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5 Days in Nova Scotia: An Amazing Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary

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Tips for how to make the most of 5 days in Nova Scotia, whether it’s your first visit or not. What to do, where to eat, and how to get around on this epic Nova Scotia road trip itinerary.

The white light house with a red roof of the Peggy's Cove Gift Shop on top of a rocky mountain while people surround the building under cloudy skies with a view of the blue water beside the rocky mountain, 5 days in nova scotia.

Nova Scotia is a breathtaking gem tucked away in Atlantic Canada. With dramatic coastlines, lush forests, and vibrant culture, this eastern province is a great place to explore for a unique and unforgettable holiday experience.

In this post, I’ll guide you through a stunning itinerary for 5 days in Nova Scotia, showcasing some of the best attractions and hidden treasures that this fascinating region has to offer.

From the bustling city of Halifax to the picturesque fishing village of Lunenburg, you’ll discover a rich history, mouth-watering cuisine, and friendly locals eager to share the beauty and charm of their region with you.

Exploring the charm of a coastal town, with barn-type buildings painted in red along the Lunenburg Waterfront. Strolling on a boardwalk in front, surrounded by crystal waters under dark skies, captures the essence of 5 days in Nova Scotia.

This Nova Scotia road trip itinerary includes natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences to captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories.

So here are my top recommendations for 5 days in Nova Scotia, to help you plan a future trip to this wonderful Canadian region.

IN A HURRY? NOVA SCOTIA QUICK LINKS


ACCOMMODATION: The Westin Nova Scotian (Halifax), Rum Runner Inn (Lunenburg), Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa (Digby), and Tattingstone Inn (Wolfville).

NOVA SCOTIA CAR HIRE: Use Discover Cars to find the best price on a rental car.

NOT DRIVING? These are the best day trips from Halifax: Peggy’s Cove Express Tour, Tour of Nova Scotia South Shore and Tour of Annapolis Valley.

5 ESSENTIALS TO PACK FOR NOVA SCOTIA: A universal travel adapter; a refillable water bottle; a power bank (essential if you use your camera phone a lot); a crossbody/waist bag (to keep your valuables safely close to your body); and a copy of the latest Atlantic Canada Lonely Planet Guide.

TRAVEL INSURANCE IN CANADA: I recommend Heymondo, which includes Covid-19 coverage. And you can get a 5% discount when you buy with my link.

STAY CONNECTED: Buy an eSIM for Canada before you leave home and get connected as soon as you arrive in Nova Scotia.

Why Visit Nova Scotia?

Nova Scotia is a beautiful Canadian province that offers a variety of attractions and activities for a memorable holiday. With its scenic drives, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and a wide range of exciting activities, you’ll find plenty of reasons to visit.

Embracing the serenity of a small red building nestled on a plot of rocky land, surrounded by trees just beside the crystal waters under cloudy blue skies—a picturesque scene capturing 5 days in Nova Scotia

One of the best ways to explore Nova Scotia is by taking a scenic drive through its picturesque landscapes.

From the breathtaking Lighthouse Route, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and quaint fishing villages, to the charming Annapolis Valley with its rolling fields, orchards and vineyards, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of the region at every turn.

Nova Scotia is also home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The first is the historic town of Lunenburg, a charming port renowned for its distinctive architecture and colourful buildings. 

A vibrant street with paneled wall buildings painted in bright colors of pink and yellow in the foreground, you'll encounter the inviting sign of an ice cream shop and a prominent one that reads ANTIQUES—a delightful scene capturing 5 days in Nova Scotia

The second site is the Landscape of Grand Pré, an area of agricultural farmland using dykes and the aboiteau wooden sluice system, started by the Acadians in the 17th century.

And last but not least, the Joggins Fossil Cliffs, which offer an incredible opportunity to learn about Earth’s natural history while admiring 300-million-year-old fossils embedded in the coastal cliffs. 

A visit to any of these sites will be a memorable and educational experience during your time in Nova Scotia.

