Halifax Self Guided Audio Experience
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Halifax Self Guided Audio Experience

Active
(2 reviews)
3h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Halifax's captivating stories through an immersive audio experience that puts you in complete control of your adventure. Unlike crowded group tours that rush you past attractions, this self-guided journey allows you to linger at fascinating locations, skip areas that don't interest you, and truly absorb the city's rich maritime heritage at your own rhythm. Our expertly crafted narration brings centuries-old tales to life with crystal-clear audio quality and an engaging storytelling voice that transforms ordinary sightseeing into an extraordinary journey of discovery. You'll uncover exclusive historical insights, hidden secrets, and local legends that most visitors never hear, while enjoying the authentic experience of exploring like a knowledgeable local. The flexibility to pause, replay, and customize your route ensures you get the maximum value from every moment, creating a personalized adventure that traditional tours simply cannot match.

Available options

Halifax Self Guided Audio Experience

What's included

Admission fee
Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for all 12 attractions
Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 12 attractions with audio guide individually
Private access links are valid until your tour is complete (maximum 6 days)

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Maritime Canada's oldest continuously operating farmer's market becomes your gateway to Halifax's living history, where vendors have traded goods since 1750. Your audio guide reveals fascinating stories of merchant families, wartime rationing tales, and the market's role as a social hub during the city's most pivotal moments. Explore at leisure while learning about traditional Acadian recipes, the significance of local crafts, and how this vibrant marketplace survived devastating fires and economic upheavals. Discover hidden architectural details in the building's design and understand why this market holds such a cherished place in Halifax hearts, making your visit far more meaningful than a simple shopping experience.

2

Standing before this powerful bronze tribute, you'll uncover the heart-wrenching stories of Irish families who fled the Great Famine, only to face tragedy on Halifax's shores. Your audio companion reveals exclusive accounts of the 1909 ship disaster, personal letters from survivors, and the remarkable community response that followed. Learn about the statue's symbolic elements, the artist's vision, and why this monument represents hope amid despair. The narration brings to life individual stories of courage, loss, and resilience that official plaques never tell, transforming your encounter with this memorial into a deeply moving experience that honors both the departed and the living.

3

Enter Canada's most innovative library and discover how this architectural marvel revolutionizes the concept of public space while honoring Halifax's literary legacy. Your audio guide unveils the building's sustainable design secrets, the stories behind its unique features, and how it serves as a modern-day town square. Explore freely while learning about famous authors who called Halifax home, the library's role in preserving Mi'kmaq oral traditions, and fascinating tales of literary gatherings that shaped Canadian culture. Uncover hidden reading nooks, understand the significance of the rooftop garden, and appreciate how this 21st-century wonder connects past and future in ways that transform how we think about knowledge and community.

4

Gothic Revival grandeur awaits as you explore Atlantic Canada's largest wooden cathedral, where your audio guide reveals centuries of faith, community, and architectural innovation. Discover the cathedral's role during the Halifax Explosion, learn about the master craftsmen who created its stunning interior without using a single nail, and uncover stories of famous parishioners who shaped Canadian history. Walk at your own pace while exploring hidden symbolism in the stained glass, understanding the significance of the hand-carved altar, and hearing exclusive accounts of wartime services and community celebrations. The narration brings alive the human stories behind the sacred space, making your visit a profound journey through Halifax's spiritual heart.

5

Halifax's oldest cemetery becomes a captivating outdoor museum where your audio guide transforms weathered headstones into powerful storytellers of early colonial life. Discover the burial sites of Titanic victims, learn about 18th-century burial customs, and uncover the remarkable stories of pioneers, soldiers, and ordinary citizens who built this city. Navigate independently while hearing exclusive tales of grave robbers, mysterious epitaphs, and the cemetery's role during the War of 1812. Your guide reveals hidden symbolism in carved stones, explains unusual burial practices, and shares ghost stories that local guides rarely tell, creating an unforgettable exploration of Halifax's founding families and their lasting legacies.

