Halifax Things to Do

Ultimate Guide for Halifax
Top 18 Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Halifax for Retirees and Slow Travelers
Planning a budget trip to Halifax? This vibrant coastal city on Canada’s Atlantic shore offers plenty of affordable activities perfect for retirees and slow travelers. Known for its maritime charm, historic sites, and friendly locals, Halifax is a welcoming and walkable destination where you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy yourself.
When to Go: The best times to visit Halifax are June and September—you’ll enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices on accommodation and attractions. While the weather in Halifax can be unpredictable (thanks to the ever-changing Atlantic air masses), don’t let a little rain or wind stop you from exploring. Just pack layers and a rain jacket, and you’re good to go!
Safety: Halifax is considered one of Canada’s safest cities, with a very low crime rate. During our week-long visit, we explored all corners of the city—day and night—and felt completely comfortable and at ease wherever we went.
Whether you’re a retiree seeking culture and coastal scenery, or a traveler looking to stretch your budget without sacrificing experience, Halifax is a great choice. Stay tuned for our list of the top 18 things to do in Halifax on a budget!
Top 18 Things To Do In Halifax
1. Halifax City Centre

1. Explore the Walkable and Historic City Centre
Halifax’s compact city centre is a gem for slow travelers and retirees who love to explore on foot. Within just a few blocks, you’ll find charming local shops, cozy cafés, lively pubs, the iconic Halifax Citadel, the beautiful Public Gardens, and the architecturally stunning Halifax Central Library.
Spend a leisurely afternoon browsing boutiques or relaxing in the Public Garden, one of the oldest Victorian gardens in North America—completely free to enter and enjoy.
If you’re looking for a relaxing drink after your stroll, our favorite local spot is the Niche Lounge, conveniently located at the end of Spring Garden Road. We discovered it simply by walking downhill from our condo—proof that Halifax rewards slow, unhurried exploration. Their daily Happy Hour from 4:00 to 6:30 PM makes it a great spot to enjoy a cocktail or local brew on a budget.
Just steps away, tucked at the base of the hill, is a peaceful historic cemetery—a quiet retreat and home to Canada’s only monument to the Crimean War of 1855. We enjoy wandering through cemeteries while traveling; they offer a reflective connection to the past and tell the stories of those who shaped the city.
2. Citadel National Historic Site

2. Step Back in Time at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
No visit to Halifax is complete without spending time at Citadel Hill, the prominent hill overlooking the city’s natural harbour. At its summit sits the Halifax Citadel, a star-shaped fort built in the 1800s and named after King George II. It’s one of Canada’s most important military landmarks—and it’s surprisingly budget-friendly to visit.
From 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, the site comes alive with costumed interpreters from the 78th Highlanders Regiment, who stand guard at the entrances and perform a Changing of the Guard ceremony every hour. Throughout the day, you can also watch marching and pipe band drills in the parade grounds, adding to the authentic atmosphere.
One of the Citadel’s highlights is the Noon Gun, a live cannon fired by the Royal Artillery every day since 1856. It’s loud, it’s dramatic, and it’s a must-see! We recommend arriving around 11:45 AM to grab a good spot and soak in the anticipation.
For a hands-on historical experience, consider joining the “Soldier for a Day” program (approx. 3 hours), where you’ll suit up in a Highland regiment uniform, practice military drills, and even learn how to fire a musket. If that sounds too active, you might prefer the Citadel Spirit Tasting, where $19 gets you a guided sampling of three small-batch spirits—aged in oak barrels right on site.
Admission is about $12, but if you have a Parks Canada Discovery Pass, entrance is free—so be sure to bring it along if you have one!
3. Halifax Public Library