A Mi'kmaq flag, elegantly featuring its white background adorned with a large red cross, a moon, and a star in the top, hanging gracefully over a wooden fence surrounded by blooming oregano flowers—seamlessly capturing the essence of 5 days in Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia offers you a unique mix of stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and exciting activities for an unforgettable holiday experience.

Best Time to Do This 5 Day Nova Scotia Itinerary

When planning your 5 day adventure in Nova Scotia, you’ll want to make sure you choose the best time of year for your trip.

A bunch of Queen Anne's Lace white flowers among tall grass, with some Chicory blue flowers in the foreground, set against the backdrop of a small wooden fishing barn in the distance under blue bright skies—seamlessly embodying the beauty of 5 days in Nova Scotia.

In general, the best time to visit Nova Scotia is from May to October when the weather is mild and most attractions are open. However, each season offers unique experiences that you may find appealing.

Late spring and summer (May to August) are perfect if you’re looking for warmer weather and outdoor activities. Average temperatures range from 16°C to 23°C. Here’s a summary of the advantages during these months:

Me on the boardwalk in a yellow dress, passing by a small white port house adorned with blue signs displaying prices. A few people in the background, and white boats under bright blue skies with scattered clouds—capturing the essence of 5 days in Nova Scotia seamlessly.

However, be aware that summer can also be the busiest and most expensive time to visit Nova Scotia as it’s high season.

Autumn (September and October) is ideal if you’re seeking a more peaceful and picturesque getaway. During these months, you’ll experience:

  • Cooler temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C
  • Stunning fall foliage that creates a beautiful backdrop for hiking and sightseeing
  • Affordable prices as it’s considered the shoulder season
Under dark cloudy skies, a two-floor corner building painted in blue, with the first floor in crisp white adorned with large glass windows of the Sissiboo Coffee Roasters Cafe—immersing you in the unique charm of 5 days in Nova Scotia

Finally, while winter can be harsh in Nova Scotia, some travellers still enjoy visiting for the following reasons:

  • Winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding at Martock and Wentworth
  • One-of-a-kind experiences like ice wine tastings at local vineyards
  • Holiday events and markets in December

To make the most of your 5 day Nova Scotia itinerary, consider your personal preferences, interests and budget. With its stunning coastlines, vibrant cities, and friendly locals, you’re sure to have an amazing trip any time of year.

How to Get Around Nova Scotia

When it comes to exploring Nova Scotia, there are various transport options to choose from.

From a green lawn adorned with plants, enjoy the view of a small port with fishing boats and small kayaks on the crystal waters. Beyond them lies an island under bright cloudy skies—immersing you in the coastal beauty of 5 days in Nova Scotia seamlessly.

Public transport is a reliable and affordable option to travel within Halifax. The metro buses, known as Metro Transit, offer a wide network of routes, connecting various parts of the city.

If you plan to use public transport frequently during your stay, consider getting a MetroPass for unlimited travel within a month. For occasional trips, the ticket packs or cash fares would be more suitable.

Travelling outside of Halifax, particularly in small towns and rural areas, can be a bit more challenging as public transport options are limited. In such cases, hiring a car is the best way to maximise your freedom and flexibility.

> Compare the best car hire deals in Nova Scotia here

Set against the backdrop of blue bright skies, the wooden Arisaig Lighthouse stands proudly in white with a red roof and door, situated in the middle of a green field. Trees can be seen in the background, offering a tranquil scene that encapsulates the charm of 5 days in Nova Scotia seamlessly.

If you’re planning on visiting coastal areas or islands, or if you’re coming from St Andrews in New Brunswick, ferry services are a must. Not only are they a quick and efficient way to travel, but they also provide a unique perspective of the stunning Atlantic coastline.

> Book your ferry ticket in advance here

NOVA SCOTIA ITINERARY IN 5 DAYS

Day 1 – Halifax

Halifax is a modern and vibrant city with a rich maritime history. It’s the capital of Nova Scotia and the province’s most visited destination, so it’s the perfect place to start your adventure.

