Maritimes, Canada Travel Guide

Discover the Maritimes in Canada: A haven of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

The Maritimes in Canada, comprising New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, offer a picturesque escape with their rugged coastlines, charming lighthouses, and rich cultural heritage. This region is known for its warm hospitality, making every visitor feel at home amidst the stunning natural beauty and vibrant communities. Explore the bustling waterfronts of Halifax, the historic sites of Charlottetown, and the serene landscapes of Fundy National Park. Each location has its own unique charm, from the red sand beaches of Prince Edward Island to the scenic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia. The Maritimes are also renowned for their delicious seafood, particularly lobster and scallops, which are a must-try for any visitor. In addition to natural wonders, the Maritimes boast a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Attend a traditional ceilidh, visit the many museums and heritage sites, or simply enjoy the local music and arts scenes. The area’s history, rooted in both Indigenous cultures and European settlers, offers a diverse and enriching experience for all who visit.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Maritimes.

Visit during the summer months for the best weather and festival experiences.
Try the local seafood, especially the lobster and scallops, for a true taste of the region.
Take a drive along the Cabot Trail for some of the most breathtaking views in Canada.
Check the tide schedules before visiting the Bay of Fundy to witness the world's highest tides.
Pack a mix of clothing as the weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.

Explore Maritimes: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Maritimes

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Halifax Waterfront

Explore the vibrant Halifax Waterfront, a perfect blend of culture, history, and stunning seaside views in Nova Scotia.

4.8

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Discover the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, where history, stunning views, and engaging experiences await every traveler.

4.6

Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Explore the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg – a transformative journey through the history and significance of human rights worldwide.

4.6

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Discover the maritime history of Nova Scotia at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, featuring fascinating exhibits and stunning waterfront views.

4.6

Best landmarks in Maritimes

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Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park

Discover the incredible natural beauty of Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, a stunning must-visit destination showcasing unique rock formations and the highest tides in the world.

4.7

Peggy's Cove Lighthouse

Discover the stunning Peggy's Cove Lighthouse, a historic landmark offering breathtaking coastal views and an authentic maritime experience in Nova Scotia.

4.8

Signal Hill National Historic Site

Discover the historic Signal Hill National Historic Site in St. John's, Newfoundland, blending stunning views with rich Canadian history.

4.8

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Explore Nova Scotia's maritime history at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax, featuring intriguing exhibits and captivating stories from the sea.

4.6

Best restaurants in Maritimes

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The Bicycle Thief

Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at The Bicycle Thief in Halifax - where culinary artistry meets fine dining.

4.7

Salty's

Experience the best seafood in Halifax at Salty's, where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.

4.3

The Five Fishermen

Experience fine dining at The Five Fishermen – where fresh seafood meets rich history in Downtown Halifax.

4.4

Sou’Wester Gift & Restaurant Company Ltd.

Experience authentic Maritime cuisine at Sou’Wester Gift & Restaurant in Peggy's Cove—where every dish celebrates Atlantic flavors.

4.2

Best bars in Maritimes

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Durty Nelly's Irish Pub

Discover the heart of Halifax at Durty Nelly's Irish Pub, where authentic cuisine, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere await.

4.4

The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse

Discover the authentic Irish experience at The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse in Downtown Halifax, featuring traditional fare, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

The Lower Deck

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Lower Deck in Halifax, where delicious food, live music, and stunning waterfront views await every visitor.

4.3

The Stubborn Goat Gastropub

Discover the flavors of Halifax at The Stubborn Goat Gastropub, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Maritimes

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Hunter's Ale House

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Hunter's Ale House, a premier bar and restaurant in the heart of Charlottetown, PE.

4.2

Olde Dublin Pub

Discover the lively spirit of Olde Dublin Pub in Charlottetown, where great food, drinks, and entertainment come together in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

4.4

Peakes Quay Restaurant & Bar

Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Peakes Quay Restaurant & Bar, where seafood delights and nightlife converge in Charlottetown.

4.3

Pacifico

Discover the dynamic nightlife at Pacifico, a stylish bar and live music venue in the heart of Downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia.

4.1

Best shops in Maritimes

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Saint John City Market

Explore the Saint John City Market: A vibrant farmers' market in the heart of New Brunswick, offering fresh produce, seafood, and local crafts.

4.4

Peggy's Cove Gift Shop

Explore Peggy's Cove Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts that reflect the stunning maritime beauty of Nova Scotia.

4.7

Cavendish Boardwalk

Experience the vibrant Cavendish Boardwalk, where shopping meets stunning coastal views and delightful local flavors await.

4.4

East Point Shopping

Explore East Point Shopping Mall in Saint John for a diverse shopping experience, great dining options, and vibrant community events.

4.2

Explore Maritimes on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Maritimes, mapped for you.

Maritimes Essentials

The Maritimes in Canada, comprising Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island, are accessible by air, land, and sea. Major airports include Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) in Nova Scotia, Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport (YQM) in New Brunswick, and Charlottetown Airport (YYG) in Prince Edward Island. From the United States, you can drive across the border into New Brunswick. There are also ferry services connecting Nova Scotia to Newfoundland and Labrador and to the United States.
Public transportation in the Maritimes includes buses and ferries, though services can be limited in rural areas. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the region at your own pace. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are available in larger cities such as Halifax and Moncton. For intercity travel, Maritime Bus provides connections between major towns and cities.
The official currency in the Maritimes is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller towns or rural areas. ATMs are readily available in cities and towns. Most establishments accept contactless payments via mobile devices.
The Maritimes are generally very safe for tourists. However, it is always wise to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Halifax, being a larger city, has areas where petty crime can occur, so stay vigilant. Smaller towns and rural areas have very low crime rates.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Hospitals and clinics are available in all major cities and towns. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are plentiful and usually carry over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can change rapidly. Don't wear overly revealing clothing when visiting historical or religious sites. Religion: Do respect religious customs and practices, especially in churches and during services. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' Handshakes are also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and traditional dishes. Don’t forget to tip your server, typically 15-20% of the bill.
To experience the Maritimes like a local, visit farmers' markets where you can find fresh local produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals, who are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Don’t miss the opportunity to attend local festivals such as the Halifax International Busker Festival or the Shediac Lobster Festival. For a unique experience, explore the coastal villages and enjoy the scenic drives along the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.