3. Visit the Architectural Marvel of the Halifax Central Library
Even if you’re not a regular library-goer, the Halifax Central Library is well worth a visit. Opened in December 2014 at a cost of $56 million, this cantilevered glass building is an architectural showpiece and a shining example of modern civic design.
Inside, you’ll find more than just books. There’s a restaurant, two cozy coffee shops, a green rooftop terrace, and dozens of inviting reading nooks with views of the city. It’s the perfect place to relax, read, or sip a coffee while watching the world go by.
One fun feature is the glass-enclosed book return, where you can watch returned books ride up a system of belts to the collections desk—an unexpected bit of entertainment!
The library is LEED-certified and was built as a community hub with sustainability and accessibility in mind. It hosts free public events, including author talks, film screenings, workshops, and music performances—many of which are ideal for slow travelers looking to connect with local culture.
Whether you’re stopping in for a break or spending the afternoon, the Halifax Central Library is a free, enriching experience right in the heart of the city.
Send the next piece when you’re ready!
4. Port of Halifax

4. Stroll the Halifax Seaport and Discover the City’s Maritime Legacy
Halifax’s history is deeply tied to its port, one of the most significant on the Atlantic coast. The Port of Halifax began as North America’s first naval shipyard in 1758, later becoming a free port in 1818 to welcome international trade. By 1889, it had grown into the largest dry dock repair facility in North America.
Today, the Port is still thriving, employing over 13,500 people and generating $2.5 billion in economic activity for Nova Scotia. It’s also one of the deepest natural harbours in the world and remains ice-free year-round, making it an essential hub for global shipping and cruise tourism.
The port welcomes more than 170 cruise ships annually, bringing in over 300,000 visitors. Even if you’re not arriving by sea, you can enjoy the Halifax Seaport District, which includes Pier 21 (Canada’s Immigration Museum) and the popular Harbourwalk—a scenic boardwalk stretching several kilometers along the waterfront.
Whether you’re interested in history, watching ships roll in, or just enjoying a relaxing stroll, the Seaport is a great spot to soak up the maritime charm of Halifax—at no cost.
5. Titanic Graveyard

5. Visit the Titanic Graves at Fairview Lawn Cemetery
For travelers planning a holiday in Halifax, a visit to Fairview Lawn Cemetery offers a moving and historic experience. This quiet, tree-lined cemetery is the final resting place of 121 victims of the Titanic disaster, their graves thoughtfully arranged in the shape of a ship’s hull.
When the Titanic struck an iceberg and sank on April 12, 1912, Halifax—located just 700 nautical miles from the site of the tragedy—was the closest major port. The city played a key role in the aftermath, sending out three ships to recover over 300 bodies. Of those, 100 were buried at sea, 59 were sent elsewhere, and 139 were interred in Halifax across three cemeteries.
Fairview Lawn became the most well-known burial site and a place of pilgrimage for Titanic history enthusiasts. It became so popular that tour buses were eventually restricted from parking at the cemetery to preserve its peaceful atmosphere. Fortunately, you can still visit on foot, and it’s an easy and pleasant walk from the Halifax Citadel.
This site is a must-see for anyone interested in Halifax’s maritime history or seeking a meaningful stop on their Nova Scotia vacation.
6. Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market

6. Shop, Snack, and Stroll at the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market
If you’re planning a holiday in Halifax and want to experience the city like a local, don’t miss the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market. Originally established by Royal Proclamation in 1750, it holds the title of the longest continuously operating farmers’ market in North America.
Today, the market is housed in a bright, spacious building along the waterfront in the Halifax Seaport District, and it’s a must-visit for food lovers, slow travelers, and souvenir hunters alike. With over 250 vendors, the market features a vibrant selection of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, seafood, and locally made beverages.
We stopped here for lunch and ended up shopping for our daily groceries—everything from artisan cheese and fresh fish to warm bread and colorful veggies. It’s a great stop for those who enjoy self-catering while traveling, especially retirees who prefer preparing meals with local ingredients.
You’ll also find a wide range of Nova Scotian crafts and handmade goods, perfect if you’re looking for authentic, affordable souvenirs to take home. And for seafood lovers, this is where you’ll find the best lobster roll in Nova Scotia, as voted in a local tasting contest!
7. Halifax Habourwalk