Under bright blue skies with scattered clouds, i am on a paved road in a yellow dress. In the background, a red-painted Beavertails shop is visible, where a father and son order food at the side window. A Canadian flag waves in the back, capturing the delightful 5 days in Nova Scotia.

Take a stroll along the iconic Halifax Waterfront, where historic ships share space with charming eateries. Here you will discover the rich maritime history intertwined with the city’s contemporary and fun flair.

An old wooden lazy chair sits inside a glass case with the reflection of people—seamlessly inviting you into the tranquil ambiance of 5 days in Nova Scotia.

Stop at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, where you’ll discover maritime treasures, including artefacts from the Titanic, and will delve into Halifax’s seafaring legacy.

Under bright blue skies, a modern coastal town unfolds, featuring tall contemporary buildings overlooking a bustling port with boats. The crystal waters in the foreground invites you to experience the allure of 5 days in Nova Scotia.

While you’re at the waterfront, why not hop on Harbour Hopper Tours’ unique amphibious truck for a tour of Halifax’s past and present as you navigate through the historic streets and on the water.

> Book your Harbour Hopper Tour here

Set against the canvas of bright blue skies with a few clouds, the small Halifax Town Clock, painted in white with bright blue clock faces, stands on a green field. The picturesque view of the town completes the scene, encapsulating the charm of 5 days in Nova Scotia.

Don’t miss the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, a fortress that offers a glimpse into the city’s military past and stunning city views.

If time allows, pay a visit to Africville, where you can learn about the poignant history of a once vibrant African-Canadian community that thrived for over a century before its displacement in the 1960s.

Inside a small boat with a charcuterie board and large bowls on a table. People's legs, indicative of a restful moment, surround the table, offering a cozy atmosphere. Beyond, a view of the outside dock, inviting you into the leisurely experience of 5 days in Nova Scotia.

Wrap up the day by sailing into the sunset on a picturesque wine and cheese yacht, experiencing the beauty of Halifax’s coastline as the sun goes down.

> Book your wine and cheese yacht here

Other places to visit in Halifax

1. Halifax Public Gardens: Find serenity amidst the bustling city in this Victorian-era oasis showcasing vibrant floral displays and manicured landscapes.

Nestled in the heart of the Halifax Public Gardens, a small and colorful gazebo stands surrounded by vibrant bushes of bright-colored flowers. Majestic trees provide a scenic backdrop under cloudy skies, capturing the beauty of 5 days in Nova Scotia.

2. Canadian Museum of Immigration: Immerse yourself in the diverse narratives of immigration at the Canadian Museum of Immigration, housed in the historic Pier 21.

3. Fairview Lawn Cemetery: Pay your respects to the victims of the sinking of the Titanic. This is the final resting place for over one hundred of the ship’s victims, more than anywhere else in the world.

Recommended Halifax tours

Where to eat in Halifax

Drift

Drift is located in the recently-developed Queen’s Marque, Halifax’s new waterfront cultural district. Drift is a contemporary restaurant that reinterprets classic Atlantic Canadian dishes, using local and seasonal ingredients. Don’t miss out on the plumpest oysters ever!

A serving of mussels with a sauce in the middle, accompanied by a slice of lemon and a backdrop of brown bread, unfolds an outdoor restaurant dining area—embodying the culinary experience of 5 days in Nova Scotia.

Where to stay in Halifax

The Westin Nova Scotian

A small bedroom of the Westin Nova Scotian, featuring a pristine white bed with pillows and flanked by two side tables with lamps. A nearby window adds a touch of natural light, encapsulating the cozy essence of 5 days in Nova Scotia seamlessly.

Halifax has so many options for accommodation that it would be hard to pick just one. I stayed at The Westin Nova Scotian, which is conveniently located in the heart of Downtown Halifax

> Book The Westin Nova Scotian here

These are other highly recommended places to stay in Halifax.

Day 2 – Lighthouse Route

Your second day takes you along the picturesque Lighthouse Route, one of the most spectacular driving routes in Nova Scotia, all the way to Lunenburg.

