Visit Halifax: our 10 must-see attractions

Are you planning a road trip through Canada's Maritime provinces? You're in luck, because today I'm taking you to Nova Scotia, and more specifically, to Halifax.

With its vibrant culinary scene, historic buildings and panoramic waterfront views, this charming port city is well worth a visit!
 

Map of Halifax's must-see attractions

#1. Explore the Halifax Citadel

It would be a shame to visit Halifax during your Canadian vacation, without a visit to the citadel. This star-shaped fort overlooking the city center, originally built in 1749, can be visited with an audio guide or on a guided tour. You'll learn all about this former British citadel and Halifax's military history.

Explore the soldiers' barracks, the sewing room, the signal station, the garrison cells and the army museum, which displays rare military memorabilia. Don't miss the regular live re-enactments. And if you like thrills and chills, you can also take part in the evening ghost tours.

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#2. Take a walk on the Boardwalk

Impossible to visit Halifax without taking a stroll along its superb, four-kilometer-long boardwalk along the waterfront.

Admire the beautifully restored 18th-century facades, the harbour and its many sailing ships. And don't hesitate to browse the original shops, art galleries and restaurants lining the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk.

#3. Hang out in the Halifax Public Gardens

Continue your Maritime road trip with the very lovely Halifax Public Gardens, which occupy 16 acres in the heart of the city. This peaceful oasis, which celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2017, is a perfect example of Victorian horticulture. Numerous species of trees and varieties of flowers give the gardens their unique charm.

Take the time to admire the magnificent wrought-iron gates, ornamental fountains, pond, bandstand and statues. It's an invitation to enjoy the moment, so slow down! If you're feeling peckish, head to the Uncommon Grounds café, which serves drinks, ice creams and bagels. It's the perfect place to recharge your batteries before continuing your tour of Halifax.

#4. Visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Located on the waterfront, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is the perfect place to learn about Nova Scotia's maritime heritage. For centuries, the lives of Maritimers have been shaped by the ocean, whether through fishing, shipbuilding or the navy. You can browse through a variety of exhibits tracing the history of navigation, from the first explorers to the age of steam, and learn more about the 1917 explosion that devastated the Richmond district.

The Titanic also takes center stage at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. While the survivors of the disaster made their way to New York, the deceased were transported to Halifax. Numerous objects belonging to the victims, as well as pieces of the wreck, are on display.

#5. Take in the sea air in Point Pleasant Park

Located at the southern tip of the Halifax peninsula, Point Pleasant Park offers a vast green space and wooded trails for pleasant strolls. Stretching over 75 hectares along the ocean, the park attracts many walkers, joggers and visitors in search of greenery and sea air.

The park boasts a number of statues and memorials, including the Halifax Monument erected in 1969. Events are held here regularly. Don't hesitate to bring a picnic lunch to make the most of the site.

#6. Try a donair, the local specialty

If all this exploration has whetted your appetite, there's no shortage of culinary options in Halifax. The seafood here is excellent, so you can enjoy fish and chips and lobster, or try the local specialty: the donair.

This sandwich is filled with thin slices of roast beef, tomatoes, onions and a delicious sauce, all served in pita bread. Vegetarian versions are also available. A late-night treat par excellence, donairs can also be enjoyed at any time of day. The King of Donair restaurant is a sure bet!

#7. Enjoy a beer at Alexander Keith’s brewery

Come and enjoy a quintessential Nova Scotian experience at Alexander Keith's Brewery! Built in 1820 by the legendary brewer and three-time mayor of Halifax, this institution is a must for all beer lovers.

You'll learn all about hops processing and the different stages of beer production. The tour ends with a tasting session, which is very popular with visitors. If the Québec Beer Route holds no more secrets for you, don't hesitate to add this stop to your tour. You'll love it!

#8. Let your mouth water at Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market

You can't come to Halifax without visiting the superb farmers' market. On Saturdays and Sundays, the market comes alive to the delight of locals and tourists alike. Some 230 exhibitors offer fresh produce and handicrafts. So come and enjoy the colors and delicious smells of this Halifax landmark.

Cheeses, seafood, sweet treats, breads - there's a wide selection of products to choose from. There's something for everyone, and you'll even find a few souvenirs to bring back from your Maritime road trip.

#9. Explore the Fairview Lawn Cemetery

Fairview Lawn Cemetery is the place to reflect on the tragedies that have befallen Halifax. It is infamous for being the final resting place of those who lost their lives in the 1917 explosion, as well as many of the victims of the Titanic.

Headstones paid for by the White Star Line, the British shipping line remembered as the owner of the Titanic, bear the inscription "Died April 15 1912". One headstone stands out from the rest: it is the grave of the unknown child, whose identity was finally discovered in 2007, thanks to DNA testing.

#10. Make a detour to Peggy’s Cove

Just 45 minutes from Halifax, Peggy’s Cove is a tiny fishing village where time seems to stand still. With its harbour lined with colourful sheds built on stilts and its iconic lighthouse, the most photographed lighthouse in Canada, you're sure to fall under its spell.

It's often foggy, but don't let that put you off - Peggy's Cove is definitely one of the most beautiful villages you'll ever see. In high season, try to come early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the crowds. The sunset here is truly breathtaking!

If you've been thinking about visiting Halifax, now you know the city's 10 must-sees. If you like to travel by the water, you might also enjoy a road trip to discover Maritime Québec!

Feel free to share your suggestions in the comments!