5 Days in Nova Scotia: An Ideal Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Planning to spend 5 days in Nova Scotia? This Nova Scotia itinerary takes you through some of the province’s must-see destinations, from the streets of Halifax to the colourful waterfront of Lunenburg and the scenic vineyards of the Annapolis Valley. With coastal drives, historic towns, and incredible food, it’s the ideal way to experience the best of Nova Scotia in 5 days, especially for first-time visitors.

How to Spend 5 days in Nova Scotia

This 5-day road trip takes you through some of the best spots on Nova Scotia’s mainland, from the historic streets of Halifax to the colourful waterfront of Lunenburg, and the dramatic tides of the Bay of Fundy. Here’s a quick look at the itinerary:

Day 1: Explore Halifax
Walk the waterfront, visit historic sites, and enjoy great local food.
Day 2: Peggy’s Cove & Lunenburg
See the famous lighthouse, explore a UNESCO town, and visit a distillery.
Day 3: Mahone Bay & Annapolis Valley
Drive through charming small towns and visit Nova Scotia’s wine country.
Day 4: Bay of Fundy
Hike Cape Split or walk on the ocean floor at Burntcoat Head Park.
Day 5: Final Morning in Halifax or Dartmouth
Take a scenic walk, hop on the ferry, or grab a last meal before heading home.

Day 1: Explore Halifax

Start your trip in Halifax, Nova Scotia’s capital, a lively waterfront city with a mix of history, food, and coastal charm. Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront, exploring historic sites, or enjoying fresh seafood, Halifax is the perfect introduction to the province. Spend the day visiting key landmarks, then relax with a great meal and a taste of the city’s growing craft beer scene.

What to Do:

• Walk the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk: One of the city’s best spots, this 4-km boardwalk is lined with local shops, cafes, and great harbour views. Stop for an ice cream at Cow’s, grab a snack at the Salt Yard, or watch boats coming and going from the harbour.
• Visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic: Located right on the waterfront, this museum is home to an interesting exhibit on the Titanic (did you know about Halifax’s connection to the Titanic?), stories from the Halifax Explosion, and exhibits on Nova Scotia’s deep maritime history.
• Explore the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
  Sitting high above the city, this star-shaped fortress offers incredible views and a glimpse into Halifax’s military past. Tour the inside of the citadel and don’t forget the traditional noon cannon firing.
• Stroll through the Halifax Public Gardens
  A quiet escape in the middle of the city, these Victorian-era gardens are beautifully landscaped with fountains, walking paths, and flower displays.
• Grab a Drink at Alexander Keith’s Brewery
  This historic brewery dates back to 1820 and offers tours with costumed guides, live music, and samples of classic Nova Scotian beer. Even if you’re not a beer drinker, the tour is a fun way to experience Halifax’s brewing history.

Where to Eat

• The Bicycle Thief: Italian-inspired seafood & waterfront views
• Waterfront Warehouse: classic East Coast seafood
• Salt + Ash: A newer waterfront spot with open-fire cooking and a focus on local ingredients

Where to Stay

• Muir Halifax: Luxury hotel on the waterfront with stunning harbour views
• The Sutton Place Hotel: A modern stay in the heart of downtown
• Halifax Marriott Harbourfront: A waterfront hotel with great harbour views and easy access to the boardwalk

Day 2: Peggy’s Cove & Lunenburg

Today’s drive takes you along Nova Scotia’s stunning South Shore, a stretch of coastline known for its dramatic ocean views, historic fishing villages, and winding seaside roads. From the rugged coast of Peggy’s Cove to the colourful waterfront of Lunenburg, this route is one of the most scenic in the province. Take your time, enjoy the small fishing villages along the way, and soak in the history, ocean views, and fresh seafood.

Morning: Peggy’s Cove

No visit to Nova Scotia is complete without a stop at Peggy’s Cove, home to one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. The rocky coastline, crashing waves, and weathered fishing shacks make this a picture-perfect spot.

• Walk out to Peggy’s Point Lighthouse for stunning ocean views – but stay off the black rocks, as they can be slippery and dangerous. The waves here are powerful and unpredictable.
• The accessible viewing platform offers incredible lightouse views without needing to climb the rocks.
• Wander through Peggy’s Cove village, with its weathered fishing shacks, small artisan shops and lobster traps stacked along the docks.
• Grab a bite at The Sou’Wester, a classic seafood restaurant right beside the lighthouse

Afternoon: Lunenburg

After soaking in the ocean views at Peggy’s Cove, continue an hour southwest to Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its brightly coloured waterfront, rich maritime history, and incredible seafood.

