Life in Halifax seems to completely revolve around the sea. The city boasts sugary white sand beaches, a dramatic coastline and the port of Halifax – which is one of the world’s largest natural harbours!
The port at Halifax in Canada is the closest in the world to where the Titanic sank. So unsurprisingly you will find a heap of Titanic museums all over the city.
This is just one of the slightly kooky, fascinating things you’ll learn when you spend some time in this city. People from all over the world travel to Halifax to relax in its charming atmosphere and enjoy the lively nightlife and shopping scene.
There are lots of activities available inside and outside of the city. This combination of attractions is why it attracts people from all walks of life. No matter what you enjoy doing when you’re on holiday, you’ll find somewhere to do it in Halifax.
With loads of activities and many different areas to choose from, deciding where to stay in Halifax can be a daunting decision.
But don’t you worry about a thing! I’ve created this ultimate guide on the areas of Halifax to make your life a hell of a lot easier. You’ll find the best areas to stay (categorised by interest or budget) and the best places to stay and activities to do in each.
So, it’s time to get scrollin’ and find where in Halifax is best for you!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for the best neighborhood in Halifax.
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Halifax Backpackers Beachhouse | Best Hostel in Halifax
If you want to get out of the city, this is where to do it. This is a self-run hostel located around 20 minutes’ drive from the center of Halifax. It’s a beachfront property, where you can enjoy nature without the press of humanity. This is a fairly isolated location, so you will need a car to get there, but it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the famous natural scenery in this part of the world.
Hampton Inn by Hilton Halifax Downtown | Best Hotel in Halifax
With a pool and fitness center, this hotel in Halifax is a convenient and modern place to stay while you’re in the city. It’s just moments from nearby clubs and bars and surrounded by cafes and eateries as well. The hotel serves a delicious breakfast and has free Wi-Fi and comfortable rooms with private bathrooms.
Walk Out Garden Suite | Best Airbnb in Halifax
Suitable for 2 guests, this house is located close to all of Halifax’s best neighborhoods. Everything is within walking distance of this house, including The Citadel, The waterfront, Scotiabank Center, and the city’s best arts and dining areas, which makes it one of the best Airbnbs in Halifax. The house is spacious, clean, and modern and includes a fireplace, private bathroom, and free Wi-Fi.
Downtown
The Downtown neighborhood is the first obvious choice for tourists. It’s the best area in Halifax to stay in if you want to be close to all the best attractions and have all the amenities at your fingertips.
Dartmouth
Dartmouth is just over ten minutes’ drive from the center of Halifax and is a vibrant community with lots of appeal all its own. This was once an abandoned area, but recent refurbishments have brought it back to life and it’s now one of the coolest places to stay in Halifax.
North End
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Halifax for nightlife, then look no further. The North End is filled with shops, restaurants, bars, and clubs, and is famous for its vibrant nightlife.
South End
If you want a cheerful local experience, then South End is one of the best areas to stay in Halifax. It’s a middle-class neighborhood that’s popular amongst the city’s students because of the universities in the area.
The Hydrostone
When you’re trying to decide where to stay in Halifax for families, you need convenience, activities, and charm. And that’s exactly what you’ll get when you stay in the Hydrostone area.
About Halifax
Halifax is the capital of the Canadian province of Nova Scotia with a population that’s centered around the harbor. This is where most of the tourist attractions are and where most travelers choose to stay. As with the rest of the city, the harbor areas have a relaxed, laidback vibe that’s a huge draw for visitors.
The Downtown neighborhood is the most obvious place to stay when you visit Halifax. It’s a great choice whether you’re deciding where to stay in Halifax with kids, with a friend, or with your family. You’ll have access to everything in this part of the city, so it’s perfect for your first visit or a longer stay.
If you’d prefer to be away from the city center a little, try Dartmouth. This area is a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Halifax for families or with friends. And it’s close enough to the city center that you can still spend time in there without traveling a long way.
If you’d like to be away from the city center but still close to all of the action, then the North End is the best neighborhood in Halifax to stay in. It’s well connected to the Downtown but has a charm and energy all its own.
The South End is another local neighborhood that’s popular amongst travelers. This area is close to the harbor, so you can enjoy stunning sea views along with the relaxed vibe. But if you’re looking for an area that’s a little different, try the Hydrostone. This part of the city is charmingly out of place and completely charming.