7. Walk the Scenic Halifax Harbourwalk from End to End
One of the best free things to do on a holiday in Halifax is to stroll the Halifax Harbourwalk, one of the longest continuous boardwalks in the world. Stretching 4.4 kilometers along the beautiful harbourfront, it’s a relaxing and engaging way to explore the city at your own pace—with plenty of photo-worthy views and hidden gems along the way.
Begin at the Halifax Seaport, then follow the boardwalk past attractions like NovaScotian Crystal, where you can watch skilled artisans create hand-blown crystal right before your eyes.
Continue your walk and you’ll find opportunities to book a harbour cruise, hop on the local ferry to Dartmouth (just $2.75 round trip), or grab a drink or meal at one of the many waterfront cafés and restaurants.
The boardwalk ends at Casino Nova Scotia, where we stopped several times during our stay.
Budget Tip: Once a week, the casino hosts an all-you-can-eat lobster dinner—a fantastic value if you’re craving a classic East Coast meal. Call ahead to confirm times and arrive early to get a ticket!
8. Alexander Keith's Brewery

8. Enjoy a Taste of History at Alexander Keith’s Brewery
If you’re planning a holiday in Halifax and enjoy a good pint, a stop at Alexander Keith’s Brewery is a must. Founded in 1822 by Scottish immigrant Alexander Keith, the brewery at 1496 Water Street is one of the oldest in North America. While rum was once the drink of choice in Halifax, Keith’s beer rose in popularity in the 1830s and 1840s, especially when sugar shortages—linked to the abolition of slavery in 1833—made rum harder to produce.
While we chose not to take the $16 brewery tour—mainly because we’ve owned a brewery ourselves and have spent countless hours brewing—we can vouch for the restaurant on site, which was a delightful surprise.
We happened to catch their Happy Hour, scoring half-price fish and chips that were fresh, crispy, and absolutely delicious. The beer? As expected, it was excellent—flavourful, refreshing, and the perfect companion to our meal.
Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a tasty budget meal in a historic setting, Alexander Keith’s Brewery is worth a visit.
9. Canadian Museum of Immigration

9. Trace Your Roots at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
Located on the Halifax waterfront, the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is a powerful and emotional stop for anyone planning a holiday in Halifax, especially those interested in family history and cultural heritage. Pier 21 served as the gateway to Canada for over one million immigrants, many of whom arrived from Europe in the 1800s and early 1900s. It was here that they took their first steps on Canadian soil.
Inside, the museum’s engaging exhibits share the stories of diverse immigrant journeys, bringing history to life through personal accounts, artifacts, and multimedia displays.
A highlight is the Scotiabank Family History Centre, where you can dive into your own ancestry. The knowledgeable staff will assist you in searching through extensive databases of immigration records, census data, birth and death certificates, obituaries, newspapers, and even military records. Best of all, access to the Family History Centre is completely free.
Admission to the museum is $15, or $12 for seniors. If you’re planning to return—or want to bring a friend—you can purchase an annual pass for $45, or $35 for seniors, which admits two people.
It’s a meaningful stop for retirees, history lovers, and anyone exploring their Canadian roots.
10. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

10. Discover Maritime History at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
Situated right on the Halifax waterfront, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic offers a deep and moving look into Nova Scotia’s seafaring past. It’s a must-see stop on any Halifax holiday, especially for those interested in the Titanic, the Halifax Explosion, and Atlantic Canada’s role in naval history.
One section of the museum features artifacts from the Titanic, highlighting Halifax’s role in the recovery efforts after the tragic sinking. Another powerful exhibit tells the story of the Halifax Explosion, which occurred on December 6, 1917, when a munitions ship collided with another vessel in the harbour.
The resulting blast was equivalent to a 3-kiloton bomb, devastating 325 acres of downtown Halifax, killing over 1,700 people, and injuring over 9,000 more. The exhibits include real accounts, like that of Barbara Orr, a young girl who was blown over half a kilometre through the air by the force of the explosion—only to find her home and entire family gone.
The museum provides a sobering but fascinating look into these historic events, alongside many other engaging maritime displays.
Budget Tip: Admission is $8.45 for seniors making this a perfect stop for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore Halifax’s past without spending a lot.
11. Grafton Dinner Theatre

