recharge at a resort, or taking a year-long bender to backpack in South America or Europe.

Why do people travel alone, and why would someone want to travel solo?

Is traveling alone worth it? Check out all my best tips below on why traveling solo is something everyone should try at least once, and everything you need to know about traveling alone.

Why do people travel alone?

There are a few reasons that travelers choose to take trips alone.

It doesn’t mean they don’t have friends or family who want to join them: no, not at all.

People travel alone because they want to do more. People travel alone because they want to travel longer than the time their friends have off from work.

People also travel solo if they want to travel to places their friends or family don’t have any interest in going.

I got my very, very first taste of traveling alone when I was studying abroad in Hong Kong .

One afternoon, I couldn’t find anyone to come with me to visit a place I had seen in photos: Chi Lin Nunnery, a beautiful and perfectly picturesque traditional temple outside the city center.

I went on my own, and had never done anything like this before. This experience stands out to me as proof to myself that I could go sightseeing on my own, and it would be totally okay .

Fast forward two and then three years later, and I moved to Shanghai, China, on my own, to start a job teaching English.

At the end of my two years living as an expat in China, I had traveled alone in Thailand, across China by train and in Japan. Upon moving back to the US, I took a solo trip to Costa Rica, and found myself solo in a hostel at the beginning of my trip to South Africa, and at the end of my first trip to Cartagena, Colombia .

I traveled alone because I couldn’t wait for other people to call the shots for me and decide on my trips. Traveling alone is about independence, going forward to have great experiences, and not wasting time to count on anyone else’s schedule.

Traveling alone is also so interesting!

You’ll find yourself in situations you never could have dreamed of when you travel alone, whether it’s needing a doctor in Costa Rica (me) to meeting a Buddhist monk and having a smoothie together in Chiang Mai.

Budget tips for traveling solo

Some people wonder if traveling solo can be cheaper, and it really depends on your style.

If you’re opting for a king-sized room at a resort or on a cruise ship and you don’t have anyone to split the cost with, traveling solo can get expensive.

On the flip side, if you stay at a hostel in a shared room like a dorm, you could spend as little as $8 in places like Central America or Southeast Asia, and chances are, you’ll make a friend or two.

Here are a few tips for keeping your budget in check when traveling solo:

Book a hostel

Hostels are so cool nowadays. I’ve been hosteling since 2009, when I hardly knew what a hostel was. And now that I’m an expert, I wrote down soem of my favorite tips for staying in a hostel ! My British friends I met in Hong Kong in my study abroad program introduced me to the idea of hostels and the first one we stayed in was on a weekend trip to Guilin, China.

It wasn’t so memorable, but luckily, I had amazing experiences in hostels afterward, everywhere from Guatemala to Vietnam and from Peru to Estonia . I love staying in hostels, whether I’m traveling alone, or with a buddy.

Hostels will help keep costs down because if you’re low on cash, you can stay in a dorm room, and many hostels have dorms from as few as 4 people to as many as 20 in a shared space.

You can always start searching for hostels on Hostelworld .

New to hostels? Check out in-depth reviews of a few, to get a feel for the variety in hostel experiences as a solo traveler:

• Meetme 23 (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Local NY (NYC, USA)
• Abraham Hostel (Tel Aviv, Israel)

Don’t hesitate to split a taxi or shared ride

If you’re ever in a situation in which you want to get a taxi to another city or town when you’re traveling and you don’t want to foot the bill yourself, ask to split a ride!

There are a lot of ways to do this. The first way is to find someone in your hostel who’s going in the same direction.

The second is to use Facebook groups. Many countries or regions nowadays will have groups for travelers or expats, to share information and especially, to share the contact info for private drivers or shared rides.

We found this to be the case when we went to Sri Lanka and learned that this is a thing.

Share the cost of a private guide or a tour

When we were in Myanmar , we were going to take an Inle Lake boat tour just the two of us because we wanted more photos at sunset. Luckily though, we met a pair of Australians who were flexible and said they could join us.

The last person on our boat was a solo traveler from South Korea and lucky for him, he nearly came for free, because the four of us had already decided to split the flat rate of the boat tour.

When splitting five ways, it was cheaper for everyone!

Eat your meals in markets and on the street

Half the fun of traveling is the food, right?

