Exploring Halifax is one in all my favourite issues to do! As somebody who has lived in Canada for a very long time and traveled throughout, I can personally attest to the truth that Halifax is an incredible place stuffed with fantastic experiences.
To assist those that could also be uncertain of what to do after they go to Halifax for 3 days, I’ve put collectively this 3 day itinerary with a lot of actions and sights you gained’t wish to miss.
You’ll additionally discover suggestions on the place to remain and learn how to get round city – so let’s get began!
Searching for a weekend getaway to Halifax, Nova Scotia, is what you have to add to your journey bucket listing vacation spot.
This vibrant and historic maritime gem of Canada is nestled alongside the east coast of Nova Scotia and the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a metropolis that seamlessly blends its wealthy maritime heritage with trendy city experiences, providing a pleasant trip for travellers on the lookout for a singular journey.
On this 3-day itinerary for Halifax, we are going to go over the locations which are a must-see, issues to do and even the eating places to eat at within the metropolis.
In the event you’re not acquainted but, Halifax is the capital of Nova Scotia, a area in Canada identified for its fascinating historical past that dates again to the early 18th century. This coastal metropolis performed a major function in numerous pivotal moments, together with the sinking of the Titanic, which is commemorated on the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
Nonetheless, that’s simply the height of what Halifax has to supply. For 3 days in Halifax, iconic landmarks it’s best to go to are the Halifax Citadel Nationwide Historic Web site, Alexander Keith Brewery, Level nice park and Halifax central library.
Moreover, you shouldn’t miss seeing Mahone Bay and Prince Edward Island when travelling to Halifax. These close by cities are a couple of hours away from Halifax, providing a picturesque and distinctive journey.
It’s important to go to Halix throughout months with nice climate. The very best time to go to Halix is from June to August, when quite a few festivals and occasions happen. Many vacationers flock to the city, so be prepared for giant crowds.
In the meantime, on your lodging, the only option can be downtown Halifax. This neighbourhood in Halifax gives handy entry to many sights, eating places, and outlets.
Throughout your lengthy weekend in Halifax, you’ll be immersed in a pleasant fusion of tradition, historical past, and pure magnificence. Because of this, as you proceed studying, we’ll share a extra detailed 3 days in Halifax itinerary that will help you plan your journey.
Plan your journey?
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Overview of three Days in Halifax Itinerary
With out additional ado, right here’s a look at what you’ll see and do throughout your three-day keep in Halifax:
Day 1 in Halifax
- Seize a espresso for breakfast at Cafe Lunette
- Go to the Halifax Citadel Nationwide Historic Web site
- Try the Halifax Public Backyard
- Stroll to the Spring Graden Street
- Lunch at Bicycle Thief
- Stroll across the Halifax Harbourfront Boardwalk
- Discover the Historic Properties
- Get dessert on the Fog
- Cease by the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
- Dinner at Waterfront Warehouse
Day 2 in Halifax
- Breakfast at Dilly Dally Espresso Cafe
- Day journey to Peggy’s Cove
- Take a photograph on the Cove’s lighthouse
- Lunch at Rhubarb
- Go to the Canadian Museum of Immigration
- Take the ferry going to Dartmouth
- Discover Downtown Dartmouth Mural’s
- Stroll round Sullivan’s Pond
- Head again to Halifax Harbour for Dinner
Day 3 in Halifax
- Have breakfast at Mateus Bistro
- Go to the Mahone Bay Museum
- Try the three iconic Mahone Bay Church buildings
- Lunch at Salt Shaker Deli & Inn
- Discover Lunenburg
- Tour round Alexander Keith’s Brewery
- Dinner at Bar Kismet
- Be a part of a Halifax Metropolis Ghost Tour
Day 1 in Halifax
Seize a espresso for breakfast at Cafe Lunette
Cafe Lunette is a one-of-a-kind cafe in Halifax identified for its French-inspired inside. Earlier than you journey within the metropolis, head to Cafe Lunette and seize an expertly crafted espresso on your caffeine repair.
Additionally they have delectable pastries to take pleasure in one thing hearty earlier than you discover the remainder of the city. Whether or not you’re a espresso connoisseur or just in search of a morning pick-me-up, Cafe Lunette makes an ideal place to start out your first day in Halifax.
