maritimes road trip itinerary

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The ultimate Maritimes road trip

The Maritimes is a region consisting of three magnificent Canadian provinces that are still relatively unknown to travellers: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.

Yet the region is home to highest tides in the world, breathtaking landscapes, a warm Acadian welcome, delicious seafood, scenic routes, sandy beaches, numerous historic sites, and a multitude of charming villages. 

If you're looking for a road trip that will show you a different side of Canada, buckle up for 14 days of fresh sea air!  

Road trip map

Road trip summary, day 1: halifax.

Your ultimate road trip begins with your arrival in Halifax , capital of Nova Scotia.

After dropping off your luggage at the hotel, go for a stroll around this lively city on the shores of one of the best natural harbours in the world . 

Try and catch up on some sleep, because tomorrow you will have quite a bit of driving to do!

Destination Maritimes

Day 2 : moncton  (266 km / 165 mi).

It's the first day of your Maritime adventure, and you are already changing provinces.

Today you discover Moncton , the largest city in New Brunswick (the capital is Fredericton). 

But first, make a stop in Shediac, a charming fishing village known as the lobster capital of the world. It goes without saying that we recommend lobster for lunch!

During your short stay in Moncton, be sure to visit Magnetic Hill, where you will experience an extraordinary phenomenon that defies the very laws of physics. 

Believe it or not, if you stop at the bottom of Magnetic Hill, your car will roll back up the hill, all by itself! Even the most skeptical will be baffled.

At the end of the day, pay a visit to Pumphouse Brewery, a popular brew pub with a wide selection of house-brewed craft beer . Don't be discouraged by the lineup: it's well worth the wait!

Day 3 : Bay of Fundy, Saint John  (157 km / 97 mi)

Start your morning with a visit to Hopewell Rocks, a famous site boasting one of Canada's most impressive natural phenomena. 

The exceptionally high tides (10 to 14 metres) at Hopewell Rocks have sculpted gigantic sandstone "flower pot" formations that visitors can explore on foot at low tide, and kayak around just a few hours later.

You can walk on the ocean floor at low tide in search of precious treasures, like a modern Indiana Jones. 

Before leaving the area, be sure to take in some sun on one of the two sandy beaches. 

Day 4 : Bay of Fundy, St. Andrews (103 km / 64 mi)

You don't have much driving to do today as you head for St-Andrews-by-the-Sea, a popular site for marine mammal observation (whales, seals, etc.). 

This picturesque seaside resort town was voted Best Destination in Canada by the USA Today 10 Best Readers' Choice 2017 , and is home to a National Historic Site. You will quickly succumb to the charms of its rich architectural heritage. 

The many Loyalists houses give St. Andrews a unique feel. The town features more than 280 well-preserved buildings constructed before 1880. 

One of the main attractions in St-Andrews is Ministers Island, which can only be reached at low tide. This vast summer estate belonged to none other than Sir William Van Horne, the president and driving force behind the Canadian Pacific Railway.  

Finally, be sure to go for a walk through the magnificent Kingsbrea Garden, just steps from your hotel. Once the property of a wealthy family, it is now an award-winning horticultural masterpiece with themed gardens that delight visitors from around the world.

Day 5-6 : Kouchibouguac  (310 km / 192mi)

Your road trip continues to Kouchibouguac National Park . 

Along the way, take the panoramic coastal route from Alma to Moncton (Route 114). It's a bit of a detour, but the scenery is better. After all, you are on holiday! Be sure to stop at Cape Enrage to admire the spectacular view!

Kouchibouguac National Park is a popular family destination, boasting calm sandy beaches with some of the warmest salt water north of Virginia.

The park also features an impressive mosaic of landscapes: peat bogs, salt marshes, forests, sheltered lagoons, sand dunes and more. 

Spend an enjoyable day playing in the water, building sand castles, watching the birds and walking along the huge sand dunes. 

Stargazing is also a popular activity in the park. In fact, Kouchibouguac was declared a "Dark Sky Preserve" in 2009 by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.

Day 7 : Acadie  (201 km / 125 mi)

Next you head for Caraquet, capital of the Acadian Peninsula and one of the most welcoming and authentic regions of our beautiful country! 

Acadie abounds with natural treasures, such as Miscou Island. This haven of calm and tranquility offers visitors enchanting scenery and wild, unspoiled natural beauty.

Spend some time exploring the island's trails, and be sure to take a closer look at the historic lighthouse. 

Built in 1856, this heritage structure is an iconic symbol of the island, and of the Acadie region. It is possible to tour the lighthouse and even to climb to the top of the tower, if you are not daunted by the 96 steps!

At the end of the afternoon, pay a visit to Village Historique Acadien, a realistic reconstruction of 1850s Acadian life. 

Village "inhabitants" in period costumes will bring history to life (and probably make you smile at their charming accents). 

One thing is certain: you won't be bored during your stay in Acadie, with its colourful culture and joyful spirit.

Day 8-9 : Prince Edward Island  (385 km / 239 mi)

With heavy hearts you bid farewell to Acadie, but rest assured, the next province has lovely surprises in store. 

You get there via the impressive Confederation Bridge. This 12.9-km span has linked PEI to the mainland since 1997. 

Your adventure continues in Charlottetown, capital of Prince Edward Island . This tiny capital city can boast of being the birthplace of Canada. Learn more about this chapter in Canadian history at Province House National Historic Site. 

At the end of the afternoon, go for a stroll along Victoria Row, a charming pedestrian street lined with shops and restaurants. 

Take a seat on an outdoor patio and enjoy the live (often Celtic) music that invades the street's restaurants and bars after nightfall. 

Spend the following day relaxing on the magnificent beaches of the island's national park. The splendid Cavendish Beach is considered the most beautiful in the area. 

After all, you could use a break from the steady pace of your road trip! 

Day 10-11 : Cape Breton, Ingonish  (567 km / 352 mi)

Get an early start and set a course for Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia.

Arm yourself with a large cup of coffee, because you have a long drive ahead of you. Take the ferry from PEI to Nova Scotia. 

Once you reach the stunning region of Ingonish Beach (on the east coast of Cape Breton Island), you will immediately forget the many hours spent behind the wheel.

By the way, if you're travelling with the family, you might like our road trip ideas for children . 

The next day, go for an invigorating hike on Franey Mountain. A fairly challenging 7.4-km trail leads to the top, where you will have a sweeping view of the Clyburn River winding through the valley 425 m below, as well as a section of the Atlantic coast. 

Sit on the large, flat rocks to get your breath back and gaze at the vast open wilderness before you. Keep your eyes open, because rumour has it that moose also like the view!

Day 12 : Cape Breton, Cheticamp  (115 km / 71 mi)

Today's destination is Cheticamp, a fishing village nestled in the heart of the Cape Breton highlands.

To get there, you will take a scenic drive that is almost too beautiful to be true: the Cabot Trail, which skirts the edges of the park, at times clinging to steep oceanside cliffs . 

24 look-offs along the trail provide opportunities to admire a rugged wilderness of turbulent ocean, rocky cliffs and lush forest, considered to be some of the most beautiful landscapes in Canada.

We bet that these images will remain etched in your memory for a long tome to come!

The Skyline Trail is the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs. This easy 7.5-km trail leads to a dramatic headland cliff that is a popular site for sunset viewing.

Day 13-14 : Halifax, excursion to Peggy's Cove + Lunenburg   (399 km / 245 mi)

For the final stage of your road trip, you return to Halifax , capital of Nova Scotia, to complete your discovery of the Maritime provinces.

This time, we strongly recommend paying a visit to the Citadel National Historic Site. Perched high on the large hill dominating downtown Halifax, the Halifax Citadel offers commanding views of the city and its harbour. The star-shaped fort was built to defend the city against attackers.

The Historic Properties district is the perfect place to enjoy a drink on an ootdoor patio at the end of the day. 

But first, take a stroll through the narrow streets lined with shops and admire the 18th century wood and stone buildings along the waterfront boardwalk that once served as warehouses and now house specialty shops, restaurants and bars.

The following day, treat yourself to one last memorable outing, this time to the tiny village of Peggy's Cove. There you will find the most photographed lighthouse in Canada. Built in 1915, the iconic Peggy's Cove lighthouse keeps watch over the waves and guides the lobster fishermen back to shore. 

But that's not all! The village itself is charming with its small harbour and magnificent wooden sheds built on stilts. 

Along the way, make a stop in the charming colonial town of Lunenburg. Once considered a pirate's lair, this colourful fishing port can boast of being one of only 2 towns in North America to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Return to Halifax at the end of the day.

Day 15 : Halifax

Enjoy the last moments of your Maritime vacation before heading for the Halifax Airport and boarding your return flight home.

And there you have it!

So, are you ready for a Maritime road trip ? 

If you have any questions and/or suggestions, don't hesitate to write them in the comments below .

An enthusiast of our great outdoors and a travel advisor within the Authentik team, it’s with great pride that I share our country’s best-kept secrets and hidden treasures with the rest of the world. Welcome to our neck of the woods !

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Maritimes Road Trip with Kids

A maritimes road trip.

Last update: May 19th, 2021 at 11:53 am

Doing a Canadian Maritimes road trip was a quintessential adventure that our Vancouver-based family really wanted to experience. After much planning, we eventually managed to make it happen. In the end, our trip would include planes, trains (in the form of a unique hotel stay), automobiles and even ferries as we made our way through Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

Disclosure: On this Maritimes trip, I worked in conjunction with Tourism New Brunswick, Tourism P.E.I. and Tourism Nova Scotia to share our experiences in their regions. Partial expenses were covered by these entities and their tourism partners.

Maritimes Road Trip – The Scope

Our trip involved only the Canadian Maritime provinces (NB, PEI and NS) and to be honest, this was still a little rushed for the 16-day window we had to work with. Unfortunately, we did not have enough time to include Cape Breton or Newfoundland, but vowed to do them on a later trip. (We visited Newfoundland for Iceberg Season 2 years later.).

Note: One of the first things we needed to learn from a planning and research perspective (as lifelong west-coasters) was that The Maritimes only refers to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and P.E.I. If you want to include Newfoundland and Labrador, you are now talking about a trip to Atlantic Canada .

Further to some newbie confusion, Saint John is a lovely city in New Brunswick, while St. John’s is the capital city of Newfoundland. According to some forums I looked on, more than a few travelers have accidentally secured hotel reservations in the wrong city.

Canadian Maritimes Road Trip – Logistics

Coming from Vancouver, we decided that our best option for flights was to fly in and out of Halifax, Nova Scotia. Although there were no direct flights from Vancouver, by flying into Halifax, we could still get there all in one day (with a short stopover in Toronto). That said, our flight was a little late and we did not get into Halifax until about 2:30am EST. By the time we were tucked into bed at our Halifax Airport hotel it was 4am.

Note: We stayed at the Alt Hotel Halifax Airport . Bleary-eyed, we appreciated that it was conveniently connected to the airport. We are also fans of this hotel brand, having stayed at the Alt Hotel Pearson Airport for overnight layovers on numerous occasions.

The following morning we picked up our rental car from the airport which we would use for driving through all 3 provinces (returning it back to Halifax Stanfield Airport on our way out). We also traveled on car ferries between Digby N.S. and Saint John, N.B. as well as Wood Islands P.E.I. to Caribou, N.S .

Save Up To 30% Off Car Rentals At RentalCars.com

Maritimes Road Trip Itinerary

Although we arrived into Nova Scotia, our plan was to immediately leave that province and enjoy it near the end of our trip. For this reason, on our first day we drove southwest along the Bay of Fundy coast to Digby, allowing us to take the car ferry over to New Brunswick.

For the following week, we explored Saint John, St. Andrews, and Moncton – taking side trips to beautiful places like Hopewell Rocks and Parlee Beach. We then drove over the Confederation Bridge to P.E.I.

We started our time on P.E.I. by exploring the northwest (including a fun night at a lighthouse hotel ). The following day, we worked our way down the east coast ending up at a cottage near Cavendish where we would spend several nights.

From that central location, we visited Charlottetown, discovered the world of Anne-of-Green-Gables around Cavendish, and explored P.E.I.’s stunning National Parks. We even spent an afternoon on the beach making a sand dragon with a master sandcastle builder!

Rather than drive back across the Confederation Bridge to leave P.E.I., we instead took the car ferry across the Northumberland Straight to Caribou, Nova Scotia. This put us only a short drive away from our second quirky hotel stay of the trip – a caboose at The Tatamagouche Train Station Inn .

From there we carried on to stay in both Lunenburg and Halifax, stopping to visit Peggy’s Cove along the way. We were even lucky enough to find ourselves celebrating Canada Day on Halifax’s lively boardwalk.

Maritimes Road Trip Map

The map below covers our route. You can also click on the link or map for more detail.

The only thing that is not shown here is the ferry on our return trip from P.E.I. to Nova Scotia as I could not seem to get the map to reflect it. You can see where it crosses on the map though under the Trans-Canada maple leaf in the middle of the water on the right.

Link to Google map of our drive .

Maritimes Self Drive – What I Would Change

I really wish I could do every one of our trips twice so I could get it perfect the second time. Here are the things I would do differently.

• I would try to avoid 1-night stays. We had quite a few of them on this trip and it just felt too rushed. It felt like we were constantly packing and unpacking the car.
• I would bring a soft-shelled cooler to fill with fruit, veggies and other healthy snacks along the way. The problem for us was that in any given town we would try to find the best restaurant for something-or-other (usually seafood). More often than not, the favoured method of preparation was deep-frying, and if their was a salad…it was pretty flimsy. On about day 10, my kids asked if we could stop at a grocery store to get some baby carrots and cucumbers (something that had never happened before, and has never happened since).
• I would plan for a few days of just doing nothing. I have a real gift for packing so many activities into a day that I suck the enjoyment right out of it. We needed more downtime to just poke around a beach or wander through a park with no destination in mind.

Canada Maritimes Road Trip Posts

Armed with the above information, I want to share with you all of the posts from our Maritimes road trip. I hope that you have the most wonderful time – both during your trip planning process (one of my favourite hobbies) and on your Maritimes self drive tour!

I hope you have an amazing trip to Panama! Please feel free to reach out to me (Tara Cannon) directly in the comments, by direct message on Instagram , or by email ( [email protected] ). I love hearing from you.

• Saint John, NB with Kids
• St. Andrews, NB with Kids
• Hopewell Rocks, NB
• Moncton, NB with Kids
• Lighthouse Hotel P.E.I.
• P.E.I. with Kids
• Tatamagouche Train Station Hotel, NS
• Halifax with Kids
• Peggy’s Cove
• Lunenburg, NS with Kids

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Coming in June for 4 weeks with granddaughter plane on ding the Maritime provinces

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Canadian Maritimes Road Trip Itinerary: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island

With the current exchange rate, it’s a perfect time for a Canadian Maritimes Road Trip: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, from the US. If you are located in New York, Pennsylvania or New England it’s easy to do this road trip in a week. If traveling further you may want to add some stops on this New England Road Trip Itinerary to break up the drive.

From Albany, NY to New Brunswick Nova Scotia it’s about a 10 hour drive. Driving through Maine you can stop along the way in Portland or even at Red’s Eats for some lobster rolls. We did but I actually recommend you wait because you will get better rolls (though smaller) for a better price (especially with the exchange rate) in Canada.

New Brunswick

We chose to stay in New Brunswick as a basepoint simply because the Hyatt Place Moncton / Downtown is located there and as a category 1 hotel it was only 5,000 points per night. Prince Edward Island would be the ideal place to stay with 1-2 night in Nova Scotia and stopping in New Brunswick on the way in and/or out. But being on a budget this worked for us and since we were visiting all 3 destinations this was a fine option if not planning to switch hotels. We had our dog with us so paying 1 pet fee for the duration of the trip was also a benefit of staying in one location.

Dinner in New Brunswick

On our Drive out we stopped in the town of St Andrew’s by the Sea, New Brunswick for Dinner. It’s a cute little town and there’s many of dining options. We had a wonderful seafood meal that was fairly reasonable in price thanks to the exchange rate.

There’s also a small ramp down to the bay and at low tide you can walk around. It’s very muddy so you need to be careful but if you bring boots you can even go out looking for shells. We ran into a woman with a bucket full of scallop shells.

New Brunswick 1 Day Itinerary

Start your day heading to Hopewell Rocks. Make sure to check the tide tables so you know when low tide is. You have about 2 hours before and after low tide to enjoy the ocean floor. We spent more time than we expected walking as far as were allowed and then back again exploring the area. I would give yourself 2-3 hours from arrival to departure so you will want to arrive no later than low tide and probably best to arrive an hour before.

Hopewell Rocks, Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park

Hopewell Rocks, Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park is in the Bay of Fundy which has some of the most drastic tides in the world. You can walk to the floor of the bay at low tide and check out the beautifully carved rocks. Return again at high tide to see a dramatic transformation. Pets are allowed and we saw many but we opted not to bring ours and we were glad we didn’t. It’s extremely muddy impossible to avoid and most pups came out covered. I recommend bringing sandals/flip flops that you can then rinse off after the hike. Crocs work well too. You can also opt for rain boots.

Lunch at Alma boathouse restaurant

Before heading over to Fundy National Park stop and grab lunch. Admittingly there isn’t a ton of time to do everything so if you want to make sure you get a couple hikes in, you may want to pack a lunch to eat on the road.

Fundy National Park from hotel

When you arrive Fundy National Park, stop by the Main Visitors Center (45.595575, -64.950832), You can grab a Fundy Xplorers program which is similar to the Junior Ranger Program in US National Parks. Complete the booklet and you earn a dog tag for each Canadian National Park you visit. There are many Trials to choose from. We chose the following:

Dickson Falls

Dickson Falls is a 1.5 km loop which takes about 30 to 45 min on a Boardwalk and stairs through tumbling cascades. The bright Greens you see while on this hike are the richest colors I’ve ever seen. It’s a beautiful trail that’s definitely on of the top trails in the park.

Shiphaven Trail

Shiphaven Trail is a 1 km out and back trail that takes about 30 min. There’s estuary views, covered bridge at the start of the trail, and possible bald eagles . We didn’t see bald eagles but we enjoyed the short trail down to the waters and exploring the waters edge.

Dinner at Catch 22

Make sure to make a reservation at this popular restaurant which offer Coquille Saint-Jacques and escargot. It’s a short walk from the Hyatt Place Moncton.

Other options:

• Peele beach
• Parlee Beach Provincial Park – considered the warmest beach in New Brunswick
• Science East (ASTC reciprocity)
• The Giant Lobster statue at the Shediac Market
• Magnetic Hill. When you drive your vehicle to the foot of the hill and put it in neutral, your vehicle will start to roll back up the hill!
• While visiting Magnetic Hill stop by the Magnetic Hill Zoo the largest zoo in Atlantic Canada.

Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia is huge. You can easily spend half a week to a week just on this Island alone. I recommend at least 2 days to see the highlights, The top being the Cabot Trail which will take you a full day to drive and many spend several days exploring.

Nova Scotia 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: nova scotia’s cabot trail. .

The Cabot Trail is a Beautiful Scenic Drive with the most drastic views being along the ocean side. If you would like earn an explorer badge, stop by the Ingonish Visitor Centre, Ingonish Beach to get an Xplorer Book.

Make sure to stop at the Green cove rock Trail for a very short hike to beautiful bay views. We were lucky to see a bunch of seals swimming in the bay that were very entertaining.

The Lone Sieling Loop and MacIntosh Brook Trailhead, Cabot Trail, Pleasant Bay, takes you past a replica of a Sieling that you can walk into. Then takes you through wood trails to a waterfall. It’s a nice stop to break up the scenic drive.

Enjoy dinner before heading back to your accommodations. We chose the highly recommended Rusty Anchor Restaurant at the end of the Cabot trail but honestly I would seek alternatives as I felt it was not that great of food and very over priced. We got the Fresh Snow Crabs and paid a premium for them they were just ok. We had such great food on this trip over all so this was really disappointing especially with the great views the restaurant gets.

Day 2: Nova Scotia: Lunenburg and Digby

Lunenburg Village (Lincoln St, Lunenburg, NS B0J 2C0, Canada)

Lunenburg Village is home to bluenose II . A repiblic of the ship represented on the canadian 10 cent coin. You can take a free tour around the boat. There’s also opportunities to book excursions at one of the booths in the harbor. The town is a pretty harbor town that you can enjoy a stroll and some shopping as well as some nice views around the harbor. As you leave Lunenburg make one quick scenic stop at Cove Rd, turn around at the golf club and while driving back so your on the waterside of the road. Stop along the side of the road for some nice views of Lunenburg. (44.37081072440346, -64.31657923559878)

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse and Village and  Mahone Bay: Discover the rustic charm of the renowned fishing village of Peggy’s Cove before making your way to the South Shore. Travel to the UNESCO World Heritage Town of Lunenburg, renowned for her fleets of Grand Banks’ fishing schooners. Visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic to learn about the town’s famous seafaring heritage before heading off to postcard-perfect Mahone Bay where a trinity of 19th century-built churches represents an iconic cultural landscape of Nova Scotia. Enjoy some free time to stroll through the town and chat with the welcoming locals who have been known to share superstitions, legends, and fables that date back to the rum-running days

There’s plenty of spots to park in town and there’s clean public bathrooms available and there’s a variety of restaurants. We were in a hurry so we ordered a pizza and some poutine to go. they also have donners and donner poutine. If you are looking for something nicer, there’s plenty of seafood restaurants.

