Should You Visit Halifax?

Is Halifax worth visiting?

Yes, you'll find numerous reasons to visit Halifax, and it's a city that everyone should see. We had an amazing time here. During our first trip to Halifax in 2014, we fell in love with its historic character and friendly people. We've been back several times since then to experience it even more.

Whether you're a traveling as a family, a couple, or a backpacker, this city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the spectacular museums & sights and terrific food.

Halifax is a port city on the eastern side of Canada. It's in Nova Scotia and is a popular stop off for visitors exploring the area. It has a long maritime history with several historic sites and museums that you can explore.

Old Town Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

5 Reasons to Visit Halifax

1. Museums & Sights

You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

2. Food

You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

3. Nightlife

There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

4. Shopping

You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

5. Authenticity

Halifax has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Halifax worth visiting in the Summer?

The high season for travel in Halifax is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat touristy, so in the high season it's usually busier.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 18°C (64°F).

During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks and the nightlife.

Summer Weather in Halifax

Is Halifax worth visiting in the Autumn?

The weather in Halifax can be quite cold during autumn, and averages around 10°C (49°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Halifax, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. Even though Halifax is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.

This is a great time of year to wander through the museums.

Autumn Weather in Halifax

Is Halifax worth visiting in the Winter?

Winter is the low season for travel in Halifax. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.

The weather in Halifax can be quite cold during winter, and averages around -4°C (24°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to browse through museums, enjoy a meal at a restaurant, and take advantage of the local nightlife.

Winter Weather in Halifax

Is Halifax worth visiting in the Spring?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Halifax. Even though Halifax is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.

The weather in Halifax can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 4°C (39°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

During this season it's fun to experience the quaint shops, the famous sights and museums, and the nightlife scene.

Spring Weather in Halifax

Things to Consider Before Visiting Halifax

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Halifax might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Halifax here or see if Halifax is expensive here.

Related

What is Halifax most famous for?

Halifax is most famous for its maritime past. People visit this impressive city for its great museums & sights, food, nightlife, and shopping. It is often described as cultural, historical, and friendly.

What is the most famous sight in Halifax?

The most popular sight in Halifax is the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Halifax on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site and other attractions here.

How touristy is Halifax? Is it a popular city to visit?

Halifax is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Three Sisters Sea Kayaking Day Tour: $138
• Discover the Halifax Explosion Audio Walking Tour: $5.15
• Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and Annapolis Valley Tour: $191
• Explore Halifax with 3 Unique Smartphone Audio Walking Tours: $13
• City Segway Tour: $68
• Halifax City Sightseeing by Private a/c vehicle: $107
• Harbour Hopper City & Water Cruise in a Duck Boat: $57
• From City and Peggy's Cove Sunset Guided Tour: $66

How long should I spend in Halifax?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Halifax is two to three days. Since Halifax has activities such as dining, nightlife, and shopping, most people visit for up to three days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Halifax? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Halifax?.