Go to the Halifax Citadel Nationwide Historic Web site
Halifax Citadel Nationwide Historic Web site is one in all Nova Scotia’s most iconic vacationer landmarks. This star-shaped fortress is a delegated nationwide historic website due to its function in creating the town of Halifax.
The Citadel is atop a hill, with a commanding view of the Halifax Harbor. It was as soon as an necessary fortress that protected the town from worldwide threats, now serving as a social and navy museum.
You’ll be capable to delve additional into Halifax’s historical past via a guided tour, interactive exhibit and dwell reenactments within the Citadel. Moreover, it’s best to sit up for the Midday Gun that fires day by day at midday, which might be heard until downtown Halifax.
With the sweeping views of the town and harbour and the teachings you study, Halifax Citadel Nationwide Historic Web site is a must-visit throughout your 3 day journey to Halifax.
Cross by the Halifax Public Backyard
Subsequent, head to the Halifax Public Gardens, situated southwest of the Citadel. You possibly can simply stroll to the gardens to take pleasure in a scenic stroll.
On the park, you’ll be welcomed by colonial and trendy Victorian landscaping, the place vibrant flower beds and a pond encompass an exquisite gazebo. The park is open to the general public year-round, making it a well-known native courting spot.
In the event you’re visiting Halifax through the summer time months, you’ll be capable to see flowers in full bloom. In the meantime, through the winter season, we extremely suggest you come by through the night to benefit from the mild shows that change yearly.
Stroll to the Spring Backyard Street
After a couple of minutes of strolling and taking footage on the Halifax Public Backyard, your subsequent cease is Spring Backyard Street. Spring backyard highway is among the busiest streets within the area, full of bustling distributors, outlets, boutiques, cafes, and eating places.
Earlier than heading for lunch, you may take pleasure in retail remedy right here when you store for distinctive souvenirs and items at artisan outlets. That is additionally an ideal space to pattern a couple of native treats and observe how the locals run their on a regular basis life within the metropolis.
Lunch at Bicycle Thief
The well-known restaurant Bicycle Thief is only a few minutes from Spring backyard avenue. Situated at Bishop’s Touchdown, this Italian restaurant is famend for its basic classic decor alongside wonderful meals service.
Many vacationers and locals dine at Bicycle Thief in the event that they wish to get their Italian repair with out travelling far. A menu favorite right here is their beef brief rib, seafood pasta and lobster rolls, all vastly paired with cocktail glass.
Since Bicycle Theif is a identified restaurant, anticipate lengthy strains right here all through the day, particularly through the weekend. Make a reservation beforehand to keep away from queuing for walk-ins.
Stroll across the Halifax Harbourfront Boardwalk
Throughout your three days in Halifax, there’s a excessive chance that you just’ll end up on the Halifax Harbourfront. Subsequent to downtown Halifax, this is among the busiest areas within the metropolis.
The Halifax harbour t is close by loads of vacationer sights, which you’ve most likely seen by now. The harbour additionally homes loads of outlets, eating places and cafes. It’s even thought-about the most-visited vacation spot in all of Nova Scotia in Canada.
The boardwalk stretches about 4 kilometres, making it the longest on this planet. Because you’ve simply completed your lunch meal, you may simply calm down and take it sluggish when you benefit from the view of the harbour.
Discover the Historic Properties
Halifax’s historic properties are additionally situated on the Harbour, also referred to as Privateers Wharf. Right here you’ll discover seven fantastically restored constructions and buildings preserved from the 1700s.
These historic properties, in truth, are listed as nationwide heritage websites, surpassing a whole bunch of years in Halifax’s historical past.
You possibly can already discover eating places and boutiques right here, making it an space with a stability between a historic and up to date vibe. The positioning can also be photographed largely for Halifax postcards, which you’ll recognise if you happen to’ve seen one already.
Get dessert at The Fog
A visit will solely be full with a repair of native dessert, and on this Halifax itinerary, we made positive to incorporate it for you. The Fog is a well-known ice cream and dessert spot in Halifax serving flavorful frozen treats, cookies and doughnuts, all handmade by them.