Port-Royal National Historic Site

Port Royal National Historic site is a really cool replica of an Indian settlement. There’s a lot of things out for a hands on experience. The kids absolutely loved exploring the Fort and the workers were so nice an didn’t charge us for 1 adult because we had our dog with us who could not enter the fort. We were allowed to take turns with the kids while the other walked the dog and enjoy beautiful water views. We even saw seals swimming in the bay. They also have an Xplorer program where kids can complete a booklet

Delap’s Cove Wilderness Trail: Bohaker Trail

This was a cool hike along the coast. It was a little muddy at some places and we saw what oddly looked like oil in on area. There were plenty of area to climb along the rocks which the kids enjoyed.

Dinner at the Crow’s Nest

The Crowns Nest is a wonderful Treat. Order the scallops they are phenomenal. We ordered the trio so we could sample them all.

After dinner head back to your accommodations if you are staying in New Brunswick you have the option of taking the ferry across the Bay of Fundy but it only saves about 30 minutes time and honestly we just didnt want to have to wait for the ferry and took the longer drive.

Prince Edward Island

PEI is a must visit on a Canadian Maritimes Road Trip Itinerary: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. If you are staying in New Brunswick head Northwest to cross the Confederation Bridge, the world’s largest continuous multi-span bridge to Prince Edward. After you cross the bridge top at the visitors center and see a subsection of the bridge and take a bathroom break. If you are able to I highly recommend you stay on PEI so that you can spend several days exploring the area and National Park sites.

Lakeside Beach

Lakeside beach is one of the few pet friendly beaches on PEI. It’s a nice beach and for the time of year it was fairly empty. We hadn’t planned to actually swim but we waded in the low tidal areas and of course our youngest dove in cause she can’t help herself. We got our pup in the water too which is rare. There are giant sand dunes that you must keep off but it’s a very pretty area to walk and feels secluded. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon.

Lunch: Richards Fresh Seafood

Located at 2 Main Street, Victoria-by-the-Sea, PE , this little seafood shack offers fantastic lobster rolls at a great price. If we were staying on the island I would have stopped here every other day for their hot butter lobster burger (lobster roll on a hamburger bun). The location is actually within the Park but it’s still a short drive from the beach we visited.

Greenwich Dune Trial

If you are staying on PEI you can hike in the morning and hit the beach in the afternoon. You could spend days hiking the various trails but if you are looking for a nice quick hike this is a great option. I think this hike starts out very unassuming but it’s one of our favorite hikes of the trip.

Prince Edward Island National Park , Greenwich Dune Trails is a .6 mile trail that has a boardwalk through a marsh area. It’s a beautiful walk and ends at a beach. The trail is pet friendly but the beach at the end is not.

Other Options

• Confederation Landing -Waterfront promenade
• Victoria Row -Carless street/block of shops and restaurant’s
• Victoria Park-Dead man’s pond, rumored to be bottomless
• Green Gables Heritage Site, the alluring inspiration of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic Anne of Green Gables books.
• There’s even a beach that has sand that squeaks (Basin Head)

Dinner on PEI : Blue Mussel Café

Enjoy some PEI Blue Mussels and other local seafood at Blue Mussel Café.

Maritimes Canada is a wonderful Road Trip itinerary: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island are stunning. Perfect trip for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for pet friendly travel. The exchange rate makes it a wonderful affordable family travel option where you can enjoy some of the freshest seafood.

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Wanderlust addicts! Come Meander with  me... Casual budget travel

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Maritimes Road Trip Itinerary: Exploring New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island

Updated: Jul 1

A solo road trip through the picturesque Maritimes region of Canada is a dream for every traveller. This 14-day Maritimes Road trip highlights the charming coastal towns of New Brunswick, the stunning landscapes of Nova Scotia, and the captivating beauty of Prince Edward Island, promising a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature—and some incredible eats, too! Get ready to hit the road and discover the charm and beauty of the Maritimes!

A Bit of Background

The Maritimes is a region in Eastern Canada that includes the small provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. When Newfoundland and Labrador are added to the group, it becomes known as Atlantic Region.

The indigenous Mi'kmaq, Maliseet, and Passamaquoddy peoples have inhabited the area for millennia. These First Nations groups established intricate societies and cultures, with the Mi'kmaq primarily living in what is now Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, while the Maliseet and Passamaquoddy were mainly found in New Brunswick. The arrival of European explorers in the early 16th century, starting with John Cabot in 1497, brought about significant changes for the indigenous populations through trade, conflicts, and diseases.

European settlement began in earnest in the early 17th century with the establishment of Port Royal in Nova Scotia by the French in 1605, which became the center of the colony of Acadia. The region changed hands multiple times between the French and the British over the next century, leading to a mix of cultural influences. The British ultimately gained control after the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713 and solidified their claim with the Treaty of Paris in 1763. The deportation of the Acadians by the British in 1755, known as the Grand Dérangement, was a significant event during this period, leading to the displacement of thousands of Acadian people. The fishing industry played a crucial role in the region's economy, with both the indigenous populations and European settlers relying heavily on the rich fishing grounds of the Atlantic.

credit: Heritage Minutes, CBC

In the 19th century, with the advent of the Age of Sail, the Maritimes became a center for shipbuilding and trade. The construction of wooden sailing ships became a significant industry, especially in Nova Scotia. However, the region faced economic challenges as the global economy shifted and the importance of shipping declined. The creation of the Canadian Confederation in 1867, initially including New Brunswick and Nova Scotia (with Prince Edward Island joining in 1873), brought political changes and aimed to boost the economy through the promise of a national railway. Despite this, the Maritimes struggled economically compared to other regions of Canada, shaping its distinct identity and cultural heritage.

Driving In The Maritimes

To have a safe and pleasant journey in the Maritimes, drivers need to consider several important factors. Road conditions in the region are variable, ranging from well-kept highways to narrow, twisting rural roads. Be ready for changing road conditions, particularly in remote areas. Additionally, the weather can be unpredictable, with fog, rain, and snow occurring depending on the season.

Although the provinces look small on a world map, the distances between towns and services can be considerable, particularly in rural areas. It's advisable to keep your fuel tank topped up and carry basic supplies such as water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Mobile phone reception can be spotty in remote areas, so having a physical map or a GPS device is a good backup. Wildlife, such as deer and moose, can be common on roads, especially at dawn and dusk.

Speed limits are generally lower than in other parts of North America and strictly enforced. In Nova Scotia, for example, the maximum highway speed limit is usually 110 km/h (about 68 mph). Seatbelt use is mandatory, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited. Be aware of school zones and their reduced speed limits, and be prepared for the unique feature of ferry crossings, particularly if travelling between the mainland and islands.

Maritime drivers are remarkably courteous and generous (at least compared to the drivers in my home community!) Drivers stop for pedestrians even before they have entered a crosswalk. In heavy traffic, drivers will make room for other vehicles and patiently wait their turn. Expect a friendly wave from passing cars in rural areas.

Maritimes Road Trip Itinerary

This will be a whirlwind of a journey, covering a lot of pavement and by-passing many amazing attractions, excursions, and towns. This region is very attractive and urges travellers to slow down and enjoy life, but few travellers have unlimited time, and for many, this may be their only visit to the Maritimes. This itinerary assumes travel during the summer/shoulder season. Many attractions and sites close or operate under very reduced hours during the long, cold winter months.

This itinerary begins in Fredericton, New Brunswick. continues to Nova Scotia and ends in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Throughout this post, I will link to more detailed posts describing additional things to do in the area for those with the luxury of more time to linger. If flying/renting a vehicle, the most straightforward arrangement would be to fly into Fredericton, New Brunswick and fly home from Charlottetown Prince Edward Island. Arrange your car rental to be returned in Charlottetown at the end of your trip. On the other hand, the drive from Charlottetown to Fredericton is about 3.5 hours, so spending your last day travelling back to Fredericton is a fairly easy drive and will save any additional drop-off fee.

Before you start your road trip, check out my post on Eating Your Way Around Canada's Eastern Provinces. Foodies will enjoy exploring regional dishes such as hodge-podge or rapée. Seafood lovers will feast on lobster and seafood chowder. A bowl of warm blueberry grunt with a scoop of Cow's Ice Cream perfectly ends a splendid meal.

Day 1-4: New Brunswick

Start your journey in New Brunswick, where rich history and natural wonders await. Watch the Changing of The Guard ceremony in Fredericton or wander along the Taproom Trail. Visit the historic city of Saint John, known for its vibrant arts scene and the iconic Reversing Falls. Explore the enchanting Fundy National Park, home to dramatic coastlines, incredible sea stacks and world-renowned tides.

Day 1 Arrive in Fredericton, New Brunswick

If arriving by air, you will land at Fredericton International Airport, about 20 minutes from downtown. You can get into the city by public transportation or choose to pick up your rented vehicle and start your self-driving adventure. I recommend saving a few days of rental costs and arranging to get your car on Day 3. Fredericton has a full range of accommodations to suit every travel style and budget. The downtown core is very walkable, and most attractions are close together. Find your accommodations and get a good night's rest. The adventures begin in the morning!

Day 2 Explore Fredericton

Fredericton spans the Saint John River and takes full advantage of its riverside location. "The Green" is a riverside park with beautiful views and walking trails. Locals and visitors can paddle or kayak, walk through gardens and trails or discover the historic Garrison District. Unique shops, grand Victorian homes, a vibrant craft brew scene, and welcoming locals make Fredericton a great place to linger for a few days.

Check out everything to see and do in this post Exploring Fredericton .

Day 3 Saint John, New Brunswick

The drive south along Hwy 7 to Saint John will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. To plan your arrival time, check the tide tables to determine when the tide will be reversing in the Saint John River.

Saint John is Canada's oldest incorporated city, established in 1785. Its history is deeply connected with the Loyalists who settled in the area following the American Revolution. Later, Saint John became a major entry point for immigrants escaping the Irish famine during the 19th Century.

This historic city of Saint John is known for its Reversing Falls, historic uptown area and the StoneHammer UNESCO Geopark, where you can stand on 3 continents on the same day. Don't forget to check out the famous Saint John City Market. For more details, check out my post A Visitor's Guide to Saint John here.

Day 4 Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick

Head southeast along Hwy 1 from Saint John to visit the famous rock formations and experience the Bay of Fundy's impressive tides. The drive is approximately 2.5 hours.

Hopewell Rocks are sea stacks or flower pot stacks eroded by the tremendous tidal action of the Bay of Fundy, which boasts the strongest tides in the world (16 m/52 ft). When arriving at low tide, visitors will walk on the sea floor amongst the sea stacks. The height of the tide is marked clearly by the erosion way above your head.

Try to fit a return visit during high tide (your ticket is good for two days) or explore the park while waiting for the tides to turn. If you can only do one visit, time it for low tide. Adventurers arriving at high tide may want to rent kayaks to paddle around the stacks.

For more details, check out my post of Hopewell Rocks here.

After your visit, continue on to Moncton, where you'll spend the night. While in Moncton, you can make a fun stop to experience the magic of Magnetic Hill, where your vehicle will roll UP a hill (well, not really, but the optical illusion is very strong!).

Day 5-9: Nova Scotia Exploration

Crossing to Nova Scotia, immerse yourself in this Maritime province's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Stop and enjoy the windmill array and beautiful scenery from the Visitor Centre at the border between the provinces. Visit the historic town of Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colourful architecture and maritime heritage. Drive along the iconic Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Island, where lush forests, rugged cliffs, and stunning ocean views will take your breath away. Explore Halifax's vibrant arts scene and indulge in delicious seafood at Peggy's Cove.

Day 5 Travel Day

This will be a longer driving day. Following the TransCanada Hwy, the route will take just over three hours to complete. Plan to stop at the Nova Scotia Visitor Centre and any of the delightful small towns along the route. Watch for roadside signs advertising farm stands, unique museums, and artisan galleries. Make your way to Halifax and settle into your accommodations for the next two nights.

Day 6 Halifax

The bustling capital of Nova Scotia, with its rich maritime history and vibrant waterfront, is teeming with things to see and do. Highlights include the Halifax Harbour Waterfront, the Citadel, a Haunted Walking Tour, and whatever festival you encounter while visiting (there's always something happening!)

Check out a complete Visitor's Guide to Halifax here.

Day 7 Mahone Bay, Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, Blue Rocks

Spend a delightful day driving along the Lighthouse Route (Hwy 103) from Halifax to Lunenburg, lingering at each stop. From the charming small town of Mahone Bay, the quaint fishing village and historic lighthouse of Peggy's Cove, to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, you will find many places to stop and admire along this coastal route. This route hits all the highlights and is a must-see when visiting Halifax. Check out Halifax Day Trip: Scenic South Shore Drive to Lunenburg here for more details.

Day 8 Baddeck, Cape Breton

Your journey continues along the TransCanada Hwy for about 3.5 hours. Traffic bottlenecks at the Canso Crossing onto the island but usually crawls through at a steady pace.

Cape Breton Island is a large island north of mainland Nova Scotia with a strong blend of Gaelic and Acadian culture. The most Acadian communities are along the western shores.

Travel northeast from Peggy's Cove to Baddeck, a charming village on Cape Breton Island, known as the start of the Cabot Trail.

You'll be making the town of Baddeck your base for exploration of Cape Breton. Baddeck is the heart of the island, located on the shores of Bras d'Or Lake. While in town, visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum for a fascinating look into his life, work, and experiences in Baddeck.

Members of the Bell family continue to live and spend time here. Check out the community hall for the next ceilidh (kitchen party) -- a rousing evening of traditional Gaelic music and singalongs.

Check out all the things to do in my Visitor's Guide to Baddeck here.

Day 9 Cabot Trail

One of the most scenic drives in the country, the Cabot Trail, is featured in many eco-adventures, car commercials, and films. It is a loop trail starting and ending in Baddeck that winds around the northern end of Cape Breton, through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and small Acadian communities. There are many trails: long and short, challenging and easy. Stop for lunch at the Keltic Lodge for a tasty meal with a fabulous view.

I recommend arranging for a driver if you want to see the sights rather than concentrate on driving. Your accommodations or the Visitor Centre will have lots of suggestions.

For more information, see my post A Day on the Cabot Trail here .

Day 10 Louisbourg Fortress

Louisbourg Fortress is a reconstructed 18th-century French fortress covering more than 16,000 acres, with 60 acres making up the town inside the walls. It will take a full day to explore. The site is staffed with costumed interpreters who bring the world of the French settlers and armed forces of the time to life.

If you have time, visiting nearby Glace Bay is also a treat. Glace Bay was a thriving mining town that experienced all the highs and lows of miners over the years. Visitors can go underground to experience "the Deeps". Check out the full experience in my post, Fortress of Louisbourg .

Day 11-14: Prince Edward Island

We're nearing the end of your Maritimes adventure and are heading to the smallest Canadian province, Prince Edward Island (PEI). Prince Edward Island is a quaint island paradise known for its red sand beaches and rolling green hills. Visit the charming capital city of Charlottetown, where you can explore historic sites and enjoy local cuisine. Don't miss a drive along the scenic North Shore, dotted with lighthouses and sandy beaches. Explore the literary world of Anne of Green Gables in Cavendish and savour the island's culinary delights, including fresh lobster and PEI potatoes.

Day 11 Travel Day

Today will be another long day of driving. Today's journey (without stops) will take approximately 4.5 hours but fear not, there are many great stops to make along the way to break up your journey. The Old Barn Galleries ( 71 Melanson Rd, Antigonish) is a gem with art, artifacts, and a beautiful garden. It's a great way to break up the journey.

The Hector Heritage Quay ( 33 Caladh Ave, Pictou) is another wonderful stop. It features the ship Hector, used by 18th-century Scottish migrants on their journey to the New World. The town of Pictou is known as the Birthplace of New Scotland.

Day 12 Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown is considered the Birthplace of Confederation and is very significant in Canada's history. It was here in Charlottetown that commitments were made to create the new country of Canada.

Charlottetown has plenty of history, an extremely walkable and friendly downtown and more references to Anne of Green Gables than would seem possible. Enjoy a day wandering around the downtown. Order tickets to the Anne of Green Gables Musical for a glorious evening out.

Day 13 Cavendish

The famous book series Anne of Green Gables, written by PEI native Lucy Maud Montgomery, has been translated into nearly 40 languages, sold more than 50 million copies worldwide, and inspired many musicals, plays, TV shows, and films. Montgomery's inspiration came from her childhood home, relatives, and life around Cavendish. For an overview of what to expect and detailed information, here's my Anne of Green Gables Day Trip post.

Another fun place to visit is the Bottle Houses on the western side of PEI, about an hour from Cavendish. These structures were privately built by a local from recycled bottles. For more information and inspiration, check out my post Les Maison de Bouteilles/Bottle Houses of Prince Edward Island here.

Day 14 Travel Home

Sadly, the road trip is over, and it's time to return home. Depending upon your travel arrangements, you'll need to pack up, return your vehicle and make your way to the Charlottetown International Airport, about 30 minutes outside of the city. Another choice is to make the 3.5 hour drive back to Fredericton, reviewing the memories of your Maritimes road trip along the way.

Final Thoughts

The Maritime provinces of Canada are full of scenic views, fascinating history, friendly locals, and delicious food. The best way to experience all that the Maritimes offers is a road trip where you choose your pace and get off the beaten track. This Maritimes Road Trip itinerary will give visitors all the highlights with a few bonus stops along the way. If you are enjoying the content and would like to be kept up to date with new posts become a member/subscribe (it's free!) and follow along on the RamblynJazz Facebook page , Facebook Group , Twitter , and Instagram . You can help the blog to grow by sharing the link with a travelling friend or through social media. I truly appreciate your comments and encourage you to share your thoughts below.

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Canadian Maritimes Road Trip

If you saw a world map at least once, you know well that Canada is one of the biggest countries in the world.

It stretches for 7,800kms from east to west and surrounded by three oceans.

Canada is known for its amazingly beautiful landscapes that are pretty unique.

The Canadian Maritimes – it is the east coast of the country.

The region is known for its unique way of life and visiting it, you’ll understand how amazing this place is.

The Canadian Maritimes includes five provinces that are Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick , and Newfoundland as well as Labrador.

Sometimes, eastern parts of Quebec are also included in the list.

Below, we’ve prepared for you a road trip itinerary through the Canadian Maritimes.

Iy goes through New Brunswick , Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and Labrador.

We’ve tried to focus on the most amazing places as considering the size of Canada, it will be hard to explore everything.

As a result, we have a 10-day trip through the Canadian Maritimes.

However, you need to know that each place has many more great places you can visit.

Road Trip Essentials

Kouchibouguc national park, saint andrews by the sea, fundy national park, hopewell rocks, argyle provincial park, cows creamery, charlottetown, prince edward island national park, anne of green gables, peggy’s cove, an epic roadtrip through the canadian maritimes, canada safety overview.

As we’ve already mentioned before, Canada is an incredible country including its size.

It is an important point when it comes to trip planning and deciding on the time you need for this trip.

You need to know that there are large parts of roads where you won’t be able to find gas stations, hotels, cafes, and so on.

Sometimes, there are even areas where your cell phone has no signal.

It may sound frightening but it’s absolutely worth it as there are lots of very picturesque places.

To make your trip safe and smooth, use the tips below:

• Take a cooler to keep some fresh food cold. During this long trip, you may get tired of junk food and you’ll be happy to have a fresh sandwich or a crisp apple;
• Keep any roadside assistance numbers handy, written down in the front console so you can easily get access to them when your phone is out of power;
• Make sure to check how much time you need to get to the next gas station each time your gas tank is half full. It is a great way to avoid stress and anxiety as well as to ensure that your trip is safe;
• Have a good selection of music, podcasts, audiobooks or whatever suits your ears as there are numerous areas where streaming services and even radio stations are silent.

Now, it’s time to learn about Top-14 stops for your trip through the Canadian Maritimes.

New Brunswick

New Brunswick is one of the most beautiful provinces in Canada and only one where there are two official languages.

It is located on two incredible waterways that are Gulf of the Saint Lawrence and Bay of Fundy.

One important point is that it is known for its Acadian heritage that is well-preserved.

While it is not a large province, New Brunswick for sure has lots of incredible places.

The list includes the stunning Appalachian Mountains, the unique Bay of Fundy, and fertile lands on the east.

There are lots of great places you’ll be impressed with.

Kouchibouguac is for sure a difficult word to pronounce but it is absolutely worth visiting.

You’ll be impressed with its white sand coast.

It is located in the eastern part of the Acadian Coast that has a variety of ecosystems.

Also, there are stunning beaches where you can relax and lounge.

The place has not only a beautiful name but also an incredible landscape.

The village is really charming and peaceful.

According to USA Today as well as numerous top 10 lists, it is one of the best places to see in Canada.

One other great thing is that Saint Andrews by the Sea is a perfect place for scuba diving and whale watching.

Also, make sure to enjoy some great, fresh seafood in one of the local restaurants that are located near the water.

Saint John is one of the oldest cities in Canada.

