Help keep our prices low: Share with Friends
Enjoying The Best of Halifax Tours
Halifax tours are a great way to experience all that the great province of Nova Scotia has to offer. There is so much to see and do in this beautiful city, including shopping, sightseeing, and incredible dining. Not only that, but Halifax is a city that is deep in cultural history, telling stories of its past through its many landmarks and museums.
Enjoy Canadian coastal charm and see why so many visitors from across the world make a point of visiting this incredible city. Learn more about what to see and do in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with this guide and plan your trip accordingly!
Use this guide to learn more about the great city of Halifax, Nova Scotia!
Why Visit Halifax, Nova Scotia?
Halifax is a visually stunning city set along Canada’s east coast, where culture, charm, and history meet in one location. Known as the hub of coastal Canada, it is here in Halifax that many visitors fly into Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ), enjoying the city, but also using it as a starting point for enjoying the world-famous Cabot Trail.
As for the city, its charming boardwalk and downtown core showcase exceptional dining, pubs, cafes, shopping, and cultural festivals that draw visitors from around the world. Take in a brewery tour or browse through boutique shops to mingle with the locals and learn more about the rich history of this city. Explore the city on your own terms or take part in a hired tour group to learn more about the rich history of Halifax and experience for yourself a calm and relaxing pace of life that many Canadians have embraced.
Experiencing The History of Halifax
Halifax also remains a very short drive away from two very important historical sites, including Peggy’s Cove and the Fairview Lawn Cemetery.
Peggy’s Cove is a world-famous landmark set along the tip of Canada’s east coast, where a historic lighthouse sits perched atop sheer granite rock. With its close proximity to Halifax, this spot has grown into a popular sightseeing destination for its beauty and history. Many tourists make a point of visiting this spot while doing some souvenir shopping and mingling with locals who work and live in the area, living directly off the land but also making a living from fishing.
Just nearby is the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, the final resting place of many of the victims related to the 1912 Titanic disaster. Guests can browse through gravestones that tell stories of the Titanic, but also learn how the city of Halifax played a key role in the support and recovery efforts of the disaster itself. Learn about the victims, but also see the many unnamed graves that reveal the depth of the tragedy that occurred not far off from the Halifax coast. Halifax Citadel National Historic Site is another noteworthy landmark worth visiting, where tourists can learn about the military history of the city, including details about the great Halifax explosion that devastated the city more than 100 years ago.
Other stops that are worth visiting include the Canadian Museum of Immigration, the Halifax Public Gardens, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, and Saint Mary’s Cathedral Basilica.
Food and Dining in Halifax
Halifax remains home to an incredibly robust food and dining scene, offering dishes that include Canadian influence, but are also rooted in dishes that are sourced directly from the nearby ocean. Seafood remains the prime choice for many restaurant establishments, and guests can explore fine dining and elaborate culinary experiences, seaside fish and chip shacks, or unique restaurants that are suited for families.
Many comfortable patio options overlook the sea, offering a blind of casual dining and relaxing dinner options. Head over to the Waterfront Boardwalk to take in the sights, and then take a pick one of the many restaurants that are ready to serve guests from around the world.
Breweries and Wineries
For those who love beer and wine, the city remains home to several breweries and wineries, including both major brands and independent offerings. The Alexander Keith’s beer tour remains an incredibly popular option for tourists, while many wines and spirits are crafted in the city and a short drive out of town. The Annapolis Valley is home to several local wineries that include tours, tastings, and fine dining options that go great with the natural landscapes of Nova Scotia.
Halifax Nightlife
For those who love to head out for a night on the town, Argyle Street remains a great option. This vibrant street is home to endless pubs that come with live music and East Coast charm. Get to know the locals and indulge in a long list of local drink options that include influences from the city’s unique history. The city is also known for its late-night tour options that include night markets, a casino, the iconic Haunted Halifax tour, and public buskers.
