Halifax is a popular holiday destination and a major draw for Canadian travellers in August

Canadians are looking closer to home for their August travels, with Halifax proving to be a particularly popular destination this month. Information provided to Yahoo Canada According to Skyscanner, there has been a 29 percent increase in the number of booked flights to the Nova Scotia capital from Canadian airports compared to the previous month.

From vibrant neighborhoods to outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to do in Halifax, plus travelers can take advantage of a variety of day trip options just outside the city.

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Why is Halifax such a popular destination for Canadian travellers?

If Halifax is on your bucket list, August might be a good time to make that trip.

“Nova Scotia’s beautiful capital, Halifax, is a key destination in August thanks to its warm weather and infectious atmosphere,” highlighted Laura Lindsay, Skyscanner’s travel trends and destinations expert. “Thanks to its coastal location, August temperatures typically reach the mid-20s, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as waterside walks, beach days, whale watching and visiting iconic spots like Peggy’s Cove.”

Research from OnePoll and Skyscanner found that 53 percent of Canadians say culinary experiences are a priority when traveling, and Halifax has a lot to offer.

“The city is known for its fresh seafood, including succulent lobster and scallops, and offers a delicious range of dining options, from chic waterfront restaurants to cozy neighborhood bistros,” Lindsay says.

“Food festivals and markets, such as the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, offer opportunities to enjoy local produce, artisanal goods and gourmet treats. With a mix of traditional and innovative culinary approaches, Halifax is a paradise for foodies looking to discover the gastronomic delights of Atlantic Canada.”

How much does it cost to travel from Canadian cities to Halifax in August?

If you use Skyscanner’s search data for flights to Halifax, return flights from Toronto in August are available from just $159.

For a return flight from Montreal to Halifax you can pay from $175, and from Vancouver to Halifax you can pay from $400.

Don’t forget to check the Skyscanner website for current prices.

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3 Expert Tips on What to Do in Halifax

Enjoy the beauty of Halifax by walking along the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk. This boardwalk is very popular and has a number of shops, a few eateries and a beer garden.

“Enjoy fresh oysters at The Bicycle Thief or head to the Lower Deck for live music and a local beer! You won’t want to miss a visit to Cows for the best ice cream on the East Coast,” Lindsay recommended.

About an hour outside of Halifax lies Peggy’s Cove, a must-see stop for anyone traveling to Nova Scotia. The world-famous Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, built in 1915, is a beautiful spot to watch the waves crashing around the rocks of this unique protected area, and a working fishing community.

Another great place to explore is the Halifax Public Gardens, a beautiful rendition of a Victorian garden in Canada.

“Stroll through the beautifully manicured grounds, enjoy the vibrant flowerbeds and relax by the serene ponds. The gardens often host events and concerts, so be sure to plan accordingly,” Lindsay advised.

Where to stay in Halifax

Muir, Autograph Collection is a luxury hotel in Halifax, in the Queen’s Marque neighborhood, with stunning water views. The hotel’s Drift restaurant really leans into Atlantic Canada cuisine. The property also has a beautiful pool and is home to the True Colors art gallery. The Muir also has its own 36-foot Morris yacht.

For a pet-friendly stay that showcases a “modern luxury” aesthetic, head to The Sutton Place Hotel Halifax, located in the city center. There’s a seasonal outdoor patio and hot tub area, and the property has a partnership with VeriTree, planting 10 trees for every night guests stay without having to request a room cleaning.

Built in 1928, the Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites overlooks the Halifax Public Gardens. It retains a historic feel with modern touches. There is also a restaurant on site.

Skyscanner’s Saved feature: save those deals to view later

Skyscanner has a number of features to help you save as much as possible on your holiday.

Use the “Saved” function. Start by browsing all the travel deals and when you see something you like, you can save it for later.

• Step 1: Find your flights and hotel

• Step 2: Select the heart icon next to your top picks to save them for later. Make sure you’re logged into your Skyscanner account!

• Pro tip: Download the Skyscanner app to create separate saved lists for all the different trips you’re planning.

Tips for finding the cheapest flights

If the cost of flights is putting you off, there are a few things Canadian travellers can do to ensure they get the best possible deal on their next holiday, both on the Skyscanner platform and in general when searching for flights.

• Avoid the crowds: For flights that fill up quickly, it’s best to check the monthly view on travel search engines such as Skyscanner to see what’s the best option for your flight dates.

• Set alerts: Prices change all the time, so if you’re hoping to travel to a specific destination or on specific dates, set up a price alert so you can be quick to pick up any deals that come along. Skyscanner specifically has a price alert system for any price changes.

• Think “Everywhere”: Looking for a new adventure or a bit of rest and relaxation but don’t have a specific destination in mind? Skyscanner’s ‘Everywhere’ search function could be your best friend in finding the most affordable holiday destination.

• Flexible dates: There may be certain times when you need to travel on specific dates, but the best deals are only really revealed when you open yourself up to some flexibility. Even changing your travel dates by a day or a week can result in significant savings.