It is great to go your own way, but sometimes it is nice to have a little guidance. Someone with special knowledge or expertise can make your experience of a place or activity much more enjoyable. Experts can provide little-known facts or even exclusive access, things that you may not be able to get on your own.
So, on your next visit to Halifax, try out one of these great guided tours!
1. Halifax Harbour Hopper Tours
This unique vehicle can drive on land and in water! This amphibious adventure allows you to view Halifax’s most famous historic sites from both the street and the harbour.
The Harbour Hopper is a great tour for all ages.
2. Grape Escapes Wine Tours
Climb aboard the tour bus and escape to Nova Scotia’s pristine wine country. Sip and savour your way through wineries and vineyards as you learn about Nova Scotia’s cool-climate wines alongside your pals.
There are a number of tours to choose from, including the classic Wine & Lunch Escape or a romantic Evening Escape – whatever you choose, it’ll be a tour to remember.
3. Historic Ghost Walks
Want to hear about the spooky side of Halifax history? Grab your friends and take a ghost walk. See and learn fascinating facts about the city’s most eerie sites, including haunted buildings, troubled spirits and odd occurrences (if you dare!).
4. Tall Ship Silva Cruise
Set sail aboard the Tall Ship Silva to see Halifax’s most notable landmarks, including Georges Island, the Halifax Waterfront, Historic Properties, and more. Learn about the city’s rich history including accounts of Halifax Explosion, lesser-known stories of Halifax shipwrecks, and historical facts about the Silva. Help the crew hoist the Silva’s sails, enjoy a beverage or two from the onboard Murphy’s Pub, and sit back, relax and enjoy a beautiful day out on the water.
5. Open Top Tours
These tours in 4×4 jeeps allow you to get up close to sites and enjoy the personal attention of being in a small group. They provide a unique way to see many places across the province and allow you to customize a tour based on your preferences and needs.
All the benefits of renting a car without having to worry about the driving, navigation or parking!
6. I Heart Bikes
An even more intimate and personal way to see the city is on a bright blue bike. Rent a bike and guide yourself or join in on a guided group tour. It’s also a perfect date activity!
7. Taste Halifax Food + Beer Tours
The perfect tour for the foodies and beer lovers. Get a taste of some of the best restaurants and breweries in Halifax and learn about our culinary culture in a small group with a super knowledgeable guide.
Get an inside look into the minds and kitchens of our local food heroes.
8. Kayak Halifax
You can’t visit Halifax without getting up close and personal with the ocean, and it’s hard to get any closer to it than in a kayak.
Watch a beautiful sunset or explore one of our cool harbour islands with experienced guides showing you the ropes.
East Coast Outfitters and Kattuk Expeditions also offer great guided kayak tours!
Check out the 9 BEST Routes for Canoeing and Kayaking in Halifax!
East Coast Outfitters | Lower Prospect
9. Picture Perfect Tours
The aim of Picture Perfect Tours is to show guests the most photograph-able sites in the Halifax Region.
Take a selfie with the iconic lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove, or learn about Halifax’s rich history through old photographs, maps, paintings and film clips, courtesy of the provincial archives.
10. Nature and Whale Watching
One of the best things to see in the Halifax region is the great outdoors – and the best way to view it is on a guided tour. There are plenty of companies that offer whale watching tours throughout Nova Scotia.
You’ll be taken right to where the action is, to view creatures living in the water (whales, dolphins, fish) and above (sea birds). Naturalists provide you with lots of information while viewing, so you get the complete experience.
Originally published December 2016, updated January 2022
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