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Halifax’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
If you’re ready to use our simple Halifax neighborhood guide to book your accommodation in the city, then here’s where to look.
#1 Downtown – Where to Stay in Halifax First Time
The Downtown neighborhood is the first obvious choice for tourists. It’s the best area in Halifax to stay in if you want to be close to all the best attractions and have all the amenities at your fingertips. Unlike other cities in Canada, Halifax isn’t a very historic city so most of the buildings are sleek and modern. But this doesn’t take away from their charm as the relaxed vibe in the city more than makes up for the lack of history.
Downtown is the tourist, business, and entertainment center of Halifax. It’s filled with cafes, restaurants, amazing buildings, and activities for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re deciding where to stay in Halifax with kids or with friends, this area offers everything you’ll need for an active stay. It’s also close to the harbor so you can take the ferry to other areas or just enjoy being close to the ocean.
1 Bedroom Apartment in Heritage Building | Best Airbnb in Downtown
Located in one of Halifax’s best neighborhoods, this apartment is a real find. The space is suitable for up to 2 guests and you’ll get the whole space to yourself. It’s close to public transport, shops, and cafes, and includes modern furnishings with all the extras.
H-Halifax | Best Hostel in Downtown
Located in the center of the city’s Downtown area, this hostel is a great place to choose when you’re deciding where to stay in Halifax for nightlife. It’s close to the city’s best clubs and pubs as well as restaurants serving delicious food from all over the world. There’s also a bus stop nearby, so you can explore the rest of the city without worrying about transport.
Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax | Best Hotel in Downtown
Located right in the center of the city’s Downtown, this hotel in Halifax is the perfect base for exploring the city. It’s been recently refurbished, so all 200 rooms are sleek, modern, and contain all the amenities you’ll need for a short or long stay. The rooms are air-conditioned and have a kitchenette, but you probably won’t need it because the hotel is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and other places to eat.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Dartmouth – Where to Stay in Halifax on a Budget
Dartmouth is just over ten minutes’ drive from the center of Halifax and is a vibrant community with lots of appeal all its own. This was once an abandoned area, but recent refurbishments have brought it back to life and it’s now one of the coolest places to stay in Halifax.
You can reach Dartmouth through the ferry system, with ports in both Dartmouth and Downtown connecting the two. There are also bus stops throughout the Dartmouth area that will take you to other parts of the city, which are another feature that makes this the best neighborhood to stay in Halifax.
Downtown Dartmouth 1 Bedroom Apartment | Best Airbnb in Dartmouth
If you want to be in Dartmouth, then this apartment is in one of the best areas to stay in Halifax. The apartment has a view of the harbor and includes a private bathroom and enough space for 2 guests. It’s close to the ferry as well as to the local bars, restaurants, and shops. The apartment is recently renovated so everything is brand new, including the appliances.
Comfort Inn Dartmouth | Best Hostel in Dartmouth
Whether you’re deciding where to stay in Halifax for one night or for a longer visit, this hotel is a good choice. It offers spacious rooms that have been recently refurbished as well as childminding facilities right in the heart of Dartmouth. Each rooms has its own kitchenette so you can prepare meals.
Travelodge Suites by Wyndham Halifax Dartmouth | Best Hotel in Dartmouth
Offering laundry services, a Jacuzzi, and free Wi-Fi, this perfectly located hotel is right in the center of Dartmouth. There’s an in-house pub so you can have a late-night drink and a meal as well as an onsite casino. The rooms each have a fridge, mini bar, and private bathroom and are spacious and comfortable.
#3 North End – Best Area to Stay in Halifax for Nightlife
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Halifax for nightlife, then look no further. The North End is filled with shops, restaurants, bars, and clubs, and is famous for its vibrant nightlife. This is the entertainment center of the city and it’s also one of the best places to shop or to check out the local restaurants.
You won’t be left behind if you don’t like clubs or bars either. This area is famous for its theaters and stages hosting shows of all kinds. One drawback of this is the fact that the area is very popular amongst tourists, so expect some crowds while you’re there.
Halifax Backpackers | Best Hostel in North End
This hostel in Halifax is in a prime location, right in the heart of this neighborhood. It’s an independent hostel only a few minutes’ walk from the waterfront and the best attractions in the city. It offers private and dorm rooms at reasonable prices and is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Halifax on a budget.