This village that is located in the Bay of Fundy has been mustered by soldiers during the history of the New World.

The place is known for its very rich American and Canadian history as numerous loyalists came there during the American Revolution.

As a result, there is a variety of beautiful old buildings around the village that may impress you.

Make sure to visit the loyalist cemetery and Carleton Marletto Tower where you can try what does it mean to be a soldier.

Finally, you absolutely should stroll through the local market that is the oldest one in the country.

Fundy National Park is for sure the most stunning place in New Brunswick.

The Bay of Fundy is known for its incredible huge tides and thick forests.

There are lots of Instagram-worthy places including numerous bridges all over the park.

Moreover, the park is known for its numerous stunning waterfalls.

Also, it is perfect for walking and hiking as there are both easy and pretty demanding routes.

The best one is the Dickson Falls Trail that is a rather moderate 1,5-kilometre trail that goes through the most beautiful places in the park.

Have you ever thought of walking on the ocean floor?

If your answer is yes than Hopewell Rocks is a must-visit destination.

It is located in the Bay of Fundy that has the largest tides with a difference of water level of about 15 feet.

Hopewell Rocks are amazing rock formations etched by tides.

When there is low tide, you can literally walk along the ocean floor and explore local underwater life.

When there is a high tide, you can enjoy kayaking and observe rock formations from the other point of view.

Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island that is also called PEI is one of the most stunning and well-known places in Canada.

This province is known for its tasty seafood,  calm lifestyle, and unique red sandy beaches.

While being the birthplace of Canada, this province was almost the last one that joined the confederation.

Until the ’90s, people can get to PEI only by plane or Ferris.

Later, one of the longest bridges in the world was built.

The bridge goes through the ice-covered waters and connects the island and the mainland.

Also, make sure to stay for a little time at this place and enjoy the local way of living.

If you want to see the famous red shores of Pei, you need to visit Argyle Provincial Park.

It is located along the red beaches and only 30 minutes away from Charlottetown.

Also, it is one other great place to walk along the ocean floor when the tide is low.

Cows Creamery is a perfect destination for anyone who looks for a great place to have tasty treats during the summer.

Of course, there are lots of great places where you can have an ice cream in the area.

However, the truth is that all this ice cream is made in Cows Creamery in Charlottetown, PEI.

Visiting this place, you need to take a tour of the local factory that produces great ice cream, butter, and cheese.

All these products are made of local ingredients of absolutely high-quality.

If you want to feel like a real local, make sure to try the PEI strawberry.

Charlottetown is the capital city of PEI.

While being a pretty small city it has numerous attractions.

One of the main places you need to see is the Province House National Historic Site, where the idea of Canada appeared.

Also, walk through the Victoria Row that is absolutely beautiful.

There are lots of stunning waterside parks in the area that will for sure impress you.

Finally, local seafood offered by various restaurants is very delicious.

Visiting the city during the summer, you need to go to Chip Shack where you can enjoy great lobsters and Cavendish potatoes.

Local potatoes grown in red soils are very famous as well as very tasty.

Prince Edward Island National park is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and camping.

While staying at the Cavendish campground, you have an opportunity to enjoy absolutely stunning ocean views.

Also, it is a great place to stay overnight.

Just make sure to explore local sand dunes and red cliffs as well as red and white lighthouses located in the area.

Anne of Green Gables is a Canadian tale written by Lucy Maud Montgomery in the early 1990s.

It is a biographical book that presents a beautiful story about author’s life in the area.

Nowadays, you have an opportunity to visit Montgomery’s island while staying at the Green Gables.

It is a national historic site.

Also, if you are lucky enough, you’ll be able to meet Anne herself while walking through the area.

Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia is an amazing place that has a bunch of beautiful places as well as absolutely delicious food.

The region has a very rich history and culture so you’ll for sure find numerous places to explore.

You need to know that there are lots of places that pay homage to the past of the region.

For example, Pier 21 is exactly the place where most emigrants landed when they reached the shores of Canada.

One other great place is the Titanic museum where you can learn everything about this famous ship.

Also, you need to visit Grand Pre that is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

All of this, as well as a bunch of other amazing things, can be found in Nova Scotia.

Halifax is for sure an absolutely stunning city located on the Canadian coast.

It has lots of things to offer you including incredible food, gorgeous waterfront as well as beautiful buildings.

Enrolling in an epic road trip through the Canadian Maritimes, you for sure need to make a stop in Halifax to stretch your legs.

While staying in Halifax, you need to visit the Halifax Public Gardens that is a historic citadel that protects the area including Alexander Keith’s brewery that has been working for 200 years.

Coming to Peggy’s Cove you’ll easily understand why this place is so popular among tourists.

The most famous site in the city is the local lighthouse.

The truth is that it is the most famous lighthouse not only in the area but in the whole country.

The town itself is very beautiful but make sure to explore the surrounding areas as well.

Peggy’s Cove will impress you with its stunning landscapes worn by the sea and wind.

Just keep in mind that it can be pretty dangerous there so you’ll see numerous warning signs.

There is even a sign that says “Injury and death have rewarded careless sight-seers here”.

As the area is treacherous, it is better to enjoy the view while staying on a distance.

Lunenburg is the most important area in the Canadian Maritimes that you should visit in any case.

The town has a long-lasting history that is based on fishing and sailing.

The place is known as a home to the Bluenose II.

It has beautiful, colorful architecture and historic settlements that make the town a UNESCO World Heritage.

Grand Pre is one another UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Canadian Maritime.

It is a monument that was made to honor Acadian people who settled in the region and were deported in the 18th century.

While living there, the Acadians used dykes and sluice systems for farming.

During the war between France and England, numerous Acadians were deported and lots of them died.

The monument of Grand Pre is here to tell the story of these people.

The Candian Maritimes has a whole variety of attractions including historical sites, beautiful landscapes, ocean, amazing cities, and unique culture.

Exploring this area once, you won’t be able to forget about it and will for sure want to stay there forever.

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The Ultimate Road Trip to Maritimes Canada from Ontario – What To See and Do On The Way

The weather is getting warmer and summer is just around the corner. Summer in Canada is perfect for road trips. I don’t even wannna go outside the country when it’s summer. Road trips are great. Driving on that smooth pavement in scenic routes and as you get out of Toronto, the drive becomes super peaceful plus less aggressive drivers on the road. Good music (yup, sing at the top of your lungs), chit chatting and laughing with your friends in the car while munching on delicious chips and snacks are the best things to do while cruising on the highway. At the top of my awesome road trips was my 8 days trip to Canada’s east with 2 of my best friends from university. After graduation we had some time off before we enter the work force so we decided to go to an ultimate road trip adventure to the Maritimes!

New Brunswick (NB), Nova Scotia (NS), and Prince Edward Island (PEI) make up Maritimes Canada. Adding the easternmost province of Newfoundland and Labrador, all four together is named the Atlantic provinces, also known as East Coast Canada. I do wish I can call it an East Coast road trip. Sadly we couldn’t step foot in Newfoundland. 8 days was not enough to go to Newfoundland because we would need to ride a ferry and take our rented vehicle with us plus there’s the ferry schedule to follow. Technically 7 days to explore because one day was equivalent for the drive to get to NB. It would be a longer trip if we added that as a destination but we had other commitments so we decided to skip and go next time.

The Actual Road Trip Drive

My friends and I started this trip from Toronto and to get to the next province of Quebec which took approximately 5 hours to the Quebec border. The whole drive you’re basically going to be on the Ontario highway 401. When you reach Quebec, it changes name to Autoroute 40. Both part of the Trans-Canada Highway. You just keep going until you hit the New Brunswick, the first province of the Maritimes and you’ve pretty much entered the region. What we ended up doing was we breezed through Quebec so we can reach New Brunswick in day 2. We stopped by Montreal and Quebec City on the way back for leg stretch and food.

There’s actually a lot of interesting places to visit in between Ontario and the Maritimes. We could have flown to Moncton, NB or Saint John, NB then rented a car there to use. That would mean we can’t explore any places in between so we decided against the idea. The three of us are all comfortable experienced drivers so we took turns driving. What’s also awesome about road trips is the unexpected destinations that you’ll see on the road. We also looked forward to the ones we planned to go! I’d most likely make a highlights posts for the three provinces in the upcoming week. In the mean time, I want to share with you the destinations along the way.

Visit Canada’s First Capital City of Kingston

Kingston, Ontario is one of the oldest cities in Canada so there’s many historic buildings and old churches here. It’ll take about 2 hours and 34 minutes from Toronto so if you start the road trip early at the crack of dawn, it’s a good place to have breakfast and admire the old city. The drive around here is pretty because there’s a part where you go through some red rocks. Grab fresh from the oven baked goods and coffee at Pan Chancho Bakery then walk towards the water and eat on a bench overlooking the river.

Island Hop at the Thousand Islands National Park

If you did go to Kingston and looked out the river, you’d probably noticed the many islands on the water. They’re islands which are part of the Thousand Islands group. The islands are spread out in the US-Canada border on St. Lawrence River. The Thousand Islands National Park located in Mallorytown which is only 40 minutes away from Kingston. If you’re looking to exploring more of the islands, you can cruise on the river to see amazing islands to enjoy nature and see amazing architecture! If you have more time in your hands you can take a tour that let’s you get off and explore the mansions and castles on the islands. The famous one is the Boldt Castle on Heart Island. It is in the U.S. side so if you want to enter the island and you’re on a Canadian cruise, you must have your passport with you.

Explore the Metropolitan City of Montreal

One of my favourite Canadian cities to visit. The perfect getaway from the sky scraper urban city Toronto. The vibe is different and whenever I go here, I always feel like I’m in another country because of the architecture, the culture, and the language. But I’m still in Canada you know. I have been here many times so I’ve done pretty much all the touristy things to do. Now I come here for food adventure so I try new places and also go to my favourite ones . I still walk around Old Montreal which I somehow just end up when I’m wander. The best places to eat poutine are here so I highly recommend a food pitstop before heading back to Ontario. You can eat it at the very famous La Banquise and be prepared to line-up or you can avoid the crowd and go to Poutine Centrale . Or at Dunn’s for a diner setting.

Walk around Old Town of Quebec City

The second most visited Quebec city besides Montreal is Quebec City. It’s a good stop to stretch your legs after the long drive to leave the Maritimes so you can stop here on the way back to Ontario. Walk around Old Town Quebec, the cobblestone roads, and the old city walls. They’re all well preserved so it’s the same well-maintained fortification back in the old days. It’s also one of the two UNESCO World Heritage Site located in North America! Your city girl appreciate these kind of places because it’s not what I’m used to seeing in my everyday life.

Spend A Night at Rivière-du-Loup

You definitely need to spend a night somewhere in Quebec from driving all day either on the way or leaving NB. Rivière-du-Loup is the perfect pit stop to spend a night. Edmundston, the first city of NB and the gateway to the Maritimes is only 1 hour and 25 minutes away from Rivière-du-Loup. If you don’t do a stop anywhere so you can spend more time in the East Coast, it will be a 4 hour and 51 minutes drive from Toronto to Quebec border non-stop. From the border, Rivière-du-Loup is another 5 hours so 10 hours on the road for a day’s drive. That will give you time to explore in between. It’s a cute small city by the St. Lawrence river to walk around and explore. It has pretty colourful historic buildings and a waterfall close to the river.

Learn About Potatoes in Potato World

Who doesn’t love potatoes!?!?! This is definitely worth the stop and one of the unique experiences on the road to the Maritimes. Potato World is located in the city of Florenceville-Bristol, NB known as the ‘French Fry Capital of the World’! At this point you’ve crossed Edmunston and you’re in the Maritimes region! You can visit the museum at Potato World during the summer and there’s a french fry cafe there too. They even hold a French Fry Festival where you can get free french fries. Yum!!

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Atlantic Canada Road Trip | Gems of the East Coast

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INTRODUCTION

Embark on a captivating road trip through Atlantic Canada, covering New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador.

Dive into its profound maritime legacy, mesmerizing coastlines, and eclectic cultures., indulge in delectable seafood while discovering iconic lighthouses, unesco heritage sites, and welcoming towns, all set against the grandeur of the sweeping north atlantic ocean. .

Itinerary at a Glance

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 Halifax | Arrival Arrive in Halifax and check in to your accommodations which is ideally located in the downtown core of this vibrant and cosmopolitan urban centre on the Atlantic Ocean. You may wish to add additional nights in Halifax or a city tour to your vacation package. Bursting with culture and rich history, Nova Scotia’s capital city has much to offer.

Day 2 Halifax to Annapolis Royal | 281 km/175 mi Head south to Lunenburg, visiting Peggy’s Cove along the way. Peggy’s Cove is a small village with houses built right into the granite rock and a lighthouse overlooking the Atlantic. Old Town Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a lovingly restored Victorian town that begs you to wander and explore. Make a stop at Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, renowned for its hiking trails and incredible canoeing on wilderness lakes and rivers. Arrive in Annapolis Royal, a quaint settlement housing Victorian mansion’s on the banks of the Bay of Fundy.

Day 3 Whale Watching Fishing Villages Exploring | 206 km/128 mi Today drive along 95 km along the Digby Neck to experience a whale watching excursion in the nutrient rich waters of the Bay of Fundy. You will likely see finback and Minkes, humpbacks or even the rare North Atlantic right whale. Spend the afternoon exploring Annapolis Royal and Fort Anne. (Breakfast included)

Day 4 Annapolis Royal to Saint John | 113 km/70 mi + Ferry Depart Annapolis Royal and drive to Digby to board the ferry to Saint John, world-famous for its Reversing Falls Rapids—the colossal, tidal tug-of-war between the Bay of Fundy and the St. John River. Twice daily at high tide, the powerful Fundy waters roar into the Saint John River. The titanic clash of natural forces causes the river to reverse direction. (Breakfast included)

Day 5 Saint John to Moncton | 212 km/131 mi The highlight today is the scenic drive along the Bay of Fundy. Witness the power of the world’s highest tides at the Hopewell Rocks. Visit the informative Hopewell Rocks Interpretive Center and learn everything you need to know about the tidal phenomenon. Take a drive through Fundy National Park before reaching Moncton.

Day 6 Moncton to Charlottetown | 164 km/101 mi Before leaving Moncton we suggest a stop at the Magnetic Hill where you can put the car in neutral to experience the illusion of being pulled up hill by a ‘magnetic force.’ Continue to Shediac, known as The Lobster Capital of the World for its lobster fishing, processing plants, live-lobster tanks and the famous Lobster Festival. Enjoy a lobster fishing cruise & dine on fresh lobster. Then follow the Confederation Bridge, the longest bridge in Canada, to Charlottetown, P.E.I.

Day 7 Charlottetown & Prince Edward Island | Exploring Drive by red cliffs, white beaches, gently sloping sand dunes and green fields as you make your way to Prince Edward Island National Park. Before returning to Charlottetown, visit Green Gables Heritage Site, the alluring inspiration of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic Anne of Green Gables books. (Breakfast included)

Day 8 Charlottetown to Baddeck | 274 km/170 mi + Ferry Depart Charlottetown taking Route 1 to Wood Islands Ferry crossing to Caribou, Nova Scotia. Drive the short distance to Pictou & visit Hector Heritage Quay, where a full scale replica of the Hector has been built using traditional ship building techniques. Depart Pictou and continue to Cape Breton via the Canso Causeway and onto Baddeck. This scenic village overlooks the beautiful Bras d’Or Lakes. (Breakfast included)

Day 9 Cabot Trail Touring | 296 km/184 mi You’re off to experience one of the most stunningly picturesque drives in North America. The Cabot Trail winds around the rocky splendor of Cape Breton’s northern shore, ascending to the incredible plateaus of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Look-offs offer unforgettable vistas of Cape Breton’s rugged coastline so be sure to have your camera on hand.

Day 10 Baddeck to North Sydney 58 km/36 mi + Overnight Ferry to Argentia, Newfoundland | 16 Hr Duration Today is at your leisure before this evenings overnight ferry crossing between North Sydney and Argentia.

Day 11 Argentia to St.John’s | 134km/83mi Experience the rugged beauty of Newfoundland as you drive from the picturesque ferry port of Argentia to the lively city of St. John’s. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes, encountering serene fishing villages, dramatic cliffside vistas, and dense forests. The journey culminates in vibrant St. John’s, a city brimming with history, culture, and distinctive colorful row houses. .

Day 12 St. John’s | Sightseeing Start your day with a delightful exploration of St. John’s, taking in the sights and experiences this vibrant city has to offer. Begin by visiting ‘the Rooms’ museum and gallery, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and artistic treasures of Newfoundland and Labrador. Next, drive up Signal Hill, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Don’t forget to capture some memorable photos from this vantage point. Afterward, venture out to Cape Spear National Historic Site, the easternmost point in North America. Marvel at the rugged coastal beauty and soak in the historical significance of this remarkable location.To continue your adventure, make your way to Quidi Vidi Village, a picturesque spot just 3 km from St. John’s. This charming fishing village has been featured in countless photographs, showcasing its quaint beauty and coastal charm. While you’re there, make a stop at Quidi Vidi Brewery, where you can savor a pint of Iceberg beer. This unique brew is made using iceberg water sourced directly from the shores of St. John’s, making it a truly refreshing and authentic local experience. (Breakfast included)

Day 13 St. John’s to Trinity | 269 km/167 mi Today embark on your journey to the Bonavista Peninsula, known for its scenic and rugged coastlines. The peninsula also contains some of the oldest settlements in Newfoundland, particularly the towns of Bonavista and Trinity. Before settling in to your accommodation for the night, you may want to drive 20 minutes south of Trinity to New Bonaventure and visit the Random Passage Site. Constructed in 2000 for the filming of the international TV mini-series “Random Passage”, the site today provides the opportunity to step back in time and experience what life might have been like in a fishing outpost in the early 1800s. (Breakfast included)

Day 14 Trinity Explore the enchanting village of Trinity with its restored white and pastel coloured clapboard houses. Set along a dramatic coastline you will discover a sense of Newfoundland’s history and nature. Join the Trinity Pageant, a walking theatre that meanders through the village enticing viewers to live the history of the area. If you’re feeling active, hike the short but steep 20-minute trail up Gun Hill behind the village for spectacular 360 degree views of the village and surrounding areas.(Breakfast included)

Day 15 Bonavista Peninsula Now that you have a sense of the area, venture to Port Rexton today and hike the Skerwink Trail. This very walkable trail will take you along the rugged coastline for a spectacular view of the surrounding villages set against the ocean. In the afternoon, head north to the town of Bonavista, where you can visit the Ryan Premises National Historic Site, a 19th century replica fish processing factory. In this small village you will also find the red and white striped Bonavista Lighthouse, and the Matthew Legacy, a replica of John Cabot’s ship which voyaged across the Atlantic to discover land in 1497. (Breakfast included)

Day 16 Trinity to Twillingate + Iceberg Watch Cruise | 309 km/192 mi On your journey to Twillingate, your path takes you through the verdant Terra Nova National Park. Should you feel a call towards the natural world, pausing here will immerse you in sprawling coniferous forests, serene ponds, and an abundance of picturesque walking trails. Along the Trans Canada Highway, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the North Atlantic Aviation Museum in Gander. This treasure trove showcases Gander’s significant contributions to the evolution of transatlantic aviation, tracing history from the 1930s up to the Broadway sensation, ‘Come From Away.’ The display includes a piece of steel recovered from the World Trade Center Twin Towers. As you journey towards Twillingate, consider stopping at Boyd’s Cove to explore the Beothuk Interpretive Centre. Here, you can step back in time and discover an ancient Beothuk village, unearthed by archaeologists in the 1980s.Upon reaching Twillingate, grab your camera and prepare for an unforgettable maritime experience with the Iceberg Watch afternoon boat tour. This excursion offers a chance to capture images of towering icebergs, majestic whales, stunning sunsets, and myriad other breathtaking sights that the scenic island of Twillingate generously provides. (Breakfast included)

Day 17 Twillingate to Norris Point | 428 km/266 mi Bound for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gros Morne National Park, words do not give the vistas justice. The park is populated by little villages, bare topped mountains, and forests inhabited by moose and caribou. (Breakfast included)

Day 18 Gros Morne National Park Enjoy a day exploring all of Gros Morne National Park on your own viewing glacial valleys, intriguing rock formations, magnificent sea arches and numerous types of wildlife. Don’t miss the internationally known Tablelands, a rare outcrop of the Earth’s mantle pushed skyward half a billion years ago.

Day 19 Norris Point to Baddeck | 336km/208mi + Ferry Experience a breathtaking journey from Norris Point to Port Aux Basques, dominated by coastal barren landscapes and forested mountains, ending with a midday ferry ride to North Sydney arriving early evening. As the ferry sails across the Cabot Strait, keep a close watch for whales and dolphins. White puffins and birds of prey that live on the spectacular cliffs can also be seen.

Day 20 Baddeeck to Halifax | 357 km/222 mi A full day for the return trip to Halifax along the scenic Bras d’Or Lakes Drive to the Canso Causeway to enter mainland Nova Scotia. At the community of Antigonish, travel southwest along Marine Drive to your destination.

