The Coolest Neighbourhoods In Halifax Nova Scotia

The majority of tourists rightfully flock to Halifax’s downtown, but this is by no means the only happening neighbourhood! Take a look at our list of the coolest areas in the city.

The North End

The North End has undergone a major transformation in recent years, and what was once a pretty sketchy part of town is now one of the most happening spots in the city. Basically Halifax’s version of Brooklyn, come here for hip coffee shops like Lion & Bright and Seven Bays, cool restaurants including EDNA and vegan Envie, and bars and beer gardens galore. You’ll also find cool vintage shops, spas, and beautifully restored town homes. Just a walk through the streets here will make you feel a little bit cooler.

Downtown

Halifax’s beautiful downtown is constantly evolving, and you’ll find an inviting blend of new cool restaurants and shops mixed with old historic buildings. Couple this with views of the ocean, pretty parks, friendly locals, and a bustling waterfront, and you’ve got an amazing place to visit.

The Hydrostone

This picturesque spot is like a little slice of Europe right in the middle of Halifax. It’s really more of a street than a full neighbourhood, but it really packs a punch. Quaint shops, cafes, boutiques, and salons line both sides of the street, with a small park running through the middle. Compare pizza slices at Mother’s Pizza and Salvatore’s, grab a coffee and pastry at Julian’s, and shop for treasures at Lady Luck and Made in the Maritimes.

Downtown Dartmouth

Hop across the harbour and explore the tiny but mighty downtown Dartmouth. A number of new establishments have opened in recent years and between the building of the new living complex, King’s Wharf, and the area’s ‘I Heart Dartmouth’ campaign, the formerly rather empty downtown has become a bustling hub. Visit the neighbourhood for Two If By Sea’s city wide famous croissants, hipster eats at The Canteen, beers at Battery Park, and killer views of downtown Halifax. The ferry ride over to Dartmouth is a fun experience too!

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.