Nova Scotia

Canada
Nova Scotia
This Atlantic peninsula could have been an American state or a French colony, but instead it’s a maritime stronghold of Canada’s Scottish population.

With a name meaning “New Scotland” in Latin, Nova Scotia is culturally Scottish. Historically, it is a broad melting pot. Today its seaside communities are filled with pubs and Celtic culture. Its shores have welcomed over a million immigrants to Canada from across the world. Traces of other nations’ settlements remain today. Enjoy Nova Scotia’s Scottish port towns, explore its colonial history and take in its world-famous coastal landscapes.

Enjoy the culture and seafood of a Nova Scotia seaport. Halifax is the province’s largest city and it has the busiest port. Explore the harbor, which has antique sea craft and seafood restaurants. Nearby are marine-themed museums including the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, featuring a Titanic deck chair reproduction. For a more intimate experience of Nova Scotia seaside life, head to the coastal village of Lunenburg. Established in 1753, this UNESCO World Heritage site features many brightly colored 18th- and 19th-century buildings.

During the colonial age, Nova Scotia was a major frontier in the territorial race between France and England. As a result, the province has many old fortifications, such as the Halifax Citadel. This star-shaped fort towers over the city from its highest hill. The neighboring Halifax Town Clock is the city’s main landmark. France’s response to England’s formidable settlements include the Fortress of Louisbourg, located just outside the modern town of Louisbourg on Cape Breton Island. The 18th-century castle has massive walls up to 36 feet (11 meters) thick. In summer, costumed actors recreate life as it might have been like here in 1744.

In addition to Louisbourg, Nova Scotia’s northeasterly Cape Breton Island features the renowned Cabot Trail. Wrapping around the island’s northern peninsula, the Cabot Trail reveals mountainous coastal vistas. Pass through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where 26 hiking trails provide views over forested seaside cliffs. Head on to Pleasant Bay, which is a prime spot for whale watching.

The best time to visit Nova Scotia is between June and September, although crowds can be heavy in July and August. Fly or boat into Halifax to begin your trip to this colorful and historic Atlantic province.

Popular cities in Nova Scotia

Crystal Crescent Beach featuring a beach and general coastal views
Halifax
Known for Ports, Historical and Tours
Atlantic Canada’s harbor city is a treasure trove of maritime heritage, woodland parks and sandy beaches.

Reasons to visit

  • Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
  • Halifax Public Gardens
  • Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk
Ingonish
Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Reasons to visit

  • Cape Breton Highlands National Park
  • Skyline Trail
  • Chutes Mary Ann Falls
Truro featuring street scenes
Truro
Known for Friendly people, Gardens and Biking
Come to a town in central Nova Scotia to witness some of the highest tides in the world and to ride on powerful river waves.

Reasons to visit

  • Victoria Park
Sydney which includes a house and a small town or village
Sydney
Known for Friendly people, Dining and Walking
Tour a reconstruction of an 18th-century fortress town, drive along a scenic highway and hike through forests at this seaside town.

Reasons to visit

  • World's Largest Fiddle
Dartmouth featuring street scenes
Dartmouth
Known for Shopping, Ports and Lakes
Enjoy lots of aquatic adventures on the lakes of this waterfront community, situated on the eastern shore of Halifax Harbor.
Yarmouth which includes a marina
Yarmouth
Known for Ferries and boats, Excursions and Ports
Learn the history and seafaring culture of this port town and admire mansions that belonged to sea captains in the late 19th century.