It has gained recognition through the years, particularly in social media, due to its whimsical ice cream desserts.
The Fog’s signature cones are mentioned to be impressed by the waterfront’s atmosphere. It’s served with smooth serve, embellished with candied sea glass and white chocolate mermaid tails – a must-try!
Try the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
The final cease earlier than you wrap off your first day in Halifax with dinner is the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. It’s situated within the harbour and is open until 7:30 PM.
A go to to the museum is a should to finish 3 good days in Halifax. It is because the museum options an intensive assortment of artefacts from the Titanic and HMCS Sackville, a World Conflict II corvette.
You’ll solely want an hour to go across the museum, so it’s an ideal vacation spot to squeeze into this afternoon itinerary.
Dinner at Waterfront Warehouse
Head onto Waterfront Warehouse, a well-known seafood restaurant situated on the harbour of Halifax, on your first dinner meal within the metropolis.
Waterfront Warehouse is greatest identified for its seafood tower. It’s served with Atlantic lobster, native oysters, shrimp cocktail, crab claws, chilled mussels and a choice of sauces and chutney. It is a crowd favorite, which we advise you attempt for your self.
You may also pair this with a chilly glass of cocktail – the right technique to finish your day!
Day 2 in Halifax
Breakfast at Dilly Dally Espresso Cafe
One other cute must-visit cafe in Halifax is Dilly Dally Espresso Cafe. This espresso store is open as early as 7 AM, so it’s the right place for an early breakfast run. They serve many brunch choices, similar to yoghurt sundaes, egg benedicts and BLT bagels.
You possibly can take pleasure in meal on this espresso store in a homey and cosy cafe. Because you’ll be occurring a day journey to a close-by city right now, you’ll must get up early and have your breakfast mounted earlier than the day begins.
Day journey to Peggy’s Cove
Not identified to many, Nova Scotia is house to over 160 historic lighthouses, and probably the most well-known ones is the Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, also referred to as Peggy’s Level Lighthouse.
Located on the south shore of the small fishing village Peggy’s Cove is the place the lighthouse sits. This UNESCO world heritage website grew to become well-known in Nova Scotia due to its picturesque location and environment, and lots of photographers worldwide spend their days taking panorama pictures right here.
You’ll journey for greater than an hour to succeed in the village. So, you may spend your complete morning watching the waves and exploring the rocks round you. However because it’s situated on the waterfront, be sure to put on the correct sneakers to keep away from slipping. Rouge Wayes are generally splashed up the rocks.
Early Lunch at Rhubarb
After a peaceful and sluggish morning at Peggy’s Level Lighthouse, head to the village’s well-known restaurant, Rhubarb. The restaurant is ready on the city’s harbour, providing a comfy seaside setting.
Because you’re already out of Halifax, take advantage of your journey to Peggy’s Cove and check out one in all their native eating places. Rhubarb already has a long time of expertise serving seasonal and domestically themed dishes, similar to fresh-baked biscuits and braised lamb shack.
You possibly can contact them for reservations to keep away from getting wait-listed, particularly through the peak season.
Go to the Canadian Museum of Immigration
Proceed your journey at Halifax by going to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. This is among the most well-known sights within the area and is a should in your listing of what to see in Halifax in 3 days.
Situated on the finish of Halifax’s boardwalk, this museum was as soon as an immigration facility became a Nationwide Historic Web site and Museum. When visiting, you may browse reveals and interactive shows inside that share details about individuals who have been as soon as residents of Canada.
A lot of folks come to go to the museum within the luck of looking for their roots. One out of 5 Canadians who go to right here is alleged to have been in a position to hint their origins with the data offered inside.
Take the ferry going to Dartmouth
Dartmouth is a picturesque city on the banks of the River Dart that provides a variety of vacationer sights and actions. For under 15 to half-hour of journey by way of Ferry, you may attain Dartmouth from Halifax, making it a handy afternoon journey for this itinerary.
The town has a special vibe from Halifax, making it a worthy vacation spot. It’s even really useful to remain right here for a day or two to take pleasure in each nook and nook. Nonetheless, because you’re travelling to discover Halifax, a couple of hours is already greater than sufficient!
