Halifax is a fantastic base for exploring Nova Scotia’s coast and charming towns. Its proximity to stunning landmarks like Peggy’s Cove and historic sites such as Lunenburg makes it an ideal starting point for full-day adventures. What we love about these tours is their mix of iconic sights and local secrets, often with knowledgeable guides who bring the region to life. For example, the Peggy’s Cove & Lunenburg + 3 Hidden Gems tour offers a classic coastal experience along with lesser-known spots like the Ovens Sea Caves—perfect if you want more than just the postcard views. And for a deeper dive into local history, the Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg and Titanic Cemetery tour combines scenic coastal drives with a visit to the somber Titanic burial site.
If you’re after a more luxurious experience, the Best of Nova Scotia: Full-Day Private Luxury Tour takes you in style to top destinations with a dedicated guide, though it’s pricier. Meanwhile, those short on time but craving a comprehensive taste of Halifax and its surroundings will find the Full Day Halifax Tour with Local Guide very practical. The options are varied but all share a focus on authentic experiences and great scenery.
1. Peggy’s Cove & Lunenburg + 3 Hidden Gems – Full Day Tour
This small-group tour is a favorite for its broad scope and relaxed pace, combining Nova Scotia’s most famous coastal highlight with some lesser-known delights. Starting from Halifax, your guide will take you to Peggy’s Cove, where the lighthouse stands watch over the Atlantic—perfect for photos and soaking in that fresh sea air. Next, the tour ventures into Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its colorful buildings and maritime charm. Here, you’ll have about an hour and a half to explore, including visits to the Fisheries Museum if you wish.
What sets this tour apart is the visit to the Ovens Sea Caves, a natural wonder where ancient rock formations create striking sea caves along the coast. Plus, you’ll stop at the BernArt Maze—a whimsical sculpture park showcasing Nova Scotian art—unless it’s closed, then an alternate hidden spot. The tour is praised for its friendly guide (Mike, in reviews), who makes it feel personalized and includes stops many larger tours miss. For less than $156, you get a comprehensive look at the coast with plenty of photo opportunities and local flavor.
Bottom Line: This tour hits all the big icons and secret spots, making it ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded, small-group experience with flexible stops.
2. Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, and Titanic Cemetery Full Day Tour
For around $119, this popular tour packs a lot into 6 to 7 hours, making it perfect if your time is limited but you still want a thorough taste of Nova Scotia’s coast. It kicks off with a scenic drive from Halifax to Peggy’s Cove, where you’ll have about an hour to take in the stunning views of the lighthouse and rugged shoreline. The tour then continues south to Lunenburg, a 2-hour stop where you can walk along cobblestone streets, admire the colorful historic buildings, and learn about the town’s maritime significance.
A notable feature is visiting the Titanic cemetery at Fairview Lawn, where over 100 Titanic victims are buried—an unexpectedly poignant highlight. The guide provides storytelling that connects these sites with Halifax’s broader maritime history. Reviewers appreciate the good balance of sightseeing and free time, though some mention the tight schedule at the Titanic Cemetery, which might be brief if pickups are later in the day.
Practical for travelers on a tight schedule, this tour offers a mix of scenic coastal views, maritime history, and the emotional weight of the Titanic connection—all at a very reasonable price.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history lovers and those wanting a full, fast-paced overview of Nova Scotia’s coast, with meaningful stops like the Titanic cemetery.
3. Best of Nova Scotia: Full-Day Private Luxury Tour
If you prefer traveling in style and with a personal touch, this upscale private tour promises an 8-hour journey through Nova Scotia’s top sights in a luxury vehicle. Starting from your hotel or cruise port, your driver will customize the experience based on your interests, but typical stops include Peggy’s Cove, Mahone Bay—famous for its three historic churches—and Lunenburg. You’ll also visit Ovens Natural Park to explore the sea caves and coastal trails, one of the region’s most dramatic scenic spots, which we recommend checking out on this experience.
Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and flexibility, making this perfect for travelers who want privacy, comfort, and a tailored itinerary. The cost is higher at over $644 per group (up to 7 people), but many feel the exclusivity and personalized service are worth it. It’s a great option for special occasions or travelers who dislike large groups and want to avoid rushing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a private, flexible, and luxurious way to see Nova Scotia’s highlights with expert guidance.
