Nova Scotia

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Overview

Facing the wild swells of the Atlantic, Nova Scotia is heavily influenced by the sea. With its candy-striped lighthouses, salty fishing towns and towering red cliffs, this Maritime province feels thrillingly rugged and wild, especially in winter, when storms thrash the coastline and the ocean freezes. But come summer it's a different picture: Nova Scotians emerge to hike the trails, lounge on the beaches, tuck into gigantic lobster suppers and celebrate their Celtic roots with lively ceilidhs (parties with music and dancing). Life here has always been tough, but the locals' warm-hearted humor can't fail to make you feel welcome.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Fort Louisbourg - Nova Scotia - Canada; Shutterstock ID 648936928; purchase_order: 65050; job: ; client: ; other:
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Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

Cape Breton Island

The fortunes of the province that became Nova Scotia are inextricably bound up with this mighty fortress, built by the French but battled over countless…

Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site

Cape Breton Island

Telecommunications pioneer and inventor Alexander Graham Bell fell in love with Bras d'Or during a family holiday – apparently the hilly scenery reminded…

Citadel Hill National Historic Site

Halifax

Perched atop the grassy hillock looming over town, this star-shaped fort played a key role in Halifax's founding. Construction began in 1749; the current…

Cape Chignecto Provincial Park

Nova Scotia

This isolated wilderness on the Bay of Fundy offers some of the best coastal hiking in Nova Scotia. The 55km coastal loop usually takes three days to…

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Halifax

There's an argument that this dockside museum is Canada's most important institution. Between 1928 and 1971, Pier 21 was the Canadian version of the USA's…

Joggins Fossil Cliffs

Nova Scotia

Located on the site of the Old Joggins No 7 Coal Mine, this impressive visitor center relates the story of the World Heritage–listed Joggins Fossil Cliffs…

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Cape Breton Island

One of Atlantic Canada's most famous and spectacular national parks, Cape Breton Highlands occupies 20% of the Cape Breton Island landmass. It's…

Cape Forchu Lightstation

Nova Scotia

Instantly recognisable thanks to its strange 'apple core' shape (designed to deflect winds around the structure), the present-day lighthouse on the lonely…

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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Yet the landscapes, seascapes and, um, people-scapes in Nova Scotia are as varied as anywhere in Canada. Here are 11 ways to experience the province.

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Best Time to Visit

When's the best time to see Nova Scotia's fall colors? And when is the best time for whale watching? Here's a handy guide to visiting Nova Scotia.

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Things to Know

Nova Scotia in Canada is a welcoming place, but there are a few things you should know. Get the most out of your visit with these local tips and insight.

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Transportation

This Maritime province on Canada’s eastern coast is a pleasure to explore by car, bus, plane or bicycle. Here’s how.

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Free Things to Do

Put away your wallet, grab your sunscreen and relax: many of the best things to do in Nova Scotia are free.

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Money and Costs

Even though it's considered "Canada's ocean playground," Nova Scotia doesn't break the bank – here are our tips for traveling this province on a budget.

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Best Road Trips

Explore the scenery and culture of Nova Scotia by road with these top driving routes.

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Plan with a local