Halifax Coastal Heritage Day Tour Experience

Discover the stunning beauty and rich heritage of Nova Scotia on this unforgettable coastal day tour! Begin with a scenic drive from Halifax to the iconic Peggy’s Cove, where rugged rocks and the famous lighthouse await. Visit the heartfelt Swissair Flight 111 Memorial before continuing to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, filled with colorful buildings and maritime charm. Stroll the quaint waterfront of Mahone Bay, known for its Three Churches and artisan shops. Back in Halifax, stop at the Fairview Lawn Cemetery to learn about the Titanic connection, and enjoy a narrated drive past the historic Citadel. Finally, unwind at the Halifax Harbourwalk — a vibrant waterfront filled with local shops, ocean views, and lively culture. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and a perfect mix of history, scenery, and local life, this tour offers an authentic Nova Scotian experience from start to finish.

What's included:

• Guide

What to expect:

Duration: 7 hours

Swissair Flight 111 Memorial

8250 Highway 333, Indian Harbour

After your visit to Peggy’s Cove, we’ll take a short 10-minute scenic drive along the coastline to our next stop — the Swissair Flight 111 Memorial, a peaceful and moving tribute to the 229 lives lost in the tragic 1998 crash.
Set against the dramatic Atlantic backdrop, this thoughtfully designed memorial sits close to the crash site and is surrounded by nature. You’ll spend approximately 15 minutes here, walking along the quiet path to the stone monument. Your guide will share the story behind the disaster, the international recovery efforts, and the heartfelt response from local communities who provided support and compassion during that difficult time.
It’s a solemn and meaningful stop that adds emotional depth and reflection to your day along Nova Scotia’s coast.

15 minutes

Peggy's Cove

Peggy's Cove

our day begins with a convenient pickup from the Halifax Cruise Terminal, your hotel, or any central location in Halifax. Your friendly, driver-guide will greet you with a warm welcome and set the tone for an unforgettable journey. As you settle in, enjoy a scenic 1-hour drive along Nova Scotia’s picturesque coastal route, with your guide sharing fascinating stories about the province’s rich history, maritime culture, and stunning natural landscapes.
Your first stop is the legendary Peggy’s Cove — one of the most photographed places in Canada and a true gem of the Atlantic Coast. You'll have about 1 hour to explore this charming fishing village, marvel at the dramatic granite rocks, and admire the iconic red-and-white Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse standing proudly against the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
While you're there, your guide will offer insights into the area's unique geology, the lighthouse's fascinating history, and the stories of the local fishing community.

1 hour

Lunenburg

Lunenburg

From the Swissair Memorial, we’ll continue our scenic coastal adventure with a drive to the historic town of Lunenburg, a journey that takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Along the way, enjoy the rolling landscapes, glimpses of the Atlantic shoreline, and charming rural communities that dot Nova Scotia’s South Shore.
Upon arrival in Lunenburg, you’ll immediately notice its vibrant waterfront, colorful buildings, and beautifully preserved architecture — so unique that the town is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll have about 1 hour to explore this charming town, which is one of the best surviving examples of a planned British colonial settlement in North America.
Stroll along the historic streets, visit the famous Lunenburg waterfront, or simply take in the views of the Bluenose II, the iconic schooner often docked in the harbour.

1 hour

Mahone Bay

Mahone Bay

After soaking in the history and charm of Lunenburg, we’ll take a short 15-minute drive to the nearby town of Mahone Bay, a quaint and picture-perfect coastal community known for its iconic Three Churches, boutique shops, and relaxed small-town vibe.
You’ll have about 30 minutes to explore Mahone Bay at your own pace. Take a stroll along the waterfront, admire the charming heritage homes and artisan boutiques, or snap a photo of the famous churches lined up beautifully along the bay — one of the most photographed scenes in Nova Scotia.

Your guide will highlight a few local favorites, whether you’re interested in picking up handmade souvenirs, enjoying a quick coffee, or simply taking in the peaceful views. Mahone Bay offers a lovely, laid-back contrast to the earlier stops and is the perfect final touch to your coastal day trip.

30 minutes

Fairview Lawn Cemetery

3720 Windsor St, Halifax, B3J 3A5

From Mahone Bay, we’ll begin our return journey to Halifax, which takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. As we make our way back to the city, your guide will continue to share insights into Nova Scotia’s seafaring legacy, culture, and local life.
Once we arrive in Halifax, our final stop will be the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, a quiet and historically significant site best known as the resting place for many of the Titanic victims. You’ll spend approximately 15 minutes here, walking through the carefully maintained grounds and learning the stories of those who tragically lost their lives when the RMS Titanic sank in 1912.

Your guide will point out some of the most notable grave markers, including that of the "Unknown Child," and explain Halifax’s crucial role in the recovery operations following the disaster. It’s a sobering yet fascinating visit that connects Halifax directly to one of the world’s most well-known maritime tragedies.

15 minutes

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

5425 Sackville St, Halifax, B3J 3Y3

As we continue our journey through downtown Halifax, we’ll take a drive past the iconic Halifax Citadel National Historic Site — a star-shaped fortress that has stood watch over the city since 1749. While we won’t be stopping here, your guide will share the fascinating history of the Citadel, its role in Halifax’s defense, and how it remains one of Canada’s most visited historic sites. From this elevated point, enjoy sweeping views of the downtown core and Halifax Harbour.

Pass by without stopping

Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

Lower Water St, Halifax, B3H 4P8

From there, we’ll make our way to our final stop — the Halifax Harbourwalk, one of the most vibrant and scenic waterfronts in all of Canada. Stretching along the harbour, this bustling boardwalk is lined with historic buildings, local shops, public art, and beautiful ocean views.
You’ll have time to stroll along the water, take in the lively atmosphere, and maybe grab a local snack or souvenir. Your guide can offer suggestions for places to check out, whether it’s a cozy café, an ice cream spot, or a unique maritime-themed shop.

It’s the perfect way to wrap up your day — relaxing by the ocean, soaking in the local culture, and enjoying the fresh coastal breeze before you’re dropped off at your cruise ship, hotel, or chosen location in Halifax.

30 minutes