And when you’re traveling alone, do you really need to sit down in Michelin-starred restaurants by your lonesome and eat a seven-course meal only to have no one to share it with?

What I’m getting at is that when you’re traveling solo, go have those experiences of sitting in a market and eating tostadas from a counter next to locals.

Go eat at the place where there’s only single seats at a long table and you wouldn’t have been able to sit next to your friend anyway.

Go chat with locals with your broken Spanish and ask about the best thing on the menu

When I ate a meal alone in Singapore’s Chinatown during a solo day of traveling by myself, I was the only one in the restaurant, and started chatting it up in Chinese with the owner and the waitstaff.

Try restaurants in markets, like the ones in Tel Aviv. Life’s too short to be shy!

Take free city walking tours

There are so many free walking tours in major cities around the world. I’ve done a great free walking tour in Medellin . The guides are usually fantastic and the only cost is tipping at the end.

You can usually tip around $10 to $20 USD, if you are feeling generous and if your budget permits. The guides work really hard.

This is a great thing to do while traveling solo because you’ll always be with a group, and you’ll learn expert knowledge from the guide while you’re on the walking tour.

Also, these tours are usually three hours, so it’s a great way to have some cut-out time for something to do on a solo trip to a city.

What are the downsides of traveling solo?

I’d be lying if I didn’t comment on the downsides of traveling solo. I’ve traveled alone in countries where I spoke the language (Colombia) and some in which I spoke the language rather poorly (Japan). I’ve also traveled solo in countries where there was no language barrier at all (South Africa!).

There are a few downsides to traveling solo, so I’ll be sure to comment on them here:

Having an emergency

I actually did have an emergency when I was traveling alone in Costa Rica.

I met a guy in my hostel and we decided to cook dinner. We went to a local store in Manuel Antonio and bought normal dinner stuff: vegetables, tortillas, hot peppers.

As it turns out, the peppers in Costa Rica are really hot, and they do not have warning labels on them in the stores.

In fact, they are so hot that you need gloves to cut them.

Well, no one told me that, and I started cutting the hot peppers without gloves or protection. My hands soon started feeling like they were burning. It was not normal, and it was really bad.

I started freaking out. My hands felt like they were on fire and it was absolutely excruciating. I dipped them in milk, I ran them under water and nothing worked. I had to go see a doctor.

I was alone, and I was pretty scared. Luckily, I knew some medical Spanish, but it wasn’t going to cure me! I went to a pharmacy and got a shot. I went back to the hostel, and I was still in pain. I had to go see another emergency clinic before I got sleeping pills and thankfully could sleep for a few hours, giving me time to see the doctor again the next day.

Getting sick when you’re traveling alone is SCARY! And it’s something you have to be ready to face (I’ve also had food poisoning in China and have been hospitalized twice, which I talk about in my tips for how to avoid getting sick during travel ).

Getting ripped off, or having to face expenses alone

As mentioned above, there are lots of ways to travel solo on the cheap. You can stay in hostels, eat in markets, take public buses, share rides and split the costs of tours.

But what if you get ripped off? I’ve been scammed when traveling (and I was traveling alone, but was with a friend I’d met when I got scammed) and I’ve been ripped off, too.

Getting into some type of financial trouble while traveling is a valid concern, and another one is what if your stuff gets stolen and you have no money? Who’s there to help you?

These are all issues for which you can develop backup plans in advance, like securing local phone service (we recommend Google Fi ) and splitting up your credit cards and debit cards, while also having some of those numbers stored in a super-secure app like 1Password .

Where are the best places to travel solo?

I’d be remiss if I didn’t recommend the places where Dan and I (as well as lots of our friends) have traveled solo, so check out this list of exciting solo travel destinations . Among them are some favorites of mine, like South Africa, Colombia, Israel, China, Costa Rica and Thailand.

Apps and websites to help you navigate traveling on your own

When you travel solo, there are a whole bunch of resources that can help you out.

Like we discuss in our favorite apps and websites for travelers , Nomad List is a site that rates cities for working remotely , which can really help if you want to travel as a digital nomad .

Facebook groups

Before you leave for your solo trip, start searching on Facebook for groups like “Travelers in [Destination]” or “Backpacking in [Region].” If you plan to travel solo and stay longer, start looking for expat groups and/or digital nomad groups in a particular place.