11. Enjoy a Night of Laughter at Grafton Street Dinner Theatre
For an unforgettable evening on your Halifax holiday, don’t miss the Grafton Street Dinner Theatre. Open since 1987, this unique venue combines a three-course meal with a hilarious, three-act live performance, all for a great value—$70 for adults and $63 for seniors, including coffee and tea.
We arrived about 30 minutes early to pick up our tickets and enjoy a pre-theatre cocktail in the lounge. When the doors opened, we were warmly welcomed and seated with two other couples, giving us a chance to chat and settle in before the show.
From the moment the play began, the laughter didn’t stop. The performances were top-notch, with witty dialogue and engaging characters that kept the entire room entertained. The twist? The actors double as your servers, staying completely in character as they bring out each course between acts—adding an extra layer of fun and immersion to the evening.
The night wrapped up with coffee and casual mingling, as the actors came around to chat with guests. It was funny, warm, interactive, and delicious—a true highlight of our week in Halifax.
We highly recommend it to retirees, couples, and anyone looking for a budget-friendly night out with local flair.
12. Live Music Venues

12. Soak Up Live Music and Local Vibes in Halifax’s Pubs
One of the things we always look for when traveling is live music, and Halifax did not disappoint. This city is a hidden gem for music lovers, with bars and pubs offering live performances almost every night of the week—many of them free to enjoy with the cost of a drink or meal.
Just a few steps from where we stayed, we found a spot with a name too good to resist: Your Father’s Moustache. It’s a family-friendly bar with a long-standing tradition of great music. We visited on a Saturday afternoon and were treated to a set by Joe Murphy and The Water Street Blues Band, who’ve been performing there every Saturday from 4–8 PM for over 25 years.
The vibe was unforgettable. There were young families, locals, and seniors all sharing the dance floor. We met a stylish 86-year-old Italian woman in a black outfit and high stilettos, dancing like a pro and lighting up the room with her energy. Everyone was welcoming, and the crowd felt like one big extended family.
If you’re planning a trip to Halifax and love authentic local experiences, the live music scene is a must. Whether it’s blues, folk, or classic East Coast tunes, you’ll find something to love—and someone to dance with.
6 Daytrips Outside of Halifax
Ocean Drive

13. Take a Scenic Drive Along Nova Scotia’s Stunning Coastline
One of the true joys of a holiday in Halifax is hitting the road and exploring Nova Scotia’s breathtaking coastline. With over 13,300 kilometers of shoreline, the province offers some of the most beautiful coastal drives in Canada—perfect for retirees, photographers, and anyone who enjoys taking the scenic route.
We took the old road to Lunenburg, a charming UNESCO World Heritage town just over an hour from Halifax, and were rewarded with spectacular ocean views, quiet coves, and picturesque fishing villages along the way.
Heading north of Halifax along the coast also revealed gorgeous stretches of beach, peaceful picnic spots, and plenty of opportunities to stop and soak in the Atlantic breeze.
If you’re into slow travel, this is the kind of unhurried, open-road adventure that makes Nova Scotia special. Just pack a picnic, keep your camera handy, and follow the shoreline—every turn offers something new to discover.
Peggy's Cove