What You Should Know For Visiting Halifax
Use these tips for exploring and visiting Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Dress for the occasion: Halifax is well-known for its walkability, and as such, you should be prepared to do significant amounts of walking. The harborfront is a 4km stretch that includes restaurants, bars, and all sorts of fun activities, so bring a pair of shoes that are comfortable for extensive walking. Rain remains a possibility all year long, so pack for the possibility of an unexpected rainfall.
Make a Point of Trying New Foods: Seafood remains incredibly popular, and many dining establishments offer oysters, clams, and lobsters. This is a great time to try out new seafoods you have never experienced before, especially a lobster roll.
Don’t miss out on the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site: This fortress remains incredibly historic, acting as an important military base for all of North America. Cannons are set off at 12 noon daily, so don’t miss out on this important demonstration of Halifax history.
Don’t forget Dartmouth, Nova Scotia: The city of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, is very beautiful as well, but the ferry ride over is a great way to appreciate the landscape at a very affordable price. This is one of the oldest ferry systems in the world, offering access to another small coastal town with its own unique offerings, including shops, art galleries, and dining experiences.
Guided Tour Options in Halifax
With so much to see and do throughout the historic city of Halifax, many guests choose to look to a guided tour company to ensure they never miss an important detail of their destination. Pre-planned tour groups are an incredible way to ensure the safety of travelers, but also make the most of the experience. Guides often have deep information regarding their destination, offering important context on the historical elements of Halifax, while ensuring your full enjoyment of the trip itself.
Have Caravan Lead The Way Through Halifax
Caravan remains one of the most trusted tour group providers in North America, helping guests visit incredible destinations that offer a blend of adventure, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. For over 20 years, Caravan has provided fully-booked and tour group experiences that take the stress out of booking an elaborate trip, and allow guests to focus on the full enjoyment of the travel experience.
Never worry about a detail of your trip with a fully-booked Caravan tour of Halifax that includes both ground transportation and accommodations. Reach out to Caravan today to learn more about our tour of Nova Scotia and other well-known destinations throughout the world. We remain one of the very best providers of guided tours, helping North Americans visit destinations alongside incredibly safe tour groups.
Caravan is prepping for a very busy upcoming travel season, so don’t delay in booking, as spaces are filling up fast. Contact us today and book for the upcoming travel season. Fall tours of Halifax remain especially beautiful, offering incredible sights and beautiful ocean landscapes.
Call us directly at 1-800-CARAVAN to book the vacation of a lifetime. Visit Caravan.com to browse through our full lineup of tours across the world.
Find Answers To Frequently Asked Questions About Halifax Tours
Explore these answers to frequently asked questions regarding visiting Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Is Halifax, Canada, worth visiting?
Yes! Halifax is the centerpiece of Canada’s East Coast, offering coastal charm and visual beauty in one travel experience.
How many days do I need to visit Halifax?
Guests make a point of visiting the city of Halifax for anywhere from one to three days.
What’s special about Halifax?
Halifax is a unique city along the coastal waters of Canada’s east coast, home to endless history, incredible scenic views, and many exceptional dining experiences. Nova Scotia is a stunningly beautiful city.
Is Halifax a walkable city?
Yes. Halifax’s waterfront and downtown area is very walkable, allowing guests to stroll through the streets at their own pace, enjoying shopping, food, and drink options at their leisure. Or, take in the coastal views along the harborfront and enjoy nature.
Is Halifax good for tourists?
Yes! Halifax offers cultural heritage and exceptional East Coast Canadian charm that is unmatched! Considered to be exceptionally safe and welcoming to tourists across the world, Halifax is welcoming to everyone, from all walks of life.
What is the best month to go to Halifax?
Halifax’s peak travel season is in the summer months, running from June to August. Temperatures can be hot and humid during this season, but the close proximity to the ocean offers a cool breeze that keeps the entire city comfortable. The summer months in Halifax are beautiful, but are also home to many local events, including street festivals, pub crawls, and cultural celebrations.
August is the best month, but fall is also a great time to visit. Winter and spring remain challenging months due to the weather, so look to book a trip to Halifax in the fall for the best balance of weather.