6

Stroll along North America's longest downtown boardwalk while your audio guide reveals the maritime secrets, shipbuilding heritage, and naval traditions that shaped this bustling harbor. Discover exclusive stories of rum runners during Prohibition, learn about the port's crucial role in both World Wars, and understand how this waterfront evolved from working docks to world-class destination. Explore at leisure while uncovering tales of famous ships, dramatic rescues, and the daily lives of sailors and merchants who made Halifax their home. The narration reveals hidden historical markers, explains the significance of harbor landmarks, and shares local legends that bring the waterfront's colorful past into vivid focus, enhancing every step of your journey.

7
Stop 7

Canada's oldest Protestant church opens its doors to reveal extraordinary stories of survival, faith, and community resilience spanning nearly three centuries. Your audio guide uncovers the church's miraculous survival of the Halifax Explosion, its role as a refugee shelter, and the fascinating tales of its famous parishioners including military heroes and political leaders. Wander freely while discovering unique architectural features, learning about the hand-carved royal coat of arms, and hearing exclusive accounts of wartime services and royal visits. The narration reveals hidden historical artifacts, explains the significance of memorial plaques, and shares remarkable stories of how this sacred space weathered Halifax's greatest challenges while remaining the spiritual anchor of the community.

8
Stop 8

Halifax's beloved timekeeper becomes your window into Victorian engineering excellence and British colonial legacy as your audio guide reveals the fascinating story behind this iconic landmark. Discover why Prince Edward commissioned this unique four-faced clock, learn about its ingenious mechanical systems, and uncover tales of the clockmaker's challenges in this new world setting. Explore the surrounding Citadel Hill while hearing exclusive stories about military life, the clock's role in daily Halifax routines, and how this timepiece survived wars, storms, and social upheavals. Your guide reveals hidden details in the clock's design, explains its symbolic importance to the community, and shares charming anecdotes about how generations of Haligonians have measured their lives by its faithful chimes.

9
Stop 9

Victorian civic pride stands magnificently before you as your audio guide reveals the political dramas, architectural secrets, and community celebrations that have unfolded within these hallowed halls. Discover exclusive stories of mayoral scandals, heated council debates, and the building's transformation through major renovations while exploring at your own comfortable pace. Learn about the significance of the building's Second Empire architecture, understand its role during wartime, and uncover fascinating tales of famous visitors and historic decisions that shaped the city. The narration reveals hidden artistic details, explains the symbolism in decorative elements, and shares behind-the-scenes stories of municipal politics that bring Halifax's civic history to vibrant life.

10
Stop 10

Victorian elegance flourishes in North America's finest formal gardens, where your audio guide reveals the romantic stories, botanical secrets, and social traditions that make these grounds a living masterpiece. Discover exclusive tales of garden parties attended by royalty, learn about rare plant species and their origins, and understand the meticulous planning behind every pathway and flowerbed. Wander leisurely through themed sections while hearing stories of the gardeners who maintained this paradise through wars and economic hardships. Your guide reveals hidden symbolism in garden design, explains seasonal transformations, and shares delightful anecdotes about proposals, celebrations, and quiet moments that have made these gardens the heart of Halifax's social life for generations.

11

Halifax's favorite urban oasis unveils its secrets through your audio guide, revealing how this beloved green space evolved from military grounds to the community's recreational heart. Discover fascinating stories of military exercises, public gatherings, and the park's transformation into a venue for concerts, festivals, and family celebrations. Explore independently while learning about the park's role during the Halifax Explosion recovery, understanding its ecological importance, and hearing exclusive accounts of famous events held on these grounds. The narration reveals hidden historical features, explains the significance of various monuments and structures, and shares heartwarming stories of how generations of families have created lasting memories in this cherished community gathering place.

12
Stop 12

Where Halifax meets the sea, your audio guide transforms this sprawling waterfront park into a living museum of military history, natural wonders, and recreational evolution. Discover the ruins of military fortifications, learn about the park's lease agreement with the British Crown, and uncover exclusive stories of wartime defenses and peacetime pleasures. Explore diverse trails while hearing tales of shipwrecks visible from the shores, understanding the ecological significance of this unique urban forest, and learning about the devastating Hurricane Juan recovery. Your guide reveals hidden historical artifacts, explains the significance of various monuments, and shares captivating stories of how this beloved park has served as Halifax's backyard playground while maintaining its crucial role in the city's coastal defense system.