14. Visit Iconic Peggy’s Cove and Its Famous Lighthouse
No holiday in Halifax is complete without a trip to Peggy’s Cove, located just 45 km south of the city. Famous for its picturesque lighthouse built in 1915, this tiny working fishing village has become one of the most photographed spots in all of Canada.
Set against a backdrop of rugged granite rocks and a narrow ocean inlet, Peggy’s Cove offers the perfect setting for a peaceful coastal walk. We spent a few hours wandering the rocky trails, enjoying the fresh Atlantic breeze and the unmistakable scent of salty sea air.
Safety tip: Be extremely cautious when walking near the ocean. Rogue waves are real, and several visitors have tragically been swept off the rocks. Stay well back and never turn your back on the sea.
After exploring the lighthouse and scenic views, take some time to wander the village, browse for souvenirs, and chat with local artisans. Just south of the cove, we stumbled upon a fantastic lobster shack where we had a fresh, satisfying lunch—another highlight of the day.
Peggy’s Cove is a must-see for travelers seeking natural beauty, local charm, and unforgettable East Coast moments.
Lunenburg

15. Take a Day Trip to Historic Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Just 100 km from Halifax, the charming town of Lunenburg is one of the best day trips from Halifax for travelers who love history, culture, and coastal beauty. We took the scenic old road there and the faster highway back, and both drives were well worth the time.
Founded in 1753 and named after Duke Braunschweig-Lünburg (Hanover)—who also happened to be King George II of Great Britain—Lunenburg is a beautifully preserved example of British colonial town planning. In fact, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 for its historical significance and architectural charm.
Lunenburg has deep roots in offshore fishing, shipbuilding, and even rum running. It’s also home to the legendary Bluenose schooner, built here in 1921 and famously featured on the Canadian dime.
Today, the town is known for its colorful waterfront, art galleries, boutique shops, and funky restaurants. We spent the day walking the streets, popping into museums, enjoying local cuisine, and soaking in the views. Lunenburg has also won the Communities in Bloom award as Canada’s most beautiful small town—and it’s easy to see why.
If you’re planning a Halifax holiday, Lunenburg is a must-visit destination full of charm, history, and photo-worthy moments.
Grand-Pré National Historic Site

16. Explore Acadian History at Grand-Pré National Historic Site
Just an hour’s drive from Halifax, across the Nova Scotia peninsula, lies Grand-Pré National Historic Site—a peaceful and powerful place that tells the story of the Acadian people. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Grand-Pré is a meaningful stop for travelers interested in Canadian history and cultural heritage.
From 1682 to 1755, Grand-Pré was the heart of Acadian life in Nova Scotia. The Acadians were descendants of French settlers living on land governed by the British. While the Acadians considered themselves neutral and self-sufficient, they refused to sign an oath of allegiance to Britain. During ongoing conflicts between France and Britain, this refusal led the British military to forcibly deport over 10,000 Acadians, fearing they might side with the French.
Their homes and barns were burned, and families were scattered—many to the American colonies, including the Carolinas, where they were often unwelcome. As they wandered in search of safety, some eventually settled in Louisiana, where their culture evolved into what we now know as Cajun heritage.
Grand-Pré features a visitor center, memorial church, and serene gardens, all set in the lush Annapolis Valley. It’s a beautiful and reflective place to learn about a tragic chapter of Canadian history, while enjoying a scenic and easy day trip from Halifax.
Harbourville

17. Experience the World’s Highest Tides and Fresh Lobster in Harbourville
For a truly unique day trip from Halifax, head to Harbourville and Hall’s Harbour, tucked along the Bay of Fundy—home to the highest tides in the world. This area is still one of Nova Scotia’s best-kept secrets, and it delivers unforgettable views and an unbeatable seafood experience.
We drove here to witness the incredible Bay of Fundy tide, and it did not disappoint. At low tide, you’ll see fishing boats resting on the ocean floor, their ropes stretched taut down from docks 12 feet above. Then, within hours, the tide sweeps in, lifting the boats up like magic. It’s a natural phenomenon that’s both mesmerizing and humbling.
This is a lobster fishing village, with the season running from May through October, and we came for one thing: lobster! Here’s how it works: you buy your lobster in the gift shop, then head to a separate counter where you’re handed a live lobster in a plastic dish bin.
You’ll then carry your lobster over to a cooking shed, where it’s dropped into a steaming pot by a friendly cook. They’ll hand you a number on a stand and direct you to the restaurant overlooking the bay. Once your lobster is ready, they’ll bring it right to your table.
It was fun, informal, and absolutely delicious—a must-do for any seafood lover looking for an authentic Nova Scotia coastal experience.
Tidal Bore Rafting on the Schubenacadie River