Is Halifax very cold?
Yes, Halifax is especially cold during the winter months. Summers and fall months remain very comfortable.
What not to miss in Halifax?
The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site remains one of the most culturally significant points directly in the city, but guests should also make a point of visiting the Harborfront and Peggy’s Cove.
Is Halifax accessible?
Halifax is considered an accessible city that maintains modern features to suit those with mobility challenges. Many restaurants, museums, and popular tourist spots are wheelchair accessible.
Why should I go to Halifax?
Halifax remains an incredibly tourist-friendly city that is easily walkable, offers incredible seafood, and remains rich in history. Its blend of visual beauty and East Coast charm is a fun way of experiencing a less busy yet engaging city that is loaded with fun. Further, it remains a short distance from many unique breweries and wineries, while also offering access to the incredible Cabot Trail, a premier destination for outdoor adventure and exploration.
Halifax is an important hub of travel through Canada’s east coast, offering a balance that can cater to any kind of traveler.
What is the best way to see Halifax?
The best way to see Halifax is on foot.
Is Peggy’s Cove a day trip?
Yes. Peggy’s Cove is a great day trip from Halifax, and is accessible by bus or tour group.
Should visitors use a tour guide in Halifax?
Tour guides offer important context and information regarding their destinations, ensuring guests not only experience the destination but also learn more about the cultural and historical significance.
Have More Questions? Contact Caravan To Learn More
Look to Caravan for fully-booked tours that leverage the knowledge of guides for the best possible travel experience. Contact Caravan today to learn more.
2026 Hotels
2026 Hotels
Accommodations in the hotels and lodges are usually rooms with two beds and private bath or shower. A limited number of single rooms are available. Triple rooms are usually two beds.
Days 1, 2 • Halifax, Nova Scotia
Marriott Harbourfront Hotel
Halifax is the gateway to the Canadian Maritimes. The Marriott Harbourfront Hotel is located on the downtown waterfront boardwalk of Halifax. The hotel is adjacent to the historic properties, and is connected to the downtown indoor pedway system. The rooms have all the modern amenities. There is a casino, fitness center, spa, swimming pool, and whirlpool for you to enjoy.
Please note: Tours starting on August 18 & 28, September 1, 9 and 27, and October 5 will stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Halifax Airport for the first two nights only. The Hilton Garden Inn has a courtesy airport shuttle. After booking, please see the “Airport Transfers” section below for further information. All tours, including these 6 dates, will stay at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront for the last two nights of your tour.
Day 3 • Moncton, New Brunswick
Chateau Moncton Hotel & Suites, on Main Street facing the Tidal Bore
The elegant Chateau Moncton is conveniently located on Main Street in Moncton, New Brunswick, within easy walking distance to downtown and the shopping mall, as well as the Tidal Bore Park and exhibits. The hotel is situated on the banks of the historic Petitcodiac River and its famous Tidal Bore that comes in twice a day from the Bay of Fundy. All Caravan rooms have a view of the Petitcodiac River. Enjoy breathtaking views also from the deck of Le Galion Lounge. Services and amenities include 42” & 52” HDTVs, iron & ironing board, in-room coffee & tea, free wired and wireless high speed internet, 24 hour fitness room, public use computer, 100% smoke-free.
Please note: Tours starting on August 26 and September 3 will stay two nights at the Prince Edward on Prince Edward Island, instead of one night at Moncton and one night at Prince Edward Island. All activities will remain the same.
Day 4 • Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Delta Hotels by Marriott Prince Edward, by the historic Charlottetown harbourfront
The Prince Edward is the only hotel along Charlottetown’s scenic harbourfront, with easy access to the waterfront boardwalk, within easy walking distance of shops, art galleries and live theater. Scenic walking and biking paths are nearby. Indoor lap pool, fitness facilities and spa. Air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi and ergonomic workstations, hairdryer, iron and ironing board, mini fridge, cable/satellite tv in all rooms. All rooms are non-smoking.