Among the rolling hillsides, yellow Camphorweed and tall grass create a vibrant tapestry, offering a view of a nearby water body and distant buildings. The scene under cloudy skies captures the natural beauty of the 5 days in Nova Scotia.

Make your first stop at Duncan’s Cove and start the day with a short hike. The full Duncan’s Cove Trail is 7.2km long, but a short hike will give you a good take of its rugged beauty, and mesmerising ocean views.

The next stop should be the quaint village of Peggy’s Cove, with its iconic lighthouse. 

Against the backdrop of dark skies, a tall white lighthouse with a striking red roof stands on a stone mound. A person gazes into the distance beside the building, while clear water in the foreground completes the captivating scene—encapsulating the maritime allure of 5 days in Nova Scotia.

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, perched against the Atlantic backdrop, is a symbol of Nova Scotia’s nautical tradition and the most photographed lighthouse in Canada. You will want to take tons of photos here!

Along a vibrant street, a row of barn-type buildings housing businesses painted in bright colors of red, blue, and yellow unfolds under the cloudy skies—inviting you to experience the lively charm of 5 days in Nova Scotia.

Continue on to the charming town of Mahone Bay, celebrated for its three historic churches and a vibrant artisan community. This beautiful fishing village is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, and for a spot of lunch.

A small red houses on a stone mound just beside the crystal waters with the background of trees under cloud skies

Before making it to the final stop, take a little detour from the Lighthouse Route and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of Blue Rocks, a quaint little fishing village with the most serene coastal beauty that has inspired artists for decades.

The wooden building of the Victorian House Lunenburg painted in pink with a green lawn under cloud skies

Lunenburg is the perfect place to conclude this section of your Nova Scotia road trip. Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its colourful streets and rich maritime history, so you want to give yourself enough time to discover its fascinating history.

A hand holding a small shot glass with the words "IRONWORKS" and a symbol painted on it, while a red concoction fills it. In the background, a golden metallic brewery is visible.

Lunenburg was at the centre of the rum running industry during the prohibition era, and as you’ll be done with driving for the day, this is the perfect opportunity to visit Ironworks Distillery and enjoy a rum tasting session.

Other places to visit along the Lighthouse Route

1. Acadian Maple Products: Shop for maple syrup products and indulge your taste buds with locally-produced maple-infused delights at this maple syrup lover’s heaven.

2. Queensland Beach: A bright white sand beach with crystal clear turquoise waters, said to be one of the best beaches in Nova Scotia. 

A small dock with an elevated and floating boardwalk on crystal-clear waters, featuring several small boats. The background showcases trees under the bright blue sky.

3. Chester: A picturesque seaside resort village with a handful of coves that’s best known for its stately residences and summer yacht races.

Recommended Lighthouse Route tour

If you are not driving yourself, this tour is an alternative way of visiting the Lighthouse Route in Nova Scotia.

Where to eat along the Lighthouse Route

Mateus Bistro, Mahone Bay

Mateus Bistro is one of the most popular restaurants in Mahone Bay and along the Lighthouse Route. The really friendly service and their Mediterranean style terrace give it a really welcoming and casual feel. Don’t miss out on the chowder. Utterly delicious!

A bowl of white creamy soup with spices and a mussel in the center, served alongside mason jars of water and a cold red drink with two straws featuring red and white stripes, accompanied by slices of lemon.

The Grand Banker Bar & Grill, Lunenburg

Located on the historic waterfront, The Grand Banker serves the freshest seafood and produce, all sourced from local farmers and fishermen. Not only is their food delicious, but the views of the harbour are stunning too. Their Acadian Cajun Seafood stew and their scallops are to die for! 

A bowl of yellow creamy soup with cuts of carrots and other vegetables, black mussels, and a slice of lemon, topped with chives, served with slices of bread.

Where to stay in Lunenburg

I stayed at the charming Rum Runners Inn, a family run little hotel with some of the best views of the harbour in town

> Book the Rum Runners Inn here

A bedroom with a white bed, two white pillows, and two colorful ones on the gray carpeted floor between two lighted lamps on wooden side tables. The room features tall sliding glass windows in a white-painted wall of the Rumrunners Inn

These are other highly recommended places to stay in Lunenburg.