What's not included

Audio devices (earphones and internet / Wi-Fi)

Available languages

Audio guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 1.5
2 reviews
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Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
1. Complete Flexibility - Tour at Your Own Pace: This is a self-guided audio tour, NOT a GPS-guided tour. You have complete freedom to choose which attractions to visit, explore in any order you prefer, start and finish wherever you like, and even split the tour across multiple days. Spend as much time as you want at each location and take breaks whenever needed.
2. How You'll Receive Your Tour Materials: On your selected travel date, before your start time, you'll receive two important links: one for your audio guides (SoundCloud) and one for your interactive map (Google My Maps). These links will be sent via your booking platform's messaging system, and also via iMessage/WhatsApp if you provided your phone number during booking. Important: While all links are fully functional, the booking platform may not display link previews due to platform restrictions. For the best experience with instant previews and one-click access, we strongly recommend providing your phone number during booking to receive links via WhatsApp or iMessage. This ensures smoother, faster access to your audio guides.
3. Using Your Audio Guides (Link 1 - SoundCloud): Open the SoundCloud link in your web browser (Safari, Chrome, etc.). You'll see a playlist of all attraction audio guides organized in a suggested order. You can listen before your tour to plan which attractions interest you most, or play them as you arrive at each location. Simply scroll through the playlist, tap any attraction to play its audio guide, and use play/pause controls as needed throughout your tour.
4. Using Your Interactive Map (Link 2 - Google My Maps): Open the Google My Maps link in your web browser - not the Google Maps app. You'll see all attractions marked with headphone icons. Navigate by either tapping directly on any headphone icon on the map, or tapping the tour title below the map to view a complete list of attractions. When you select an attraction, a popup window appears with a clickable link to that location's audio guide.
5. What to Bring & Prepare: Essential items: headphones/earphones, fully charged smartphone, and internet access. Before your visit, review both links to familiarize yourself with the attractions and audio content, then decide your priorities and create your own route or follow our suggested order.
6. Audio Guide Language Selection: Select your preferred audio guide language during booking to guarantee delivery in that language. Language selection cannot be changed after confirmation. If your preferred language isn't available during booking, you can mention it in the Special Requirements section when placing your order. However, this request must be made at least 48 hours before your selected travel date and time. We will make our best effort to prepare your requested language, but please note this is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. For the best assurance of receiving your preferred language, always select from the available language options during the booking process.
7. Important Notice - Attraction Fees & Your Responsibilities: While many attractions are free to visit, some may charge fees for special sections, additional services, or general admission. It is your responsibility to check opening hours, closing times, holiday schedules, advance booking requirements, and purchase any necessary admission tickets before visiting each attraction. If you need assistance accessing or using the audio guide, please contact our customer support team.

Meeting point

Since this tour is a self-guided audio tour, you can choose where to start and finish according to your preference.

Important notes

Notice Regarding Audio Guide Access:

IMPORTANT: This is NOT a GPS-guided tour. You control where to go and what to listen to.

STEP 1 - RECEIVE ACCESS LINKS:

On your selected tour date, before your start time, you'll receive access links via booking platform messaging system / iMessage / WhatsApp (if provided) with 2 important links:

* Link 1: Audio Content (SoundCloud)
* Link 2: Interactive Map (Google My Maps)

STEP 2 - PREVIEW AND PLAN (Before or During Your Visit)

✓ Click Link 1 to access all audio guides on SoundCloud
✓ Listen to individual attraction guides or the entire tour
✓ Use this to familiarize yourself with the content at your convenience
✓ Click Link 2 to view the interactive Google My Maps
✓ See all attraction locations marked as points on the map

STEP 3 - PLAN YOUR ROUTE

✓ Use both links to decide which attractions you want to visit
✓ Choose your preferred starting point
✓ Decide if you want to follow our suggested order or create your own route ✓ Prioritize attractions based on your interests