• Take a guided walking tour of Old Town Lunenburg – The best way to experience this historic town is with a local guide, who will share stories of Lunenburg’s shipbuilding heritage, rum-running past, and unique architecture.
• Visit Ironworks Distillery – This small-batch distillery is housed in a historic blacksmith shop. You can often see the distilling process in action, and they always have samples to try. Their gin is excellent – and my recommendation, but if you’re looking for something unique, the pear brandy is a must-try—it’s made from Nova Scotia pears and has a smooth, crisp flavour.
• See the Bluenose II – Look for this famous racing schooner, featured on the Canadian dime. If it’s in port, you can walk up close and sometimes even step aboard.
• Explore the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic – This museum has hands-on exhibits, historic boats, and stories of Nova Scotia’s fishing industry. Traveling with kids? Check out the kid-sized lobster trap out front—perfect for a fun photo!
• Take a harbour boat tour – If you’re up for an ocean adventure, hop on a harbour boat tour for incredible views of Lunenburg from the water, plus stories about the town’s shipbuilding history.

Where to Eat in Lunenburg

• The Salt Shaker Deli: A casual but excellent spot for seafood and pizza, with a great harbour view
• South Shore Fish Shack: Great for classic seafood like fish & chips or lobster rolls, right by the waterfront
• The Grand Banker: Fresh, local cuisine with a creative twist, paired with Nova Scotia wines and a great selection of craft brews—plus stunning waterfront views.

Where to Stay in Lunenburg

• Lunenburg Arms Hotel: A charming boutique hotel with waterfront views, right in the heart of Old Town.
• Salt Shaker Deli & Inn: A cozy stay above one of Lunenburg’s best restaurants, perfect if you love being steps away from great food.

Day 3: Mahone Bay & Annapolis Valley

Today, you’ll leave the South Shore and head toward Nova Scotia’s wine country, with a stop in the charming town of Mahone Bay along the way. This day blends scenic coastal charm with rolling vineyards, making it one of the most beautiful drives of the trip.

Morning: Mahone Bay

Just 10 minutes from Lunenburg, Mahone Bay is a postcard-perfect town known for its three iconic churches lining the waterfront. It’s smaller than Lunenburg but just as charming, with boutique shops, cafes, and a relaxed coastal vibe.

• Snap a photo of the Three Churches – One of the most recognizable views in Nova Scotia. The best angle? From across the bay near Rebecca’s Restaurant (which also has one of the best lobster rolls we’ve tried!).
• Browse the local shops – Stop by Amos Pewter for handcrafted jewelry and ornaments or The Tea Brewery for locally blended teas.
• Grab coffee at The Barn Coffee & Social House – A cozy café with great lattes and fresh pastries.
• Optional: Visit Oak Island – If you’re a fan of the Oak Island mystery (yes, from the TV show!), the island is nearby, and you can take a guided tour to learn about the legendary treasure hunt.

After soaking in the charm of Mahone Bay, start the drive toward the Annapolis Valley—Nova Scotia’s wine and farm country.

Afternoon: Annapolis Valley & Wolfville

After the scenic coastal drive, it’s time to slow down and enjoy the rolling vineyards, farm markets and historic sites  of the Annapolis Valley.

• Learn about Acadian history at Grand Pré National Historic Site – This UNESCO site tells the story of the Acadian expulsion in the 1700s. Wander through the beautiful gardens, visit the stone church, and see the statue of Evangeline, the heroine of Longfellow’s famous poem, which describes the heartbreak of deportation. 
• Sip wine at Luckett Vineyards – One of the most famous wineries in the region, Luckett is known for its red phone booth in the vineyard. Grab a glass of wine and take in the stunning views over the valley.
• Sip sparkling wine at Benjamin Bridge – Known for its sparkling wines, similar to Champagne, this family-run winery offers tastings in a beautiful outdoor setting overlooking the vineyard. Relax with a glass of bubby, or try a glass of Tidal Bay, a white wine that is unique to Nova Scotia. They’re family-friendly too, and offer non-alcoholic options for kids. 
• Try a local cider at Annapolis Cider – If wine isn’t your thing, this small-batch cidery on Wolfville’s main street has rotating seasonal ciders and a great tasting bar.