Day 3 – Lunenburg

Lunenburg is an incredibly delightful town, with streets lined with brightly-coloured buildings and a fascinating history. It is probably my favourite place in Nova Scotia, and I’m confident that you will want to spend at least one full day in Lunenburg.

A red Mustang parked at the side of the road in front of the barn-type building of the Gail Patriarche Gallery, painted in blue with small glass windows on top and large ones on the ground floor, under clear bright blue skies.

The first thing you’ll want to do is immerse yourself in the town’s vibrant streets lined with historic architecture and lively storefronts. Lunenburg is a photographers’ paradise and every street and building of this picturesque town presents a photo opportunity.

I am on the small bricked patio near the door on the side of a neon-green painted building under clear, bright blue skies.

Old Town Lunenburg is the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America, which has granted it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The Lunenburg Academy, an iconic historic structure, stands tall with its red-brick facade adorned with intricate architectural details. Elegant windows and well-preserved features showcase its heritage charm. Surrounded by greenery and a parking space with cars under cloudy skies.

One of the best ways of learning about the charm and history of Lunenburg is by joining a historic walking tour. You will start at the Lunenburg Academy Foundation, an imposing wooden Victorian building in the eclectic style.

The front of St. John's Anglican Church is beautiful, with a pointed arch entrance, detailed stone work, and colorful stained glass windows. The mix of brick and stone gives it a historic and charming feel under cloudy skies

The tour weaves through town, stopping at various buildings of significance, including St John’s Anglican Church, the second oldest protestant church in Canada, and an architectural masterpiece, and concludes at the picturesque waterfront.

A wooden boat docked beside a boardwalk on a still crystal clear waters with the reflection of the cloudy skies and a small green island at the back

You will also learn about Canada’s most famous ship, the iconic Bluenose II, a replica of the original Bluenose schooner. This elegant ship symbolises Nova Scotia and Canada’s seafaring legacy, and it appears on the Canadian dime (10 cents) coin.

A red barn buildings of the Fisheries Museum on the side of the road with four flag poles beside it under cloudy skies

Don’t miss the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, where you can dive into Lunenburg’s maritime heritage. It features exhibits on fishing, boatbuilding, and seafaring traditions.

In the evening, enjoy some live music at a local pub on Main Street.

Other places to visit in Lunenburg

1. Fisherman’s Memorial: Located on the waterfront, this moving memorial pays homage to the more than 700 people who lost their lives at sea in this fishing community.

Sitting on a foldable red chair with a yellow round foldable table, there is one yellow foldable chair and another blue foldable chair on a boardwalk. In the background, there's a view of the waters with the red barn buildings of the coastal town under cloudy skies.

2. Berlin Wall: Surprisingly (or not!), there is a piece of the Berlin Wall in Lunenburg that honours the German heritage of the area. You can find it in front of the Lunenburg Legion.

3. Knaut-Rhuland House Museum: A historic house museum that gives you a glimpse into the daily life of early settlers in the region.

Recommended Lunenburg tour

Where to eat in Lunenburg

The Grand Banker Bar & Grill

As mentioned, The Grand Banker serves the freshest seafood and produce sourced from local farmers and fishermen. Not only is their food delicious, but the views of the harbour are stunning too. Their Acadian Cajun Seafood stew and their scallops are to die for!

Sea scallops served with a cup of rice, topped with chives, and accompanied by slices of lemon and string beans on a rectangular white plate, set on a wooden table.

The Savvy Sailor Cafe

Voted one of Nova Scotia’s top 10 seafood restaurants, The Savvy Sailor Cafe serves local food with a unique twist. Don’t miss breakfast here. I had the brekky bun and it was so good, I could have easily had two!

A red barn building painted in yellow with lines, a blue doorway, and windows, while a red door is at the front under cloudy skies.

Where to stay in Lunenburg

Rum Runners Inn

An aerial view of a large red barn building with a spacious parking area beside it. In the background, a body of water and an island are visible under cloudy skies.