Private Convenient Suite | Best Airbnb in North End
If you want to be near the harbor and to stay in one of the coolest places in Halifax, then consider this suite. It’s only 20 minutes’ walk from the Downtown and is also directly on the bus line if you don’t want to walk. The suite is convenient to everything and includes a private bathroom and small kitchenette with all the usual equipment you’ll need for your stay.
Fresh Start Bed and Breakfast | Best Hotel in North End
Located in the best neighborhood to stay in Halifax, this B&B is a short distance from museums and offers comfortable rooms with a real homey feel. It’s set in a historic Victorian building and offers a variety of room sizes to suit every travel group. A delicious breakfast is offered each morning and there are also cafes and eateries nearby.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 South End – Coolest Place to Stay in Halifax
If you want a cheerful local experience, then South End is one of the best areas to stay in Halifax. It’s a middle-class neighborhood that’s popular amongst the city’s students because of the universities in the area. This is also the neighborhood where you’ll find the city’s Chinatown, with a fairly large Asian population and some great food options!
South End has a lot more to offer travelers as well. It’s well-positioned close to the harbor, so you can take in the views, and has accommodation options for every budget point. It’s also well connected to the city center and to other parts of Halifax, so you shouldn’t have any trouble moving around to explore.
1896 Historic Studio | Best Airbnb in South End
This studio apartment is hands down one of the coolest places to stay in Halifax. It’s a Victorian house from 1896 with original hardwood floors and wooden accents throughout. It has its own bathroom and kitchenette is and just a short walk away from Downtown and the Dalhousie University Campus.
Garden South Park Inn | Best Hotel in South End
This is one of the best places to stay in Halifax. Located close to All Saints Cathedral and the city’s best nightlife, it’s perfect for families and friends alike. The Inn is located in a slightly quirky building and offers 23 comfortable rooms close to the city’s best attractions.
Saint Mary’s University Residence Summer Accommodations | Best Hostel in South End
Close to shops, clubs, and bars, this accommodation option is one of the best places in Halifax to stay in. It has a library and free Wi-Fi and is close to attractions like the All Saints Cathedral and the best nightlife in the city. The rooms are basic but clean and contain everything you’ll need for a stay at a budget price.
#5 The Hydrostone – Best Neighborhood in Halifax for Families
When you’re trying to decide where to stay in Halifax for families, you need convenience, activities, and charm. And that’s exactly what you’ll get when you stay in the Hydrostone area. This picturesque area is like a slice of Europe right in the middle of the city. It’s filled with quaint shops and cafes as well as a small park where you can enjoy nature in the heart of the city.
When you stay in this area, you’ll enjoy a relaxed vibe and lots of things to do, see, and eat. This part of the city is well connected as well, which makes it a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Halifax for your first time. So, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding public transport to the other parts of the city that you want to explore while you’re in this neighborhood.
Commons Inn | Best Hostel in The Hydrostone
Located close to the Hydrostone, this is one of the best places in Halifax to stay if you’re on a budget. There’s a terrace and 24-hour front desk at the inn and each room has a kitchenette, private bathroom, and free Wi-Fi. The inn is located close to restaurants, shops, and other amenities to make your stay comfortable and interesting.
Chebucto Inn | Best Hotel in The Hydrostone
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Halifax for one night or for a longer stay, this hotel might suit your needs. It’s close to the Dartmouth Crossing as well as to the Halifax Metro Center. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi and a golf course to keep you busy as well as lots of relaxation facilities, such as the onsite Jacuzzi. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and quiet and include all the amenities.
Beautiful Townhouse in Historic Neighborhood | Best Airbnb in The Hydrostone
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Halifax for your first time, this is a good choice. It’s suitable for up to 6 guests, so will suit anyone traveling with a group or friend or with a family. You can walk to the Hydrostone market from this house and there are restaurants, shops and cafes all around it. The house itself is in a quiet area and boasts clean, bright furnishings and all the amenities you’ll need for a short or long stay.
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Hide Yo’ Money!What To Pack For Halifax
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Halifax
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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Final Thoughts On Where To Stay in Halifax
When you travel, it isn’t always easy to work out where you should stay. That’s why this guide to the best area in Halifax to stay in based on your travel needs and preferences is so helpful. It will allow you to make your Halifax accommodation bookings knowing that you’re making the right choices. And then you can just get on with enjoying your visit to cheerful, charming Halifax!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Canada.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Canada.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Halifax instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Canada.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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