Discover Downtown Dartmouth Mural’s
When visiting Dartmouth, it’s best to reap the benefits of an Outside Mural Stroll downtown. Over 30 murals and sculptures are scattered throughout, and you’ll see them for your self as you discover downtown Dartmouth.
There are additionally guided strolling excursions in Dartmouth that may take you to each mural spot on the town whereas sharing important data on these artwork installations with you.
Stroll round Sullivan’s Pond
After testing the murals and sculptures put in at downtown Dartmouth, head onto the well-known Sullivan Pond. That is an iconic spot in Dartmouth the place locals get a pleasant air breeze after an extended day.
Earlier than heading again to Halifax, stroll alongside the pond path or cross the small bridge over the town the place previous locks might be discovered. There are additionally different historic markers and monuments the place you may study some historic details about Dartmouth.
Head again to Halifax Harbour for Dinner
To go again to Halifax, trip the ferry you took once more, and also you’ll be led to Halifax Harbour once more. Because you’ve been right here a couple of instances in your 2 days within the metropolis, you’ve seen each restaurant there may be!
We advise you go on a harbour cruise dinner. You’ll take pleasure in a buffet dinner, hearken to dwell music, and sightseeing on the most important sights. Among the metropolis sights you’ll see from the cruise are Level pleasure park and Dingle.
Nonetheless, you even have many choices on the waterfront harbour, together with well-known eating places like Salty’s and the Canteen.
Day 3 in Halifax
Have breakfast at Mateus Bistro
On the third day of your Halifax journey, you’ll spend your morning at Mahone Bay, together with breakfast. Earlier than continuing together with your morning tour at Mahone Bay, head first to Mateus Bistro for breakfast.
Mateus Bistro is an area restaurant that provides Mediterranean tapas. They’re additionally identified for his or her charcoal-smoked meats and contemporary seafood which are all domestically sourced. With its al-fresco eating choice, this can be a great spot to start out your day at Mahone Bay.
Go to the Mahone Bay Museum
Mahone Bay is a historic port city between Peggy’s Cove and Lunenburg that was as soon as a fishing and shipbuilding centre; you may study extra about it if you happen to go to Mahone Bay Museum. Though small, the museum provides reveals depicting the early settlers within the city.
The museum is within the former Start household house, constructed within the mid-1700s. Contained in the museum, you’ll discover maps of the city, the area and the entire of North America, alongside details about main landmarks in Mahone Bay.
There may even be reveals on the early kitchen, vintage toys and details about the Start household.
Try the three iconic Mahone Bay Church buildings
After studying extra about Mahone Bay’s historical past, head to see the three iconic Mahone Bay church buildings round city. You have to be on the lookout for St. James Anglican, St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran, and Trinity United.
These three church buildings have turn out to be iconic for Mahone Bay due to their distinctive meeting, standing alongside the city’s coast. It’s a unbelievable website, making a visually fascinating concord with nature, making it a must-visit in Mahone Bay.
Lunch at Salt Shaker Deli & Inn
After strolling at Mahone Bay, head to the well-known Salt Shaker Deli & Inn for lunch. Situated at Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, this cosy and informal inn provides a quaint restaurant the place you may seize a fast meal.
Salt Shaker Deli & Inn, from the identify itself, is a small inn on the waterfront of Lunenburg. It has solely 4 rooms with kitchenettes, non-public bogs and couch beds. You possibly can take into account staying right here if you happen to plan an in a single day journey to Lunenburg.
Nonetheless, for now, solely head to Salt Shaker Deli and luxuriate in their meals whereas having have a look at the waterfront.
Discover Lunenburg
Lunenberg is a day vacation spot well-known amongst travellers who come to Nova Scotia and journey from one metropolis to a different. Because you’re solely visiting for a couple of hours, we’ll make sure you see the numerous spots and landmarks the town provides.
Whereas there are a lot of issues you are able to do in Lunenburg, the very first thing it’s best to do on this itinerary is go to the Previous City of Lunenburg. It’s a UNESCO heritage website, with vibrant homes lining the streets and the harbour.