Rum Runners Inn is a charming family run little hotel with some of the best harbour views in the town. I would happily stay here again

> Book the Rum Runners Inn here

These are other highly recommended places to stay in Lunenburg.

Day 4 – Kejimkujik National Park and Digby

The next morning, leave the town for the natural beauty of Kejimkujik National Park, one of three national parks in Nova Scotia.

A stone island in the foreground is surrounded by crystal-clear waters under cloudy skies, with a green island in the background.

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, Kejimkujik National Park is also a Historic National Site, where you can connect with Mi’kmaq culture and explore Mi’kmaq petroglyphs on a guided tour with a Mi’kmaq guide. 

A view of a white stone wall with lines of red-hued petroglyphs.

You can also follow Mi’kmaq historic trails and canoe routes accompanied by a guide. Tracing the footsteps of the Mi’kmaq people will give you a deeper understanding of their cultural legacy and their relationship with the land.

A Mi'kmaq dwelling, shaped like an upside-down cone, with sticks holding up fabric walls in the middle of an open space, surrounded by tall trees, and featuring a log for seating.

Later, drive towards Digby but don’t stop here just yet. Keep going all the way to Point Prim Lighthouse, a spectacular spot with panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy.

Drive back to the charming town of Digby and conclude your day with a breathtaking sunset view from Admiral’s Walk, a waterfront promenade offering the perfect ending to your coastal exploration.

Pink with hues of white Hydrangea flowers in the foreground, surrounded by a green field, and with blue waters in the background under blue skies with hues of yellow for sunset.

Just one more thing before the end of day… Don’t go to bed without trying the famous Digby scallops.

Other places to visit in Kejimkujik National Park and Digby

1. Merrymakedge Beach: A sandy beach on the shores of Kejimkujik Lake and a great spot to relax or go for a swim during the summer.

2. Balancing Rock Trail: A 2.5km trail with a 235-step staircase that leads to a viewing platform from where you can enjoy a fantastic view of St Mary’s Bay and the Balancing Rock, a narrow vertical column of basalt balanced on its tip.

3. Admiral Digby Museum: Travel back 150 years in the oldest structure in Digby, and enjoy a great collection of archives and artefacts related to the town’s history.

Where to eat in Digby

The Crow’s Nest

Located on Digby’s waterfront, The Crow’s Nest serves super fresh locally sourced seafood. It’s one of the best places in town to try the world-famous Digby scallops. Their seafood chowder and fried clams are also delicious!

Fried bacon-wrapped eggs served on a white plate with curved details. One egg is being held up with a fork, and there's a blurry view of a salad in the background.

Where to stay in Digby

Hotel Gollner

An aerial view of a wedding taking place in a grass field, with a long building in the background, surrounded by trees and blue waters.

I stayed at Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa, a charming Norman-style chateau and Nova Scotian institution with gorgeous views of the bay.

It was built in 1929, it is one of the best hotels in the province and has the best golf course too. Located on the edge of Digby, it’s only a few minutes walk from downtown Digby

> Book Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa here

These are other highly recommended places to stay in Digby.

Day 5 – Annapolis Royal and Wolfville

On your final day, drive to the historic town of Annapolis Royal, a beautiful seaside community with well preserved heritage buildings.

A yellow-paneled, two-story building with an attic under bright blue skies with scattered clouds, featuring some potted plants in front of the house.

Nestled in the heart of the scenic Annapolis Valley, the history of the area goes back thousands of years. It is located in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral lands of the Mi’kmaq.

Annapolis Royal, as we know it today, used to be known as Port Royal, a settlement founded by the French in 1605. It is one of the settlements with the longest history in North America. It was the capital of Acadia, until the founding of Halifax in 1949.

A white barn-type building with three white chimneys, with cars parked nearby in the middle of a green field, while trees are in the background under cloudy, bright blue skies.

Wander through its charming streets and visit Fort Anne National Historic Site, where you can get a glimpse into Acadian culture. The Fort has spectacular views of the Annapolis River.

