Scenic Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary: Explore Coastal Beauty and Historic Towns

Day 1: Explore Halifax

Halifax, Canada on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Coastal Cafe

Start your day with fresh seafood-inspired breakfast dishes served with locally roasted coffee at this popular spot open from 7am to 2pm.
CAD20, 1h

9:30am

Visit Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Explore the star-shaped fort and enjoy panoramic views of the city while learning about Nova Scotia's military history. Open 9am-5pm.
CAD12, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Bicycle Thief

Enjoy authentic Italian dishes overlooking the Halifax waterfront, open from 11:30am to 9:30pm for a memorable meal.
CAD30, 1h

2:00pm

Walk along Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

Stroll the scenic waterfront path dotted with shops, museums, and cafes, perfect for soaking in local culture. Open all day.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Discover Nova Scotia's rich maritime heritage including exhibits on the Titanic and Halifax Explosion. Open 10am-5pm.
CAD14, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Five Fishermen

Savour upscale seafood dishes in an elegant 19th-century building, open till 10pm.
CAD45, 1.5h

Day 2: Historic Lunenburg

Lunenburg, Canada on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Mockingbird Kitchen

Enjoy a farm-to-table breakfast with locally sourced ingredients in a cozy, artistic space. Open 7:30am-2pm.
CAD18, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Lunenburg (1.5h from Halifax)

Scenic drive along the southern coast to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg.
Fuel CAD20, 1.5h

10:30am

Walk Lunenburg’s Old Town

Explore colourful waterfront buildings, museums, and craft shops in this charming historic fishing village.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Salt Shaker Deli & Cafe

Casual spot offering fresh seafood and homemade baked goods. Open 11:30am to 3pm.
CAD25, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic

Learn about maritime history and fishing industry with interactive exhibits. Open 9:30am-5:30pm.
CAD14, 1.5h

4:00pm

Drive to Cape Breton Island (3.5h to Inverness)

Drive north to Cape Breton Island with scenic views en route. Rest stops recommended.
Fuel CAD40, 3.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Sea Crest Motel Restaurant, Inverness

Enjoy fresh local seafood tucked away in a cozy setting, open till 9pm.
CAD35, 1h

Day 3: Cape Breton Highlands

Cape Breton Island, Canada on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bayside Restaurant, Inverness

Hearty breakfast with a view of the harbor, open 7am-11am.
CAD20, 1h

9:00am

Drive Cabot Trail and Visit Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Drive the famous Cabot Trail, stop for hikes and breathtaking coastal views. Park opens dawn to dusk.
CAD9.10 per person park fee, 5h

2:30pm

Lunch at The Dancing Goat Cafe in Baddeck

Enjoy organic dishes and freshly baked goods in a charming cafe. Opens 8am to 4pm.
CAD20, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site

Explore exhibits on the inventor’s life and work. Open 9am-5pm.
CAD13, 1.5h

5:30pm

Drive back to Halifax (4h)

Return drive to Halifax to complete the loop, with optional stops for stretch breaks.
Fuel CAD45, 4h

9:30pm

Late Dinner at Edna Restaurant, Halifax

End your trip with a farm-to-table menu featuring local ingredients. Open Tues-Sat until 10pm.
CAD40, 1.5h

Day 4: Depart Halifax

Halifax, Canada on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Two If By Sea Cafe

Popular spot for excellent pastries and coffee, open 7am-3pm.
CAD15, 1h

9:30am

Departure

Prepare for departure or explore any last-minute shops or waterfront views before leaving.
Free, Flexible