The City of Halifax is the largest city in the province of Nova Scotia, Canada. Halifax is nestled at the eastern coastline of Nova Scotia (about midway between Canso and Yarmouth), and is generally just above sea level. The city uses Atlantic Standard Time, which is one hour ahead of Toronto or New York. The city lies on the Atlantic Ocean. Governor Edward Cornwallis and 2500 settlers created Canada's first permanent British town here in 1749, on the scenic shores of the world's second largest natural harbour.

Divided into a number of distinct regions, notable districts and neighborhoods in the Halifax area include the Downtown District - the true heart of city life, extending along Lower Water Street up to the Citadel area; the Harbor area - based around the vast harbor, which is famous throughout Canada; South End - an exclusive part of Halifax, home to the spreading Point Pleasant Park; and West End - best known for containing both the Halifax Shopping Center and the West End Mall. Also worth a visit, Bedford stands on the northern side of the city and offers a mixture of residential areas, shopping malls, hotels and restaurants, and nearby Dartmouth is a similar city located across from the harbor, often known as Halifax's 'twin'.

Notable landmarks and monuments in Halifax include Pier 21 - famous for being the historical entry point for a huge number of immigrants; Halifax Citadel National Historic Site - an eye-catching white clock tower which has become one of the most famous landmarks in Halifax; Province House - the oldest seat of government in the whole of Canada; the Cathedral Church of all Saints - a breathtaking cathedral contain many important local artifacts and outstanding stained-glass windows; and HMCS Sackville - a navy ship used in the second world war.

Quick Facts

  • Area: urban approximately 31 square miles / 80 square kilometers
  • Population: approximately 385,000
  • Language: Canadian English / Canadian French
  • Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
  • Time zone: GMT - 4 hours Atlantic Standard Time (daylight saving time is observed)
  • Country dialing code: +1
  • Telephone area code: 902
  • Average daily Halifax January temperature: -2°C / 28°F
  • Average daily Halifax July temperature: 23°C / 73°F

(Information courtesy:  World Guides and Halifax Info Center.)