These vibrant homes make an ideal background on your Instagram footage. The homes are colored with quirky colors, from shiny to pastels, but they’re nonetheless good to take a look at.
Except for strolling across the streets of the Previous City, it’s also possible to benefit from the native artwork scene by visiting artwork galleries similar to Cranston Gallery, Quartet Gallery and Laurie Swim Gallery. Lunenburg is legendary for its artwork tradition and even has its personal Lunenburg College of the Arts.
If you wish to take advantage of your time, be part of a guided strolling tour that may take you across the metropolis. Often, these excursions take you to the waterfront, an area cafe and historic landmarks just like the previous city.
Earlier than heading again to Halifax, we advise you go searching native markets and boutiques for distinctive souvenirs and items. There are numerous of those in Lunenburg, and you could find one thing in at the least one in all these outlets.
Tour round Alexander Keith’s Brewery
Alexander Keith Brewery is among the oldest working breweries in North America. It’s devoted to crafting small batches of brews. The brewery was named after Alexander Keith, because it was impressed by native Nova Scotian tradition and Keith’s heritage.
Throughout your go to, you’ll have the prospect to tour the brewery whereas studying about Keith’s legacy and historical past. Moreover, you can be proven a behind-the-scenes unique of the brewing course of contained in the historic pub.
After touring round and studying concerning the brewery, you’ll get to pattern small batches and limited-edition beers domestically. On the identical time, native musicians play music for you and the remainder of the tour group. All these make visiting the Alexander Keith Brewery one of many journey’s highlights.
Dinner at Bar Kismet
Halifax is all about good surroundings and meals, so it’s best to go to Bar Kismet on your final dinner meal. Bar Kismet is a 5-year family-owned and run bar and restaurant that serves a mixture of native, seasonal and worldwide delicacies.
Wines, cocktails and seafood plates are most well-known in Bar Kismet, which it’s best to attempt if it’s your first time visiting. The restaurant is cosy and informal, but you may really feel magnificence within the environment. They’ve a small bar contained in the restaurant, the place the in-house bartender creates customized cocktails and serve a choice of pure wines.
They settle for reservations on-line and walk-ins in the event that they’re not packed (which hardly ever occurs).
Be a part of a Halifax Metropolis Ghost Tour
Earlier than ending your three-day journey to Halifax, making an attempt out their well-known Halifax Metropolis Ghost tour is a should! We included this within the itinerary as a result of it’s a singular and thrilling factor to expertise within the metropolis.
You can be taken to stroll downtown Halifax with a tour information and a small group. Your information will share tales of ghosts, spirits and devils surrounding Nova Scotia and a few factual historic context to every story.
As you go to one iconic spot to a different, you’ll be shared with a special story whereas surrounded by a special environment – a one-for-the-books expertise!
Excursions in Halifax
Harbour Tour
Halifax is famend for its harbour, and it’s not shocking {that a} tour of the harbour waterfront is obtainable so that you can be part of. This tour will happen on land and water, using an amphibious Vietnam Wat automobile.
First, you’ll drive alongside iconic land spots, together with St. Paul’s Cathedral, Citadel Hill and the Halifax Public Gardens whereas using the automobile.
You’ll then head on to drift alongside Halifax Harbour Bay to get a panoramic view of the waterfront and boardwalk whereas studying concerning the metropolis’s historical past and origins out of your native information.
Sundown Crusing
To spend a romantic time with your beloved, it’s best to take into account crusing on a sundown yacht at Halifax’s harbour. On this tour, you can be crusing via the Northwest Arm of the Halifax harbour aboard the boat, along with a small group.
This crusing expertise additionally contains 4 sampling wines and a cheese board to take pleasure in whereas studying concerning the metropolis out of your tour information. Benefit from the picturesque view of Halifax Harbour, George’s Island, and McNabs Island because the sunsets.
Advisable excursions in Halifax
3-Day Itinerary for Halifax Wrap-up
Every part we have now talked about, from issues to do, locations to go to and meals to eat, is one thing you may take pleasure in in Halifax in 3 days. With the correct planning, all that’s left so that you can pack your issues, and also you’re able to set off and discover Halifax!
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