Please note: The tour starting on October 3 will stay at the Rodd Royalty in Charlottetown.
Days 5, 6 • Baddeck, Cape Breton
Auberge Gisele's Inn
The inn is located in the quaint town of Baddeck, which is the official starting point of the Cabot Trail. Baddeck's waterfront, a short stroll away, has a vibrant array of maritime shops, cafes and restaurants. The famous Bell Bay golf course is a short drive.
Please note: The tours starting on August 12 and September 1 & 27 will stay at the Trailsman Lodge, near Baddeck. The tour starting on September 19 will stay at the Cabot Trail Motel, near Baddeck.
Days 7, 8 • Halifax, Nova Scotia
Marriott Harbourfront Hotel
The Marriott Harbourfront Hotel is located on the downtown waterfront boardwalk of Halifax. The hotel is adjacent to the historic properties, and is connected to the downtown indoor pedway system. The rooms have all the modern amenities. There is a casino, fitness center, spa, swimming pool, and whirlpool for you to enjoy.
Movies
Movies
Cabot Trail04:41- Peggy's Cove 02:24
- Hopewell Rocks 02:01
- Green Gables01:57
Airport Transfers
Airport Transfers
Arrival Transfers
Transfer on your own from Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) to the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel. The drive time from the airport to the hotel is approximately 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Tours starting on August 18 & 28, September 1, 9 and 27, and October 5 will stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Halifax Airport for the first two nights. A 24-hour courtesy airport shuttle is available only for tours starting at the Hilton Garden Inn Halifax Airport. The shuttle arrives at the airport every 30 minutes, at 10 and 40 minutes past the hour. Upon arrival, when you exit the arrivals terminal, go to the far right to the Maritime Bus Terminal and your shuttle will pick you up there. For more information, you can call the Hilton Garden Inn Halifax Airport at 902-873-1400.
Departure Transfers
Transfer on your own from the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel to Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ). Your Tour Director will help you arrange your transfer to the airport. Ubers, taxis and limos are available. The drive time from the hotel to the airport is approximately 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Airfare is not included or sold by Caravan.
Passports & Visas
Passports & Visas
U.S. citizens traveling between the United States and Canada must carry a passport, valid for at least six months past your entry date into Canada. Non U.S. citizens, please check your passport and visa requirements. Beginning in 2016, Canada requires non US citizens and Visa exempt foreign visitors to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to travel to Canada. More information can be found at www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta.html. Children under 18 years old, traveling internationally without both parents or legal guardians, should carry a notarized letter of authorization signed by the missing parent(s) or guardian(s).
Weather & Clothing
Weather & Clothing
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Halifax | Moncton | Baddeck | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | |
| Jan | 15/13 | 5.4 | 26/09 | 4.0 | 29/17 | 6.0 |
| Feb | 31/15 | 4.3 | 29/10 | 3.2 | 29/17 | 5.0 |
| Mar | 38/23 | 4.9 | 37/20 | 3.9 | 37/24 | 5.0 |
| Apr | 47/31 | 4.5 | 48/31 | 3.5 | 46/30 | 5.0 |
| May | 59/40 | 4.1 | 62/41 | 3.8 | 58/38 | 4.0 |
| Jun | 68/48 | 4.0 | 72/50 | 3.7 | 68/47 | 4.0 |
| Jul | 74/55 | 3.8 | 78/57 | 3.8 | 74/55 | 4.0 |
| Aug | 74/56 | 4.4 | 76/55 | 3.2 | 73/54 | 4.0 |
| Sep | 67/50 | 4.1 | 67/47 | 3.5 | 66/50 | 4.2 |
| Oct | 57/41 | 5.4 | 55/38 | 4.1 | 55/43 | 5.0 |
| Nov | 46/32 | 5.3 | 44/29 | 3.9 | 45/33 | 6.0 |
| Dec | 35/21 | 5.4 | 32/16 | 4.2 | 34/26 | 7.0 |
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Halifax | ||||||||||||
| temp | 15/13 | 31/15 | 38/23 | 47/31 | 59/40 | 68/48 | 74/55 | 74/56 | 67/50 | 57/41 | 46/32 | 35/21 |
| rainfall | 5.4 | 4.3 | 4.9 | 4.5 | 4.1 | 4.0 | 3.8 | 4.4 | 4.1 | 5.4 | 5.3 | 5.4 |
| Moncton | ||||||||||||
| temp | 26/09 | 29/10 | 37/20 | 48/31 | 62/41 | 72/50 | 78/57 | 76/55 | 67/47 | 55/38 | 44/29 | 32/16 |