$644.25 per group (up to 7)
4. Full Day Halifax Tour with Local Guide – Private Group Tour
This private tour offers a carefully curated 8-hour experience exploring Halifax and its surroundings. Starting with a pickup from your hotel or cruise terminal, your guide will take you through Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, and Peggy’s Cove, with stops tailored to your interests. The 30-minute visit to Mahone Bay to see the iconic three churches is a highlight, with time to browse local shops. Then, the visit to Peggy’s Cove provides about an hour to enjoy the lighthouse and rocky shoreline.
Additional stops include the Swissair Flight 111 Memorial, which offers a sobering reflection on a tragic accident. The tour is held in a comfortable vehicle, with the driver sharing stories and insights along the way. Reviewers mention the guide’s flexibility and the ability to customize the day, making it a good choice for families or groups with specific interests.
At around $705 for up to six people, it balances comfort, personalization, and accessible pricing, ideal if you want an intimate, in-depth day with a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for groups wanting a customizable, private experience with the benefit of local insights, especially if comfort and flexibility are priorities.
5. Full-Day Private Nova Scotia Wine Tour from Halifax
For lovers of wine and scenic drives, this private wine tour takes you through the Annapolis Valley’s best vineyards. Starting from your accommodation, your chauffeur will guide you to Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards, known for its sustainable practices and exceptional cool-climate wines, and Luckett Vineyards, famed for its picturesque setting and distinctive reds. The visit includes tastings and the chance to explore the vineyards’ unique charm, along with time in the historic town of Wolfville, which offers local eateries and shops.
While this tour is relatively short at about 6 hours and costs around $944 per person, it’s ideal if you want to combine wine tasting with scenic vistas. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at local winemaking, paired with stunning views of the rolling landscape. It’s best suited for travelers with a passion for wine and a desire for an intimate, leisurely experience. Note that reviews are currently unavailable, but the tour’s focus on two renowned wineries makes it a compelling option for wine enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Perfect for oenophiles seeking an exclusive, relaxed day exploring Nova Scotia’s emerging wine scene.
$944.88 per person
6. Halifax Shore Excursion Full Day Private Tour for Small Groups
Ideal for cruise passengers or those with limited time, this 7-hour private tour covers the highlights with flexibility. Starting with a visit to the Swissair Flight 111 Memorial, the tour then proceeds to Peggy’s Cove for about an hour of coastal scenery. Next, you’ll visit Lunenburg, a UNESCO site, with enough time to walk the colorful streets and see the famous Bluenose schooner if it’s in port.
The tour also includes a stop in Mahone Bay, known for its Three Churches, and finishes back in Halifax with a walk along the waterfront. The guide offers personalized attention, making sure you hit your preferred sights comfortably within the timeframe. The price is $316 per person, making it accessible for small groups or families.
Reviewers appreciate the scenic drives and the emotional impact of visiting the Titanic burial site at Fairview Lawn Cemetery, which adds a meaningful layer to the trip.
Bottom Line: A practical, flexible option for cruise travelers who want to see the coast without feeling rushed, with meaningful historical stops.
$316.06 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Halifax Full-Day Tour
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interest areas, and fitness level. If you love natural scenery and iconic landmarks, the Peggy’s Cove & Lunenburg + 3 Hidden Gems tour offers a well-rounded experience. For those fascinated by maritime history, the Titanic Cemetery visit in the second tour adds emotional depth. Travelers who prefer privacy and a tailored experience should look at the full private luxury or private guided options. Wine enthusiasts will enjoy the private wine tour, while cruise passengers should consider the shore excursion for its efficient, comprehensive coverage.
Practical tips include booking early for private tours, especially in peak summer months, when spots fill quickly. Think about how much time you want to spend at each site—some tours give longer at towns like Lunenburg, while others focus on quick scenic drives with highlights.
Final Thoughts
Halifax offers a variety of full-day tours suited to different interests and budgets. If you want an immersive experience combining scenic coastal spots and lesser-known secret places, the Peggy’s Cove & Lunenburg + 3 Hidden Gems tour is hard to beat. For a meaningful history experience, the Titanic Cemetery tour provides a poignant look at Nova Scotia’s maritime past. And for those seeking comfort and privacy, the private luxury or private guided tours deliver personalized service and flexibility.
Whatever your choice, booking early ensures you secure your spot for these popular experiences. Each tour offers a different lens on Halifax and its surroundings—pick one that matches your interests, and enjoy exploring this captivating part of Canada.