Halifax 5-Day Trip Itinerary
Halifax Trip - Apr 2, 2026 to Apr 6, 2026
A scenic 5-day road trip from Ajax to Halifax for Spring 2026, covering a mix of historical, cultural, natural, and coastal experiences. The itinerary includes significant driving days with engaging stops in Montreal, Saint John, and along Nova Scotia's beautiful coastline, culminating in two nights exploring Halifax. This plan covers the journey one-way; please let me know if you'd like suggestions for your return trip.
Drive to Montreal & Old City Charm
Thursday, April 2Drive to Montreal
Begin your road trip from Ajax, heading east towards Montreal.
Enjoy the changing landscapes as you cross into Quebec.
Approximately 5.5-6 hours driving time, excluding stops. Plan for fuel and rest stops along the 401 East.
Lunch in Montreal
Grab a classic Montreal smoked meat sandwich or poutine at a local eatery.
Explore Old Montreal
Wander through the historic streets of Old Montreal.
Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica and explore Rue Saint-Paul's boutiques and galleries.
Dinner in Montreal
Enjoy an evening meal at one of Montreal's renowned restaurants.
Quebec City & Drive to Saint John
Friday, April 3Drive to Quebec City
Continue your journey with a scenic drive along the St.
Lawrence River to Quebec City.
Approximately 3 hours driving time.
Quebec City Lookout
Take a short stop to admire the iconic Château Frontenac and the panoramic views from Dufferin Terrace.
Lunch in Quebec City
Grab a quick bite in the historic Upper Town before continuing your drive.
Drive to Saint John, NB
Embark on the longest leg of your journey, driving through rural Quebec and into New Brunswick, heading for the coastal city of Saint John.
Approximately 6-7 hours driving time, excluding stops. Be sure to factor in time for border crossing and breaks.
Reversing Falls Rapids
Upon arrival, head to see the unique Reversing Falls Rapids, where the Bay of Fundy's powerful tides clash with the Saint John River.
Check tide times for the best viewing.
Late Dinner in Saint John
Enjoy a well-deserved dinner after a long day of driving.
Coastal Views & Peggy's Cove to Halifax
Saturday, April 4Drive towards Nova Scotia
Start your drive from Saint John, enjoying scenic sections along the New Brunswick coast and towards the Nova Scotia border.
Approximately 4 hours driving time to the Nova Scotia border, consider taking a portion of the Fundy Trail Parkway for stunning views if time allows.
Lunch en route
Stop for lunch in a charming town as you make your way through Nova Scotia.
Scenic Drive to Peggy's Cove
Enjoy the picturesque drive along the South Shore, leading to the iconic Peggy's Cove.
Explore Peggy's Cove
Visit the quintessential fishing village of Peggy's Cove, famous for its lighthouse perched on a granite outcrop.
Drive to Halifax
Complete the final leg of your road trip to Halifax.
Hotel Check-in
Check into your luxurious hotel in downtown Halifax.
Dinner in Halifax
Enjoy a delightful dinner at a Halifax restaurant, perhaps sampling some fresh seafood.
Historic Halifax & Waterfront Wonders
Sunday, April 5Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Step back in time at this impressive 19th-century fort with a sweeping view of downtown Halifax.
Explore its history and enjoy the daily re-enactments (seasonal).
Lunch in Downtown Halifax
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the Citadel or waterfront.
Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk
Stroll along the lively Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk.
Explore shops, public art, and enjoy the harbour views.
Art Gallery of Nova Scotia
Discover provincial and Canadian artwork at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, home to Maud Lewis's charming house.
Dinner in Halifax
Savour a final dinner in Halifax, perhaps exploring a different neighbourhood or cuisine.
Halifax Morning & Departure
Monday, April 6Breakfast in Halifax
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before preparing for your departure.
Last-Minute Shopping
Grab any last-minute souvenirs or gifts from local shops in Halifax.
Prepare for Departure
Check out from your hotel and begin your onward journey or prepare for the return trip.
This 5-day itinerary for Halifax can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.