When is the best time to visit Maritimes?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Maritimes

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Maritimes. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [/ˈhaʊdi/]
- GoodbyeTake care
  [/teɪk kɛr/]
- YesAye
  [/aɪ/]
- NoNaw
  [/nɔ/]
- Please/You're welcomeNo problem
  [/noʊ ˈprɑːbləm/]
- Thank youThanks a bunch
  [/θæŋks ə bʌntʃ/]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me
  [/ɪkˈskjuz mi/]
- How are you?How's it goin'?
  [/haʊz ɪt ˈɡoʊɪn/]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [/ɡʊd ju/]
- Do you speak English?Can ya speak English?
  [/kæn jə spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ/]
- I don't understandI don’t get it
  [/aɪ doʊnt ɡɛt ɪt/]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
  [/kæn aɪ siː ðə ˈmɛnjuː pliːz/]
- I don't eat meatI don’t eat meat
  [/aɪ doʊnt iːt miːt/]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [/tʃɪrz/]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the bill, please?
  [/kæn aɪ ɡɛt ðə bɪl pliːz/]
- Help!Help!
  [/hɛlp/]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [/ɡɛt lɔst/]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [/kɔl ðə kɑps/]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [/ɡɛt ə ˈdɑktər/]
- I'm lostI’m lost
  [/aɪm lɔst/]
- I'm illI’m not feeling well
  [/aɪm nɒt ˈfiːlɪŋ wɛl/]
- I'd like to buy...I’d like to buy...
  [/aɪd laɪk tə baɪ/]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [/dʒʌst ˈbraʊzɪŋ/]
- How much is it?What’s the price?
  [/wʌts ðə praɪs/]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit pricey
  [/ðæts ə bɪt ˈpraɪsi/]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya make it cheaper?
  [/kæn jə meɪk ɪt ˈtʃiːpər/]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [/wʌt taɪm ɪz ɪt/]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [/ɪts wʌn əˈklɒk/]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [/hæf pæst tɛn/]
- MorningMorning
  [/ˈmɔrnɪŋ/]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [/ˌæftərˈnun/]
- EveningEvening
  [/ˈiːvnɪŋ/]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [/ˈjɛstərdeɪ/]
- TodayToday
  [/təˈdeɪ/]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [/təˈmɔroʊ/]
- 1One
  [/wʌn/]
- 2Two
  [/tuː/]
- 3Three
  [/θriː/]
- 4Four
  [/fɔːr/]
- 5Five
  [/faɪv/]
- 6Six
  [/sɪks/]
- 7Seven
  [/ˈsɛvən/]
- 8Eight
  [/eɪt/]
- 9Nine
  [/naɪn/]
- 10Ten
  [/tɛn/]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [/wɛrz ðə/]
- What's the address?What’s the address?
  [/wʌts ði əˈdrɛs/]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [/kæn jə pɔɪnt ɪt aʊt/]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [/wɛn ʌs ðə nɛkst bʌs/]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to ...
  [/ə ˈtɪkɪt tə/]

History of Maritimes

The Maritimes have been inhabited for over 10,000 years by the Mi'kmaq people, an indigenous group whose rich culture and traditions have shaped the region. They lived in harmony with nature, relying on the abundant resources from the sea and forests. Their intricate knowledge of the land and waters was passed down through generations, forming the basis of their way of life.
The first known European contact with the Maritimes was by John Cabot in 1497, who claimed the land for England. However, it was the French who established the first permanent settlement at Port Royal in 1605. This marked the beginning of a significant French presence in the region, which they called Acadia. Over time, the area became a battleground for control between the French and British, culminating in the British conquest of Acadia in 1710.
One of the most tragic events in Maritime history is the Expulsion of the Acadians, also known as Le Grand Dérangement. Between 1755 and 1764, the British forcibly removed approximately 11,500 Acadians from their lands in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. Many were deported to other British colonies, while others found refuge in Louisiana, giving rise to the Cajun culture.
Following the American Revolution, many Loyalists who remained faithful to the British Crown fled to the Maritimes. In 1783, around 30,000 Loyalists arrived in the region, significantly altering its demographic and cultural landscape. They established new communities, including Saint John, which became Canada's first incorporated city in 1785.
The Maritimes played a crucial role in the formation of Canada. In 1864, representatives from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and the Province of Canada (modern-day Ontario and Quebec) gathered at the Charlottetown Conference to discuss the creation of a unified country. This historic meeting led to the Confederation of Canada in 1867, with New Brunswick and Nova Scotia being among the first provinces to join.
During the 19th century, the Maritimes became a world leader in shipbuilding. The region's abundant timber and skilled craftsmen led to the production of some of the fastest and most renowned sailing ships of the era. Shipyards in towns like Saint John and Lunenburg built vessels that were celebrated for their speed and durability, contributing significantly to the local economy.
The decline of traditional industries like shipbuilding and fishing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries posed significant economic challenges for the Maritimes. However, the region demonstrated resilience by diversifying its economy. Efforts to promote tourism, education, and technology have been instrumental in revitalizing the region and preserving its unique heritage.