Exploring Nova Scotia on a budget

Nova Scotia, the second smallest province in Canada, boasts an unexpected range of landscapes. From rocky cliffs that plunge into expansive white sand beaches to the ancient peaks of Cape Breton Island, the scenery is diverse. The Bay of Fundy is famous for its towering tides that lift and lower fishing boats, while rivers connect the numerous small lakes throughout the interior. The capital, Halifax, home to a third of the province's residents, features a vibrant waterfront packed with bars, restaurants, and attractions. The secret to enjoying Nova Scotia on a budget? Embrace the outdoors and discover its stunning locations.

Known as “Canada’s ocean playground,” Nova Scotia presents a plethora of lodging, activities, and dining choices, making it an affordable getaway. Although July and August are peak travel months with the highest prices, savvy planning and following these tips can keep your visit budget-friendly even during the busiest season.

Daily Expenses

• Hostel accommodation: $40-150

• University dormitory room: $56-150

• Standard room for two: $125-400

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $100-335

• Public bus or ferry fare: $2.75

• Coffee: $2-6

• Sandwich: $5-18

• Dinner for two: $50-150

• Beer/pint at a pub: $6-12

• Whale watching tour: adult $50-85, children $25-60

• Average daily expense for budget travelers: $150-300

Driving is the most affordable method to reach and navigate through Nova Scotia

Travelers from distant parts of North America and beyond should fly into Halifax’s Stanfield International Airport. Halifax offers an airport shuttle service for $4.25. Rental cars can be limited during the summer and can significantly raise travel expenses, so if you opt for a rental, it's wise to book in advance. Those within a day or two's drive can save money by avoiding flights and rental cars altogether.

Getting around Nova Scotia without a vehicle can be challenging due to limited public transportation outside Halifax – driving ensures access to all the free attractions and more affordable lodging options outside the city. Arriving by car ferry from Maine and New Brunswick can be costly, so budget-conscious travelers should consider driving into Nova Scotia from New Brunswick instead.

Ways to drive, fly, float, cycle, and more throughout Nova Scotia

The most budget-friendly times to visit Nova Scotia are in spring and fall.

While some expenses may be slightly lower in winter, the differences are minimal. Prices for food and drinks at grocery stores and restaurants remain fairly consistent throughout the year. Accommodation costs also tend to be stable, except during the peak months of July and August, especially in Halifax. Conversely, gas prices typically decrease before and after the busy summer travel season. Late summer and fall bring an abundance of affordable produce at farmers markets and U-pick farms. To save on lodging, consider sharing a seaside cabin or rental home with friends and family.

University residences serve as an alternative to hostels.

Hostels are quite rare in Nova Scotia. The Highlands Hostel in Cape North, near the scenic Cabot Trail, is open year-round and offers dorm beds and private rooms ranging from $50 to $150. However, many universities also rent out student housing from May to August. These accommodations, though simply furnished, come with linens and towels in secure and clean buildings. Some may have a minimum two-night stay requirement. Prices range from $56 for a single room to $150 for a suite. Check out Dalhousie, St. Mary’s, Mount St. Vincent, and King’s College in Halifax, Acadia in Wolfville, Dalhousie in Truro, St. Francis Xavier in Antigonish, and Cape Breton University in Sydney.

Make the most of Nova Scotia’s numerous campgrounds

The biggest savings are for those willing to set up a tent at one of Nova Scotia’s campgrounds. Campgrounds in the two national parks – Cape Breton Highlands and Kejimkujik – offer a range of settings from secluded backcountry spots to convenient roadside locations. Private campgrounds are abundant and often family-friendly, featuring a variety of activities for children. The most budget-friendly camping options are found at the 20 provincial parks, where basic sites start at around $25 per night. Many provincial sites offer ocean views and direct access to beaches, forest trails, and lakes, and almost all include indoor restrooms, showers, and cooking huts for meal preparation and dishwashing. Most also provide RV hookups.

Discover Nova Scotia’s 8 top national parks and historic sites

Explore Nova Scotia’s beautiful scenic routes, beaches, hiking trails, and waterways

In Nova Scotia, the guiding principle is “get outside,” which is also the most economical way to experience the picturesque coastline and inland waterways. Navigate through the marked scenic routes, including Marine Drive, the Lighthouse Route, and the Bras d’Or Lake Scenic Drive. With hundreds of beaches available, there’s always one nearby a campground or rural rental, perfect for a stroll, building sandcastles, or enjoying a book while listening to the gentle waves. Some hiking trails, such as the 119km (74-mile) Rum Runners Trail, are situated on former railway lines, while others, like the 7.2km (4.5-mile) Salmon Pools Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, wind along rivers and through park wilderness. Hiking is free except for a $9 daily entry fee at national parks.

Seek out free admission days and discounts at museums

On Thursday evenings, entry is complimentary at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia in Halifax, showcasing works by local artists like Maude Lewis. For other attractions, keep an eye out for family pricing. The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic on Halifax’s waterfront features Titanic artifacts and charges $9.55 per adult during peak season, while the off-season family rate is just $11.85. AAA and CAA members, as well as military personnel, receive a discount. Admission fees for most rural museums are typically just a few dollars.

Lighthouses, whales, and fishing villages: top destinations to visit in Nova Scotia

Save money by buying local ingredients and cooking for yourself

Preparing your own meals is a surefire way to save on your travel expenses, especially when you're away from home. Whether you're using a full kitchen in your oceanfront rental or cooking over a campfire, making your own meals and snacks can save you a lot. If you enjoy U-picks or foraging, that's even better! Otherwise, keep an eye out for small roadside farm stands that often operate on an honor system – take a cucumber, leave a quarter. Across the province, farmers markets during the harvest season – from June to November and beyond – are the best places to find local, high-quality, and delicious produce, meats, cheeses, and drinks. Pack a picnic for your road trips and hikes. Shopping local means you’ll eat like a local: gather fresh vegetables to make Nova Scotia hodge podge, a rich vegetable chowder.

Save your pennies for worthwhile splurges

Invest all those savings into experiences and items that offer the greatest enjoyment. A whale-watching excursion, typically under $100, provides unforgettable memories for every passenger. Join a vineyard tour in the Annapolis Valley at places like Benjamin Bridge to gain insight into how Nova Scotia’s wines quickly earned their esteemed reputation – plus, enjoy the samples offered.

Order the local craft beer at a bar or taproom, where spending a couple of extra bucks per pint rewards you with richer flavors and fascinating stories to share back home. Discover the sailor’s tale behind Boxing Rock Brewing, taste Beth’s Black Oyster Stout from Sober Island Brewing, and learn why Tatamagouche Brewing calls its pale ale Hippie Dippie. Look out for happy hour specials at most bars to save on craft drinks.

Organize your trip to Nova Scotia:

• Include these must-do experiences in your itinerary

• Determine the best times for your visit

• Local insights: things you should know before arriving

• Plan the ultimate Nova Scotia road trip with these stunning routes