Halifax , Canada

Historic Halifax by Foot

Active

(192 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Historic Halifax by Foot tour provides visitors an opportunity to sample the history, architecture and hospitality the city has to offer. Your local guide will lead you on a comfortable paced tour through the downtown area, with multiple stops at various locations for photos and conversation. With a small group size, guests will be able to enjoy a more personal tour.

Available options

Historic Halifax by Foot

What's included

Services of a local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

With your local guide, enter the Oldest Victorian Gardens in Canada, through the main gates. Inside the Gardens your guide will explain the history and monuments found inside. Free time will also be provided to explore on your known.

The Old Burying Ground is Halifax's oldest cemetery, founded in 1749. Your route will take you by the site featuring restored headstones, the only Crimean War memorial in North America and interesting tales of those laid to rest.

Stop 3

Providing a commanding view of downtown Halifax and the harbour, walk to the top of Citadel and join your guide as they explain the importance of Halifax as a military establishment and the importance of the Citadel. Great photo opportunity. This tour does not go inside the Citadel National Historic Site.

Founded in 1749, St. Paul's is the oldest Anglican church in Canada, as well as the oldest building in Halifax. From the Grand Parade, your guide will explain it's connection to the Halifax Explosion.

Your guide will stop at this historic military parade square dating from the founding of Halifax in 1749. At the north end of the Grand Parade is the Halifax City Hall, the seat of municipal government in Nova Scotia's Halifax Regional Municipality. At the south end is St. Paul's Church. In the middle of Grand Parade is the cenotaph built originally to commemorate the soldiers who served in First World War, Second World War, and the Korean War. Your guide will also take this time to talk about the Halifax Explosion, the worst man made explosion prior to the Second World War bombing in Japan.

Stop 6 Pass by

Constructed between 1817-1819, Province House is Canada's longest serving legislative building in Canada. The structure is considered one of the finest examples of Palladian architecture in North America. It is also the location of a famous court case in 1835 which lead to freedom of the press in Canada. Your guide will provide details about the unique events that have taken place at Provinces and the people who have governed Nova Scotia.

Stop 7 Pass by

The Old Town Clock is one of Halifax's most famous landmarks. Constructed to provide the correct time to the local garrison, it has been helping Haligonians keep on time since 1803. Your route from Citadel Hill will take you past the front steps of the clock.

What's not included

Food and beverages are not included.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

122 reviews

5★

104

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

70 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

As this is a walking tour, persons with walking issues should not participate.

Not recommended for travelers with walking problems.

Meeting point

Meet your guide across the street from the Canadian Immigration Museum. You will see a railway passenger car in front of the museum. Your guide will be across the street from the railway car.

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.