18. Ride the Tidal Bore on the Shubenacadie River
Looking to add a thrill to your Halifax holiday? Just an hour’s drive from the city, you can experience one of Nova Scotia’s most adrenaline-pumping natural wonders—tidal bore rafting on the Shubenacadie River.
Here, over 160 billion tonnes of ocean water are forced up the river by the powerful Bay of Fundy tide, causing the river to reverse direction and collide with the incoming saltwater. The result? Churning rapids and a wild 45-minute roller coaster ride through the waves aboard a high-speed Zodiac raft.
You can choose between a 2-hour tour for $70 or a 4-hour tour for $95. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with Nova Scotia’s natural forces.
And the adventure doesn’t end there. On your way back, you’ll get to try mud sliding down the steep, red-clay riverbanks—a messy, hilarious, and wildly fun activity that makes you feel like a kid again.
Budget Tip & What to Bring: Wear old clothes and shoes (the red mud stains!), and pack a change of clothes, a towel, and shower supplies. You’ll be covered in mud—and grinning from ear to ear.

Is Halifax Worth Visiting?
Why Halifax Should Be on Your Travel List
After spending a full week in Halifax, we can confidently say—it’s absolutely worth visiting. This vibrant East Coast city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, ocean views, and friendly small-town charm, all wrapped up in a budget-friendly travel experience.
We had an incredible time taking part in cultural activities, exploring historic sites, and soaking in the youthful energy of the city, thanks in part to its five universities, numerous colleges, and the Royal Canadian Navy base.
One of the most memorable aspects of Halifax was simply being by the ocean. There’s nothing like the fresh Atlantic breeze, the sound of waves and creaking boardwalks, and the ever-changing waterfront views. We had a rental car but found we walked everywhere, enjoying the city’s compact, pedestrian-friendly layout.
For those on a budget, Halifax shines. Many of the top things to do are free or low-cost—from museums and historic sites to live music and scenic walks. We found happy hour deals, low-cost pubs, and plenty of free performances throughout the city. And of course, the seafood is legendary, with everything from award-winning lobster rolls to lobster shacks on the Bay of Fundy.
During our week, we:
Attended a lively dinner theatre
Enjoyed live music in pubs and on the street
Watched the firing of the noon-day cannon at the Citadel
Dressed up as a Red Coat soldier and fired a musket
Ate the best lobster roll in Nova Scotia
Took a boat ride in the harbour
Feasted at an all-you-can-eat lobster night at the local casino
Traced our immigrant ancestors at Pier 21
Visited historic Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, Harbourville, and Wolfville
We’d go back in a heartbeat to relive all the fun and discover even more.
If you’re a retiree, slow traveler, or simply someone who loves quality travel on a budget, Halifax, Nova Scotia is a destination you shouldn’t miss.