A great example of this is the women’s group for Mexico City, Girl Gone International . There are so many solo travelers looking to meet others, and people post social events, or simple introductions about themselves asking if anyone is free to hang out and meet in person.

Remote work & travel groups

Remote Year , Outsite, WiFi Tribe and Hacker Paradise make traveling solo “not so solo” after all, because you will travel with a group (or stay in a coliving ) and pay a monthly fee. However, they’re great opportunities to make solo travel the best of both worlds. We did Remote Year (and Dan did it twice).

How to travel solo as a woman

Traveling solo as a woman is the only type of solo travel I have experience with, because I am a woman!

I thin one of the most common misconceptions is that women can’t or shouldn’t travel solo. People may tell you horror stories or try to scare you away from the decision to travel alone as a solo female, but I and many others can tell you it’s totally fine (depending where you go)!

When traveling solo as a woman, there isn’t tons of a difference when compared to men who travel alone. A few tips that can make your female solo travel experience more sooth are:

Fend off people who ask you “where your husband is”

Basically… tell them he is at home, or ask them why they care (just kidding — don’t start any fights!). In more conservative cultures , it is very rare for women to be backpacking or living abroad on their own without a man, so that is where this question tends to come from.

Wear a fake wedding band or engagement ring

This is pretty old-school advice, but if you really want to fend off the inquisitive or bothersome types mentioned above, wear a fake ring to a) fend off creepy men who may try to take you out on a date (again, this has never really happened to me) and b) make people think your husband is nearby and they shouldn’t mess with you.

Note: This is old advice that may stick in some places, and it may not make sense in others. Please use your judgement and do not do anything with which you are uncomfortable. This mostly applies to uber-conservative places like South Asia and some parts of Latin America.

Bring along some feminine products

If you have important feminine products from home, bring them along in a Ziploc bag, because there are a whole lot of feminine products from your home country that may not be available elsewhere. This is also common advice for any female traveler. The challenge is if you’re traveling solo that you may not have anyone close to you to ask for these items. I recommend a bunch in my list of the best products for solo female travelers .

Stay in an all-female dorm room

In Bangkok, Thailand, I stayed in an all-female dorm room, and it was a really nice sense of security that everyone else in the dorm room was a woman. I’ve never had weird experiences staying in mixed-gender hostel dorm rooms, but if it freaks you out to think of sharing a bunk bed with a guy on the top or bottom and potentially changing in front of strangers, you may feel better with an all-female dorm room as your hostel option.

What are the benefits of traveling solo?

There are a heap of great reasons to travel solo. Why should you try traveling alone? Check out these benefits that’ll make you a more well-rounded traveler!

Traveling solo makes you friendlier

Okay, so you arrive at a hostel in a new place. You don’t know anyone. How do you meet people? You can start talking to travelers in the hostel bar or social area, sign up for a city tour, take an organized day trip or another class or event that the hostel puts on.

You’ll meet people with similar interests and you’ll realize others are traveling solo too, for the same reasons.

In a hostel in Cape Town, South Africa, I sat down at a table with two friendly backpackers from Australia and Canada, and pretty soon we had invited anyone who walked by us to a giant group dinner, at which 14 of us tried African meats and sampled as many bottles of South African wine as we could!

If you’re looking for a hostel, consider Hostelworld . That’s how I book hostels exclusively.

Traveling solo helps you save money

If you want to fly, and you don’t mind flying basic economy , this is something you can do on your own. Basic economy tickets are cheaper, and your seat is assigned during check-in or prior to boarding, so you won’t get to sit in your choice of seat anyway.

If you’re willing to give up some thrills, a choice like this can make traveling solo a bit budget-friendly.

Traveling solo helps you adventure more

I realized in Costa Rica that because I had taken the advice of friends from home and came with a pre-arranged itinerary, I was averse to going along with cool people I met, to their destination.

I met some nice Israeli girls who were headed to beaches in Jaco, but I had already made myself hostel reservations in Manuel Antonio and had to say goodbye at the bus stop.

I have all kinds of wacky stories of this trip, like how I met a Welsh girl and an American guy in Monteverde, split from them, and ran into them getting off a bus in Quepos, only to travel into Panama all together and essentially spend the next 12 days of our lives doing the same things.

