Discover: Halifax

Prepare for Your Visit

A well-planned trip truly transforms your exploration.

From transportation essentials to local currency tips, small preparations yield big returns.

What to Pack

Valid passport and travel documents
Unlocked smartphone for connectivity
Weather-appropriate clothing
Comfortable footwear for city strolls

Essential Practicalities

Navigating a new city becomes simple with quick insights into local services and norms.

Getting Around

Halifax offers various transit options for city exploration.

City Transportation

Halifax Transit buses offer wide coverage.
Ferries connect downtown Halifax and Dartmouth.
Downtown Halifax is very walkable.

Currency and Payments

Canadian Dollars (CAD) are the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Money Matters

ATMs are widely available.
Major credit cards are common.
Carry some small bills for local vendors.

Helpful Tips

Travel Smart

Obtain an eSIM for easy data access (Airalo).
Consider a portable Wi-Fi device for constant access (Solis Wi-Fi).
For flight disruptions, a service like Compensair aids.
Look for booking options on GetYourGuide.

Cultural Awareness

Polite greetings are always valued.
English is the main language.
Language apps aid communication. (Rosetta Stone)
Ask permission before photographing individuals.

Business Operating Hours

Retail Shops10 AM - 6 PM (Mon-Wed)
Restaurants11:30 AM - 10 PM
Cafes7 AM - 6 PM
Grocery Stores8 AM - 9 PM

Shopping Malls10 AM - 9 PM
Banks9 AM - 5 PM (Weekdays)
MuseumsVariable, check websites
Public TransportExtended hours

Remember

Business hours often vary on weekends and public holidays. Check individual websites for the most current information.

Travel Responsibly

Your travel decisions leave a mark. Choose options that positively contribute to local communities and environments.

Minimize Waste

Nova Scotia upholds strong recycling. Separate your waste properly.

Water Conscious

Practice mindful water consumption during your stay.

Protect Nature

Respect park rules and leave natural areas as found.

Support Local

Opt for local eateries and shops. Your support reaches the community directly.

Local Choices

Buy from independent boutiques.
Dine at local restaurants.
Enjoy local craft breweries.

Ethical Tourism

Consider businesses that prioritize fairness and sustainability.

Responsible Operators

Select eco-friendly accommodations. (Ecobnb)
Fund carbon offsets for your journeys. (Terrapass)
Choose sustainable outdoor gear. (Patagonia)

Conscientious Choices

Local productsMade in Nova Scotia

Fair trade itemsCertified goods

Reusable itemsPackage Free Shop

Ethical toursG Adventures

Conservation aidThe Rainforest Site

RecyclingComprehensive program

Your Contribution

Your conscious decisions foster the well-being of the place you visit.
Choosing local businesses keeps resources circulating within the area.
Mindful waste sorting reduces landfill burdens.
Water awareness preserves precious resources.
Respectful interactions enrich your journey.

Local Interactions

Engaging with the local culture enriches your travel story.

Greeting Customs

Simple greetings set a friendly tone.

Everyday Politeness

Handshakes for introductions
"Hello" and "Thank you" go far.
Holding doors for others is common.

Attire Guidance

Dress generally leans towards casual and comfort.

What to Wear

Casual and practical for city exploration.
Comfortable shoes for walking.
Modest dress for religious sites.

Dining Etiquette

Tipping is customary in service industries.

Mealtime Practices

15-20% tip for good restaurant service.
Splitting bills is common.
Standard Western table manners apply.

Photo Guidelines

Respect privacy when capturing images.

Camera Use

Photography generally acceptable in public.
Ask permission for close-ups of people.
Observe "no photography" signs in sensitive areas.

Navigate Topics

Certain subjects are best approached with caution.

Sensitive Discussions

Avoid strong political views, especially concerning Canada-U.S. Ties.

Historical Context

Canada's First Nations history holds depth.

Regional Politics

Quebec sovereignty remains a delicate point.

Embrace Inclusivity

Halifax welcomes all. Expect respect and equality, specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals. Canada protects individual rights.

Tailored Travel

Advice for different traveler profiles secures a smooth journey for everyone.

Mobility & Accessibility

Mobility Access

Newer buildings often include ramps and elevators.

Accessible Transit

Halifax Transit buses and ferries accommodate mobility devices.

Service Animals

Guide dogs are allowed in all public venues.

Family Fun

Plan visits to kid-friendly spots.
Halifax Common Pool (summer) for kids.
Consider a compact stroller.
Build flexibility into your itinerary.
Pack snacks and small activities.
Many restaurants are family-friendly.

Solo Ventures

Halifax is generally safe for solo visitors.
Hostels and tours offer social interaction.
Engage with locals in pubs and cafes.
Practice general urban safety precautions.
Stay alert to your surroundings, especially at night.
Avoid displaying valuables.

Group Trip Pointers

Advance Bookings

Secure accommodation and tours early for groups.

Group Transportation

Consider a private van for efficient day trips.

Designate a Coordinator

One leader can manage reservations and communications.

Plan Ahead

Calling attractions directly for accessibility details always works best.

Discover Halifax