Where to Eat in Wolfville

• The Church Brewing Co.: A brewery and restaurant set in a renovated church, serving up craft beer and hearty meals.
• Paddy’s Brewpub: A casual pub with a mix of comfort food and local beer.

Where to Stay in Wolfville

• The Tattingstone Inn: A cozy boutique inn with a historic feel and great hospitality.
• Old Orchard Inn: Offers traditional rooms plus one-bedroom cottages, making it a great option for families or those wanting extra space.

Day 4: Bay of Fundy – Coastal Views or the World’s Highest Tides

The Annapolis Valley is home to more than just wineries—it’s also where you’ll find the incredible Bay of Fundy tides. Today’s itinerary lets you experience those tides in two different ways, depending on how active you want to be. Whether you prefer a coastal hike with stunning views or a chance to walk on the ocean floor, you’ll see firsthand just how powerful the tides really are. 

Morning: The Look-Off & Hall’s Harbour

• Drive up to The Look-Off – One of the best viewpoints in the Annapolis Valley, this roadside stop offers a panoramic view of the farms, vineyards, and Minas Basin below. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Blomidon!
• Visit Hall’s Harbour – A classic Bay of Fundy fishing village where you can see dramatic tide changes. Depending on when you arrive, boats will either be floating in the harbour or sitting on the ocean floor.
• Try a traditional lobster boil – At the Hall’s Harbour Lobster Pound, you can pick your own lobster and have it cooked fresh while you enjoy the ocean views.

Afternoon: Choose Your Own Adventure

This part of the day depends on whether you want a great hike with epic coastal views of a unique tidal experience:

🥾 Option 1: Hike Cape Split (For those wanting a more active afternoon!)

• Cape Split Trail is one of Nova Scotia’s most famous hikes, offering incredible views over the Bay of Fundy. The 16 km round-trip trail (about 5 hours total) takes you through forested paths before opening up to a dramatic cliffside overlooking the Minas Basin. If you have the time and energy, this is one of the best hikes in the province!

🌊 Option 2: Explore Burntcoat Head Park & the Tides

• Drive to Burntcoat Head Park, home to the highest recorded tides in the world. If you time it right, you can walk on the ocean floor, exploring tide pools and towering red sandstone cliffs that are completely underwater at high tide. (Check tide times here before you go)
• Stop at the Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre in nearby Maitland to learn more about the science behind the tides. If the timing works, you might even see the tidal bore, a wave created as the incoming tide pushes against the outgoing river current.
• Optional: Go Tidal Bore Rafting – If you’re up for a thrill, ride the waves created by the incoming tide on a tidal bore rafting tour. This fast-paced adventure takes you through rolling waves in a zodiac boat, making for an exciting and unforgettable way to experience the power of the tides. (Note: Rafting tours are tide-dependent, so check the schedule in advance!)

Where to Stay

You can spend another night in Wolfville or return to Halifax in the evening (it’s about a 1-hour drive). If staying in Wolfville, return to your previous night’s accommodation.

If heading back to Halifax, you can return to your hotel from earlier in the trip, or try a new one:

• The Westin Nova Scotian: A historic hotel near the Halifax Seaport with harbour views.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Halifax Downtown – A great option if you prefer an apartment-style stay with extra space.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Dartmouth: A family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms and a great location near shopping and restaurants in Dartmouth Crossing.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Dartmouth: A comfortable stay near the Alderney Ferry Terminal, making it easy to get back into Halifax.

Where to Eat

If Staying in Halifax:

• The Five Fishermen – A Halifax institution, famous for seafood and its Titanic-era history.
• The Bicycle Thief – An excellent spot for Italian-inspired seafood with a great harbourfront location.

If Staying in Dartmouth:

• Vines Fusion & Grill: An excellent restaurant in downtown Dartmouth, offering a fusion of Italian and Indian cuisine.
• The Canteen on Portland: A popular spot known for its fresh, locally sourced dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
• 2 Doors Down: A casual yet refined dining experience in Dartmouth Crossing.