By traveling solo and being flexible, you can travel with people you meet and not be hindered by set plans.

Traveling solo allows you to make all your decisions

Feel like sleeping in? You can do that. Feel like traveling for 12 hours on a train? You can do that too. You don’t have to check with anyone else and get an “OK.”

Traveling alone gets you to solve your own problems

Once you overcome a situation, that’s your success, like this one time in Cartagena, Colombia , when I arrived alone, with two days to kill before my flight.

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When I arrived at my hostel, I found that they had overbooked, due to a web error, and sent me to a less-great yet available option two blocks away. That night I got lucky and was able to meet up with a New Yorker I had met previously in Santa Marta .

After a night in the second-rate hostel and realizing the hot room with no ventilation was not for me, I booked myself in a dorm in another hostel, still trying to connect over Facebook and WhatsApp with anyone I had met previously in the trip to see if they were around. By my last morning, I had another successful meetup with a Canadian girl and we went on a graffiti tour together.

Traveling alone will give you experiences that no one else can relate to

In Thailand, I made friends with a Thai Buddhist monk and we went out for smoothies together. Anyone to whom I mention this story has no idea what this felt like to me and how unique it was. Memories from when you travel alone become your personal memories forever.

Both Dan and I recommend traveling alone to see how strong and independent you really are! Give it a shot. There’s no better time than now to take your first solo trip somewhere in the world.

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Connect With Seniors Traveling Alone in Halifax, Share Costs & Travel Together

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“I have found GAFFL to be an amazing tool for finding similar minded travel partners to embark on an adventure. Through GAFFL, I had organized a trip to Mexico City last month and Quazi joined the trip from Victoria, BC. We spent 14 days of straight exploring, hiking, eating and drinking. Quite an amazing experience - all thanks to GAFFL!”

"I accidentally scrolled across GAFFL and I'm so pleased I did. I met Amaia and immediately decided to road-trip together. We're spending 10 days together and it's great because we have so much in common. Couldn't have done it without GAFFL helping us find one another! It has honestly made NZ so much cheaper to explore as I get to split the costs with someone too​"

Benefits of Solo Traveling for Seniors Over 50

Safety tips for seniors traveling alone.

I think GAFFL plays a role by allowing solo travelers to find travel buddies when needed. Though solo travel is a great way to travel, there are some experiences that are better enjoyed with more people (some don’t even allow for solo).

Friends and families are not always available to travel with, and sometimes the interests do not align for travel. Or sometimes you just want to socialize while still being solo most of the time. I think GAFFL helps solve these problems.

Solo travel is great. But there are some times that I do not recommend someone travel solo and where I personally try my hardest not to travel solo. Some examples of this relate to safety, like hiking a trail that doesn’t have many people walking it each day, or being in certain destinations where I’ve heard from others that it’s difficult as a solo female.

Other examples relate to expenses, like taking a road trip and renting a car. Situations like these are where I think something like GAFFL is a great idea. With GAFFL, you can find a group to go on that hike with or split that car rental with!

I think this is a fabulous idea because the things that can get expensive while solo traveling can usually also be easily split between people. If you aren’t a hostel fan, it would be awesome to have people to split hotels and Airbnb with.

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Making connections and becoming friends with people all over the world is such a powerful tool to have when traveling. One day maybe you’ll visit your new friend in their homeland. Some of the best trips happen when you have a friend playing tour guide in their country.

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One of the things that hold people back is that they don’t have a partner or a best friend to travel with and they feel scared and uncertain to travel alone, especially long-term. GAFFL helps with that!

Another thing that holds people back is the perceived cost of travel. While travel doesn’t have to be expensive, it’s always more affordable when you can share the cost of accommodation and groceries with someone else. Again, GAFFL provides a solution for that!

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News Obituaries | Robert MacNeil dies at 93; TV journalist was…

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News obituaries | deja vu: overturned trailer truck creates commute havoc on i-880, news obituaries | robert macneil dies at 93; tv journalist was creator, first anchor of pbs ‘newshour’, his friend and colleague jim lehrer joined him as co-host of the nightly program in 1983.