Package Includes:

• Hotel accommodation including provincial taxes for 18 nights
• Ferry Stateroom including provincial taxes for 1 night
• Brier Island Whale Watching | Operates 15 Jun - 15 Sep
• Bay Ferry Tolls - Digby to Saint John
• Bay Ferry Tolls - Wood Islands to Caribou
• Marine Atlantic Ferry with Stateroom - North Sydney to Argentia, NF
• Marine Atlantic Ferry with Reserved Seating - Port aux Basques to North Sydney, NS
• Iceberg watch boat cruise
• Historic Sites admission to the following:
• Alexander Graham Bell
• Fortress of Louisbourg
• Halifax Citadel
• Kejimkujik (Day Use only)
• Green Gables House
• Prince Edward Island National Park
• Carleton Martello Tower
• Fort Beauséjour
• Monument Lefebvre
• St. Andrews Blockhouse
• Cape Spear Lighthouse
• Castle Hill
• Gros Morne National Park
• L’Anse aux Meadows
• Terra Nova National Park
• Port au Choix
• Ryan Premises
• Signal Hill

Hotel Information | Moderate Grade

• Halifax - Hotel Halifax or Barrington Hotel | Standard Room
• Annapolis Royal - Hillsdale House | Standard Room | Breakfast Included
• Saint John – Delta Saint John | Standard Room
• Moncton – Delta Beausejour | Standard Room
• Charlottetown - The Great George | Classic Room | Continental Breakfast Included
• Baddeck - Inverary Resort | Traditional Room
• Norris Point - Neddies Harbour Inn | Queen Room
• Trinity - Artisan Inn | Standard Room | Breakfast Included
• Twillingate - Harbour Lights Inn | Standard Room | Breakfast Included
• St. John’s - Leaside Manor | Deluxe Suite | Breakfast Included

Not included:

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Arrange a call with a Canada Travel Designer and bring your vacation one step closer!

DATES & PRICING

Departs from Halifax: Monday, Wednesday & Friday (Tour Code: SD201)

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Atlantic Canada Road Trips

Road trips are the perfect way to explore two of Canada’s most striking maritime provinces: Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.

Each boasting endless sweeping coastlines, friendly locals, timeless stories and rich heritage, these destinations can be seamlessly combined with newfoundland & labrador to show some of the very best natural, historic and culinary experiences that atlantic canada has to offer., don't have time for it all no worries., our atlantic canada self-drive itineraries range from six to 14 days, plus you can personalize your trip to ensure it's the very best fit for you..

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East Coast Canada Road Trip | 2 and 4 Week Itineraries

A trip to Canada’s East Coast is all about sea breezes, fresh lobster, colourful fishing villages, sweeping swathes of sandy beach, weathered lighthouses and majestic ocean panoramas.

Connecting them all are winding coastal roads, sometimes only a crash barrier away from the water itself.

A road trip on Canada’s East Coast is an exciting and unforgettable adventure, with beautiful views and interesting experiences almost everywhere you go.

Read on and create your own perfect East Coast Canada road trip itinerary. Here’s what to expect:

Day 1, 2, 3 and 4 – Halifax and Nova Scotia’s South Shore

• Day 5, 6,  7 and 8 – Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Day 9, 10 and 11 – Prince Edward Island (PEI)

Day 12, 13 and 14 – new brunswick, days 1 to 6 – new brunswick, days 7 to 13 – prince edward island, days 14 to 19 – cape breton island, days 20 to 30 – mainland nova scotia.

• General road trip advice
• Essential items to bring
• History and culture of the Canadian Maritimes

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. 

Planning the perfect East Coast Canada Road Trip

Spending the best part of five months exploring the Maritimes gave us plenty of time to reflect on what would be the ‘ultimate’ East Coast Canada road trip.

The truth is, there’s no such thing. It completely depends on your time limit and personal interests.

For that reason, I have created a two week East Coast Canada road trip itinerary that features all the highlights  and a four week beyond the beaten path route with more suggestions of things to do.

See which of the beyond the beaten path activities peak your interest. Then chop, change and add to the standard itinerary as you like according to your own interests and time restrictions.

The key to making the most of your East Coast Canada road trip is to not overload your itinerary.

Despite the provinces on the East Coast being some of Canada’s smallest, the driving distances are probably longer than you may expect. We spent a week driving Prince Edward Island from coast to coast and our mileage topped 2000km. 

Please note – Newfoundland is not included in any of the following suggested East Coast Canada road trip itineraries.

Two Week East Coast Canada Road Trip Itinerary

Road trip length: Approx 2200km

Ideal length of time:  Two weeks

This road trip is ideal if: You want to visit all of the iconic places shown on social media and talked about by family and friends. It’s also a great route for those short on time. This road trip can be condensed to ten days if necessary with the removal of a few activities and sights. 

Road trip overview: For a varied, fun and beautiful overview of the Maritime provinces, concentrate your time in these four areas – Halifax and Nova Scotia’s South Shore (3 nights), Cape Breton Island (4 nights), Prince Edward Island (3 nights), New Brunswick (3 nights). This road trip itinerary starts and ends in Halifax. 

The first destination of this East Coast Canada road trip is Halifax. A compact city situated on a picturesque harbour, Halifax is a great place to visit even if you don’t usually like cities. It’s also an ideal base for a wide range of day trips in the area. 

What to do in and around Halifax

• Halifax’s waterfront is a joy to walk and features several world class museums ( Pier 21 and the Maritime Museum ). Just behind downtown is the Halifax Citadel , a 19th century star shaped fort. Raise a glass and enjoy some local music on the excellent Alexander Keith’s Brewery Tour .
• Just south of Halifax are two of East Coast Canada’s most quintessential sights – the granite rocks and lighthouse of Peggy’s Cove and the colourful port town of Lunenburg . The latter is ideal for an overnight stay. If you don’t have wheels, consider a guided day trip .
• If you have time, continue on along the South Shore to see more authentic fishing villages and rugged coastline.
• The artsy yet regal small town of Wolfville is another welcome overnight or day trip excursion. Whether you choose wine tasting or history ( Grand-Pré ), be sure to see the beautiful view from nearby Look Off .

Where to stay in and around Halifax

The Prince George Hotel – Fabulous downtown location

Granville Hall Residence – Great value for summer visitors

Smugglers Cove Inn – Ideal location in Lunenburg

Micro Boutique Living – Modern and comfortable lodgings on Wolfville’s main drag

Day 5, 6, 7 and 8 – Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Cape Breton Island, and specifically the Cabot Trail, offers some of the most magnificent views in the Maritimes.

Here, Nova Scotia’s highest mountains meet the sea. It’s a paradise for nature lovers. After exploring Cape Breton Island, head to Pictou to catch the ferry to Prince Edward Island. 

Things to Do on Cape Breton Island

• The Cabot Trail is a East Coast Canada road trip highlight for many. This scenic roadway across the Cape Breton Highlands may only be 298km in length but you’ll want at least a couple of days to take it all in.
• From the Cabot Trail, you can go whale watching, hiking, camping, kayaking and also try local Acadian, Canadian and Scottish cuisine .
• Other popular activities on Cape Breton Island include attending a cèilidh  in the Mabou area and visiting Alexander Graham Bell’s adopted home in Baddeck. 
• Fortress of Louisbourg , a living museum portraying French colonial life in the 18th century, with costumed actors and restored barracks, shops, restaurants, blacksmith and bakery.

Where to stay on Cape Breton Island

Gillies By the Sea – Comfortable waterside B&B in Port Hood

Auberge Doucet Inn – Good value option in Chéticamp

The ZzzzMoose & Zzzz Moose 2.0 – Cute cabins with private beach, south of Ingonish

Cape Breton Highlands National Park – Six frontcountry campgrounds and one backcountry option

Read Next: 7 of the Best Road Trips in Nova Scotia

Prince Edward Island is the East Coast’s archetypal sun, sea and sand holiday destination. Enjoy the slower pace of life on the island and short driving distances plus fresh, local cuisine and friendly locals. 

Things to Do on Prince Edward Island

• One of the highlights of visiting PEI has to be the white sand beaches of  Prince Edward Island National Park. Situated along the northern coast of the Island, there are various access points to this national park.
• A quieter sections of the park is Greenwich , featuring unique dune formations.
• For culture, head to quaint Charlottetown and discover the birthplace of Canadian confederation. Consider a guided bus tour to learn more about the city’s history from a local guide ( walking tour also available)
• Back towards the coast, visit the the house that inspired Anne of Green Gables in Cavendish

Where to stay on Prince Edward Island

1 West Inn Waterfront – Beautiful location in central Charlottetown

Around the Sea Rotating House – Unique property by the ocean not far from Cavendish

Prince Edward Island National Park – Camping and oTENTiks available at two large waterside campgrounds

New Brunswick is Canada’s only officially bilingual province and is best known for its coastal attractions.

The Bay of Fundy experiences the highest tides in the world and is simply awe inspiring. 

On Day 14, leisurely drive back to Halifax to finish your epic East Coast Canada road trip. 

Things to Do in New Brunswick

• After crossing the Confederation Bridge from Prince Edward Island, check out the Giant Lobster in Shediac (welcome to Lobster country!) and have a swim at beautiful Parlee Beach, home of the warmest saltwater in Canada.
• Cape Enrage is your next stop. Take in the panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy and visit the light station that has been in operation since 1838.
• Just a little further south is Hopewell Rocks , where it is easy to see the power of the huge Bay of Fundy tides (the world’s biggest). Time it right, and you can walk on the ocean floor next to the unique ‘flower pot’ rocks.
• Fundy National Park is something of a condensed version of New Brunswick, offering both dramatic coastal scenery and dense forest landscapes to explore. Take a day hike in the woods or along the beach. Check out the cute coastal village of Alma and cross an iconic covered bridge at  Point Wolfe.  

Where to stay in New Brunswick

1854, the Maplegrove Inn – Great location half way between Hopewell Rocks and Fundy National Park

The Artisan Suites – Close to Hopewell Rocks, highly rated on Booking.com

Fundy National Park – Choice between four front country campgrounds plus wilderness campsites

Four Week Beyond the Beaten Path East Coast Canada Road Trip

Road trip length: 5000km

Ideal length of time: Four weeks (28-30 days) minimum, six weeks is more relaxed

This road trip is ideal if:  You want to see beyond the highlights of the East coast Canada, get a deeper experience of the area and also get away from the crowds. This offers a little bit of everything for a well rounded East Coast Canada road trip at a slower pace than the two week itinerary. 

Road trip overview:  The required month may sound exaggerated but trust me, it is needed to truly give justice to this beautiful area of the world. Included in this East coast Canada road trip is hiking, paddling, panoramic lookouts, caves, boardwalks, beaches, historic sites and offbeat places. 

In addition to the previously mentioned sights, consider adding these destinations and activities to your itinerary – 

• Choose between exploring the lagoons and forests of Kouchibouguac National Park  or the Irving Eco-Centre coastal boardwalk at Boutouche. Or just do both!
• Head to northeast New Brunswick and take a drive on the Acadian Coastal Drive and discover a culture that many people have never heard about. Travel through quiet fishing towns, marsh, beaches and peat moss, spotting the distinctive Acadian tricolour flag (with yellow Stella Maris star) as you go.
• Be sure to check out the Village Historique Acadian which brings the 19th century to life with costumed actors, period food and interactive exhibits.
• Inland from the Acadian Peninsula is Mount Carleton Provincial Park , home of Atlantic Canada’s highest mountains. New Brunswick’s 5.8km Mount Sagamook Trail offers views of 10 million trees and the highest peak, Mount Carleton (820m).
• Make a stop at seaside resort town St Andrews By the Sea for waterfront cycling trails, cute boutiques, vibrant art galleries and general genteel feel. 

In addition to the previously mentioned sights on the two week East Coast Canada road trip itinerary, consider adding these destinations and activities to your route – 

• Travel to Prince Edward Island’s  most easterly point via gorgeous beaches and laid back country roads. Basin Head is a particular highlight, nicknamed the ‘singing sands’ beach. No, really, the sand actually squeaks when you walk on it! The water is also fairly warm here, making it an ideal place to have a beach day.
• Over on PEI’s west coast, explore more about Acadian culture at the Village Musical Acadien in Abram Village. There are two free music shows every day in the summer, performed by local Acadian artists. You can even try some authentic Acadian cuisine too, available in the on-site cafe at very reasonable prices. 
• When driving around the Island, be sure to keep an eye out for lobster suppers being served. These are a PEI tradition and usually include chowder, mussels, lobster, potatoes, bread rolls, salad and a dessert. The latter is often a piece of home baked lemon meringue pie.

For the ultimate beyond the beaten path adventure, consider a side trip to the gorgeous Magdalen Islands . Part of Quebec, this interconnected group of tiny islands sits in the Gulf of St Lawrence, a five hour ferry from Souris

Cape Breton is a surprisingly large island. It is easy to fill road trip days with historical sites, day hikes, live music, local cuisine and lookouts. 

• One of the day hikes you should not miss is the Skyline Trail on the Cabot Trail. This 6.5km out and back route culminates in epic ocean and highland panoramas. Moose are often seen in the area so have your camera ready.
• Consider camping at Cape Breton Highlands National Park’s only wilderness campground at Fishing Cove. This waterfront campground is reached by the short but sweet 12km return  Fishing Cove trail.
• The adventurous should definitely not miss a detour to Meat Cove , almost at the very northern tip of Cape Breton Island. A rustic campground perches on a cliff above the ocean, providing panoramic views along the rugged coast and onto the pebble beach below. 

Mainland Nova Scotia has an incredible amount to offer travellers who are looking to go beyond the beaten path.

The easiest way to do so is to take a circular drive from Halifax along the Southern Coast and then back up along the Bay of Fundy, exploring the bountiful Annapolis Valley on the way back to the city. 

Here are some of my top recommendations along this circular route of mainland Nova Scotia, plus a few others within each reach. For even more suggestions, check the map above. 

Interesting towns

• Only accessible via two car ferries (unless you happen to have a boat that is), Brier Island sits at the end of a long peninsula striking out into the Bay of Fundy. This isolation provides a wonderful environment for migrating birds and whales watching. Nature lovers looking to get firmly off the beaten track will love Brier Island.
• Hidden just off the highway in a river valley, Bear River is a tiny tidal village with a distinctive feature. Many of the rustic houses and shops are on stilts. It’s a lovely little place for a drive or a walk, perhaps even a tasting at North America’s oldest winery . 
• When driving along Nova Scotia’s coastline, be sure to leave the main highway and explore the small roads connecting tiny fishing communities. Cape Sable Island was a favourite and we also loved the LaHave Islands area (especially the local fishing museum in the latter). And, of course, seafood is usually plentiful in these areas. 

Read More: Brier Island, Nova Scotia’s Hidden Gem

Outdoor adventure

• The Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail  is the Maritimes’ premiere backpacking route. The 51km circular trail leads hikers along the Bay of Fundy to the top of towering cliffs and dramatic rock formations, to sandy beaches and rocky coves tinged with red. You’d definitely need to extend your four week East Coast Canada road trip to include this hike
• Much like the Skyline Trail on Cape Breton,  the Cape Split trail  (16km return) has a similarly dramatic finale, with the rugged tip of the cape falling into the Bay of Fundy

• The rugged coastline of Nova Scotia is particularly interesting for paddling, especially when as untouched as the 100 Wild Islands region   on the Eastern Shore
• Inland, canoeists can explore quiet, interconnecting areas of lakes and rivers. The most easily accessible in Kejimkujik National Park , where canoe rentals and guided tours are also available

History and culture

• Found at the very end of Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore, Canso is the site of the oldest fishing port in North America. Due to the strategically important location, the area was subject to numerous raids and used for as a base for preparation in the 18th century.
• The powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy continually reveal new geological wonders, including an incredible variety of fossils. Geologists have long been flocking to the Joggins Cliffs to make new discoveries, even before the fossil of the earliest known reptile (the Hylonomus lyelli) was found here. 
• A visit to the  Grand-Pré National Historic Site in Wolfville is an essential stop to help comprehend the devastation of the Acadian deportation.

• The Port-Royal National Historic Site with replica Habitation building recreates France’s first settlement in North America. Nearby Annapolis Royal played a pivotal role during the early colonisation of Canada. The town still features many historic buildings and a fort.
• Located on Nova Scotia’s South Shore is the Black Loyalist Museum , one of the most eye opening places we visited anywhere on Canada’s East Coast.
• Closer to Halifax is the Oak Island Visitor Centre , a must visit for anyone fascinated by the famed ‘money pit’ on this tiny island (reservation required tours).

General road trip advice for travelling Canada’s East Coast

Slow down . In general, the pace of life on the East Coast is relaxed.

• Though it may be tempting to try and rush around to see everything, take a lesson from the locals and take things slow.
• This is also important to remember when driving. While there are some high speed highways, many of the roads on the East Coast are winding and fairly narrow coastal routes. 
• Short on time? If you only have a week to travel Canada’s East Coast, consider limiting your trip to just one province or two at a maximum. You’ll probably have way more fun not rushing about!
• Large animals (such as moose) may be on the road at any time, but more likely at dusk and dawn.

The locals are friendly. It may sound like something strange to point out but most Canadians on the East Coast are genuinely considerate and obliging folks. You may experience this in a few different ways.

• We were regularly offered warm welcomes, road trip advice, destination tips and even free food and overnight hosting.
• Something else we noticed was vehicle drivers stopping to let pedestrians (or other vehicles) cross roads, even in busy places. 

The peak season is short.  The main tourism season on Canada’s East Coast is only two months long – the summer months of July and August.

• Even then, in some areas of Nova Scotia only five weeks of that period (late July and August) is actually considered ‘the busy time.’
• This does mean that June and September are great months to visit with generally good weather and fewer visitors. On the other hand, some attractions and accommodation will not be open yet. 
• If you’re planning to camp in any of the East coast National Parks, make a reservation early. 

Read Next: 27+ of the Best Beaches in Nova Scotia, Canada

Essential items to bring on your East Coast Canada road trip

• Bug spray.  The East Coast is a favourite with mosquitoes. Alongside insect repellent , it is also a good idea to bring or buy some kind of after bite lotion too . It’s never fun to be driven crazy with itching. If camping, I’d suggest a Thermacell repellent applicance or at least some mosquito coils to burn
• A Parks Canada Discovery Pass.  To get the most out of your visit, I’d recommend getting Parks Canada Discovery Pass. This offers free entry into all National Historic Sites and National Parks in the Maritimes. It pays for itself pretty quickly when travelling Canada’s East Coast. 

• Backroad Mapbooks . The most comprehensive guides I have found for navigation and travelling across East coast Canada are the Backroad Mapbooks series. They feature ALL the local roads (gravel ones included) as well as trails, camping spots, must see sights and more. The Nova Scotia edition is particularly useful.
• Ferry or bridge fares.  The Confederation Bridge is located towards the western side of Prince Edward Island and crosses over to eastern New Brunswick. The ferry to PEI  leaves from just north of Pictou in Nova Scotia to Wood Islands, on the western side of PEI. Ferry and bridge fares are only charged when leaving Prince Edward Island by whichever means you choose (the bridge is cheaper). 
• Canadian dollars.  Some of the more remote places in the Maritimes will only accept cash. My second related piece of advice may seem more obvious, but we noticed quite a few American visitors trying to use American dollars in Canada. A few shops will take them begrudgingly, but trust me, you won’t get good value for money at all. 

History and Culture of the Canadian Maritimes

The history of the Maritime provinces is probably more varied than you may expect. Here’s a brief lowdown; it will undoubtedly help put some of the experiences on your East Coast Canada road trip in perspective. 

The Mi’kmaq were the predominant residents on the East Coast until they were joined by the French in the early 17th century.

Fertile areas in Nova Scotia were quickly claimed by French immigrants. They called the land Acadie ( idyllic place) and themselves Acadian . The British eventually deported the Acadians, fearing their tentative alliance with the French ( click to read more about Acadians )

The French and British fought over this land for over a century, with the latter eventually succeeding to drive the other out.

The revolution in America brought thousands of Loyalists to the shores of the Canada’s East Coast, including a large continent of former black slaves (Black Loyalists) , who were promised freedom in exchange for fighting for the British. 

Scottish and Irish immigrants arrived in huge numbers in the 19th century, attempting to escape famine, overcrowding and discrimination. The Gaelic influence is particularly obvious in Halifax and around Cape Breton – think bagpipes, fiddles, tartan, whiskey, céilidhs and bilingual signs. 

Planning an East Coast Canada road trip? Tell me your plans in the comments below!

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One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Monday 29th of January 2024

Really helpful ideas and tips. Planning a 3-4 week trip fall of 2024 with 4 other sisters (ages 51-74). Mostly interested in seeing how people live, quaint villages, trying seafood everywhere. Should be interesting and lots of laughs (if we don't kill each other). Thanks for sharing!

Hi Jackie, sounds like a fun trip! I hope you have a great time. I'm glad you found this guide useful (and let me know!)

Krista Hall

Tuesday 15th of August 2023

Looking to spend 4-5 days in PEI or New Brunswick with four Seniors(me included). Any thoughts or suggestions mid Septmeber 2023?Thanks so much, Krista Maryland USA

Friday 18th of August 2023

Hope you have a good trip! I suggest three days in New Brunswick and three on PEI in the two week itinerary, so for five days, I'd suggest three on PEI and two on New Brunswick. I personally think PEI has more to offer and with three days, you'll be on 'PEI time' for longer! I'd stay along PEI's northern coast and explore from there. In New Brunswick, I'd stay along the Bay of Fundy coastline.