Our Budget for 7 Days in Halifax
- Flights - $170
- Condo - $0
- Transportation - $240
- Activities - $100
- Restaurants - $250
- Happy Hour - $100
- Total - $860
- Our per person cost was only $61 a day
How to Have a Cheap Vacation in Halifax
Find a cheap flight
Start looking 6-12 months before you are thinking of going. Be flexible in your dates. Give yourself a 4-6 week window to find that lowest price for your flight.
Walk everywhere and do not take taxis.
Halifax has a small downtown area. We walked everywhere and did not use a taxi or Uber once. When we travel we normally do a lot of walking every day. Halifax has a Walkability rating of 70 and it also great for stamina building as most of the sights are either on the bottom of the hill or the top of the hill so either way you are walking up a hill at some point.
Happy Hour prices for food and beverages when eating out.
We like to a find great Happy Hour bar where we travel. Food and drinks are generally half price. We like a place that feels friendly, has cheap appetizers and drinks and where we can rest at the end of the sightseeing day and watch people come and go. It is wonderful to have a rapport with one or two servers so that we can quickly order drinks and appetizers each day when we arrive. It also makes us feel comfortable while in a strange land especially when they recognize you and call you by name.
Eat at the Nova Scotia Casino
Most casinos have restaurants with daily specials for their customers in order to keep them in the casino gambling. The Halifax casino has an all you can eat seafood night for $30 and Prime Rib buffet night for $30. Cheaper if you are a Casino Player member – as low as $15.
Make sure your accommodation has a kitchen, kitchenette or at least a fridge so that you can buy groceries and make your own food.
We generally eat most of our meals at our accommodation. If we are staying in a hotel room we bring along our travel bag that has a little crockpot, dishes, cutlery, coffee, tea, sugar, and spices. We will buy a quart of soup, chili, stew, or other heatable deli dish and a bag salad for dinner.
Go to museums when they have free admission
Most museums have a free time period once a week or once a month. Check out the museums before you go. The Maritime Museum is free on Tuesdays after 5 pm.
Take the Harbour Ferry for $2.75 instead of the Harbour Tour for $100.
There are 2 ferries from the Halifax Seaport over to Dartmouth. Both give a fantastic view of the Halifax Skyline. If it is a nice day, go to the top deck and enjoy the view.
Do all the free things to do in Halifax
This includes the Seaport, the Immigration Museum, the Harbour Walk, crystal glass blowing, the changing of the guards at the Citadel, walk around the Public Gardens, see the Titanic victims graves, walk along the waterside parks and the old part of town, and watch live bands play at a variety of venues.