By Dave Bryan | Associated Press

NEW YORK  — Robert MacNeil, who created the even-handed, no-frills PBS newscast “The MacNeil-Lehrer NewsHour” in the 1970s and co-anchored the show for with his late partner, Jim Lehrer, for two decades, died on Friday. He was 93.

MacNeil died of natural causes at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, according to his daughter, Alison MacNeil.

MacNeil first gained prominence for his coverage of the Senate Watergate hearings for the public broadcasting service and began his half-hour “Robert MacNeil Report” on PBS in 1975 with his friend Lehrer as Washington correspondent.

The broadcast became the “MacNeil-Lehrer Report” and then, in 1983, was expanded to an hour and renamed the “MacNeil-Lehrer NewsHour.” The nation’s first one-hour evening news broadcast, and recipient of several Emmy and Peabody awards, it remains on the air today with Geoff Bennett and Amna Nawaz as anchors.

It was MacNeil’s and Lehrer’s disenchantment with the style and content of rival news programs on ABC, CBS and NBC that led to the program’s creation.

“We don’t need to SELL the news,” MacNeil told the Chicago Tribune in 1983. “The networks hype the news to make it seem vital, important. What’s missing (in 22 minutes) is context, sometimes balance, and a consideration of questions that are raised by certain events.”

MacNeil left anchoring duties at “NewsHour” after two decades in 1995 to write full time. Lehrer took over the newscast alone, and he remained there until 2009. Lehrer died in 2020.

When MacNeil visited the show in October 2005 to commemorate its 30th anniversary, he reminisced about how their newscast started in the days before cable television.

“It was a way to do something that seemed to be needed journalistically and yet was different from what the commercial network news (programs) were doing,” he said.

MacNeil wrote several books, including two memoirs “The Right Place at the Right Time” and the best seller “Wordstruck,” and the novels “Burden of Desire” and “The Voyage.”

“Writing is much more personal. It is not collaborative in the way that television must be,” MacNeil told The Associated Press in 1995. “But when you’re sitting down writing a novel, it’s just you: Here’s what I think, here’s what I want to do. And it’s me.”

MacNeil also created the Emmy-winning 1986 series “The Story of English,” with the MacNeil-Lehrer production company, and was co-author of the companion book of the same name.

Another book on language that he co-wrote, “Do You Speak American?,” was adapted into a PBS documentary in 2005.

In 2007, he served as host of “America at a Crossroads,” a six-night PBS package exploring challenges confronting the United States in a post-9/11 world.

Six years before the 9/11 attacks, discussing sensationalism and frivolity in the news business, he had said: “If something really serious did happen to the nation — a stock market crash like 1929, … the equivalent of a Pearl Harbor — wouldn’t the news get very serious again? Wouldn’t people run from ‘Hard Copy’ and titillation?”

“Of course you would. You’d have to know what was going on.”

That was the case — for a while.

Born in Montreal in 1931, MacNeil was raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and graduated from Carleton University in Ottawa in 1955 before moving to London where he began his journalism career with Reuters. He switched to TV news in 1960, taking a job with NBC in London as a foreign correspondent.

In 1963, MacNeil was transferred to NBC’s Washington bureau, where he reported on Civil Rights and the White House. He covered the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas and spent most of 1964 following the presidential campaign between Kennedy’s successor, Lyndon Johnson, and Republican Barry Goldwater.

MacNeil returned to London in 1967 as a reporter for the British Broadcasting Corp.’s “Panorama” series. While with the BBC, be covered such U.S. stories as the clash between anti-war demonstrators and the Chicago police at the 1968 Democratic Convention, and the funerals of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Sen. Robert Kennedy and President Dwight Eisenhower.

In 1971, MacNeil left the BBC to become a senior correspondent for PBS, where he teamed up with Lehrer to co-anchor public television’s Emmy-winning coverage of the Senate Watergate hearings in 1973.

Associated Press media writer David Bauder in New York contributed to this report.

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Quebec ‘not alone’ in commitment to secularism, says French Prime Minister Attal

By The Canadian Press

Posted April 12, 2024 4:00 am.

MONTREAL — French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal expressed strong support today for Quebec’s model of state secularism, a policy that has been criticized by the Canadian government.

Attal told a news conference with Quebec Premier François Legault in Quebec City that France shares the province’s commitment to religious non-affiliation.