Monday 15th of May 2023

Hello Gemma My husband and I plan to do the east coast, for 4 weeks, leaving the Toronto area around May 29th. We have a 45 foot RV. Can we do your 4 week trip, in a 45 foot RV? Look forward to hearing from you!

Monday 22nd of May 2023

That is a good question. We have never travelled in anything close to a 45 foot RV so I wouldn't want to mislead you or give you inaccurate information. I know for sure that many people travel the Cabot Trail (on Cape Breton Island) in RVs, including larger ones.

Choosing campgrounds that would accommodation your rig is, of course, very important. I don't believe you would be able to stay at Meat Cove Campground, as mentioned in this itinerary (it is very compact). Brier Island does not have a campground.

The national park attractions usually have larger parking lots with space for RVs, so I would prioritise them. Some hiking trails on Cape Breton Island will be inaccessible due to the smaller lots.

Sunday 16th of April 2023

I would like a 3 week rv itinerary for 2 in a 20 fy camper with our small dog starting mid august to the end of September.

Wednesday 19th of April 2023

Sounds like a great trip! We don't currently put together custom itineraries but I would suggest looking at our 2 week itinerary as mentioned in this post and then choosing 2/3 places you'd like to spend additional time at.

Sunday 26th of March 2023

Hi Gemma I am looking to do a road trip from Peterborough Ontario to the east coast. leaving around the 14th of May to mid June. Any suggestions?

thank you for your time.

Tuesday 4th of April 2023

@Lori, it seems that Gemma is helping a lot of us.

I would be interested in that information as well.

From Toronto for a month. Be back in Toronto fist week of June.

Tuesday 28th of March 2023

I received the email from you and have now replied :)

How to Plan an Epic East Coast Canada Road Trip

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: March 7, 2024  - Last updated: July 5, 2024

This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking and making a purchase through the links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my disclaimer for more information. This and display ads allow me to keep the site up to date and give back .

Planning an east coast Canada road trip? Let me help! I grew up in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and lived in New Brunswick for years. I’ve road-tripped the East Coast more times than I can count !

It’s one of my favorite parts of the world, so I created this guide to share all my favorite hidden gems with you.

While not as popular to visit as the Canadian Rockies, an East Coast Canada road trip should not be overlooked.

Humpback whales dancing below towering cliffs, fresh seafood, epic hiking trails, and the friendliest people you’ll ever meet are just some of the reasons to plan an eastern Canada road trip.

This guide will share all the best places to visit on an East Coast of Canada road trip to help you maximize your time.

It’s made for outdoor lovers and packed with incredible nature and wildlife experiences such as coastal hiking trails, boat tours, and wildlife watching.

The truth is, there’s no such thing as a ‘perfect’ itinerary – It entirely depends on the time you have available and the activities that interest you most.

You would need at least two months to road trip around all the places I’ve suggested below. But don’t fret if you don’t have that much time – simply choose the ones that interest you most.

I’ve also included some sample routes at the end to help you create a perfect Canadian East Coast road trip itinerary.

Having a car is the best way to explore Eastern Canada! I use and love Rentalcars.com to find the best deals on car rentals in Canada.

New Brunswick Road Trip

Hooray, you’ve made it to your first Maritime province! Many people call New Brunswick a ‘drive-through’ province, but after living here for 18 months, I couldn’t disagree more.

New Brunswick has plenty to see, and it should be part of your East Coast Canada itinerary.

Québec City to Fredericton (593 KM)

Coming from Quebec, your first destination will be the capital of New Brunswick and my favorite city in the province, Fredericton.

Driving from Québec City to Fredericton takes an entire day, so plan to spend a night or two here to enjoy the city’s offerings.

🏠 Staying overnight in Fredericton? The Carriage House Inn is a super cozy, beautiful, and authentic old Victorian Downtown House to retreat after a day of exploring the city.

Visit the Garrison District, which hosts summer outdoor concerts, movie nights, and guided history tours. Then, walk across the Fredericton Railway Bridge.

No longer a train route, the bridge has become a sanctuary for pedestrians and cyclists. You can get spectacular views of the city and Saint John River below from it.

In the evening, enjoy a cold brew at one of the city’s craft breweries.

🚶‍♀️If you’re short on time, this two-hour historical tour of Fredericton is a great way to get acquainted with the city.

Fredericton to Saint John (112 KM)

After a night in Fredericton, head to Saint John ( not to be confused with St. John’s, Newfoundland ).

It’s just an hour’s drive to reach this charming coastal town. You can either stop in for lunch or spend the night in town.

The Chateau Saint John offers tastefully appointed rooms in a primate location for exploring the city’s historic landmarks.

One fun thing to do in Saint John is to take a boat cruise to see the reversing falls, a unique natural phenomenon where the Bay of Fundy collides with the Saint John River. 

Or you can join this walking tour of Saint Johns to discover the city’s most interesting streets and central market – the oldest continuing farmers market in Canada!

Saint John to Fundy National Park of Canada (111 km)

From Saint John, it’s an easy hour’s drive to my favorite place in New Brunswick, Fundy National Park .

You’ll want to spend at least two days here, camping or in a hotel near the park. It’s a paradise for hikers and waterfall chasers – I love hiking here during the summer time.

Fundy National Park to Hopewell Rocks (45km)

One of New Brunswick’s most famous attractions is Hopewell Rocks , home to the world’s highest tides . The tide rises and falls 40 feet or so – twice daily!

To fully appreciate this phenomenon, visit Hopewell Rocks at low tide to walk around on the ocean floor and see the unique rock formations up close. At high tide, take an ocean kayak tour. It was incredible to see the difference in just one day!

🎟️ Save time and get skip-the-line tickets to Hopewell Rocks here

Hopewell Rocks to Moncton (31 km)

After leaving Hopewell Rocks, take a half-hour drive to Moncton, New Brunswick’s most populous city.

You can spend the night here or stop for a few hours. An excellent spot for lunch is the Tide and Boar Gastropub, one of my favorite restaurants in New Brunswick.

Sray in the middle of Moncton’s entertainment district at this gorgeous boutique hotel. You’ll be steps away from the city’s best restaurants, entertainment, and bars.

While in Moncton, be sure to take a drive up Magnetic Hill. Park at the bottom of the hill, put your car in neutral, and it will start reversing up the hill on its own. It’s magic! Okay, really, it’s just an illusion caused by the landscape, but it’s a cool thing to experience, and kids will love it. There is also a water park near Magnetic Hill.

A great day trip or alternative destination to Moncton is Shediac; it’s just 20 minutes away. Shediac is home to Parlee Beach, which has the warmest salt water in Canada.

It’s known as the “lobster capital of the world”; this is the best place to get your first taste of fresh lobster.

For a taste of the local cuisine, check out this this small-group food tour in Shediac. You’ll sample everything from scallops to chocolates!

After you’ve filled up on seafood, head to Parlee Beach to watch the sunset.

Optional Route: Acadian Coastal Drive

If you have extra time on your east coast road trip in Canada and want to see an alternative side of New Brunswick, keep heading North.

New Brunswick is the only officially bilingual province in Canada, and the northern part of the province is where you can fully experience French Acadian culture.

Moncton to Kouchibouguac National Park (101 km)

From Moncton or Shediac, head North towards Kouchibouguac National Park. Spend a night or two here camping to soak in the pristine wilderness. The park has beautiful beaches, canoeing, hiking trails, and wildlife, including an adorable seal colony.

I had so much fun spending the night here camping with friends – we saw a huge colony of seals!

Kouchibouguac National Park to Miramichi (51 km)

Just half an hour from Kouchibouguac National Park is the town of Miramichi, which was my home for a year and a half. Miramichi is most famous for its fly fishing opportunities on the river.

Another fun thing to do in the summertime is to go on a tubing adventure down the river. In the evening, be sure to soak in the incredible sunsets.

One of the best places to stay in Miramichi is The Rodd. It’s set right on the river, where you can soak in the breathtaking river sunset. Plus, it’s a 5-minute walk from O’Donaghue’s Irish Pub – one of the best pubs in the city!

Miramichi to Miscou (138 km)

Keep heading North from Miramichi to Miscou, a beautiful island at the northern tip of New Brunswick. There, you can visit a picturesque white lighthouse.

Miscou to Caraquet (60 km)

Make your way to Caraquet, the heart of Acadian country. If your visit coincides with August 15th, you’ll be able to take part in some of the National Acadian Day festivities, which are sure to be fun .

There are several quaint B&Bs in Caraquet where you can spend the night. While there, be sure to visit the Acadian Historic Village just outside of Caraquet, where you can learn what life used to be like there.

🏨 Conveniently located off Route 145, this Caraquet property boasts quant rooms with a shared terrace. Acadian Historical Village is just 5 minutes’ drive away.

If you opt for the Acadian Coastal Drive, you’ll have to return south to Moncton/Shediac, which takes about three hours from Caraquet.

From there, continue your east coast trip to Prince Edward Island.

Prince Edward Island (PEI) Road Trip

At just 224 km long and 64 KM wide, Prince Edward Island (PEI) is Canada’s smallest province. But don’t be fooled by the size; PEI has some of Canada’s most beautiful landscapes.

Red cliffs along the blue Atlantic Ocean, golden sand dunes, and picture-perfect white lighthouses are just some of the gorgeous scenes you will find here.

PEI connects to New Brunswick via the Confederation Bridge. It’s a 45-minute drive from Shediac to the start of the bridge, and it takes about 20 minutes to cross over which is a really unique experience.

While driving over the ocean, be sure to appreciate the undertaking it took to build this bridge. It’s an impressive example of architecture and engineering.

PEI is a small island; you could see the main highlights in one day if you really wanted to. But I suggest staying at least a couple of nights as there are some wonderful things to do here.

The province is roughly divided into three sections, with three coastal routes you can make: North Cape Coastal Drive, Central Coastal Drive, and Points East Coastal Drive.

You’ll enter the province from New Brunswick at Boredon-Carleton, which is smack dab in the middle of the province, so you could do these scenic routes in any order.

Borden-Carleton to North Cape (121 km)

The North Cape coastal drive is 350 km and features a Canadian potato museum you can visit in O’Leary. PEI is very serious about potatoes! Cedar Dunes Provincial Park is another place worth checking out and a good option for camping overnight.

If you prefer to stay indoors, the West Point Lighthouse Inn and Museum is a unique place to spend the night in the North Cape.

PEI has 63 different Lighthouses, each one with a unique history. You could fill your whole time in PEI just searching for lighthouses; at least a few should be on your itinerary.

North Cape to Cavendish (129 KM)

After exploring the North Cape, head over to Cavendish, home of Anne of Green Gables. While that has never been an interest of mine, I know it’s a big attraction of PEI, so I can’t write this guide without mentioning it!

See the Green Gables House on this highly-rated tour, followed by a stop at a riverside restaurant with artisan preserves, fine teas, local pottery, and more.

Cavendish is home to Green Gables Heritage Place, which inspired the setting of the beloved tales.

Cavendish is also famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and red stone cliffs. The cliffs here are the best place to take in these stunning landscapes.

Afterward, head over to Cavendish Beach to soak in the sun along a 37-mile stretch of red sand. The red color comes from the high amount of iron in the island’s sandstone, which oxidizes and rusts when it comes in contact with air.

Cavendish to Charlottetown (38 KM)

After taking in the stunning natural landscapes of PEI, head to the capital of the province, Charlottetown.

Don’t expect big city lights; the population of Charlottetown is under 40,000. But that’s all part of its charm! There are several accommodation options in Charlottetown for spending the night.

Staying overnight in Charlottetown? Just two blocks from downtown, The Habour Inn features charming guest rooms , shaded patios, breakfast, and friendly staff to help you with anything you need.

Start your day in Charlottetown with an ice cream cone from Cows Creamery. It was voted Canada’s best ice cream spot and is one of my most treasured childhood memories.

In the afternoon, explore the local farmers market (it runs on Saturdays all year plus Wednesdays in the summer) or take a bike ride by the sea.

Later that evening, head out to Victoria Row. This pedestrian-only street is lined with a mix of bars, shops, and restaurants.

Charlottetown to Greenwich (58 KM)

Spend your last day in PEI exploring the Points East Coastal Drive. Be sure to stop in Greenwich, which is part of the PEI National Park.

This section is home to some incredible dunes and an extensive floating boardwalk that leads to a white-sand beach.

After a few days in Prince Edward Island, it’s time to visit Nova Scotia!

There are two ways to get to Nova Scotia from PEI. You can either go back via the Confederation Bridge through New Brunswick or take a 75-minute ferry from Wood Islands to Caribou, Nova Scotia.

I’ve always taken the Confederation Bridge because I find it more convenient, but the choice is up to you!

Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary

Nova Scotia, known as ‘Canada’s ocean playground,’ is a paradise for outdoor activities. Kayaking, hiking, and rafting are just some of the ways you can enjoy the natural beauty of this stunning province.

Charlottetown To Halifax (325 KM, via Confederation Bridge)

Start your journey in Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia. Spend at least a night or two exploring this vibrant city using this Halifax itinerary.

Staying overnight in Halifax? I loved my time at The Westin. It’s centrally located, across the street from the Halifax farmers market, where you can grab a delicious breakfast to go.

You can soak in the views of the harbor from the second floor of the Halifax farmers market and then head outside to walk along the pier.

The harbourfront comes to life during the summer with street performers, public art displays, and restaurants with outdoor seating.

Enjoy lunch here, and head up the hill to Citadel National Historic Site. From the top, you’ll get gorgeous views of the harbor below.

Rather than wandering around alone, get the most out of your visit to Halifax by joining a small-group tour and exploring the city in the company of a guide who can fill you in on the fascinating history.

In the evening, head out to Argyle Street for some live music and rest your head at one of these wonderful places to stay in Halifax.

Halifax to Peggy Cove’s (75 km)

The first stop after Halifax is just 45 minutes away. Peggy’s Cove is a quaint fishing village with a stunning white lighthouse.

It’s a paradise for photography, with the lighthouse that often reflects in the pools of water. The best time to visit Peggy’s Cove is during sunrise to avoid the crowds. Plus, the light is incredible during the golden hour. Some of my favorite photos from my time in Nova Scotia was my visit to Peggy’s cove at sunset!

If you’re tired of driving, join this Peggy’s Cove sunset tour from Halifax instead! Get a fully guided experience, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included.

Peggy’s Cove to Lunenberg (100 km)

Next up is Lunenberg, a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the most colorful towns in Nova Scotia.

Dating back to the 18th century, this historic town is full of charming architecture and gigantic tall ships docked in the harbor. Head over to the golf course across the harbor for the best views and photo ops of this picturesque town.

Lunenberg is the perfect place to spend the night relaxing by the sea. I loved my stay at the the Sail Inn – a turn-of-the-century bed and breakfast just 35m from the waterfront.

A more off-the-beaten-path place to explore nearby is Blue Rocks, a small fishing village just outside of the Lunenberg. Head there for sunrise – you won’t be disappointed.

Lunenberg to Kejimkujik National Park (90 KM)

Next up, make your way to Kejimkujik National Park for some of the most pristine kayaking opportunities in eastern Canada. Kejimkujik is also a great place to go camping and stargazing if you want to spend the night.

Kejimkujik National Park to The Shubenacadie River (308 km)

If you love adventure, you must try Tidal Bore rafting on the Shubenacadie River. I’ve been river rafting all over the world, but this is one of the most unique rafting experiences I’ve tried!

Twice a day, when the tide changes, the tidal bore temporarily reverses the flow of the river, creating incredible high-speed rapids. It’s the only place in the world where you can experience this! There’s even a Tidal Bore Rafting Resort where you can spend the night.

Shubenacadie River to Cape Breton Island (338km)

Although Cape Breton Island is part of Nova Scotia, it’s so unique that it almost feels like its own province.

After leaving the Shubenacadie River, head 338 km east (approx four hours of driving) to Cape Breton Highlands National Park of Canada.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is home to the Cabot Trail, which is continuously named one of the most beautiful drives in the world.

It’s only 298km in length, but you’ll want at least a couple of days to take it all in. Thankfully, there are plenty of unique places to stay along the Cabot Trail.

🏩 One of the most beautiful places to stay on the Cabot Trail is  the Keltic Lodge at the Highlands . It’s got stunning views from the property and is right next to Ingonish Beach.

One of the most beautiful places to stay on the Cabot Trail is the Keltic Lodge at the Highlands . It’s got stunning views from the property and is right next to Ingonish Beach.

With such incredible views along the Cabot Trail, you’ll be stopping every five minutes for photos. Plus, there are a ton of hiking opportunities along the way. Be sure to hike the Skyline Trail for sunset – it was my favorite hike on the island!

Cape Breton Highlands National Park to North Sydney (114 km)

After a few beautiful days in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, drive to the North Sydney ferry terminal.

This is where you’ll say goodbye to the mainland of Canada and catch an overnight ferry to the island of Newfoundland.

Newfoundland Road Trip

Many people don’t include Newfoundland on their trip t Eastern Canada, but it absolutely should be. I may be biased, but I truly believe Newfoundland has its own identity, unlike anywhere else in Canada.

While out of the way, it will be worth making the trip there. Here’s everything you need to know about planning a road trip through Newfoundland.

Need help planning your trip to Newfoundland? Get your itinerary reviewed or have one tailor made by me – a Newfoundland local!

There are two ferry options for getting to Newfoundland from the mainland. Both depart from North Sydney, Nova Scotia. One goes to Argentia on the East Coast of Newfoundland, and the other goes to Port aux Basques on the West Coast.

I recommend taking the Port Aux Basque ferry because it’s shorter, cheaper, and more reliable. The other ferry only runs during the summer months and is often canceled due to weather.

Port Aux Basque – Corner brook (219 km)

You’ll arrive in Port Aux Basque early in the morning, around 7 am (assuming the ferry is on time). Drive two hours East to Corner Brook, the largest city on the West Coast.

The next few days will be camping in Gros Morne National Park , so stock up on supplies at a grocery store in Corner Brook. Sobeys or Dominion are the best options. There are some small stores in Gros Morne national park, but they are limited in supplies and more expensive.

Corner Brook to Gros Morne national park (85KM)

From Corner Brook, it’s just an hour’s drive to Gros Morne National Park , one of the main highlights of Newfoundland. Spend at least two nights here either camping in the park or at lodging nearby.

Rocky Harbour is the most convenient place to stay in the park if you aren’t camping. I recommend Bambury’s Hillside Chalets, cute saltbox homes with a 9.5+ rating.

With over 100 kilometers of pristine trails, Gros Morne is the perfect place to take a hike. Challenge yourself to go 800 meters up to the summit of Gros Morne mountain!

This hike is no easy feat, as the last two hours involve climbing up steep rocks. The views at the top are worth it – this is one of my favorite hikes in Newfoundland. It’s an all-day hike (16 km) that will take you between 6-8 hours.

If you want a real adventure, try backpacking the long-range traverse. This epic hike takes four nights but will take you to one of the most sought-after photos in Newfoundland. This trek is not for beginners – you must attend a backcountry briefing to receive a backcountry hiking permit for this trek.

For a less strenuous activity, take a boat tour through the fjord s  and marvel at the beauty carved out by the work of glaciers over thousands of years.

Optional route: Viking Trail

Another option is to continue your journey on a scenic drive down the Northern Peninsula, also known as the Viking trail , to the UNESCO world heritage site of L’anse Aux Meadows . Here you’ll find remains of an 11th-century Viking settlement.

I’ve done this route before, and it’s stunning, but you’ll need an extra couple of days. It’s about a three-hour drive from Gros Morne each way.

I recommend spending the night in St. Anthony, the largest town on the peninsula. It’s one of the best places to see icebergs in the spring!

Grenfell Heritage Hotel & Suites is a historic hotel in St. Anthony, centrally located in town. It offers fully equipped kitchens in the apartment rooms – we stayed here for a week and loved it!

Gros Morne National Park to Bonavista Peninsula (406 km)

After a few glorious days on the West Coast, you’ll continue your journey towards Newfoundland’s east coast through the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1).

It’s an easy drive as there is only one main highway across Newfoundland – just look out for moose along the way.

If you’re craving more adventure along the way, stop along the way in Grand-Falls, where you can go whitewater rafting on the exploits river. This is a great place to stop for lunch or spend the night to break up the journey.

Optional route: Central Newfoundland and Fogo Island

While driving across the province, you could take an optional detour to Twillingate and Fogo Island, home to some of the cutest small towns in Newfoundland. Fogo island has become a popular spot in recent years with the addition of the 5-star Fogo Island Inn.

We all wish we could stay at the Fogo Inn, but it’s not in most people’s budget. Instead, stay at one of The Old Salt Box Co. locations and enjoy sunsets over the ocean from your room.

There’s so much adventure in Central Newfoundland you could easily spend another week exploring this region!

Bonavista Peninsula

The Bonavista Peninsula is one of my favorite parts of Newfoundland.