The Statue of Evangeline in the foreground with a view of the church featuring a tall tower in the middle, surrounded by green fields and bushes leading to the church under clear blue skies.

Continue your exploration of Acadian people, Canada’s first French settlers, by visiting Grand Pré National Historic Site. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a monument to Acadian culture and deportation.

Aerial view of fields and patches of many trees with a sight of blue waters in the background under bright blue skies.

Grand Pré is considered the ancestral home of the Acadians and the gateway to a historic landscape comprising farm-fields, marshes and dykelands that make up the UNESCO listed Landscape of Grand-Pré.

Drive back towards Wolfville, a small town at the heart of the Nova Scotia wine growing and making scene. So this is the perfect place to go for a wine tasting session.

A bar table with wine glasses filled with different types of wines from the bottles at the back.

I was lucky that I had a sober designated driver, so I was able to enjoy a tasting in the Domaine de Grand Pré Winery, a picturesque winery and Atlantic Canada’s oldest. Don’t miss Tidal Bay, Nova Scotia’s signature wine.

There is also a great way to explore the wineries of the area without the worry of having to drive. You can take the Winery Magic Bus, a vintage double decker bus that will take you around the local wineries.

A red lobster served on an oval deep plate with a view of a dock and crystal-clear water, along with a coastal town under clear blue skies.

Finish the last day of your Nova Scotia adventure with a delicious whole lobster meal at Halls Harbour Lobster Pound, set against the backdrop of a stunning sunset.

Other places to visit in Annapolis Royal and Wolfville

1. Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens: Beautiful gardens overlooking the tidal river valley, showcasing gardening methods and designs representing more than four hundred years of local history.

2. Horton Landing: A poignant spot believed to be the exact location where the Acadians waited for the ships to deport them in 1755.

Me holding blueberries in my hands while wearing a colorful top, with a blurry view of a green field and trees in the background.

3. Blueberry picking (August only): If you happen to be in Wolfville in August, don’t miss going blueberry picking at Elderkin’s Farm, on the outskirts of town.

Where to eat in Annapolis Royal and Wolfville

Fort Anne Cafe, Annapolis Royal

Fort Anne Cafe is the perfect spot for lunch before you set off for Grand Pré and Wolfville. Really friendly service and deliciously light fish & chips!

A slice of coated fried fish with a lemon slice in a box with white and green checkered paper, with a view of a crystal-clear river surrounded by a grassy field.

Halls Harbour Lobster Pound, Halls Harbour

A working lobster pound located in the quaint village of Halls Harbour. Pick your lobster straight from the live tank and they will prepare it for you there and then. Go at the end of the day to enjoy the most spectacular sunset from one of their terraces.

Me in a lobster-designed food bib, holding an oval white plate with a cooked red lobster inside a white restaurant.

Where to stay in Wolfville

I stayed in a historic hotel that fell short on service and customer care, so I would like to recommend the highly rated Tattingstone Inn as an alternative place to stay in Wolfville.

Tattingstone Inn is an elegant historic hotel nestled in manicured grounds in the heart of Wolfville

> Book Tattingstone Inn here

If you have more than 5 days in Nova Scotia

This 5 day Nova Scotia road trip itinerary focuses mostly on the south east of the province, however, there is so much more to discover.

A fisherman's barn, painted in gray, is situated near a blue body of water with a view of the green mountain in the background under cloudy, bright skies with some clouds.

Ideally you’d want more time to explore further. There are just so many interesting and unique places to visit in Nova Scotia that you would need a long time to see them all.

Saying this, if you have more than 5 days in Nova Scotia, consider adding the following places to your itinerary:

Me sitting on a bench just outside a fish and chips shop pained in blue with lines painted in pink with a large glass window with their phone number and fish holding a cone of fries
  • South Shore (beyond the Lighthouse Route): Quaint fishing villages and stunning white-sand beaches that would rival any of the Caribbean beaches.
  • Yarmouth & Acadian Shores: If you are a stargazing lover, this region is part of North America’s first starlight destination, with some of the darkest skies in Canada.
  • Truro or South Maitland: These two towns have the best spots to experience the famous tidal bore of the Bay of Fundy.
Two blue wooden sun lounger beside a lamp post on a dock under sunset skies with a boats in the background
  • Cabot Trail: The Cabot Trail is a must-visit destination if you have more than 5 days in Nova Scotia. The trail is a 298 km scenic drive that takes you through the heart of Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
  • Cape Breton: Beside the Cabot Trail, Cape Breton is the location of the famous Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, the Glace Bay Miners Museum, the town of Sydney, and Goat Island.

