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Two people sitting in Adirondack chairs on a wharf along the Halifax Waterfront , watching a sailboat sailing between the waterfront boardwalk and Georges Island on a summery day in Nova Scotia

Moncton to Halifax: A No-Car, No-Hassle Coastal Getaway by Train

4 days

  • Location An icon to show the location Halifax Metro

Swap the drive for a relaxed, scenic rail journey and discover how easy a Halifax getaway can be, no car required. With a walkable downtown, waterfront views, and plenty to see and do, this itinerary makes for an effortless escape in any season.

1 Day 1: Easy Arrival & Waterfront Evenings

Depart Moncton mid-afternoon and settle in for a comfortable train ride to Halifax (approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes). Once you arrive, check in to a conveniently located stay like The Westin Nova Scotian or The Halliburton, both just steps from the train station. Or, opt for Four Points by Sheraton Halifax or The Hollis Halifax, a short 10-12 minute walk away.

Spend your first evening unwinding with a stroll along the waterfront boardwalk, followed by a delicious dinner at a nearby restaurant. End the day with dessert or a nightcap before turning in.

Two people dining on the patio of Water Polo, one of the newest restaurants on the Halifax Boardwalk in Nova Scotia
Water Polo, Halifax Waterfront

2 Day 2: Explore, Taste & Discover

Start your day with coffee from a local shop like Terra Café, Crème, or Cabin Coffee, and a wander through downtown. Halifax is made for exploring on foot, with local shops, galleries, and restaurants around every corner.

In the afternoon, dive into a unique experience like Citadel Distilled at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, where you can learn about and sample locally crafted spirits.

Spend the rest of the day browsing boutiques along Barrington Street and the waterfront, relaxing on patios with a local pint and live music, and enjoying dinner at one of the city’s many standout restaurants before another overnight stay.

Ariel view of down town halifax
Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

3 Day 3: Markets, Local Flavours & Waterfront Vibes

Ease into the day with a visit to the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market (open Saturday and Sunday), where you’ll find everything from fresh-baked goods to handmade crafts. Continue exploring the waterfront by visiting the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Discovery Centre (ideal for kids), and Georges Island National Historic Site (open seasonally June to October).

In the evening, consider stopping by Alexander Keith’s Brewery for a lively, historic brewery tour before settling in for your final night.

A family is viewing a map of Canada at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia
Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

4 Day 4: A Relaxed Send-Off

Enjoy a slow morning with breakfast along the waterfront at spots like Café Lunette, Drift, or Black Sheep. After one last stroll by the harbour, make your way back to the train station for your late morning departure—no traffic, no stress.

Two women walk with coffees in front of Cafe Lunette on the Halifax Waterfront in Nova Scotia
Café Lunette

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