Halifax Travel Guide
For details of what to do and see in Halifax check out our Halifax guide to car hire in Halifax
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One of the largest natural harbours in the world is the raison d'etre for Nova Scotia's largest city, and has been the engine for Halifax's growth ever since the earliest history of the colony. Halifax's existence, and that of the people who call it home have always been inextricably linked to the sea. The tides have brought them wealth and tragedy in equal measure, given life to the settlement, and taken it away. Whether your interest in visiting Halifax is the history and importance that it gained from the fact that it was the centre of co-ordinating efforts for rescuing survivors of the Titanic catastrophe, or you come to Halifax in order to appreciate the stunning scenery that surrounds it, every attraction that Halifax has owes its existence to the churning morass of ice cold water from which the city was born.
Amongst the sights to see in Halifax itself, the most popular is arguably the museum dedicated to the Titanic, where fans of maritime horror and death can see plenty of artefacts and possessions that have been dredged up from a grave and displayed for tourists. The Halifax Citadel National Historical Site is apparently Canada's most visited historic attraction, and dominates the skyline of the city. Built as a fort to defend Halifax from attacks staged by the American enemy, the fort that you can see today is actually the fourth to occupy the spot, and despite the fact that it is technically no longer in use, it is still guarded by traditionally dressed soldiers, who change every hour in a flurry of kilts and feathered hats.
If you're keen to see a little bit of Britain in Canada, then head to the Point Pleasant Park in the south of the city. It is owned by the British Government and rented to the locals for around 5p per year. There are some nice picnic spots around the park, and a rather windswept beach for shivering on in summer.
Of course, as with any modern city, particularly one that attracts so many visitors as Halifax, the character of the place is beginning to change. Trendy wine bars, and glamorous shopping centres are opening in order to give people something to spend their money on during their stays, and the centre of the city is just beginning to lose some of its authenticity. If you want to see what makes Halifax really special, you'd be wise to make the trip as soon as you can.