| rainfall | 4.0 | 3.2 | 3.9 | 3.5 | 3.8 | 3.7 | 3.8 | 3.2 | 3.5 | 4.1 | 3.9 | 4.2 |
| Baddeck | ||||||||||||
| temp | 29/17 | 29/17 | 37/24 | 46/30 | 58/38 | 68/47 | 74/55 | 73/54 | 66/50 | 55/43 | 45/33 | 34/26 |
| rainfall | 6.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.2 | 5.0 | 6.0 | 7.0 |
Clothing Tips
This is a casual tour. Casual wear is suggested for sightseeing and daytime travelling. Dress code for evenings is casual. Suit jackets for men and dresses for women are never required.
Travel Tips & FAQs
Travel Tips & FAQs
These are only the first 15 Travel Tips. Read all 52 Travel Tips Meals included in the land price are indicated at the beginning of each day by B (Breakfast), L (Lunch), D (Dinner). Dinner, when included, is served at your hotel except when, as indicated in the itinerary, it is at a special restaurant outside the hotel. Coffee or tea is provided at all included meals. Included meals for each tour are listed at the end of each day. Meals are shown by B (breakfast), L (lunch) and D (dinner). Full, buffet, or deluxe continental breakfasts are included everywhere. Free bottled water is provided on the motorcoach. Alcoholic beverages are not included unless specified. Virtually everything! Hotels, many meals, all of the activities described in the itinerary pages, airport transfers in select cities, gratuities to hotel porters, restaurant staff and local guides. Caravan’s professional Tour Directors and local guides will be with you every step of the way, ensuring a worry free vacation. Prices do not include air travel, country entry or departure fees, airport porters, visas, phone calls, valet, laundry, all items of a personal nature, extra food and beverages not on the regular menu, and tips to the Caravan Tour Director, driver, and local guides. Usually, you find a mix of different age adult travelers on a Caravan Tour. Children age five (5) and older are welcome, and children usually join tours offered during Christmas holidays, summer vacation and spring break vacation. A well-paced and unhurried itinerary is our goal, after all, you are on vacation! Touring days begin and end at reasonable hours and include frequent stops. While the occasional early morning departure is necessary, we do our best to ensure a leisurely vacation. Group sizes will vary depending on the reserved rooms at the hotels and the capacity of the boats and motorcoaches used. Usually, group sizes range from 30 to 44 passengers. Caravan has been offering fully guided tours worldwide under the same family ownership and management since 1952. Caravan understands and truly cares about your great expectations. The farther in advance that you book, the more likely it is that your preferred tour will be open. Late bookings are welcome if the space is still available. Families are always welcome on any of our tours, but we do not have any programs specifically for or limited to families. Families can make specific requests for connecting, adjacent, triple or quad rooms, when available. Children must be at least 5 years old. Caravan accepts payment (in U.S. funds only) via MasterCard, Visa, or Discover. Caravan Travel Protection offers peace of mind if you cancel for any reason whatsoever prior to the departure of the tour. The travel protection plan also includes air, baggage, evacuation, medical, and quarantine coverage. The cost is $129. Children age five (5) and older are welcome on tour when accompanied by an adult. Usually, children travel during the school vacation months of June, July and August, and also during spring and winter school breaks. Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Victoria Day (3rd Monday in May), Canada Day (July 1), Labour Day (1st Monday in September), and Thanksgiving (2nd Monday in October). Most provinces celebrate a civic holiday on the first Monday in August. If you are travelling with children under 18 years old without both parents or legal guardians, carry a notarized letter of authorization signed by the missing parent(s) or guardian(s). A notarized birth certificate showing only one parent, a parent’s death certificate, or a court order of child custody may also be permissible. Failure to have proper documentation could result in denial of boarding by the airline, due to international child protection laws.Meals
Are meals included?
