Travel Budget for Nova Scotia Visit Nova Scotia on a Budget or Travel in Style

Nova Scotia, Canada
North America / Canada / Nova Scotia /
Halifax
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Nova Scotia is an exciting destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Nova Scotia?

A typical traveler spends $131 (CA$180) per day on a trip to Nova Scotia. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Nova Scotia based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $52 (CA$72) on meals
  • $17 (CA$23) on local transportation
  • $120 (CA$166) on hotels

A one-week trip to Nova Scotia for two people costs, on average, $1,829 (CA$2,520). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $131
    CA$180
  • One Week Per person
    $914
    CA$1,260
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $1,829
    CA$2,520
  • One Month Per person
    $3,918
    CA$5,400
  • One Week For a couple
    $1,829
    CA$2,520
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $3,657
    CA$5,040
  • One Month For a couple
    $7,837
    CA$10,800
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Nova Scotia cost?

A one week trip to Nova Scotia usually costs around $914 (CA$1,260) for one person and $1,829 (CA$2,520) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Nova Scotia on average costs around $1,829 (CA$2,520) for one person and $3,657 (CA$5,040) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Nova Scotia will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Nova Scotia on average costs around $3,918 (CA$5,400) for one person and $7,837 (CA$10,800) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Nova Scotia expensive to visit?

In Nova Scotia, budget travelers spend $54 (CA$74) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $131 (CA$180) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $298 (CA$410) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia is a smaller destination that invites a diverse group of visitors, each with unique travel styles, spending behaviors, and budget levels. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.

You can find Nova Scotia to be very expensive if you're not careful, but methods like looking for discounts and coupons can help you save money.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Nova Scotia is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Hope, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Key West.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Nova Scotia Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Nova Scotia?

The average Nova Scotia trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Nova Scotia travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Nova Scotia cost?

Nova Scotia on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$24
(CA$33) 		$60
(CA$83) 		$150
(CA$207)
Local Transportation1 $7
(CA$10) 		$17
(CA$23) 		$31
(CA$42)
Food2 $22
(CA$30) 		$52
(CA$72) 		$112
(CA$155)
Entertainment1 $12
(CA$17) 		$28
(CA$38) 		$51
(CA$71)
Alcohol2 $4-11
(CA$5-15) 		$8-24
(CA$11-34) 		$16-48
(CA$22-66)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to Nova Scotia without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.

What Defines a Budget Traveler?

Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $54 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.

For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.

So, are you average?

If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most tourists in Nova Scotia are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $131 per person, per day.

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If a complete vacation with all amenities and a higher level of service is what you want, expect to allocate around $298 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, dine at award-winning establishments, treat yourself to extravagant excursions, and hire taxis or private drivers to navigate the destination, a luxury budget will be necessary. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as JFarwell Private Yacht Wine & Cheese Sunset Sail - offered by Viator.



Accommodation Budget in Nova Scotia

The cost of hotels in Nova Scotia can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $, but peak season () average prices jump to $. Overall, prices range from $ to $. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Nova Scotia for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $120 (CA$166). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $60 (CA$83) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $60
    CA$83
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $120
    CA$166

Hotels in Nova Scotia

Looking for a hotel in Nova Scotia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Nova Scotia

Visiting in the low or shoulder season, rather than , will allow you to find cheaper accommodation and fewer tourists.



Transportation Budget in Nova Scotia

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $17 (CA$23) per person, per day, on local transportation in Nova Scotia. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Nova Scotia is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $17
    CA$23

To travel around Nova Scotia it is recommended you have your own car. The highway system here is divided into three sections. Highways 1 to 99 are the original main roads of the region. They connect everything within the province. These are usually two lane roads that run through villages and towns. Highways 101 to 199 are expressways. These provide the faster route, but much like I-95 in the US, these roads don't provide much scenery. These roads typically run parallel to highways 1 to 99, but are four lanes and less appealing to cyclists. Highways 201 to 399 are minor highways through the province.

There are more local paved roads, and scenic trails marked by specific signs. Nova Scotia's layout is pretty simple, but foreigners should always use a map or GPS. Be cautious of conditions in the winter, especially on smaller roads.

Transportation Tips

If you're driving, check for convenient parking at your hotel.



Flights to Nova Scotia
How much does it cost to go to Nova Scotia? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Nova Scotia
The price of renting a car in Nova Scotia will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Nova Scotia

Tasting the local cuisine is a key reason for travel, so be sure to sample the unique dishes offered in the area.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Nova Scotia can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Nova Scotia is $52 (CA$72) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $52
    CA$72

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Nova Scotia is around $52 (CA$72) per person, with previous travelers spending from $22 to $113. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Nova Scotia are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $5 to $16
  • Lunch: $8 to $21
  • Dinner: $16 to $37
  • Coffee: $4
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $8

Given Nova Scotia's interesting mix of cultures, there are dishes of almost every influence. Some dishes can not be missed, though. The donair, based on a Turkish dish, is a spiced beef with tomatoes and onions doused in a sweet white sauce and wrapped up in a warm pita. Many will compare it to a gyro, but the sweet sauce is what makes the donair special, and they are available in most diners and pizza places in Nova Scotia.

