Nova Scotia Travel Guide

If buttery fresh-caught lobster and a crisp, regional white wine or hearty ale sound like the perfect meal then a vacation in Nova Scotia may be just what you’re after. Nova Scotia is the northern destination for those who love urban pleasures; officials say that per capita the capital city of Halifax has more club, pubs, and nightlife than anywhere else in Canada. The streets of Halifax, Wolfville, and Truro offer high end boutiques and galleries sure to satisfy the most discerning shopper. In a more historical frame of mind? Drive north to Sydney or south to Yarmouth, each known for charming, old fashioned markets and for a breezy coastal atmosphere. For a bit of nautical insight stop into the historical Maritime Museum in Halifax.  Everywhere you go the provincial coasts and bluffs offer stunning views for those willing to hike or walk to see them.

Airports and Ground Transportation

Though smaller than many of its Canadian cousins, there is a good share of discount airfare to Nova Scotia’s Halifax International Airport. Because it’s a bit further out, you may need to make a connecting flight from many cities of origination. Choose United Airlines to fly in from Chicago (ORD) and you may get a discount airfare as low as $700 US, even cheaper when you fly from New York (JFK), which offers a discounted airfare to Nova Scotia of about $625 US and you can fly nonstop, too. Air Canada also offers relatively cheap flights to Nova Scotia – for example, from as low as $575US from Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO). That’s a savings of several hundred dollars when compared with US carriers.  Careful travelers can find comparatively cheap airfare to Nova Scotia by purchasing a package that includes lodging, discounted airfare, and reliable ground transportation. 

Ground Travel

Nova Scotia is an exotic locale which allows for foot transportation when in a big city, like Halifax, or walking on the wharves. To get around the coves, towns, harbors and havens you’ll most likely need to rent a car. In addition, there are several scenic and interesting touring routes through Nova Scotia’s seven regions that can be best explored in a car.

Best Times to Go, Best Things to Do

Because of its northern, nautical nature, late spring to early fall is the best time to visit Nova Scotia. Home to over 500 annual festivals and events Nova Scotia is the perfect place to explore the intersection of history and contemporary culture.  Cape Breton is known for its nod to and honor of Scottish heritage – Nova Scotia means New Scotland, after all. Play eighteen holes of world class golf during the day and then have a wee dram from the only single malt whiskey distillery in Canada. Halifax offers galleries and museums showcasing both art and the maritime history while providing high end shopping, dining and spa experiences. The Fundy shore is a cornucopia of the fruits of the sea and land, showcasing scallops, regional wine, and crisp apples. The Northumberland shores offers perfectly warm beaches, perfectly steamed lobsters, and a unique music scene.  

Hotels and Lodging

The more urbane Halifax offers a variety of hotel options, from the upscale Halifax Marriot Harbourfront to the teen-friendly, budget conscious Cambridge Suites. Because of the beautiful, drivable nature of Nova Scotia perhaps seeking out a bed and breakfast would make for the most perfect, friendly, vacation.  For a splurge, try a resort such as the Crown Jewel Ranch House. Wherever you choose to stay during your Nova Scotia vacation you’re sure to have comfortable surroundings and a kind welcome.