My Tour Price Includes
My Tour Price Does Not Include
Age of Travelers on a Caravan Tour
A Well-Paced Itinerary
Size of Tour Group
Fully Guided Tours Since 1952
Many Tours Sell Out Each Year
Family Trips
Forms of Payment
Caravan’s $129 Travel Protection
Children on Tour
Canada’s National Holidays
International Travel with Minors
Customer Reviews
Customer Reviews
These are only the first 7 Customer Reviews. Read all 246 Customer Reviews "The highlight of the trip had to be the Bay of Fundy and learning/seeing how the tide rises and falls and impacts the rivers." "Peggy’s Cove was charming and had incredible views." "The tour director was phenomenal! He was a walking “encyclopedia”!! He knew everything from sports, politics, news in Canada as well as the USA, the region, statistics, weather, etc. He was humorous, fun, engaging, personable & loved what he did. He was one of the best tour directors we’ve had yet." "This is beautiful countryside with cute little towns." "The highlight of the tour was the Bay of Fundy and we feel fortunate to have been there at low tide." "The landscape almost outshines everything. Breathtaking was often heard along the route." "The boat cruise on Bras d'Or Lake with Captain John was so much fun and we loved the eagle picture taking!"
Read All 246 ReviewsClick Here to Read All 246 Customer Reviews
Why Travel with Caravan?
Why Travel with Caravan?
Excellence Since 1952
You can trust our years of experience with tours of superb quality and excellent value. Caravan has enjoyed the same family management and ownership since 1952.
Caravan Care
For your safety, Caravan cancelled most 2020 and all 2021 tour departures and refunded 100% of all payments received. See Caravan’s Covid-19 Terms of Travel.
Caravan's Proud History
In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two-hour CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie “If it’s Tuesday this must be Belgium.” In the early 50’s the Mayor of Dublin presented Caravan with the Key to Dublin for bringing the first American tour to the city after WWII. Since then, Caravan has been recognized as a pioneer in travel. You can trust in our stability, experience and dedication to quality.
Great Hotels
Stay at park lodges, scenic resorts, and excellent hotels in great locations. See hotel descriptions on each tour page.
Meals
Most meals included within Latin America. For USA and Canada tours, included meals are listed on each itinerary page. Bottled water is provided on motorcoaches in Latin America.
Complete Sightseeing
Enjoy complete sightseeing with more visits, extra features, and local guides.
Fully Guided by Tour Directors
All tours conducted from start to finish by professional tour directors, who are fluent in English, experienced, and fun.
All-inclusive
Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary page. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can add hundreds of dollars to your tour price. Your free time is scheduled in great settings where there is no need to buy additional expensive activities.
Shopping Freedom
Caravan will not bring you to overpriced shops in exchange for payments. Caravan gives you ample opportunity and time for great shopping, and the freedom to choose where and when to shop.
Great Value, Book Early
Caravan’s strong buying power gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can find anywhere. Most of our tours sell out quickly. Book early for the date you prefer and the best airfare.
How does Caravan Tours sell these tours for such a low cost?
Caravan delivers volume to our suppliers, who in turn reward us with their very best prices. We in turn pass these savings on to you, and you reward us by buying our tours. As volume continues to rise, we then receive even better prices from our suppliers, and we pass even greater savings on to you. This year our tours are better than ever.
Trade Association Memberships
Caravan is a member of NTA (National Tour Association), ABA (American Bus Association), CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), and ACMA (American Commerce Marketing Association).