Day 5: Final Morning in Halifax or Dartmouth & Departure

It’s the final day of your Nova Scotia adventure, and depending on your flight time (or if you’re driving home), you’ll have time for one last morning of exploring before heading to the airport. Whether you’re staying in Halifax or Dartmouth, you can fit in a scenic walk, grab a great coffee, and take in one last view of the harbour before saying goodbye.

If You’re Staying in Halifax

• Take a Walk at Point Pleasant Park
  If you want to stretch your legs before your journey home, Point Pleasant Park offers coastal views, wooded trails, and historic ruins just minutes from downtown Halifax. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll with ocean breezes, and you’ll often spot locals out for their morning walk or run. 
• Take the ferry to Dartmouth – Hop on the Halifax-Dartmouth ferry for a quick trip across the harbour. It’s the oldest saltwater ferry in North America, and while it’s a fun ride, you’ll also have great views of the Halifax skyline. Once in Dartmouth, grab a coffee or take a short walk through the downtown area before heading back.
• Walk along the Halifax Waterfront – If you’d rather stay on the Halifax side, take a final stroll along the boardwalk, enjoying the views before departure.

If You’re Staying in Dartmouth

• Walk through Shubie Park – If you’re staying at the Hampton Inn in Dartmouth Crossing, the park entrance is right at the end of the parking lot. This peaceful trail along the Shubenacadie Canal is one of my regular morning walks, and it’s a great way to start the day. The trails are easy to navigate, shaded, and perfect for a short stroll or a longer loop before heading out.
• Take the ferry for Halifax skyline views – The Dartmouth-Halifax ferry is a great way to see the city from the water. Head over for a quick walk along the Halifax boardwalk, then return to Dartmouth before departing.
• Grab a quick bite to eat before heading out – Whether you’re looking for a sit-down meal or something casual, there are great local places to eat in Dartmouth. Battery Park serves up craft beer and some of the best burgers in town, while The Canteen is a go-to for fresh, locally inspired dishes. If you just want a coffee or a quick snack, New Scotland Brewing Co. is a cozy option before hitting the road.

If You Have More Time

• Visit Lawrencetown Beach – If you’re up for a short drive, Lawrencetown Beach is one of the best beaches near Halifax. This stunning, windswept stretch of coastline, just 30 minutes outside Halifax, is known for surfing, long walks along the dunes, and gorgeous ocean views. Even if you’re not hitting the waves, it’s a beautiful spot to take in the Nova Scotia coast before heading home. 

Heading Home

Your time in Nova Scotia has come to an end, and it’s time to head home—whether you’re driving back, catching a flight, or continuing your East Coast adventure.

If you have extra time, consider extending your trip:

• 7 Days: Add a night in Annapolis Royal  or Yarmouth for more history and coastal charm.
• 10 Days: Continue to Cape Breton & the Cabot Trail for stunning coastal drives and outdoor adventure.
• 2 Weeks: Explore the Eastern Shore, Digby, and Yarmouth for a deeper dive into Nova Scotia’s hidden gems.

Best Time to Visit Nova Scotia

This 5-day Nova Scotia itinerary can be done year-round, but each season offers a different experience:

☀️ Summer (July – August) – The best weather, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. However, it’s also the busiest season, so expect more crowds and higher prices, especially in Halifax and Lunenburg.

🍂 Fall (September – Early October) – A fantastic time to visit, with mild weather, fewer crowds, and stunning fall colours—especially in early October. September is often just as warm as summer, but with a more relaxed feel.

❄️ Winter (November – March) – While this trip is possible in winter, expect cold temperatures and snowy conditions. If you’re not used to winter driving, some roads (especially coastal routes) can be tricky. That said, Halifax and Wolfville are great winter destinations, and you’ll find fewer tourists and cozy small-town vibes.

🌷 Spring (April – May) – A quieter time to visit, with cooler temps and fewer crowds. Things start blooming in May, but coastal areas can still feel chilly. If you want a relaxed trip with lower prices, this is a great time to visit.

Final Thoughts: 5 Days in Nova Scotia

This 5-day itinerary gives you a perfect mix of history, coastal scenery, food, and outdoor adventure, making it ideal for first-time visitors. You’ll leave having seen some of the best of Nova Scotia, from Halifax’s vibrant waterfront to Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, the wineries of the Annapolis Valley and the Bay of Fundy tides.