Nova Scotia FAQs

What Is Nova Scotia Most Known For?

Nova Scotia, part of Atlantic Canada, is best known for its breathtaking coastlines, vibrant cultural scene, friendly locals, and mouthwateringly fresh seafood.

Me on a rock surrounded by green bushes with small yellow flowers, a red small barn nearby, and some houses in the background under cloudy skies, reflected on the crystal-clear waters.

The province showcases stunning landscapes, such as the famous Bay of Fundy, home to the world’s highest tides (with a difference of 16 metres between high tide and low tide), and Cape Breton Island, a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

In Nova Scotia, you can explore the picturesque fishing villages along the Lighthouse Route, Kejimkujik National Park’s sacred trails, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and traditions.

Are 5 Days Enough in Nova Scotia?

While this 5 day itinerary of Nova Scotia gives you plenty of time to visit key destinations, extending your stay would allow for more exploration, such as visiting Cape Breton, or delving deeper into the charming villages of the South Shore, and even Prince Edward Island.

A curved boardwalk with a view of the white lighthouse with a red roof on a rocky mound, with people walking around it under cloudy skies, and the view of the blue waters in the background.
What Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Nova Scotia?

The best time to visit Nova Scotia is between May and October, when the weather is generally mild and pleasurable. 

Me in a yellow dress on a boardwalk with people walking in the background and a large white boat docked at the back, along with a small ticketing building, under bright blue skies with some white clouds.

Summertime, in particular, presents an assortment of outdoor festivals and events, sunny beach days, and lush greenery.

Autumn showcases impressive fall foliage, especially in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Bear in mind, however, that peak tourist season tends to be from July to August, so booking accommodations in advance is advisable.

Can I Travel Around Nova Scotia by Public Transport?

While public transport options are available in Nova Scotia, they are limited outside of Halifax and major towns. To make the most of your visit, it is highly recommended to rent a car. 

> Find the best deals for rental cars here

A river at low tide with boats parked on wet land, a large building, and trees in the background, with pebbles in the foreground under the sunset skies of blue and orange hues.

Self-driving ensures a flexible schedule and allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations that public transport may not service.

Most key attractions, such as the South Shore or Kejimkujik National Park, can be reached within a short drive, enabling you to make the most of it, especially if you don’t have much time.

How to get to Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia is well-connected to mainland Canada, as well as other parts of North America and the world. The most common ways to reach the province are:

By Air

Halifax Stanfield International Airport serves as the main entry point for travellers, with numerous direct flights from major Canadian, American, and European cities. I use Skyscanner to find the best deals.

> Compare flight deals with Skyscanner here

The Blomidon Inn with pink-painted walls and white glass windows. In front of the building, there are bushes of green leafy plants with some pink and yellow flowers in the foreground under bright blue skies.

By Car

If you are exploring other Canadian provinces like New Brunswick, you can easily drive into Nova Scotia via the Trans-Canada Highway.

> Compare rental car deals with Discover Cars here

The Grand-Pré National Historic Site with a tall bell tower in the middle, while a gravel path leads from the foreground to the church surrounded by green fields with bushes, under clear blue skies.

By Ferry

Several ferries operate between Nova Scotia and points such as New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and even Maine in the United States.

> Book your ferry tickets in advance here

Do you have any questions about this itinerary of 5 days in Nova Scotia?
Let me know in the comments!

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5 days in Nova Scotia: An Amazing Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary
5 days in Nova Scotia: An Amazing Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary

Disclosure: This post has been created as a partnership with Nova Scotia Tourism. As always, all views are my own.