Our Week In Halifax
Arrival in Halifax: A Smooth Start to Our East Coast Adventure
We arrived in Halifax on an evening Air Canada flight, where our Budget rental car was waiting. As Budget RapidCar members, the process was seamless—our paperwork was ready, and within minutes, we were loading our bags into a new Nissan Rogue with just 7,000 km on the odometer. With our destination already mapped on my iPhone, we cruised onto the highway and crossed the MacDonald Toll Bridge into the city. A $1 loonie tossed into the basket, and just like that, we were in Halifax—ready for a week of exploring.
Our Home Away From Home: A Downtown Halifax Condo
We arranged a home exchange with a local couple, Debbie and Bruce, who lived on the 10th floor of the Martello, a sleek glass high-rise condo right in downtown Halifax. They greeted us warmly and showed us around the condo, offering helpful tips about the building and local area before setting off on their own trip around Cape Breton.
The condo was modern and comfortable: two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and white cabinetry. The open-concept living room featured a gas fireplace and a glass dining table. It was the perfect home base for slow travel in Halifax.
First Meal Out: A Seafood Welcome
Once settled, we set out to find our first lobster dinner in Halifax. The food app led us to the Five Fishermen Grill and Bar, which had great reviews. Though it was busy, we grabbed seats at the bar and ordered seafood chowder, mussels, and lobster appetizers—delicious, but at $80 for three small plates and two drinks, it was more than we wanted to spend. We made a note to find more budget-friendly seafood options later in the week (which we did!).
First Night Out: Fiddles and Foot Stomping at the Old Triangle
Excited to dive into Halifax’s famous live music scene, we walked further down the hill to the Old Triangle Irish Pub, a downtown institution that’s been around for over 50 years. It was bustling even on a Sunday night, filled with locals, students, and travelers.
We were lucky to grab a table near the musicians—two seasoned performers whose photos on the wall showed them playing together since the 1970s. Their long white hair and easy camaraderie added to the charm as they played foot-stomping fiddle reels that had the whole room toe-tapping. No lyrics, just pure, joyful East Coast sound.
The walk back up the hill to our condo reminded us of Halifax’s hilly terrain. We needed a breather halfway up—and noticed others doing the same! We shared a wave and a laugh with fellow hill climbers. By the end of the week, we had built up enough stamina to conquer the hill without stopping.
Touring Halifax and the Surrounding Area
The rest of our week was spent exploring Halifax and nearby sights. We loved the Halifax Waterfront—especially the Seaport District and the lively Harbourwalk, where we often saw foreign navy sailors strolling in dress whites. During our stay, a tall ship from Italy was docked, and the air was filled with Italian voices and a distinctly festive vibe.
Halifax is a youthful city, thanks to its five universities and many colleges, plus the Royal Canadian Navy base. The streets were always alive with students, military personnel, and visitors, creating a fun, energetic atmosphere.
We took the harbour ferry to Dartmouth for just $2.75, offering a fantastic view of the city from the water. We also explored several museums and historic landmarks, strolled through the Halifax Public Gardens—one of the last surviving Victorian gardens in Canada—and sampled food and drink at an incredible range of restaurants, pubs, and lounges.
There’s no doubt about it—Halifax is walkable, welcoming, and full of charm. From live music and theatre to happy hours and heritage sites, this city captured our hearts.
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Car Rentals
Check out the link below to for car rental pricing. Budget Tip: We paid $180 for the week.
Accommodations in Halifax
Halifax has an abundance of hotels to choose from. You can use Expedia (click here) or Hotel (click here) to search for the best hotel for you. It is best to stay in the downtown area so that you can walk everywhere. The downtown area is small so the location of your accommodation does not matter that much.
Our accommodations for 7 nights was a beautiful condo in downtown Halifax. The floor to ceiling windows overlooked the Halifax Harbour. To the West we could see Fort George on top of the Citadel and to the East the remarkable Halifax Central Public Library.
I find that accommodations are a critical component of travelling. Considering that you spend up to 12 hours a day where you stay, it can make or break a travel experience. Always get the best accommodations that you can. It doesn’t mean that it has to be expensive or even large. One of the nicest places we have stayed in for a week was a small cabin in a coffee plantation complete with chickens and cats.
Our accommodations were a 4+ Star and if it was a hotel the nightly cost would be over $400 a night. We were able to do a home exchange with the owners so our accommodations for the week were free. This is the budget slow travel way of seeing the world. Check out our place if you would like to do a Home Exchange.
If you think you might like to try Home Exchange you can sign up for free and only pay the membership when you actually find a home exhange. Using my referral will get you 250 Guest Points that you can use towards a home exchange. Click here for the referral link.
When we can’t arrange a home exchange, we often use Hotwire as a discount room aggregater where you can get rooms for several hundred dollars less than regular rate. We have used them for years and have saved thousands of dollars. You can also book flights and car rentals through Hotwire.
Use Your Favourite Booking Platform to Find Your Perfect Accommodation Right Here
Travel Gear You May Need For Your Trip To Halifax
Halifax is a coastal city and you may experience all types of weather. We went in summer and I made sure that I had a light rain jacket, hat and umbrella and I am glad that I did because we did walk in the rain. Of course I couldn’t forget my insulated metal water bottle for those long days of sightseeing.
Click on any of these items and you will be taken to Amazon where you can browse and order the little important things that make your trip so much better. We get a small commission and you get great prices and free shipping. It is so convenient. Thank you for supporting our website.
Official Halifax Resources
Discover Halifax – the official Halifax tourism website.
Halifax Metro – the official Nova Scotia tourism website.
Nova Scotia in the News – an updated collection of news articles and video on Nova Scotia.
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