With endless picturesque fishing villages, a lively arts scene, fantastic puffing spotting opportunities , and gorgeous hiking trails , you’ll be sure to love it here. Check out this video of some friendly puffins I met there last summer!

@explorewithlora Found in Elliston, Newfoundland #puffins #explorenl #newfiecheck #nlwx #newfoundlandersoftiktok #newfoundlandandlabrador #wildlifelover ♬ Fantasy – Alina Baraz / Galimatias

Trinity is a perfect place to spend your first night here, with several homey guesthouses to stay.

The Eriksen Premises is one of Trinity’s historic homes and a great place to spend the night. Antique wood décor is featured in all individually decorated rooms, and it’s next to restaurants and shops.

After a good night’s rest, take a harbor kayak tour where you can come up close with whales and icebergs, depending on the season.

Trinity is also home to some great hiking trails. Try the Skerwink trail, a 4.7-kilometer loop with beautiful coastal views.

Trinity to Bonavista (50 km)

Take a day to drive around the Bonavista peninsula or spend another night. Along the way, opt to visit Port Rexon Brewing for a delicious craft beer.

In Bonavista, take a hike in the stunning Dungeon provincial park, grab a cone at Sweet Rock Ice Cream, or head to nearby Elliston to spot puffins .

In the evening, enjoy a locally-sourced dinner at the Bonavista Social Club.

Trinity to St. John’s (258 km)

Continue driving east to St. John’s, the capital city of Newfoundland, and my hometown. It’s one of the oldest cities in North America!

Celebrate the end of your east coast Canada road trip by driving to Cape Spear and soaking in the ocean views. Congratulations, You’ve made it to the most easterly point in North America!

One of the most beautiful places to stay in downtown St. John’s is Blue on Water. This 4-star accommodation features beautiful interior designs and is steps away from top attractions.

Another option is the Cabot Guest House i n Georgetown, a charming neighborhood I used to live in. If you stay here, be sure to grab your morning coffee and bagel at the Georgetown Bakery.

St. John’s is a great city with tons of fun things to do. Hike up to historic Signal Hill, where you can get sweeping views of the St. John’s narrows.

Take a walk around downtown St. John’s, or visit the picturesque fishing village of Quidi Vidi, which has a brewery that you can tour.

In the evening, head to The Duke for the best fish and chips in the city, then George Street for a night on the town. With the most bars per capita in Canada, St. John’s has a lively nightlife and a great local music scene.

As a visitor, you must get screeched in to become an honourary Newfoundland. Christians Bar on George Street is a perfect place to do that.

The next day (assuming you’re not too hungover), take a stroll along a section of the East Coast trai l – there are over 336 kilometers of trail to explore that will take you through breathtaking towering cliffs with beautiful views.

During the summer months, the world’s largest population of humpback whales makes their way to Newfoundland’s coast to feed. It’s one of the best places to go whale watching in the world !

Whales can often be spotted while hiking on the East Coast Trail but for a closer look, join a whale-watching tour.

Want to see whales? I loved this boat tour that takes you to Witless Bay ecological reserve to see the world’s largest population of humpback whales, icebergs that are over 10,000 years old, and the charismatic Atlantic puffin.

If you’re a diver, you can also join a diving tour to see  WWII shipwrecks, reefs, wall dives, and more! Diving is a unique way to explore Newfoundland from the ocean floor.

Toronto to East Coast Road Trip

The focus of this post is on the Maritime provinces and Newfoundland. But since I know many of you will be planning an east coast canada road trip itinerary from Toronto, I’ve made a few suggestions for places to stop on the way below through Ontario/Québec before reaching New Brunswick.

There are MANY more amazing places to visit than outlined here, but they need a post of their own (and it’s coming).

If you’re starting from Toronto , make your first stop in Ottawa (a four-hour drive) or Montreal (a six-hour drive). Opt to stop at Thousand Islands National Park along the way.

Spanning across the border between Canada and the U.S., this park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ontario .

You can either spend the night in the park or just stop on the way to see the islands.

There’s no better view of the thousand islands than from the sky! This 5-star rated tour takes you on a scenic twenty-minute helicopter ride over the islands. Perfect if you’re short on time!

After touring the thousand islands, continue on to either Ottawa or Montreal. They are just two hours apart, so either make a great place to spend the night if you’re coming from Toronto. It just depends on how much driving you want to do in one day!

I love Montreal because of its exciting nightlife and overall atmosphere. However, if you prefer a quieter city with beautiful parks and historic sites, Ottawa is a great option.

Staying overnight in Ottawa? Don’t miss the chance to stay at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier – it’s one of Canada’s most iconic hotels, adjacent to the Parliament Buildings and Rideau Canal. Reserve early, as it does book up!

Leaving Ottawa or Montreal, continue your drive towards the province of New Brunswick.

Fredericton (capital of New Brunswick) is about 8 hours East of Montreal, so you could get there in a day if you drove all day. But if you prefer to do more sightseeing along the way, a great option is to spend the night in Québec City.

With its picturesque cobblestone streets lined with bistros and boutiques, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Europe.

If you didn’t get the chance to stay at the Fairmont in Ottawa, there’s another opportunity in Quebec City! The Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac is situated in Old Quebec, boasting gorgeous views of the St. Lawrence river in a fairytale setting.

Itineraries for Best Road Trips to Canada’s East Coast

With two months, you would be able to road trip all of this Eastern Canada itinerary, including the optional routes I mentioned.

You could visit the main highlights in a month, but the trip would be very fast-paced with a lot of driving.

14-Day East Canada Road Trip Itinerary

• Days 1-3: New Brunswick – Start your journey in the picturesque province of New Brunswick. Spend your nights exploring the charming cities and natural wonders, including the Bay of Fundy, known for the world’s highest tides.
• Days 4-6: Prince Edward Island (PEI) – Cross the Confederation Bridge to PEI. Enjoy the island’s red sand beaches, visit the Anne of Green Gables house, and indulge in fresh seafood.
• Days 7-9: Halifax and Nova Scotia’s South Shore – Head to Nova Scotia, starting with its vibrant capital, Halifax, then explore the scenic South Shore, including Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Days 10-13: Cape Breton – Venture to Cape Breton Island, where the Cabot Trail awaits with its stunning coastal views. Enjoy hiking, local culture, and the Gaelic heritage of this unique region.
• Day 14: Return to Halifax – Conclude your trip with a leisurely drive back to Halifax, perhaps stopping at any spots you missed on your way to Cape Breton.

Alternatively, you could do Cape Breton (4 nights) and Newfoundland (8 nights).

If you just wanted to visit Newfoundland, you could fly into the province to save time. St. John’s has an international airport where you can rent a car .

Ten Days: Nova Scotia and Beyond

10-Day East Coast Canada Road Trip

• Days 1-3: Halifax and Surroundings – Explore Halifax’s rich history and vibrant culture before heading to the picturesque towns along the South Shore.
• Days 4-6: Cape Breton Island – Drive the Cabot Trail, immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty, and experience the local music scene.
• Days 7-8: Prince Edward Island – Discover PEI’s lighthouses, beaches, and culinary delights.
• Days 9-10: New Brunswick – Visit the Hopewell Rocks and enjoy the coastal beauty before heading back.

Seven Days: A Province-Specific Journey

7-Day East Coast Canada Road Trip Itinerary

• Option 1: Nova Scotia – Dedicate your week to exploring Nova Scotia, from Halifax to the South Shore, and up to Cape Breton.
• Option 2: Newfoundland – Fly into St. John’s, rent a car , and explore the Avalon Peninsula, Bonavista, and perhaps a day trip to Terra Nova National Park.

Five Days: Quick Escapes

5-Day East Coast Canada Road Trip

• Nova Scotia Focus – Spend your days exploring Halifax, the Annapolis Valley, and part of the South Shore for a quick taste of Nova Scotia’s charm.
• PEI and New Brunswick – Combine these two provinces for a whirlwind tour of the Maritimes, focusing on the highlights like the Bay of Fundy and PEI’s central coast.

What is the best time of year to visit the East Coast of Canada?

While it’s possible to visit the East Coast year-round, I would not advise planning a Canada east coast itinerary around the winter months in Canada (November-April – yes, it can really go that long!), simply because the road conditions could be dangerous.

The Atlantic provinces are famous for their horrible winter storms making a maritime road trip unpleasant. Plus, the ferry to Newfoundland often gets delayed in the winter.

Summertime is the ideal time for a road trip, but it is also the most popular. The shoulder seasons are also great options. During the springtime, you will have fewer tourists and the possibility to see icebergs in Newfoundland.

During autumn, you can see beautiful fall colors, which will make the drive breathtaking, especially on the Cabot Trail. That said, you can expect some cold nights, and even days, if you are visiting the East coast during October.

Booking A Car Rental for an East Coast Canada Road Trip

If you’re booking a car rental for your road trip around the east coast, make sure you do early. Car rentals do book up in the summertime (especially if you’re picking it up in Newfoundland)!

I use and love Rentalcars.com , which searches local and international providers to find you the best deal. Plus, you can buy insurance directly through them, so you’re fully protected!

BEST CANADA CAR RENTAL COMPANY: Rentalcars.com

When booking your Canada car rental online, I recommend using Rentalcars.com. They search both international and local Canadian companies to find the best price.

Essential Items For an East Canada Road Trip

For your Eastern Canada trip, don’t forget to bring these items with you.

• Parks Canada Discovery Pass  – This will get you unlimited admission for 12 months at over 80 parks across Canada. This may be worth it if you plan to visit a lot of the national parks.
• Insect Repellant – they are fierce in the summertime!
• Road trip snacks
• Canadian cash  – Most places accept major credit cards and debit but in smaller communities, you may find places that only accept cash. Bring Canadian dollars as these places will probably not exchange American money.
• Roadside emergency kit
• Canada Road Map
• First Aid Kit
• Blankets and Pillows – it gets cold in Canada, even in the summertime! You never know when those will come in handy.
• Audiobooks for the road. I love  Audible   for this.
• A  car charger   for charging your devices
• A GPS  or download Google offline maps for your phone. Many rural places you will be driving through in Canada do not have cell phone reception.

FAQ: East Coast Canada Road Trip

Where should i go on the east coast of canada.

There are so many places to visit on Canada’s east coast! Some of the best places are Halifax, Peggy’s Cove, Gros Morne National Park, and Fundy National Park – check this guide for more information.

What is East Coast Canada known for?

It’s known for its friendly locals, fantastic seafood, incredible whale watching, the Atlantic Ocean, and beautiful landscapes.

Is Eastern Canada worth visiting?

Absolutely! While many people overlook the east coast for the Rockies, they are two completely different experiences. The east coast of Canada has some of the most breathtaking scenery in Canada, along with fantastic cuisine, friendly people, and endless outdoor adventure.

How long do you need to travel the East Coast Canada?

The duration of the East Coast Canada trip depends on your itinerary and interests. A minimum of 1-2 weeks is recommended to cover key highlights, but longer trips allow for a more immersive experience.

How to plan an East Coast Canada road trip?

To plan an Atlantic road trip, start by deciding on your must-visit destinations (read this post), create a flexible itinerary, book accommodations in advance during peak seasons, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the journey.

Where is the best place in East Coast of Canada?

The East Coast of Canada is filled with amazing places, but Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia is often considered among the best destinations due to its stunning landscapes.

Is it worth going to Nova Scotia?

Yes, Nova Scotia is definitely worth visiting. It boasts a beautiful coastline, rich maritime heritage, charming towns, and numerous outdoor activities that make it a captivating destination.

How long should you spend on PEI?

To fully experience Prince Edward Island, it’s recommended to spend at least 2-3 days. This allows time to explore the island’s beautiful beaches, scenic drives, and cultural attractions.

What is the largest city on East Coast of Canada?

The largest city on the East Coast of Canada is Halifax, which is the capital of Nova Scotia.

What cities are in East Coast Canada?

The East Coast of Canada includes cities such as Halifax (Nova Scotia), St. John’s (Newfoundland and Labrador), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), Fredericton (New Brunswick), and others, each offering its own unique charm and attractions.

Final thoughts: Road Trip East Coast of Canada

Embarking on a road trip along Canada’s East Coast is an adventure filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty, captivating history, and warm hospitality.

From the vibrant city life of Halifax to the rugged coastline of Newfoundland, this journey promises to be an unforgettable experience for any traveler.

As you traverse the scenic highways, immerse yourself in the rich maritime culture, savor the freshest seafood, and engage with the welcoming locals who make this region truly special.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie looking for culinary delights, the East Coast of Canada has something to offer everyone.

Allow the beauty of the coastal vistas, the charm of the small towns, and the tranquility of the Atlantic waves to leave a lasting impression on your heart. Happy travels!

Planning a trip to the east coast of Canada? Check out these posts!

The Best Things to Do in Bonavista Newfoundland

11 Stunning Places on the Irish Loop Newfoundland

How to Plan a Newfoundland Road Trip Itinerary

Unique Places To Stay In Newfoundland

A Perfect Cabot Trail Itinerary in Cape Breton Nova Scotia

Where To Stay In Halifax Nova Scotia

The Best Places to Stay on the Cabot Trail

5 Best Places for Sea Kayaking in Newfoundland

A Perfect One to Three Day Halifax Itinerary

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Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

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Thankyou for this detailed itinerary! My sisters and I are planning an east coast road trip (around 19 days) next fall and the information you’ve provided is awesome.

Hi, How long did this trip take you? Thanks for all the intel!

Thank you for all of your excellent suggestions. We are planning an Eastern Canada road trip for September 2024. We are looking forward to the scenery, food and activities. We will be driving up from Louisiana and plan two weeks. Will there be plenty of options for decent hotel accommodations? Thank you!

Yes, there are many great hotels along this route that I have suggested.

Hi Lora, My 2 friends and myself would like to take a road trip for about 2 weeks next year (2023) to the East Coast and visit all four(4) lovely provinces. We all work together in the hospital and after the last couple years (with the COVID Pandemic) we all decided we REALLY need a break and a nice vacation. This road trip has been on our bucket list for quite a while now. We are hoping to save enough money by next year to do this amazing trip. A trip to be remembered!!!! Questions: (1) to visit all those wonderful places you mentioned and stay in nice B&B’s in all 4 provinces and really spend time with all the wonderful folks out East. Approx $$ for each person with our own single rooms. Just an approx $$. We will not hold you to that $$, just wondering and hoping we can make the trip re: our budget. (2) Approx in gas? (3) Do we stay in a motel/hotel/B&B along the way? Would you be able to plan our trip for us and do the bookings at the B&B or hotels? (4) We are thinking in May/June? Would you recommend those months? Oh … I should mention, we all live in the GTA area in Ontario and will be leaving from there. We are planning to rent a vehicle. Please help us make this trip a “dream come true” Thank You Lora!! :-))

Thanks for this info Lora! I am going to use this when I cycle and driveEast in a few days. All the best to you!

travelling in an RV, my main concern is heading over to NL, will the ferry take an RV, and any good parks in NL stay? And is the ferry wheel chair accessable?

Hello! And thank you for such detailed info for the East Coast .My husband and I are planning a short 9-10 day road trip to east coast. this coming week. We were planning to drive straight to New Brunswick. Any suggestions on where to go for camping that I don’t have to make reservation? possibly in the Saint John, we’re planning to go all the way to Nova Scotia with this 9 days trip. Please let me know just the important places that we should see. Hope you can help. Thanks in advance……..

Hi Lora, Thanks for such a wonderful travel guide. I am planning a road trip from Toronto to St. Johns or NFL by end of June. I will be traveling with family including Kids. I will leave the city on Thursday evening and so far I am planning the following Thursday | Home->Montreal Friday | Montreal->New Brunswick Saturday |New Brunswick->North Sydney, NS Sunday 7 AM | Channel-Port aux Basques, New FoudnLand Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday (11 AM Ferry) | Channel-Port aux Basques->North Sydney, NS B2A 3V2 Friday | North Sydney, NS-> Moncton, New Brunswick Saturday | Qubic City Sunday | Home (Pickering)

So I will have a total of 5 days in NFL and I need your help to plan these 5 days (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). We both can drive so driving is not an issue. We are interested in Whale watching and icebergs if still, we can see them.

Please guide me how I should plan these 5 days.

Hi Lora, I’m curious about your quoted time of 2 hours from Hopewell Rocks to Moncton? Google maps says it is a 30 minute drive, and now I’m worried I’m missing something? Thank you

Hi Lisa! Thanks so much for your comment. You are right, it’s just over half an hour to get between them so that was just an error on my part. Thanks for bringing it to my attention, it’s been fixed!

Do you have any other whale watching recommendations? We will only have a week with our 3 kids and are thinking of flying in to NB from Toronto to save time on the drive through Ontario & Quebec. We will likely just end up doing NB and PEI…maybe NS…think we’ll have time?

There is good whale-watching in New Brunswick by Saint Andrews by-the-sea! One week is enough to visit them but it will be rushed. I would spend at least half the week in Nova Scotia!

This is great – I may have missed this and will re-read your post, but how long did it take you to road trip across the east coast and as woman would you safe it is safe if I do it alone? Thanks for sharing this post and it is really very intresting east coast Canada road trip.

I’ve done it many times as short as 3 days to as long as 3 weeks, it just depends on how much you want to see! Yes, the east coast is extremely safe to travel I’ve done it solo many times.

Great article! I am planning about a 2 1/2 month trip for next summer and hoping to hit most of what you suggested. We will be traveling with a truck and trailer from about mid June to early September. Based on weather and crowds, I have two questions for you. Any idea for camping if reservations will be needed for National or provincial parks? And what would be your suggested order for the provinces coming from Maine? Was thinking of NB, NF, NS then PEI? Thanks, great article!

Hi Darlene, if you’re planning to visit the parks over the long weekends (Canada day, the first weekend of August, and labor day), I would make reservations as they can get really busy then. Otherwise, a few days in advance should be fine and the provincial parks usually have walk-in space (national ones can get busier in the summer). The order you suggested sounds perfect to me!

In the middle of October, are leaves still on trees on the east coast in NB and NS?

Yes they should be!

Hello and thank you for sharing your experiences. I’m planning a last minute roadtrip the first three weeks of Sept 2021.

I’m looking at starting from TORONTO and making my way out EAST and then driving back of course. Will be using personal vehicle and travelling with my spouse ( no kids )

Any recommendations itinerary wise ? I believe 3 weeks should be enough time to see and do a fair amount.

Thank you in advance for your time

3 weeks is enough time to see all four provinces! I would spend a week in Newfoundland, one in Nova Scotia and the other split between PEI and New Brunswick.

Hi Lora, thanks a lot for this information – it already helps me a lot 🙂 I will go to Canada in October and will spend there 4 weeks. I would have more time, but I think, it would get cold in November. What would you think? Yes it really depends on mother nature … 🙂

As the temperature is getting low during my trip from beginning October till end of October, could you recommend me a good starting point? Is it better to start in Toronto or in Newfoundland? Or doesn´t it make a difference?

I will come from a one-month-trip in Iceland, so I would get used somehow to colder weather, but maybe you have some advice for me ? 🙂

Hi! So glad you found the post helpful. It can definitely be cold in Atlantic Canada by November – even in October! It stays warmer in Ontario longer (I’ve experienced 20+ degree at end of October in Toronto), so I would actually start in Newfoundland and end in Toronto to make the most of the weather 🙂

Thanks so much for this perfect article, I’m planning for a small group 17 people 1st time ever driving from Toronto to Atlantic. This article perfectly giving me all ideas we can explore. Thanks

Thanks so much for your nice comment! I’m so glad you found it helpful.

Hi Lora, great article. We are thinking of taking a 2 week family road trip this summer from Toronto, do you think that’s enough time to explore the east coast? Thx

Thanks! Two weeks is absolutely enough time – there’s an example two week itinerary in the guide 🙂

Hi Lora, Excellent presentation and very nicely explained all relevant issues for travelling. I have sent you an email also seperately for guidance but I know you are very busy. In fact I want to visit Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and PEI with a friend from Brampton. We will fly from Toronto to Sydney and back from Halifax. We will get a car rental for visiting other provinces. My preference is Cabot trail and other areas to be covered in 8 days. Kindly guide.

Hi, I would spend at least 2-3 days to drive the Cabot Trail – it’s so scenic you’ll want time to stop and soak it in. PEI is a very small province, you could see a lot in just two days. If you take the bridge from New Brunswick you’ll be close to Moncton, although I personally prefer Fredericton. It’s worth spending a day or two in Halifax as well, but that’s about all you could fit in!

Hi Lora, we are planning to visit Atlantic from Aug 14-Aug22(must be back to Toronto Aug 22), we are planning to stay 1 night in Quebec for example leaving Toronto to Quebec city on Saturday Aug 14 morning, stay a night in Quebec, then leave Quebec around afternoon Sunday, please advise the next beautiful stop we should stay for 1 or 2 nights? group of 20 people 8 kids ranging from 3-11 years old. Thanks so much

Thanks for so much great info! We are planning an -unfortunately- fairly rushed road trip in our camper van next month. Leaving from Muskoka on the 19th and we have to be home on the 29th. Staying near Quebec City the first night, somewhere close-ish to Fredericton the second night, then the weekend visiting friends in PEI. Monday morning we will board the ferry to NS and do a couple days on Cape Breton Island. We pretty much have to start heading towards Ontario on Thursday, or at the very latest, Friday. Two questions: 1) Is it fairly easy to “free camp” in PEI and Nova Scotia, or do we really need to book campsites? We are self-sufficient with a solar fridge, stove and composting toilet in a 19′ van. 2) If we do Cape Breton (Cabot Trail) over Monday-Tuesday, what’s the #1 thing you’d suggest for Wednesday/Thursday? Do we go west to Halifax/Lunenberg area? My concern is we might be burnt out from driving so much, but we also want to make the most of our time out there. Leaving from Halifax instead of closer to NB means a few extra hours of driving overall. I have been to Halifax/Peggy’s Cove/Lunenberg but my partner has not. Thanks in advance!

