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Nova Scotia, Canada, travel.
Experience Nova Scotia, where there's something special at every turn in this province of Atlantic Canada. On the eastern coast and surrounded by the Atlantic, Nova Scotia offers fun things to do year-round. Capital Halifax is a hub of maritime history and amenities, where you can stay, eat, shop or enjoy a day trip to Peggy's Point Lighthouse. Nearby Dartmouth is where to enjoy watersports or the arts. To complete your Nova Scotia itinerary, visit Cape Breton Island and the sweeping vistas of the Cabot Trail, colorful Lunenburg, and the orchards and wineries of Annapolis Valley. From cultural attractions to local seafood, Nova Scotia embodies the best of Atlantic Canada.
- Save with exclusive AAA member benefits while renting a car and enjoying scenic drives like Cabot Trail or the Bay of Fundy.
- Book AAA Diamond-designated accommodations, reserve restaurants and explore what to do using AAA Trip Canvas. Check out Nova Scotia vacation packages for a seamless vacation getaway.
FEATURED DESTINATIONS
Nova Scotia
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Halifax
Halifax invites a look into maritime history and cultural attractions in this capital of Nova Scotia, which boasts public art and museums. Explore the Halifax Citadel National Historical Site or visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to see artifacts, including those from the RMS Titanic, which sank off the coast of Newfoundland in 1912. The attractive waterfront features local shops, restaurants, and cultural events and festivals. Walking along the boardwalk or taking a harbor tour or sunset cruise on a tall ship is a great way to explore the sights to see in Halifax.
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Peggy's Cove
From art to shopping, Peggy's Cove is ideal for enjoying the unspoiled beauty of Nova Scotia. This quiet fishing village is known for the iconic Peggy's Point Lighthouse, rising atop granite rocks overlooking the ocean. Other local attractions include traditional fishing shacks, art galleries and small shops with handcrafted items. Exploring the shoreline provides a unique experience, especially with the dramatic waves crashing against the coast — truly a sight to behold.
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Lunenburg
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lunenburg is filled with unique shops, galleries and places to eat that reflect its maritime traditions. The colorful waterfront is home to the Bluenose II, a replica of the legendary schooner. The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic provides a deeper look into its fishing heritage.
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Cape Breton Island
No visit to Nova Scotia is complete without visiting the Cabot Trail, a scenic drive in Nova Scotia offering dramatic coastal views, hiking trails and outdoor adventures.
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Kentville
Kentville, the Annapolis Valley's most populous community, is known for its agricultural industry and welcoming atmosphere. For fun things to do, check out Annapolis Valley wineries and apple orchards.
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Dartmouth
Known as the “City of Lakes,” Dartmouth presents plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking and kayaking. Other things to do include riding the Dartmouth Ferry, founded in 1752, which is said to be one of the oldest saltwater ferries in the world.
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The Best Things to do in Nova Scotia
With over 8,000 miles of coastline, Nova Scotia is a charming province in Canada that's perfect for all types of travelers. Nestled along the Atlantic coast, you’re always within 40 miles of the ocean, making it a wonderful destination for those who want great views and outdoor adventure.
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Why Travel & Book with AAA
AAA is there for you before, during and after your trip, so you can be sure you’ll have the best Nova Scotia vacation. Find Diamond-designated hotels in the best Nova Scotia vacation spots, and book your stay with peace of mind. Each Diamond hotel is certified Inspected Clean by AAA inspectors during annual, in-person evaluations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Nova Scatia, Canada
The ideal time to visit is between May and October. Summer months offer great weather, festivals and whale watching, while fall dazzles with its colorful fall foliage.
Nova Scotia foods include donairs, a kebablike wrap with ground meat, garlic sauce and vegetables; Acadian cuisine like rappie pie (râpure), a baked dish with grated potatoes and meat; and, of course, Nova Scotian lobster and other fresh seafood dishes that remain popular in Atlantic Canada. Don’t miss trying Digby scallops or a classic lobster roll. For something sweet, sample the iconic blueberry grunt.
Yes, Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley is home to award-winning wineries. Try Tidal Bay, the region’s signature white wine. And don’t skip a pint of a local cider or craft beer! Alexander Keith's Brewery in Halifax is where you can enjoy craft beers infused with centuries of history.
Nearly every coastal town has fantastic options, but Halifax’s waterfront has seafood restaurants galore. For a truly local experience, head to a community like Lunenburg or Digby during fishing season.
You’ll want to explore the Cabot Trail for stunning ocean views, Peggy’s Cove for its iconic lighthouse and historic Lunenburg, a colonial settlement turned UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Shubie Park Trails in Dartmouth, a picturesque section of the Trans Canada Trail, which includes wooded paths, where you can enjoy the historic Shubenacadie Canal and view the natural beauty and history of the area. Then take the historic Dartmouth Ferry to travel affordably between the Halifax harborside and Dartmouth.
English is the primary language spoken in Nova Scotia. However, there are also communities where French is widely used, especially in Acadian regions. You may also hear Mi’kmaq, the language of the Indigenous Mi’kmaq people.
Yes, the Mi’kmaq people have a deep connection to the area. You can visit cultural centers like the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre or attend community events that showcase their art and traditions.
Yes! Many destinations are within a few hours’ drive. Renting a car is your best bet to explore the province fully. There are also ferries to reach Dartmouth and spots like Digby Neck or islands like Cape Breton.
Halifax Stanfield International Airport is the main entry point, offering easy access to destinations across the province and within Halifax, including transport to Halifax Cruise Port from the airport.