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Getting Here

Nova Scotia is closer than you think! Learn how you can get here by land, sea and air.

How do you get to Nova Scotia?

Nova Scotia is easy to reach by air, road, or ferry. Visitors can fly into Halifax Stanfield International Airport or Sydney Airport on Cape Breton Island, drive from neighbouring provinces through New Brunswick or arrive by car ferry from Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick or Maine in the United States. No matter how you travel, Nova Scotia is well connected to the rest of Canada, the northeastern United States, and major airports in Western Europe.

Drive to Nova Scotia

Find information for travellers arriving by road including the communities you will enter Nova Scotia through.

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Fly to Nova Scotia

With international airports as well as private airports that welcome charters, find out how easy getting to Nova Scotia is.

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Arrive by Sea

Nova Scotia’s a breeze to get to by water – whether it’s by ferry, cruise ship, or boat. Learn more about ferry locations, cruise destinations, and detailed boating information.

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colorful buildings in Lunenburg

Getting Here From Europe

Your direct flight to our capital city, Halifax, is shorter than you might think and gives you just enough time to prepare yourself for all the adventures you’re about to enjoy!

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Getting to Nova Scotia Frequently Asked Questions

No, you don’t need a car to visit Nova Scotia, but having one gives you the most flexibility. Many of the province’s top attractions, coastal communities, beaches, and scenic drives are easier to reach by car. If you’re planning to explore beyond Halifax, such as the Cabot Trail, South Shore, or Bay of Fundy region, renting a car is often the most convenient option.

Yes, you can visit Nova Scotia without a car, especially if you’re staying in Halifax or combining city time with guided day tours. Halifax is a walkable coastal city with public transit, ferries, tours, and transportation connections to other parts of the province. Some visitors choose a car-free itinerary based in Halifax and take day trips to popular destinations.

Yes, Nova Scotia has public transportation options, including local transit systems, regional bus services, ferries, and airport transportation. Halifax Transit operates buses and ferries throughout the Halifax region, while intercity bus services connect many communities across the province and Atlantic Canada. Public transportation is available, but service levels vary outside major urban areas, so travellers heading to rural or coastal destinations may find a car more convenient.

Getting from Halifax Stanfield International Airport to downtown Halifax is straightforward. You can take the Halifax Transit Regional Express Route 320 bus, which provides direct public transportation between the airport and downtown Halifax, or choose a taxi, rideshare service, shuttle, or rental car. The airport is about 35 kilometres (22 miles) from downtown Halifax, and travel time is typically 30 to 60 minutes depending on your transportation choice and traffic conditions.

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