Hi Ashley, I have only camped at campsites but if you are a resident of Canada and self-sufficient you could camp on crown land for up to 21 days. I’m sure there is lots of it there, but I’m not an expert in this area.

If you have been to Halifax/Lunenberg and don’t want to add on the extra driving I would just stay on Cape Breton Island. Two days isn’t a lot of time there, the cabot trail is so beautiful I spent a week on it! Inverness or Baddeck are two nice spots on either side of where it starts. I am not super familiar with the part of Nova Scotia between Halifax and Cape Breton Island so can’t make specific recommendations for there, but I think you could easily spend more than two days in Cape Breton and enjoy yourself!

Hi Lora, thank you for all the information you have provided. We are from Alberta and have planned to visit the East Coast Aug 26 – Sept 7th and hoping to see highlights in all provinces. Will check out your article on vaccination status for all provinces. Quick question – is it worth the long drive from Montreal to New Brunswick or should we fly? Thanks for any info you can provide.

If you are flying anyway I would just go to New Brunswick. Montreal is a great city and Quebec City is a nice stop along the way but if you are limited on time and want to see all four provinces it’s better to just fly.

Hi Lora, Thank you so much for this great article. I would love to start planning a short east coast trip to Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and PEI at the end of august (August 19-29). I live in Ontario. Do you maybe have any more specific information about the border restrictions for people from other provinces? Thank you!

Hi Cloe, I just updated the article with the latest information. Border restrictions depend on your vaccination status – fully vaccinated travelers can visit all four provinces, but you will have to apply for a PEI Pass for PEI.

This is great – I may have missed this and will re-read your post, but how long did it take you to road trip across the east coast and as woman would you safe it is safe if I do it alone? Thanks.

I’ve done it in as little as 3 days and as long as a month! It really depends on how much you want to see but I’d recommend at least one to two weeks. It is safe to travel there as a woman alone – I did last summer! Atlantic Canadians are extremely friendly and helpful 🙂

Hi, thank you for all of the info. Ten of us rented an RV and have booked our trip for Sept 3-10. We want to eat fish, do a lot of water activities and sightseeing. Since we have only a week and have no wish to see Montreal. Can you help me choose best places. We are from Toronto and are so tired of being on lockdown.

Hi! Without stopping somewhere in Quebec it will be a long drive to New Brunswick (14 hours) but doable if you guys don’t mind a long day of driving. I would recommend spending most of your time in Nova Scotia by the coast, they have tons of water activities and delicious seafood.

Hello Lora! Your blog is so informative and what beautiful pictures! I want to plan an East Coast trip this summer but I’m waiting (and hoping) for some travel restrictions to loosen up so we can visit from Ontario. If not, then I will save this information for 2022! I have a question for you. I know you said that Newfoundland shouldn’t be missed but we only have 3 weeks and when I followed most of your itinerary that didn’t leave me much time for Newfoundland. Is there a place for whale watching in the other 3 provinces?

Thanks so much! Yes for sure, there are lots of places to go whale watching on the East Coast. You can go in St. Andrews by-the-sea in New Brunswick, as well as Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. I do think Newfoundland is the best place for it though! Really hope you can make it out to the east coast this summer!

This is very informative.

Was just wondering if you could suggest a perfect Canada East Coast road trip itinerary with RV Camper that last up to 16 days (3 adults)? I have seen and read many but l just don’t know how to manage that. The idea is to do a road trip from Montréal – Nova Scotia (16 days) or just Nova Scotia (16 days) suggesting probably “must see” places and camping possibilities. The road trip is planned for next year 2021 summer (hopefully by then the pandemic is under control). Wouldn’t mind if you can email me your ideas also per email.

Thanks for your time.

Cheers Mitch

Hi Mitch. You can definitely plan a great road trip from Montreal to Nova Scotia with 16 days. You’ll have to drive through New Brunswick anyway so I suggest spending a night or two there on the way and back. Fundy national park is a great place to visit! That should still leave you with 10 or more full days in Nova Scotia, so for the rest of your itinerary, it depends on what you are interested in seeing. I love Cape Breton island for the Cabot Trail, I’d recommend 3-5 days to do that. The Halifax area is great too, and there are a lot of fun day trips to small towns you can take from there.

Hi Lora, Thank you for such an informative post! You’ve helped me narrow down most of the places I wanted to go as I’m currently planning an Eastern road trip! I wanted to know what your estimated budget was for the entire trip, if you don’t mind my asking. Thank you again 🙂

That’s awesome, glad to hear! That’s so variable depending on how long your trip is, if you’re renting a car, camping or staying in hotels, solo etc. If you give me more details I can try and help!

I live in Vancouver and have never been to the east coast so this is all high on my bucketlist! Looks beautiful 🙂

Vancouver is a beautiful spot too!! Hope you can visit the East Coast sometime 🙂

I love all those rugged coastal views with the reflections in the waters and the lighthouses. I already love the West side of Canada, but I do really like the idea of exploring the Eastern coast as well. It looks like SUCH a fantastic area to hike, and then eat icecream.

p.s. My mum loves Anne of Green Gables…I wonder if telling her that would be a good way to lure her to Canada!? 😉

I love the West coast of Canada too, but the East coast is a completely different experience! Haha I think that would definitely get her there if PEI is on the itinerary!

This is a very informative guide. Definitely will refer to it in future when I go.

Glad you found it helpful! 🙂

Yay for road tripping! I haven’t had a chance to explore too much of Canada but would love to someday! I wanna visit the national parks!

Hope you can someday! We are lucky to have so many beautiful national parks 🙂

Your photos alone make me want to pack a bag and hit the road! I’d love to do a coastal drive of Eastern Canada and PEI has always been on my radar!

Happy to hear that!! PEI is gorgeous, hope you can visit sometime!

Quebec Maritime Itinerary – Your Epic 12-Day Road Trip

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There is no question you will never regret visiting La Belle Province – Quebec. Although you start in the capital – Quebec City – you will quickly find yourself in rural Quebec on this epic 12 day Quebec Maritime itinerary. Covering three of the four regions (we will miss the Magdalen Islands), this itinerary will get you started on the south shore arriving in Bas St. Laurent (Lower St. Lawrence), touring all of the Gaspésie (Gaspé Peninsula) and then moving over to Côte-Nord (North Shore).

This full itinerary can be anywhere from 10-14 days but can also be shortened to as little as seven days but that would be pushing it. It’s best to take your time and take in all that Québec Maritime has to offer.

This fall was my third time visiting this region and I have to say, there is still so much to see and do. I loved going on a whale watching tour , visiting national parks and relaxing in our luxury log cabin in the woods but I want to return to do a bit more hiking or maybe even venture on a snowmobile tour.

There is an abundance of themed tours you can take in this region which range from the traditional Whale Route , the eclectic Lighthouse Trail , the thirst-quenching Beer Tour to the adventurous Motorcycle or Snowmobile Tours . To find the perfect tour for you be sure and check out the Quebec Maritime website for detailed (maps, stops, itinerary) suggestions. I use it often for planning my trips to Québec Maritime.

There are two main highways that you can travel: (1) on the Côte-Nord (North Shore), you would follow Route 138 from Quebec City all the way up to Baie Comeau. At this point, you can take a ferry across the St. Lawrence River to Rivière-du-Loup and proceed through the Bas St. Laurent-Gaspésie Tour ; or (2) you can take Highway 20 (the autoroute – quick but slightly less scenic) and then Route 132 for the loop around the Gaspé Peninsula starting and ending in Riviere-de-Loup. In this itinerary l combine both.

Arriving in Aéroport international Jean-Lesage de Québec  (YQB) in Quebec City you will have connected through Montreal or Toronto if you are coming from the US in the off-season. Between May and October, seasonal direct flights are available from other eastern cities.

How many days do you need in Québec City? I’d set aside a couple of extra days to visit. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will visit one of the most beautiful cities in Canada (including the most photographed hotel in the world – the Château Frontenac). If you want to know more about this city have a listen to this episode of The Amateur Traveler .

Quebec Maritime Itinerary

Day 1 kamouraska to rimouski, kamouraska village & microbrewery.

To begin your road trip itinerary, head out of Québec City via Highway 20E. In less than 2 hours, take exit 465 off of highway 20E to Kamouraska. Head to this lovely village on the south shore and take a quick stroll around this quaint colourful village.

It is here that l would start driving the scenic Route 132 headed to the Bas St. Laurent region.

Continue to Saint-André and stop for a light-libation. Tête d’Allumette Microbrasserie is a local microbrewery that brews its beers over a wood fire. I highly recommend a beer flight and some tasty appetizers on the side. Right on the shores of the St. Lawrence River, it’s a great way to unwind and take in the fresh sea air.

Fromagerie des Basques  in Trois Pistoles

When visiting the province of Quebec be sure and taste one of its greatest culinary inventions: poutine. This delight is made up of French fries covered with fresh cheese curds and smothered with gravy. There are many variations now but this is the ‘classic’ combination. What makes this so special? It’s the squeaky cheese curds that melt all over.

I suggest you stop at La Fromagerie des Basques in Trois Pistols to pick up a big bag for the road or if you are really hungry, stop off at the restaurant. We had the best pizza here of the trip!

Parc Chutes (Falls Park) -Riviere de Loup

Once you have consumed a few thousand calories, head up to the Parc des Chutes in Rivière-du-Loup. There are over ten kilometres of woodland trails along the river, a 33-metre waterfall and a power station, making a visit to this park a must. During the winter the rockface across from the power station is flooded to create a spectacular ice-climbing wall. You can read more about unique winter activities in Quebec Maritime (including ice fishing, snowmobiling, downhill skiing and snowshoeing).

Day 2 – Rimouski

Rimouski is a hockey town and proud of it.   Rimouski Océanic alum include Sidney Crosby! One of the largest cities in the region, Rimouski is a great place to stock up on supplies before you head out if you intend on staying in self-catering units. It has all the amenities one would need for groceries, gas, outerwear and spirits.

Insider tip: On this Quebec road trip stop at the Cantine de la gare for the best poutine in the city. It was amazing!

As you enter Rimouski, you will pass by Parc National du Bic , a provincially run park ideal for hiking, camping and watching the fog roll in from the St. Lawrence River. Hike up to Pic Champlain, at an altitude of 346 m, is the highest summit of the rocky Massif des Murailles. From the top of its belvedere, the view of the estuary and the park is breathtaking. There are also extensive bicycle paths (you can rent bikes at the rental center located in the Rivière-du-Sud-Ouest sector), an interpretation centre and more places to take stunning Instagram pictures.

Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse & National Historic Site

Driving through Rimouski, you will want to stop at Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse . A national historic site, it is one of the most well-known lighthouses on the trail. The one standing today is the third to be built on this site. Its octagonal tower rises to a height of 28 metres, making this lighthouse one of the tallest in Canada. Boasting unique architecture Pointe-au-Père remains one of the rare examples of a buttressed, reinforced concrete structure. The lighthouse was erected in 1909 because Pointe-au-Pere was where river pilots help ocean ships navigate the St. Lawrence River toward Quebec City and Montreal.

Empress of Ireland Museum and Onondaga Submarine

A small but very interesting museum is dedicated to the RMS Empress of Ireland . The maritime disaster commemorates the loss of 1,012 persons in the most fatal shipwreck in the 20th century, after the infamous  Titanic  tragedy.

The Onondaga Submarine is Canada’s first publicly accessible submarine. Take a self-guided audio tour and learn what life was like for the 70 men aboard this 90-metre behemoth that crisscrossed the North Atlantic from 1967 to 2000.

Canyon des Portes de l’Enfer

Canyon des Portes de l’Enfer was by far the favourite hike my family took. My adult children loved this challenging nature park making it a definite ‘must see’ in  Bas-Saint-Laurent . The Canyon stretches for nearly 5 km between tight and steep walls sometimes reaching 90 meters in height. A network of  hiking trails  , totaling more than 20 km and accessible to all, allows you to discover unique panoramas and to have access to the highest  suspended footbridge  in Quebec which overlooks the gates of hell. 

@downshiftingpro Hell’s Gate Canyon_Quebec Maritime This was a family favourite activity on our trip to #QuebecMaritime You should go… ♬ original sound – Margarita Ibbott

There was also the  Labyrinth of Secrets  , Gates of Oniria and The Devil’s Road. I could see why this particular nature park is made for family fun and a nature lover’s dream. The Labyrinth is intricate and set in a wooded area that is both mysterious and magical.

Domaine Valga

If you want a true luxury log cabin experience take a few days and stay at Domaine Valga. This family-owned resort has three large cabins and additional suites available in the main lodge.

The other very appealing feature is the aerial adventure Forêt de Maître Corbeau Park . With six high ropes courses and multiple ziplines, you will love this location. It also sits on a private lake where you can kayak, canoe or paddleboard. You can read more about this spectacular accommodation option here and watch this short video about our time on the course and ziplines.

Day 3 – Matapedia to Bonaventure

Matapedia valley.

Cutting across Bas. St. Laurent on Route 132-O (Ouest = West) head to the southern side of the Gaspé Peninsula, Chaleur Bay is an ideal place to go swimming and enjoy water sports.

Within this area, you will find some really interesting accommodations such as geodomes, yurts, treehouses and even a sailing ship replica – La Grande Hermine (“The Big Weasel”). If you are looking for something other than an Air BnB here are 10 Quirky and Unique Accommodations in Quebec Maritime.

Baie des Chaleurs

Consider another unique accommodation option, the Geodomes in Carleton-Sur-Mer hugging the mountainside, they provide a full-service unit with a fantastic view of the Baie des Chaleurs. Close to Carleton-sur-Mer, you have access to beaches, a quai and numerous restaurant options. A multitude of activities (including more lighthouses) is offered throughout this sector, from Shigawake to Matapédia, via  Bonaventure ,  New Richmond  and  Carleton-sur-Mer .

Battle of Restigouche National Historic Site

The Acadian Museum of Quebec

In 1755 with rising tensions between the British and the French, Acadians were deported from Nova Scotia. They dispersed through the Maritimes and went as far as Louisiana and the Caribbean. Many settled in ‘New France’ which would later become Quebec. There are over one million people in Quebec and over four million in North America who are descendants of the original Acadian families. This museum educates through illustrations, art, culture, architecture, language and music to show the richness of this community. I love that if you are unable to visit this museum, you can take a virtual tour. Located in the village of Bonaventure, you will have a bird’s eye view of the Baie des Chaleurs.

Day 4 & 5 – Percé Rock

Percé unesco global geoparc.

UNESCO Global Geopark with a view of the Percé Rock, Percé, Gaspésie region – Photo credit: ©Mathieu Dupuis/Tourisme Gaspésie

Opened in 2017, the UNESCO Global Geopark provides a unique (and for some challenging) view as it is perched at an altitude of 200 metres. A suspended cantilevered platform, the glass bottom is pretty cool.

If you are up for more of an adrenalin rush, the platform is the start of the zipline! The course is 230 meters long with a height of 100 meters. The maximum speed is 50 km/hr!

When Canadians think of iconic images, you would often think of the Rockie Mountains, the CN Tower or the Old Town in Quebec City but another natural wonder in Canada is Percé Rock . The view from the Geopark is pretty amazing but there is nothing better than taking a boat cruise to Bonaventure Island. The boat will cruise by Percé Rock and then circumvent the Island so you can have a better view of the over 200,000 seabirds that call Bonaventure Island home.

l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé National Park   

The Island is both a provincial park and a sanctuary (since 1919) and has evolved into the largest colony of North Gannets in North America. Once you dock on Bonaventure Island, you can take one of four trails to the summit to observe the birds. This is one of the few places in the world where you can do this.

I loved the hike up for the views alone. You will hear (and smell) the birds long before you see them but it is enchanting nonetheless. There is a kiosk at the top where you can grab a snack, sit back and take it all in or you can head to Resto des Margaulx for their famous fish soup located closer to the dock.

Day 6 – Forillon National Park & the Lighthouse Trail

If you feel a bit overwhelmed with the beauty of your natural surroundings and you start craving a bit more urban fair, you can stop off in the city of Gaspé.

If you are a history buff, you will enjoy the interpretation centres at the  Micmac Interpretation Site of Gespeg , tour a reconstructed 17th-century traditional village and learn more about the Mi’kmaq from yesterday to today.

At the  Musée de la Gaspésie and Jacques Cartier Monument , enjoy several exhibits that present the history, art, culture and heritage of Gaspésie, as well as a virtual-reality experience aboard an old fishing boat. Fishing history is also showcased at  Manoir Le Boutillier , where you can visit the home of John Le Boutillier, a major cod exporter from 1850 to 1860.

Finally, the  Birthplace of Canada  offers a representation of the heart of the village of Gaspé as it was in 1900. Wander from the general store to the tavern and be sure to also visit the navy base and a typical home while interacting with costumed characters representing the people who marked the history of Gaspé. In the evening you can enjoy an outdoor multi-media show relating to the history of the area.

Insider’s Tip : Every summer, in August, Gaspé hosts the  Festival Musique du Bout du Monde , a world music festival. For nine days, the village is transformed into a giant celebration, bringing together 20,000 festival-goers and over 200 performers, including local artists, big-name world musicians and promising new talents. During the summer season, you can get flights directly to this region.

Forillon National Park

If there is one place I could return to again and again, it would be Forillon National Park. I know there have been many scenic stops along the way but the stop we took above the cliffs, was one memory I will not soon forget. It is that vastness of the St. Lawrence opening up to the Atlantic Ocean that is so very spectacular.

This particular park would be a jewel in the crown of Parks Canada . Because it sits at the top of the Gaspé Peninsula, it provides the true nature experience that many identify with Canada. This is often a destination sought out by both Americans and Europeans. The idea of camping out in the woods with nothing but breathtaking views.

Don’t feel like you cannot experience a camping vacation as Forillon National Park offers ‘Ready to Camp’  options which provide all that you need for being in the outdoors. These unique buildings (tents, cabins or pods) are equipped with dishes, beds, stoves and even a fridge to make it easier if you want the camping experience. There are also camping spots for tents or trailers – you’ll need to make reservations early but it’s all a part of an authentic Quebec Maritime itinerary!

Cap des Rosiers Lighthouse is a National Historic Site and has stood as a sentinel since 1858. The exposed point of land is at the mouth of the St. Lawrence River where it enters the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It is considered Canada’s tallest lighthouse.

Day 7 & 8 – More lighthouses and the Chic-Choc Mountains

Pointe à la renommée lighthouse.

A little bit off the beaten pass (but well worth the detour) another stop on the Lighthouse Trail will lead you to the most moved lighthouse in Quebec, Pointe à la Renommée Lighthouse . Now in its original location, it was ‘exiled’ to Quebec City in the 1970s and returned in the late 1990s. In 1904 the first maritime radio station was built in North America at this site. They have an exhibition,  Marconi and the History of Radio Communications and a small museum to learn more about the importance of this national historic event.

La Martre Lighthouse

Possibly my favourite lighthouse,  La Martre Lighthouse Museum  is made entirely of wood (as opposed to steel). Originally erected in 1876 the current tower was built in 1906, it stands at a height of 19.2 m (63 ft) and has a range of 27 km (17 miles).

The original timing systems still control the light. Take some time to see the permanent exhibit (which I LOVED) in the foghorn shed. The tableaux recount the history of the various shipwrecks in the area and will introduce you to the expertise involved in designing lighthouse lanterns.

Making your way on Route 132, head towards Ste. Anne des Monts, once there, you can head inland on Route 299 towards Parc national de la Gaspésie (this is part of the sepaq provincial park network – see note below). This is the gateway to Gaspésie National Park where you will find many options for outdoor activities. This area is well known as a hiker’s paradise. With almost 20 trails from easy to expert level. During the winter there are also designated snowshoeing trails to follow. They also offer ‘ready-to-camp’ options if you want to stay longer.

Many Americans are not aware that the northernmost section of the Appalachian Mountain range extends to the Chic-Choc Mountains in the Gaspésie.

Traveler’s Tip: What’s in a name ~ It’s helpful to understand that Canada Parks are National parks and are similar in scope and jurisdiction to the National Parks Service in the US. In Quebec, the provincial park system ( sepaq = provincial park network ) are also referred to as national parks but are in fact similar to State Parks. All of these parks are so large that one could easily understand them to be as big (and as important) as Canada Parks. I point this out so that if you want to search for these parks you will be looking at two different websites (and jurisdictions). I have pointed out which are provincial parks with links directly to them.

Day 9 – Reford Gardens & Ferry Crossing

Jardin des metis/reford gardens  (international garden festival).

