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Where to Stay in Halifax

Where to Stay in Halifax

Halifax Nova Scotia, Canada Travel Guide

Hotels & Resorts

City Center & Waterfront Hotels

  • Upscale Stays

    Discover premium hotels with full amenities and harbor views. Find options on Booking.com.

  • Business & Leisure

    Hotels catering to both business and leisure travelers in the downtown core. Consider properties from IHG Hotels.

  • Convenient Locations

    Stay close to major attractions and dining. Explore various choices for your stay.

  • Luxury Options

    For a refined stay, explore high-end hotels with exceptional service and facilities.

Vacation Rentals

  • Private Homes

    Enjoy the comfort of a private home or apartment. Find options on Vrbo for family or group stays.

  • Apartments

    Rent an apartment for a local experience, often with kitchen facilities.

  • Self-Catering

    Ideal for longer visits, providing the flexibility of cooking your own meals.

  • Neighborhood Exploration

    Live like a local in various Halifax neighborhoods.

Budget & Unique Stays

Halifax provides options for travelers seeking affordability or a truly distinctive lodging experience.

Hostels

Affordable Beds
  • Dormitory and private rooms available.
  • Common areas for socializing.
  • A budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups.
  • Find options on Hostelworld.
Considerations
  • Shared facilities.
  • Noise levels can vary.
  • Booking ahead for peak season.
  • Security of personal belongings.

Guesthouses

Cozy & Personal
  • Often family-run, intimate settings.
  • Personalized service and local insights.
  • Breakfast often included.
  • A charming alternative to larger hotels.
Considerations
  • Fewer amenities than hotels.
  • Privacy may be less than a full rental.
  • Limited availability in some areas.
  • Booking early during busy periods.

House Sitting

Cost-Effective Stays
  • Stay in someone's home in exchange for pet/house care.
  • Zero accommodation costs.
  • Live like a local in residential areas.
  • Explore TrustedHousesitters for opportunities.
Considerations
  • Responsibilities for pets or home.
  • Availability depends on listings.
  • Requires flexibility in travel dates.

Tips for Choosing Your Stay

Booking Platforms

Use platforms like Booking.com or Agoda to compare prices and options across various types of accommodation.

Location Matters

Consider proximity to attractions, public transit, and dining when selecting your accommodation. The downtown and waterfront areas offer easy access to many sights.

Neighborhood Focus

Halifax neighborhoods offer distinct lodging characteristics.

Downtown & Waterfront

  • Central for sightseeing, dining, and nightlife.
  • Generally higher price points due to prime location.
  • Walkable access to many attractions.
  • Excellent public transit connections.

North End & Quinpool Road

  • Trendy areas with local cafes, breweries, and unique shops.
  • A short drive or bus ride from downtown.
  • More budget-friendly options, including guesthouses.
  • Diverse culinary scene, especially on Quinpool Road.

Suburban Areas

Bedford & Clayton Park
  • Residential areas with more chain hotels.
  • Suitable for travelers with a vehicle.
  • Generally quieter settings.
  • Access to suburban amenities and shopping.
Dartmouth
  • Accessible via ferry from Halifax waterfront.
  • Offers city views from across the harbor.
  • Growing number of independent shops and cafes.
  • Often provides good value lodging options.

Accessibility Considerations

Mobility

Inquire directly with hotels about accessible rooms and facilities.

Parking

Verify parking availability and costs, especially in downtown areas.

Pet-Friendly

Confirm pet policies and any associated fees if traveling with animals.

Accommodation Types

Select the accommodation that aligns with your travel style.

Short-Term Stays

Hotels

Hotels provide immediate access to services, housekeeping, and dining options.

  • Daily cleaning included.
  • Concierge and front desk services.
  • On-site restaurants and bars.
  • Fitness centers and pools.
Motels

Often located on major routes, offering convenient access and parking.

  • Typically exterior room access.
  • Parking directly outside rooms.
  • More casual atmosphere.
  • Good for road trips.

Extended Stays

Serviced Apartments

Apartments with hotel-like amenities, suitable for longer visits.

  • Full kitchens and living areas.
  • Housekeeping services available.
  • More space and privacy.
  • Often more cost-effective for longer durations.
Extended Stay Hotels

Designed for longer visits, with kitchenettes and extra living space.

  • Equipped kitchenettes.
  • Laundry facilities on-site.
  • Weekly cleaning services.
  • Special rates for longer bookings.

Camping & RV Parks

  • Outdoor Experience

    Enjoy nature at nearby campgrounds. Options available a short drive from the city.

  • RV Hookups

    Parks with full hookups for recreational vehicles.

  • Proximity to Nature

    Access hiking trails and outdoor activities.

  • Campfire Friendly

    Many sites permit campfires, weather conditions allowing.

Farm Stays & B&Bs

  • Rural Charm

    Experience Nova Scotian rural life just beyond the city.

  • Homemade Breakfasts

    Often provides delicious, locally sourced breakfast.

  • Local Insights

    Hosts often share valuable tips and recommendations.

  • Farm Activities

    Some locations offer interaction with farm animals or activities.

Student & University Residences

Summer Accommodations

During summer months, university residences sometimes open their dorms to the public.

  • Budget-friendly rates.
  • Campus facilities access.
  • Often centrally located.
  • Simple, functional rooms.
Group Travel

A suitable option for large groups or school trips.

  • Block bookings possible.
  • Access to common areas.
  • Cafeteria dining often available.
  • Proximity to educational institutions.

Special Considerations

Peak Season

Book well in advance for summer (June-August) and fall (September-October) as demand is high.

Off-Season Rates

Lower rates and more availability are typical during winter and early spring.

Event Dates

Check for major events or festivals that might drive up accommodation prices and limit choices.