The 35-year-old prime minister says secularism is a way for governments to guarantee equal treatment of citizens regardless of personal beliefs.

Quebec’s secularism policy includes a 2019 law that bans many public sector employees including teachers and judges from wearing religious symbols — legislation that critics say discriminates against religious minorities.

Secularism is also a foundational principle for France, where it is illegal to wear face-covering veils in the street.

Attal said that despite his support for Quebec’s secular values, he did not discuss the matter in a meeting this week with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whose government has indicated that it would participate in a challenge to the 2019 law in Supreme Court.

The French prime minister is scheduled to travel to Montreal this afternoon to participate in panels on the economy before he ends his three-day trip to Canada.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 12, 2024.

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Robert MacNeil, Earnest News Anchor for PBS, Dies at 93

With his longtime co-host Jim Lehrer, he delivered thoughtful reports that stood in stark contrast to the commercial networks’ ever more sensational newscasts.

By Elizabeth Jensen

Robert MacNeil, the Canadian-born journalist who delivered sober evening newscasts for more than two decades on PBS as the co-anchor of “The MacNeil/Lehrer Report,” later expanded as “The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour,” died early Friday in Manhattan. He was 93.

His death, at NewYork–Presbyterian Hospital, was confirmed by his daughter Alison MacNeil.

Mr. MacNeil spent time at NBC News early in his career and was a reporter for the network in Dallas on the day President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. But he came to reject the flashier style of the commercial American networks, and in 1971 he joined the fledgling Public Broadcasting Service.

He brought with him a news sensibility honed at the BBC, where he had worked in the interim, and became a key figure in shaping U.S. public television’s in-depth and evenhanded approach to news coverage.

A pairing with Jim Lehrer in 1973 to cover the Senate Watergate hearings for PBS was unpopular with the operators of many local public stations, who thought the prime-time broadcasts weren’t appropriate evening fare. But the two men’s serious demeanor was a hit with viewers, and the broadcasts won an Emmy Award and eventually launched an enduring collaboration.

In October 1975, some major public stations began carrying the “The Robert MacNeil Report,” a half-hour of Mr. MacNeil’s design that examined a single issue each night and shunned showy production values. Within a year the program was renamed “The MacNeil/Lehrer Report.” It was expanded again in 1983 to become “The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour,” a multitopic program that was the nation’s first full hour of evening news.

The program offered a stark counterpoint to the ever-frothier newscasts on the commercial networks’ local affiliates and was honored with every major broadcast journalism award.

Intensely private in public, Mr. MacNeil was known to friends as engaging and wickedly funny. He was proud of his no-nonsense style on air, which critics called boring but which he called civilized discourse in the public interest. One memorable example was his hourlong interview in 1985 with Fidel Castro, in which Mr. Castro reluctantly defended the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, in part because he would never “be on the side of the United States.’’

Mr. MacNeil defended his interviewing style and his program’s unsensational approach to weighty topics. “I cannot stand the theatrical, prosecutorial interview, the interview designed to draw attention to the interviewer, full of either mawkish, false sentiment or theatrically belligerent questioning,” he told The New York Times in 1995, when he retired from the daily newscast.

“Every journalist in this country has a stake in the democratic system working, and I think institutions of democracy are worth taking seriously,” he added. “It’s a very old-fashioned, corny view, but Jim and I both feel that strongly, which is one of the reasons our show is the way it is.”

Robert Breckenridge Ware MacNeil, known as Robin, was born on Jan. 19, 1931, in Montreal and raised in the port city of Halifax, Nova Scotia. His father, Robert A.S. MacNeil, served in the Royal Canadian Navy during World War II, commanding convoy escort ships, and later joined the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. His mother Margaret (Oxner) MacNeil, was left to raise her children alone for several years while her husband was at war.

While Mr. MacNeil was attending Dalhousie University in Halifax, a producer for the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. saw him in a school production of “Othello,” and he was hired to act in CBC radio productions and eventually a daily radio soap opera.

He soon dropped out of college to try his hand full time at stage acting, but decided that he was better suited to be a playwright and returned to school, this time at Carleton University in Ottawa. While still a student he worked as a national radio announcer for the CBC and then for the CBC’s new television service, where he also hosted a children’s program.

