Explore Nova Scotia Canada

Explore Nova Scotia

What is the best time to travel to Nova Scotia

The best time to travel to Nova Scotia depends on your interests and what you want to experience during your trip. Here are some considerations:

Weather: Nova Scotia has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The peak tourist season is during the summer months (June to August), when temperatures are mild and the days are long. Fall (September to November) is also a popular time to visit, when the leaves change colors and the province hosts many fall festivals and events. Winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy, but it can also be a beautiful time to visit for winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing.

Festivals and Events: Nova Scotia hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, from music and cultural festivals to food and wine festivals. The Halifax International Busker Festival in August, the Halifax Pop Explosion in October, and the Nova Scotia Lobster Crawl in February are just a few examples.

Outdoor Activities: If you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, or whale watching, the summer and fall months are the best time to visit. Many of the provincial and national parks are open from May to October.

Crowds and Prices: The summer months are the busiest and most expensive time to visit Nova Scotia, so if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly or quieter time to visit, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or during the winter months.

How to get to Nova Scotia

There are several ways to get to Nova Scotia, depending on where you are coming from:

By air: Halifax Stanfield International Airport is the main airport in Nova Scotia, with direct flights to major cities in Canada, the United States, and Europe. There are also smaller regional airports throughout the province.

By car: Nova Scotia is connected to the rest of Canada and the United States by several major highways, including the Trans-Canada Highway and the US Interstate system. If you are driving from the United States, you can take the I-95 to the US-Canada border and then connect to the Trans-Canada Highway to get to Nova Scotia.

By bus: Maritime Bus operates intercity bus service throughout the Maritimes, including Nova Scotia. The bus service connects major cities and towns throughout the province, as well as to other parts of Atlantic Canada and Quebec.

By ferry: There are several ferry services that connect Nova Scotia to other parts of Canada and the United States. The most popular ferry service is the ferry between Yarmouth, Nova Scotia and Portland, Maine operated by Bay Ferries. There are also several ferry services that connect Nova Scotia to other parts of the province, including the ferry between Halifax and Dartmouth.

By train: There are currently no passenger trains in Nova Scotia, although plans are in place for a new rail service called the Atlantic Gateway, which would connect Halifax and Montreal, with stops in communities along the way.

How to get around Nova Scotia

There are several ways to get around Nova Scotia:

Car rental: Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Nova Scotia, as it gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. There are several car rental companies located at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport, as well as in downtown Halifax and other major cities and towns throughout the province.

Public transit: Halifax Transit operates bus and ferry service throughout the Halifax Regional Municipality, including the downtown core, Dartmouth, and Bedford. There are also regional transit services in other parts of the province, such as the Kings Transit Authority in the Annapolis Valley and the Colchester-East Hants Public Transit in the Truro area.

Intercity buses: Maritime Bus operates intercity bus service throughout Nova Scotia, connecting major cities and towns throughout the province, as well as to other parts of Atlantic Canada and Quebec.

Taxis and ride-sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Halifax and other major cities and towns throughout the province.

Cycling: Nova Scotia has several scenic cycling routes, including the Cabot Trail and the Rum Runners Trail. Many communities throughout the province have dedicated bike lanes and trails.

Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the downtown areas of Halifax, Dartmouth, and other cities and towns throughout the province. Many communities have dedicated pedestrian areas and walking trails.

National Airports

Nova Scotia has several airports, but the main international airport is the Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ), which is located about 35 minutes from downtown Halifax. It is the busiest airport in Atlantic Canada and serves several major airlines, including Air Canada, WestJet, and Delta.

There are also smaller regional airports throughout Nova Scotia, including:

Sydney/J.A. Douglas McCurdy Airport (YQY) – located in Sydney, Cape Breton

Yarmouth International Airport (YQI) – located in Yarmouth

Halifax Downtown Waterfront Heliport (YWF) – located in Halifax, serving helicopter flights

Greenwood Airport (YZX) – located in Greenwood, Annapolis Valley, serving military and general aviation flights

Halifax / Shearwater Heliport (YAW) – located in Dartmouth, serving military and general aviation flights

Trains in Nova Scotia

There are currently no passenger trains in Nova Scotia. However, there are plans for a new rail service called the Atlantic Gateway, which would connect Halifax and Montreal, with stops in communities along the way. The service is expected to begin in 2024, pending government funding and finalization of plans.

In the meantime, visitors to Nova Scotia can explore the province by car, bus, or ferry. There are several car rental companies and bus companies that operate in Nova Scotia, as well as a network of highways that connect communities throughout the province. The province is also home to several ferry services that connect mainland Nova Scotia to Cape Breton Island and other coastal communities.

Buses in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia has a well-developed bus system that connects many communities throughout the province. The main intercity bus operator in Nova Scotia is Maritime Bus, which provides service to cities and towns throughout the province, as well as to other parts of Atlantic Canada and Quebec.

In Halifax, the Halifax Transit bus system provides local bus service within the city, with over 60 routes that connect the city’s neighborhoods and suburbs. The city also operates a ferry service that connects Halifax to the town of Dartmouth across the harbor.

There are also several private charter bus companies that operate in Nova Scotia, providing group transportation for events, tours, and other activities. Some of these companies also offer sightseeing tours and other tourism-related services.

Overall, the bus system in Nova Scotia is a convenient and affordable way to travel around the province, with frequent schedules and a wide range of destinations served.

Accommodations in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Some popular options include:

Hotels and motels: There are many hotels and motels throughout Nova Scotia, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options. These accommodations are typically located in or near major cities and towns.

Bed and breakfasts: Nova Scotia has a long tradition of bed and breakfasts, which are often located in historic homes or buildings. These accommodations offer a more intimate, personalized experience and often include a home-cooked breakfast.

Inns and lodges: Inns and lodges are typically located in scenic areas, such as along the coast or in the countryside. These accommodations often offer amenities such as a restaurant, spa, or outdoor activities.

Vacation rentals: Vacation rentals, such as cottages, cabins, and apartments, are popular options for families or groups traveling together. These accommodations offer more space and privacy than a hotel room.

Campgrounds: Nova Scotia has many campgrounds located in scenic areas, such as along the coast or near provincial parks. These accommodations are a great option for those who enjoy camping and the outdoors.