If you're packing snacks for your day at Tobeatic, grab a little dulse. Made from local seaweed, this snack is a treat special to this area.

Food & Dining Tips

Countless hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, but some will add it as an additional fee. The price and quality can change based on the hotel. Being informed ahead of time can aid in deciding whether to budget extra funds. You might enjoy the delightful buffet offered at the hotel, or perhaps a more economical option would be a nearby bakery or cafe.

Opt for a reusable water bottle to avoid buying drinks everywhere. It's beneficial for the earth as well.

When planning your tour, don't forget to check what meals are included. You might have to pay for some of your own food, which could add to your expenses.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Nova Scotia

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Nova Scotia typically cost an average of $28 (CA$38) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $28
    CA$38

If it's animals you love, Nova Scotia has plenty of critters for you to visit. The Tobeatic Wilderness and Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve is the largest protected wilderness area in Atlantic Canada. Spanning over five counties in southwestern Nova Scotia, the Tobeatic is home to nine rivers and over 120 lakes. Pack a lunch and enjoy an afternoon of canoeing and animal watching. Keep your eyes opened for the chance to see moose, black bears, flying squirrels, bald eagles and more.

Another option is to visit Brier Island in the Bay of Fundy. This unique spot is full of marine life including whales, migrating birds and seals. It is not unheard of to spot rare and endangered plants in this area, as well, as this region is mostly untouched by man.

If human history is more your style, take a trip to the Louisburg National Historic Site. Spend the day letting the costumed tour guides tell you stories of how in 1744 this area was built to protect French interests and served as a base for cod fishing.

The Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and the surrounding area on Cape Breton island are not to be missed. This rustic and scenic area is full of dramatic shorelines, small quaint towns, and cozy bed and breakfasts.



There are several bike tours available along popular areas like Cape Breton's Cabot Trail and the Peggy's Cove Lighthouse route. When riding past, be sure to admire the charming lighthouse sat on granite boulders as the waves crash below. Today, the lighthouse serves as a post office but there is tourist information and a restaurant inside.

A scenic drive can be made by heading south from Halifax towards Peggy's Cove and beyond, all the way down to the southern end of the island. Depending on how much time you have available, follow the coastal roads through all of the small towns along the shore. Each one offers historical buildings, restaurants, bed and breakfasts, small harbors full of fishing boats, and the occasional beach. Highlights include Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the LaHave Islands.

When you're done with that, consider a quaint shopping trip in Mahone Bay. Known as the "sunniest town on the coast," Mahone Bay is full of colorful buildings from the 19th century full of local crafts for you to browse and buy.

If it's a little more adventure you're after, take a trip to Maitland for a day of rafting the tidal bore in an inflatable dingy. If you time it out to the right moon phase, you could be in for the most thrilling ride of your life.



Nightlife Budget in Nova Scotia

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $16 (CA$22) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Nova Scotia per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $16
    CA$22
Nightlife Tips

Sure, nightlife is part of the adventure, but cutting down on cocktails can make a surprising difference in your travel budget.



Travel cost data last updated: Aug 11, 2025

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Nova Scotia

  • Traveling more slowly can help you save some cash while enjoying the beauty of the area. When you fill your days with activities, expenses can skyrocket. But taking it easy often means enjoying yourself more and spending less.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Nova Scotia doesn't have many public transport options available. You may want to consider renting a car or setting up transportation ahead of time, like booking a tour. Just be aware that this might affect your budget elsewhere.
  • Nova Scotia doesn't really have a thriving hostel scene, so if you're counting on staying in a low-cost dorm, you may want to change your plans. Instead, check out budget hotels or apartment rentals.
Traveling in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Old Town Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

As one of the original four provinces of Canada, Nova Scotia became part of Canada in 1867. With a population of over 900,000 people, 44% of them live in the capital city of Nova Scotia. This region is truly diverse with people of countless ethnic backgrounds calling Nova Scotia home, but the biggest influences come from the early Scottish settlers. It's undoubtedly there even if it's been mixed with the native Mi'kmaq culture and those of other immigrant groups.

When planning your trip, remember that anytime outside of June to October will be extremely frigid, and many businesses will likely be closed.



Regions

The province of Nova Scotia is divided into several regions known as Cape Breton Island, Halifax Regional Municipality, Annapolis Valley, Cumberland County, South Shore, Northumberland Shore, and Yarmouth and Acadian Shores.

Related:

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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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