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How to Get to Halifax

How to Get to Halifax

Halifax Nova Scotia, Canada Travel Guide

Air Travel

Halifax Stanfield International YHZ

Main airport serving Halifax and the entire province of Nova Scotia. Located approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of downtown Halifax. YHZ a modern facility that handles domestic, transborder (U.S.), and international flights. It consistently ranks high for customer satisfaction among Canadian airports.

Airlines at YHZ

  • Major Canadian Airlines: Air Canada, WestJet, Porter Airlines (from Toronto, Montreal).
  • U.S. Airlines: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines (seasonal routes from major U.S. Hubs).
  • International Airlines: Condor (Frankfurt), Icelandair (Reykjavik), Air Transat (seasonal charters).

Direct Flight Options & Seasonality

While Halifax not as extensively connected as Canada's largest cities, it has several direct flight options for convenience.

Direct Routes & Pricing

  • North America: Direct flights from major Canadian cities (Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver). Seasonal U.S. Flights (Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Chicago).
  • Europe (seasonal): Direct flights connect Halifax with London, Frankfurt, Reykjavik, and Dublin during summer months.
  • Seasonal Pricing: Summer (June-Aug) highest demand and prices. Shoulder seasons (Spring/Fall) often better deals. Winter generally lowest prices. Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Airport Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal, with easy connection to family and flight updates.

Dining & Shopping

A variety of dining options, from fast-food to sit-down restaurants, and duty-free shops with souvenirs.

Car Rental & Services

All major car rental companies have desks within the airport. Information desk assistance available.

Airport Transfer Options YHZ

Public & Shared Transport

  • Airport Express Bus (Route 320): Cost-effective, connects directly to downtown Halifax (approx. 50-60 minutes, CAD $4.25).
  • Taxi/Limousine: Readily available, flat rate to downtown (typically around CAD $68).
  • Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft operate at YHZ; fares vary based on demand.
  • Shuttle Services: Various private companies offer shared-ride or private transfers; booking in advance recommended.

Car Rental at YHZ

  • Convenient to pick up a rental car at the airport if you plan to explore beyond Halifax.
  • Provides flexibility of having your own vehicle for day trips across Nova Scotia.
  • Booking your rental car in advance recommended, especially during peak season, for better rates and vehicle choice.
  • All major car rental companies have counters at YHZ. Compare prices via DiscoverCars.com.

Other Essential Airport Facilities

Financial Services

ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange services are also present.

Information Desk

An information desk assistance with airport services, ground transportation, and local tourism information.

Lounges

The airport features an Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge and a general airport lounge with quieter spaces and amenities.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Halifax the eastern terminus for VIA Rail's "Ocean" service. This scenic train journey connects Halifax to Montreal, an unique way to travel across Eastern Canada.

VIA Rail Details

  • Journey: An overnight trip, approximately 20-22 hours, from Halifax to Montreal.
  • Frequency: The train operates three times a week.
  • Station: The Halifax VIA Rail station conveniently located near downtown.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Maritime Bus the main long-distance bus operator connecting Halifax to various destinations within Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island.

Maritime Bus Details

  • Connections: To Truro, Sydney (NS), Moncton, Saint John (NB), and Charlottetown (PEI).
  • Terminal: The main Maritime Bus terminal in Halifax situated near the downtown core.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Buses a budget-friendly option for inter-provincial travel.

Self-Driving Considerations

Renting a car the best way to explore areas outside central Halifax, like Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, or the Annapolis Valley.

Driving Requirements

  • License: You a valid driver's license from your home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) recommended if your license not in English or French.
  • Credit Card: A major credit card in the renter's name necessary for the security deposit.
  • Age: Minimum age for renting a car in Nova Scotia typically 21; drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

Border Crossing Information USA

For travelers driving from the United States, Nova Scotia accessible via New Brunswick. The most common land border crossings into New Brunswick include St. Stephen, NB / Calais, ME, and Woodstock, NB / Houlton, ME.

Crossing Procedures

  • All travelers must present valid passports and undergo customs and immigration checks by CBSA officers.
  • Be prepared to answer questions about your visit, duration of stay, and items you are bringing into Canada.
  • Have all necessary documentation (passport, vehicle registration, proof of insurance) ready.

Road Conditions & Driving Safety

  • Wildlife: Deer and moose can be a hazard, especially at dawn, dusk, and in rural areas. Drive cautiously.
  • Winter Driving: Heavy snow, ice, and high winds common from November to March. Winter tires highly recommended.
  • Road Conditions: Generally well-maintained, but secondary roads can be narrower or less maintained.
  • Speed Limits: Posted in kilometers per hour (km/h). Major highways typically 100-110 km/h.
  • Seatbelts: Mandatory for all occupants of a vehicle in Nova Scotia.
  • Cell Phones: Using a handheld cell phone while driving illegal in Nova Scotia.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Port

Halifax a popular port of call for cruise ships, especially from May to October. This cruise passengers easy access to the city.

Sea Connections

  • Bay Ferries (The CAT): High-speed car and passenger ferry connects Yarmouth, NS to Bar Harbor, ME (seasonal).
  • Northumberland Ferries: Connects Caribou, NS to Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island (seasonal vehicle/passenger ferry).
  • No significant river transportation options for tourists within Halifax.

Immigration & Onward Travel

For international arrivals by sea, standard Canadian immigration and customs procedures apply upon arrival at the port.

Arrival & Departures

  • Immigration: Passengers present passports and relevant travel documents to CBSA officers, similar to airport arrivals.
  • Cruise Port Transfers: From Halifax Seaport, taxis, ride-share services, and Halifax Transit buses easily accessible.
  • Ferry Terminal Connections: At Yarmouth or Caribou, rental cars, taxis, and shuttles connect to other parts of Nova Scotia.

Harbour Hopper Tours

Amphibious vehicle for an unique combined city and harbour tour, splashing into the water from land.

Double Decker Bus Tours

Seasonal hop-on-hop-off bus tours cover major attractions, flexibility and comprehensive sightseeing.

Private Water Taxis

Available for hire, but less common for general sightseeing than structured harbour cruises.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

Canada not specific exit fees or taxes on departing travelers beyond what already included in your airline ticket or other transportation fares.

Fare Inclusions

  • Any applicable airport improvement fees or security charges typically part of the ticket price.
  • No additional fees collected upon departure at the airport or other terminals.
  • This streamlined process simplifies your departure from Canada.

Departure Procedures & Timing

Allow ample time for check-in and security screening at the airport. Timing recommendations vary by destination.

Timing Recommendations YHZ

  • Domestic Flights: Arrive at YHZ at least 2 hours before scheduled departure.
  • International Flights (Non-US): Arrive at least 3 hours before departure.
  • U.S.-bound Flights: Arrive at least 3 hours for U.S. Customs pre-clearance facilities.

Airport/Station Facilities for Departing Travelers

Halifax Stanfield International YHZ

Shopping, dining, currency exchange, ATMs, free Wi-Fi, lounges, and U.S. Pre-clearance facilities available.

VIA Rail Station Halifax

A relatively small station with a waiting area and a ticket counter. Offers basic amenities for train passengers.

Maritime Bus Terminal Halifax

Similar to the train station, it offers a waiting area and ticket counter for long-distance bus travelers.

Final Departure Checklist

Confirm your flight, train, or ferry departure times well in advance. Allow extra time during peak seasons or severe weather conditions. Ensure all belongings are packed and ready for transport.