STEP 4 - EXPLORE THE CITY

1. Use the Google My Maps link to navigate between attractions
2. At each location, click the corresponding map point
3. The relevant audio guide will play directly
4. Move at your own pace between stops

YOUR FLEXIBILITY:

✓ Start and finish anywhere you prefer
✓ Visit attractions in any order
✓ Take breaks whenever needed
✓ Spend more time at favorite locations
✓ Split the tour across 6 days

WHAT TO BRING:

* Headphones/Earphones
* Fully charged smartphone
* Internet access

CUSTOMER SUPPORT:

Contact us for assistance - we're here to ensure you have a smooth experience.

About Halifax

Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich maritime history, stunning waterfront, and warm local culture. With its picturesque harbors, historic sites, and lively arts scene, Halifax offers a unique blend of urban and maritime experiences.

Top Attractions

Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

The Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk is a vibrant, 4 km (2.5 miles) long pedestrian promenade along the harbor, offering shops, restaurants, and scenic views.

Waterfront 2-4 hours Free to explore, attractions vary

Peggy's Cove

Peggy's Cove is a picturesque fishing village known for its iconic lighthouse and stunning coastal scenery.

Natural 2-3 hours Free to explore, parking fee: $3.00 CAD

Citadel Hill National Historic Site

Citadel Hill is a star-shaped fortress that played a significant role in Halifax's defense. It offers guided tours, reenactments, and panoramic views of the city.

Historical 2-3 hours Adult: $13.00 CAD, Youth: $7.50 CAD, Children under 6: Free

Halifax Public Gardens

The Halifax Public Gardens is a beautiful Victorian-style garden featuring a variety of flora, walking paths, and a bandstand for summer concerts.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic showcases the rich maritime history of the region, including exhibits on the Titanic, the Halifax Explosion, and local fishing communities.

Museum 2-3 hours Adult: $12.00 CAD, Youth: $6.00 CAD, Children under 5: Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Seafood Chowder

A creamy, rich soup made with fresh local seafood, potatoes, and vegetables.

Soup Contains dairy, seafood

Donair

A Halifax specialty featuring spiced beef, onions, and sweet donair sauce served in pita bread.

Main Course Contains beef, gluten

Lobster Roll

A buttered bun filled with fresh lobster meat, often served with lemon and butter.

Sandwich Contains seafood, butter

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Whale watching Spa treatments Waterfront dining Beach lounging Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant waterfront activities. Expect crowded attractions and higher prices.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: English, French
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

GMT-4 (Atlantic Standard Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Halifax is generally a safe city with a low crime rate. However, as with any urban area, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs and credit cards.

Getting there

By air
  • Halifax Stanfield International Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles) from downtown Halifax
By train

Halifax Station

By bus

Halifax Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Halifax Transit operates a network of buses that serve the city and its suburbs. The system is efficient and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Halifax North End Halifax South End Halifax

Day trips

Lunenburg
100 km (62 miles) • Full day

Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful buildings, rich maritime history, and the famous Bluenose II schooner.

Bay of Fundy
200 km (124 miles) • Full day

The Bay of Fundy is known for its dramatic tides, which are among the highest in the world. The area offers stunning coastal scenery, hiking trails, and whale-watching opportunities.

Annapolis Valley
100 km (62 miles) • Full day

The Annapolis Valley is a picturesque region known for its vineyards, orchards, and scenic landscapes. The area offers wine tasting, hiking, and historic sites.

Festivals

Halifax International Busker Festival • July Halifax Jazz Festival • October Halifax Christmas Festival • November to December

Pro tips

  • Visit the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk for a taste of local culture, shopping, and dining.
  • Explore the historic sites of Halifax, such as the Citadel Hill National Historic Site and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
  • Enjoy the vibrant arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and live music venues throughout the city.
  • Take a day trip to Peggy's Cove for stunning coastal scenery and the iconic lighthouse.
  • Try local seafood specialties, such as seafood chowder, donairs, and lobster rolls.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 0-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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