After graduating, he moved to England to write plays, but quickly turned to journalism to make money. He told The Times in 1995, “I had one of those golden careers; it just floated.”

In 1960, after five years at the Reuters news agency in London, Mr. MacNeil joined NBC News, eventually replacing John Chancellor as a wide-ranging foreign correspondent, covering wars in Africa and the Cuban missile crisis. (For about a week after that October 1962 episode, he and five other journalists were held under house arrest in a Havana hotel by the Castro government.) He was present at the construction of the Berlin Wall and later covered its dismantling in 1989.

Mr. MacNeil was assigned to cover Washington in 1963 and was on his first presidential trip on Nov. 22 when President Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas. While his work covering the killing was overshadowed by that of his NBC News colleagues, he may have had his own brush with the drama of that day.

After the shots were fired in Dealey Plaza, Mr. MacNeil made his way to the nearest building, the Texas School Book Depository — the building from which the fatal shots had been fired. There, he asked a man who was leaving and another in the lobby where the nearest telephone was. Kennedy’s accused assassin, Lee Harvey Oswald, later told the Dallas police that he had encountered a Secret Service agent at the building. The historian William Manchester concluded in his 1967 book, “The Death of a President,” that the man in the suit, crew cut and press badge was, in fact, Mr. MacNeil.

In his autobiography, “The Right Place at the Right Time” (1982), Mr. MacNeil wrote that “it was possible, but I had no way of confirming that either of the young men I had spoken to was Oswald.”

In 1965, Mr. MacNeil became the co-anchor, with Ray Scherer, of NBC’s half-hour weekend news broadcast, “The Scherer-MacNeil Report.” But two years later he returned to London, reporting for the BBC’s “Panorama” program, before joining PBS in 1971.

Mr. MacNeil, who had homes in Manhattan and Nova Scotia, became an American citizen in 1997 and was made an officer in the Order of Canada the same year. He reflected on his life as a dual citizen in a 2003 memoir, “Looking for My Country: Finding Myself in America.”

His wife, Donna MacNeil, died in 2015 . His first marriage, to Rosemarie Coopland, ended in divorce, as did his second marriage, to Jane Doherty.

He is survived by two children from his first marriage, Ian MacNeil, a theatrical set designer who won a Tony in 2009 for his work on musical “Billy Elliott,” and Cathy MacNeil; two children from his second marriage, Alison and Will MacNeil; and five grandchildren.

After retiring from the daily newscast, Mr. MacNeil continued to work with PBS, including hosting the “America at a Crossroads” series of documentaries in 2007, which examined the nation’s challenges in the post-9/11 world. With Mr. Lehrer, his close friend, he remained a partner in MacNeil/Lehrer Productions, which produced their newscast until 2014, when WETA, the Washington, D.C., public media station where the “NewsHour” is based, assumed ownership. Mr. Lehrer died in 2020 at 85.

Mr. MacNeil found himself at the center of controversy in 2011 when, returning to “NewsHour” for a six-part series on autism, he featured the story of his grandson Nick. He was criticized for allowing his daughter Alison to question whether her son’s autism was linked to vaccines. (He did qualify her comments by noting that “public health authorities say there is no scientifically valid evidence that vaccines cause autism.”)

Mr. MacNeil chaired the board of the MacDowell Colony (now known as MacDowell), the retreat for artists, writers and musicians in Peterborough, N.H., from 1993 to 2010. After leaving the “NewsHour,” he returned to his first love, writing. He was the author of “The People Machine” (1968), about the relationship between television and politics; three memoirs; and four novels — “Burden of Desire” (1992), “The Voyage” (1995), “Breaking News” (1998) and “Portrait of Julia” (2013).

He was a co-author of “The Story of English,” a companion volume to the 1986 BBC-PBS television series that he hosted, and he wrote its 2005 sequel, “Do You Speak American?”

Mr. MacNeil remained proud of his early evening newscast. In interviews for the Archive of American Television in 2000 and 2001, he was asked how he wanted to be remembered.

“Television has changed journalism, utterly, not just for television, but for print and everybody else,” he said. “It’s changed the whole culture and ethos of journalism. And to have been able hold the line — perhaps Canute-like — against a tide that’s going to engulf us all in the end, for a few years, has been a source of gratification to me.”

Sofia Poznansky contributed reporting