During the summer and fall, you can visit one of the loveliest gardens in Quebec. Established by Elsie Reford between 26 to 1958 the Reford Gardens is one of Canada’s national historic sites. Some 3000 species and plant varieties, including the famous Himalayan blue poppy, are spread out over 15 gardens. The reason to make this a ‘must-see’ destination in Bas St. Laurent is the annual Garden Festival.

This International festival brings large interactive art installations into an outdoor setting. I first visited the festival in 2016 and enjoyed the many interesting exhibitions. One of my favourites was young maple trees planted in hidden rails. One was able to move the trees from one area to another. You can see this on this Instagram post .

With over 200 proposals sent only 40 made the cut in 2021. This year’s exhibition will begin at the end of June and until October 2, 2022. You can find more about this unique International Garden Festival on the blog. I will also recommend the cafe or the restaurant – if it is opened in the coming year. This is a farm-to-table menu with items harvested from the small farm on the grounds.

With plenty of time on the road, I would suggest you take a rest and stay at the modern and luxurious Riôtel Matane . With rooms overlooking the river and just a few kilometers from the Matane Lighthouse, enjoy some time on this rocky beach.

The best meal on my first trip to the Gaspé Peninsula was at their signature restaurant Cargo. Modelled for a container ship (that which runs up and down the seaway). Due to the ongoing pandemic, it is best to check directly with the hotel to see what menu is available. I would recommend a seafood or fish dish with locally sourced ingredients. You cannot go wrong!

Ferry from Matane to Baie Comeau/Godbout  (North Shore)

At this point in the Quebec Maritime itinerary, you can take a ferry from Matane across to Baie Comeau and head south on Highway 138 towards Tadoussac. Société des traversiers du Québec (STQ) has provided ferry services from these two shores. It is best to contact the company directly to make reservations on the ferry. If you follow down the Cote Nord from Baie Comeau to Tadoussac you would be following The Whale Route.

If you visit in the winter, you can ride a series of snowmobile trails on the Côte-Nord (North Shore) region of Quebec Maritime. Believe it or not, you can drive your snowmobiles right onto the ferry and continue on the Snowmobile trail. These are well-maintained trails specifically for snowmobile enthusiasts.

Day 10 & 11 Tadoussac and the North Shore

If you choose not to cross at Matane, you can return to Riviere-du-Loup and catch a ferry to St-Siméon . You will be a short drive away from Tadoussac on the North Shore where I continue with the Quebec Maritime Itinerary. The ferry is about fifty dollars for the vehicle and $21 per passenger but is worth the crossing. Otherwise, you would have a 5+ hour trip to drive. You would have to return all the way to Quebec City and then head up again.

If you choose not to cross at Matane, you can return to Riviere-du-Loup and catch the ferry to St-Siméon . You will be a short drive away from Tadoussac on the North Shore where I continue with the Quebec Maritime Itinerary.

The ferry is about fifty dollars for the vehicle and $21 per passenger but is worth the crossing. Otherwise, you would have a 5+ hour trip to drive. You would have to return all the way to Quebec City and then head up again.

Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre

Before you take a whale-watching tour, you will want to stop at the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre in Tadoussac. This centre is dedicated to the study and preservation of whales that are found in the St. Lawrence seaway. There are guides to help you identify and teach you about marine mammals. They have whale skeletons and bones which have been painstakingly preserved for you to see. It is a small centre but full of interesting and educational items. All proceeds go directly back into the program.

AML Croisiere  (whale-watching tours from either Riviere-de-Loup or Tadoussac)

Undoubtedly one of the best activities to try on this trip is a whale-watching tour. I have written often about this marine adventure because there is no better way to experience the St. Lawrence River than from a ship, zodiac or kayak. With a guided tour, you get the benefit of a marine biologist teaching you about the many species of whales in the region.

From the beautiful white beluga whale to the impressive humpback whales. You will also see plenty of seals and seabirds on your trip. We took a   VIP   St-Laurent Lounge  of the AML Grand Fleuve last fall and loved the whole experience (even if it was pouring rain).

Photo credit: Haut-Fond-Prince Lighthouse_ Photo credit © Parks Canada_J.F.Bergeron_

Lighthouse Fun Fact: Best seen from the water on a whale-watching cruise, Haut-fond Prince/ Prince Shoal Lighthouse was put into place in 1964. It is named for Prince Albert, Prince of Wales, whose ship hit the shoal in 1904 on his way to officially open the Victoria Bridge in Montreal.

Built-in Levis, Quebec (across from Quebec City), Le Toupie – as it’s been nicknamed, sits in the St. Lawrence River in 38 feet of water.

Once you have returned from the whale-watching cruise you have two very different options for accommodations in Tadoussac. You can stay at an old school, grande dame, type of hotel – Hotel Tadoussac (where there is a formal dining room and cocktail bar). The proximity to the beach lets you spend the day walking the shore or taking a short hike at Islet Point (Pointe de l’Islet).

Hotel Tadoussac

Primarily a tourist destination, Tadoussac began as a trading post in the 17th century. Its location – where the Saguenay River meets the St. Lawrence River – provides epic scenic views of the Saguenay Fjords and the St. Lawrence Seaway. Its popularity as a vacation resort region began in the 19th century. Wealthy Québécois built a number of vacation villas. A Victorian hotel called the Hotel Tadoussac was built in 1864; it was expanded around 1900 and demolished in 1942, and replaced by a newer Hotel Tadoussac. This is an iconic hotel with a large lawn where you can sit in Adirondack chairs and sip a cocktail watching the boats come into the harbour.

From this point, you will be able to see the small ferry that crosses the Saguenay River to continue on Route 138 on the Côte-Nord (North Shore).

Your second option would be to stay at the family-owned and operated Ferme 5 Étoiles (5 Star Farm). Located just north of Tadoussac in Sacré-Coeur this property is one of the many quirky & unique accommodations in Quebec. There are different accommodation types from the Trapper’s Lodge, Yurts or two-bedroom kitchenette units. It is very versatile for families.

The other appeal of this location is it has access to many unique experiences including a farm tour (with Grey and Artic wolves), Black Bear observation, dog sledding, kayaking, hiking and snowshoe trails.

Day 12 to 14 (additional time in Saguenay Fjords)

You can extend your Quebec Maritime itinerary with two possible changes. If you crossed over from Rivière-du-Loup to Baie Comeau, you can descend on Route 138 to Tadoussac and then to Quebec City. This is considered The Whale Route wherein you would be able to stop in villages along the way to take in the beauty of this North Shore.

The second possible addition would be a trip up the Saguenay Fjords towards Saguenay and Lac St. Jean. stop at the Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay  which offers several interpretive and outdoor activities. One of the major attractions of Northeastern North America, this park’s  hiking  trails are filled with stunning views of the Saguenay Fjord. You will also be able to tackle a via ferrata ( one of over 13 in Quebec).

If you take this option, you will be exploring the Saguenay-Lac St. Jean region. If you want to know more about this addition, you can read this blog post – 10 Things to do in the Saguenay Fjord Region of Quebec.

This Quebec Maritime itinerary is not for the faint of heart but you can break this up into two or even three separate trips. Consider the beauty of slow travel and take even longer with a variety of accommodations you never thought were possible. You will be enriched by the culture, satiated by the marvelous seafood and microbrews, refreshed by the overwhelming natural beauty and fulfilled by knocking one more item off of your bucket list. Although this is an epic Quebec Maritime itinerary, this is not a region to be missed and I guarantee, you will want to return again and again. I have.

Disclosure:  I was the guest of the tourism boards of   Québec Maritime  and Côte – Nord ,  Saguenay and Lac St. Jean  regions as part of numerous FAM trips. I’m happy to partner with these regions for you to get to know more about them. All opinions are my own and held without reservation or prejudice. 

Margarita Ibbott

Margarita Ibbott is a travel and lifestyle blogger. She blogs about travel in Canada, the United States and Europe giving practical advice through restaurant, hotel and attraction reviews. She writes for DownshiftingPRO.com and other online media outlets.

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Maritimes Road Trip: A Truly Canadian Summer Classic

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It’s a classic for a reason.

Families do it. Friends drag friends along for it. Couples test relationships via it. It is the road trip through the Canadian Maritimes and east coast.

For myself this was going to be round two of the east coast journey, but the first one that I might fully appreciate. My family drove out east years ago, when I was much younger and much less aware of all that Canada had to offer. Not to that I didn’t love every second of it, but let’s just say I would be a little more appreciative this time round. 

Starting in Montreal, heading through Quebec, Fredericton, the Bay of Fundy, the Strait of Northumberland, PEI, Charlottetown, Halifax, Peggy’s Cove, and then back to Montreal. All within eight days, it was a whirlwind to say the least.

Now as this trip has been dissected, analyzed, planned and re-planned by just about every travel blogger, website and travel section, I won’t attempt to do the same. We will venture east via some unique visuals, photos and video, with some tips and tricks tucked into the captions along the way.

If you have yet to find yourself standing on the rocks looking out over the North Atlantic, I hope this will help nudge you in the right direction. And then you’ll understand that it’s a classic for a reason.

Maritimes Road Trip

Fishing boats sit along the pier in West Quaco, along the Bay of Fundy. If you drive another five minutes east of here, you get to a nice little seafood shack along the road. Stop. Their lobster rolls are killer and the rest of their fare is pretty top notch. Another five minutes east and you are at the St. Martins Sea Caves.

The St. Martins Sea Caves from above. When the tide is low you can walk into and along the caves. During high tide there are sea kayaking trips that snake along the shore and pull into this secluded cove.

Drive another hour or so from the St. Martins Sea Caves and you come to the famous Hopewell Rocks on the Bay of Fundy. Top tip – if you arrive just before closing (which is around 8pm in July), you are told to park outside the gate, which means you have to walk into the park. But you can then stay for as long as you would like and to top if off, you don’t have to pay. Well worth the extra little hike.

Tips for the Hopewell Rocks: be prepared to get wet and muddy.   Walk in both directions, it is pretty stunning any way you venture. If you have time, try and make it all the way to the end. Watch your time though, the tides come in fast and it’s a long way back to the exit. (There is an emergency tower at the far end if you get stuck, but you will be stuck for as long as it takes for the tide to go out!)

The view across the Northumberland Strait from Murray Beach Provincial Park, towards the island of PEI. The views from Murray Beach are stellar and the nighttime sky is stunning. The streaks in the sky are trans-Atlantic flights making their way across the Maritimes towards Europe.

Kayakers paddle through the Victoria Seaport estuary. Just to the left is the small town of Victoria PEI, off to the right, the rolling hills of PEI and a whole lot of potatoes.

A small fishing boat sits along the docks in Victoria PEI. Driving east from the Confederation Bridge, the little town of Victoria is well worth a stop. Beautiful and busy with locals and tourists, it is a nice stop on your way to Charlottetown. A little ways west of Victoria is the town of Crapaud (insert giggle), there are some great super local and wonderfully quaint breakfast and lunch places that are totally worthy of a stop.

Prince Edward Island, strutting her stuff. Sunset along the Hunter River in New Glasgow, PEI. Just behind is the New Glasgow Lobster Supper establishment. It is a bit of an island institution. Be warned it is crazy busy, however it is WELL worth the wait. You select your lobster poundage and then sit down to an all you can eat meal. Skip lunch if you plan on going!

Young band members dressed in historical uniforms wait to order ice-cream along the Halifax boardwalk during the tall ship festival.

Where the North Atlantic meets North America, Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia.

What some say is the most photographed lighthouse in Canada. The P eggy’s Cove lighthouse is about an hours drive from Halifax, and is so worth the drive out. While it is a little on the touristy side, it is a stunning location and the small fishing town is beautiful to wander through.

Fishing boats sit tethered together in Peggy’s Cove harbour.

Roger Crooks, in his store the Buoy Shack in Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia. A lovely man, who fit the image of a Maritimer almost too perfectly. If you ever find yourself in Peggy’s Cove, it is the last shop on your left as you walk out towards the visitors centre. GO INSIDE. You will thank me later.

Peggy’s Cove in the late afternoon. A nice departure from the grey and industrial feel of Halifax.

Maritimes Road Trip photos and videos by James MacDonald

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James MacDonald

James MacDonald is a Canadian photographer, photojournalist, cinematographer and multimedia producer who has been bouncing around Asia, the Caribbean, the South Pacific and the Americas. James first picked up a camera in 2004 following high school, as he traveled and worked his way through Europe. While completing university and working more and more behind a camera, he soon realized that a history and anthropology degree could only hold his interest for so long. Following a year working as the photo and graphics editor for the University of Guelph's newspaper the Ontarion, an internship with Canadian Geographic Magazine in Ottawa, and then an internship with The StarPhoenix in Saskatoon, he moved back to Toronto to begin freelancing full time, and has been lucky enough to be making pictures since. James moved to Asia in the fall of 2013 to continue freelancing, as well as to work on and develop long term regional stories and projects. He is currently based in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

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Your photos are outstanding! Bring back memories of our New Brunswick and Nova Scotia trips and gives me a couple of ideas for our upcoming PEI trip.

I love the photos! I just visited PEI and passed through NS and NB but can’t wait to go back and actually visit!

Nice article. I am eagerly waiting to travel.

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Adventures of the 4 JLs

Join our family as we explore the world.

7 Day Maritime Provinces Road Trip Itinerary

The Maritime Provinces are a delightful region located in eastern Canada and consist of three provinces: New Brunswick , Nova Scotia , and Prince Edward Island . These provinces are known for their coastal scenery, fishing villages, and lighthouses. When our boys were occupied with sleep away summer activities, Jeremy and I decided to take a couples road trip to this delightful destination!

Our Chosen Itinerary

With our kids at sleep-away camp/activities, we knew we had a limit to our vacation itinerary. A road trip through the Maritime Provinces are best seen with at least 10 days, but in our typical fashion, we decided to cram as much as we could into 7 days. Note that if you aren’t flying into this area (e.g. Halifax), you will need to add extra time to this itinerary. For example, we were coming from the Boston area and needed to add at least a full day of driving on either end.

• Day 1: Arrive into Saint John , New Brunswick, by mid-afternoon and explore for an hour or two. Overnight in Moncton .
• Day 2: Explore Prince Edward Island including: the Green Gables Heritage Place , a scenic drive through Prince Edward Island National Park , and a walk on North Rustico Beach . Sleep in Charlottetown .
• Day 3: Take ferry to Nova Scotia and begin to explore the Cabot Trail . Walk on Ingonish Beach and sleep near Ingonish.
• Day 4: Explore the Cape Breton Highlands National Park  portion of the Cabot Trail and hike the Skyline Trail . Visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site and sleep in Baddeck .
• Day 5: Relocate to Halifax and sleep there. Visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site .
• Day 6: Day trip to Peggy’s Cove, Mahone Bay, and Lunenburg . Intended to sleep in Lunenburg, but had to deal with a Covid problem instead…
• Day 7 : Intended to explore the Fundy National Park and spend the night in  Fredricton , but had to deal with a Covid problem instead…

Map showing the basic road trip route from Saint John , through Prince Edward Island , and to the PEI/Nova Scotia Ferry Terminal in Wood Islands (runs seasonally):

Map showing the basic road trip route from the PEI/Nova Scotia Ferry Terminal in Caribou, Nova Scotia (runs seasonally); through the Cabot Trail , Halifax , and Lunenburg ; and back to Fredericton, New Brunswick:

You should note that if you skip New Brunswick and fly into either Halifax or Charlottetown , you will have quite a bit more time to explore both Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia .

Day 1: Saint John (NB) and Moncton

Coming from the Boston area , the Maritime Provinces are not a short drive. Most people choose to fly in, but with our needing to leave unexpectedly early, driving helped in our case.

Saint John, New Brunswick

With a 3:30pm arrival into Saint John, New Brunswick (not to be confused with St. John, Newfoundland), we didn’t have a lot of time to explore this city, but we were able to take a walk through town and pop into a few sights.

My favorite part of the city walk was the  Saint John City Market and viewing the various church spires.

Before getting back into our car, we made sure to find a  Tim Hortons donut shop and stop by the King’s Square park and the   Loyalist Burial Ground .

There were a few museums we could have gone into, but they were getting ready to close and we wanted to spend some time in Moncton as well.

All-in-all, Saint John is quite small and slightly run down, but it does make a good road trip stop to either take a break from driving or spend the night. Read the full post about Saint John here.

Moncton, New Brunswick

Moncton greeted us with a large aluminum factory. Despite the initial industrial feel, Moncton appeared to be much bigger and newer than Saint John. Definitely not as much character as Saint John, but we could see it being a very pleasant place to live and work.

After checking into our hotel, we decided to walk towards the downtown and the  trail  going through  Riverfront Park .

If you are here at the right time,   Tidal Bore Park is a great viewing spot to watch the   tidal bore that rushes up the river twice per day. Unfortunately, our timing was not quite right.

Read the full post about Moncton here.

Day 2: Prince Edward Island

In the morning, we started my favorite day of our Maritime Provinces road trip . We almost crossed Prince Edward Island off our itinerary due to time constraints, but it ended up being one of our favorite days of the trip!

Confederations Bridge

We entered the island over the  Confederation Bridge , then followed the “scenic route” signs to Cavendish .

Green Gables Heritage Place

In Cavendish, we chose to visit the Green Gables Heritage Place , which is a must for all Anne of Green Gables fans!

Scenic Coastal Route through Prince Edward Island National Park

From here, we decided to take the Scenic Coastal Route through  Prince Edward Island National Park .

North Rustico Beach

Wanting to explore one of PEI’s beaches, we made a stop at North Rustico Beach for a walk. Lovely!

North Rustico Harbour

We then went to North Rustico Harbour and enjoyed some Canada Day festivities.

Covehead Harbour Lighthouse

After lunch, the   Covehead Harbour Lighthouse was our next stop. We decided to walk on the beach for a bit one way, and on the road on the way back.

Charlottetown

Eventually, we made it to our hotel in  Charlottetown . We had wanted to go to the   Province House National Historic Site , but since it was closed, we decided to spend most of the afternoon and evening wandering through the town.

Eventually, we reached the Confederation Landing Park .

We also wanted to see   Victoria Park , and were pleased to find a Canada Day celebration.

Read the full post about Prince Edward Island here.

Days 3-4: The Cabot Trail

Prince edward island to ingonish.

In the morning, we made our way from Charlottetown to the  Wood Islands Ferry Terminal . This began our foray into Nova Scotia !

The ferry terminal in Caribou is a little out of the way, but not nearly as far out of the way as taking the   Confederation Bridge . Our final destination for the day was  Ingonish in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park , and is a minimum of 3.75 hours of driving from Caribou.

We stopped in Antigonish for lunch. In retrospect, I wish we would have gotten out of the car and walked through the downtown.

Instead, we decided to take a “scenic drive” through Marble Mountain that we saw advertised on the ferry. As it turns out, the roads were very poor and most of the great views were blocked by trees and other vegetation. If you have extra time, consider spending more time in Baddeck rather than doing this scenic drive.

Knowing that we would be spending the night in Baddeck on a future night, we decided to simply drive through the town and not stop.

Eventually, we made it to the entrance of Cape Breton Highlands National Park and then to our rustic cabin in  Ingonish .

In the evening, we explored the beach in front of our cabin, found a delicious dinner at Coastal Restaurant and Pub , then took a post-sunset walk on   Ingonish Beach .

Exploring Cape Breton Highlands National Park

After waking up early to watch the sunrise, we started our foray into the Cape Breton Highlands National Park portion of the  Cabot Trail , making sure to stop at occasional pullout.

Black Brook Beach

We had though about walking down to  Black Brook Beach , but decided to skip due to concerns that we wouldn’t have enough time to see everything else. In retrospect, we probably could have made time for this.

Coastal Route Detour to Cape North

We then decided to take the coastal route detour to  Cape North . We made a wrong turn and headed north, rather than west, but found our mistake fairly quickly and arrived in Pleasant Bay  way too early for lunch. Everything except a small gift shop was still closed, but did manage to buy a couple of candy bars for lunch.

Skyline Trail Loop

The highlight of the day was the Skyline Trail  loop! From everything we read, if you pick one hiking trail, this is the one that you should pick.

Not being sure if we wanted to do the full 5.1 mile loop or the 4 mile round trip hike, we started walking the short way to the main lookout point. The trail was wide and flat; it felt like more of a walk than a hike, but the scenery was breathtaking. The trees, ferns, and grasses were brilliantly green. The lushness of the boreal forest was incredible.

Great choice! Hike this trail if you can!

Le Buttereau Loop

Similarly to the Black Brook Beach, we thought about hiking the 1 mile Le Buttereau  loop, but in the end, decided that the Skyline Trail was enough and that we wanted more time in Baddeck,

Eventually, we made it to Chéticamp , which could be a great place to overnight if you want more time in Cape Breton Highlands National Park . We used it as a place to improve upon our candy bar lunch.

ALEXANDER GRAHAM BELL MUSEUM

Arriving into Baddeck, we decided to stop by the  Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site , which also had some great views of the lighthouse. We were surprised to learn how much more he did than simply invent the telephone. None of it was near as successful as the telephone (big surprise), but some of it was quite interesting and other things were laughable.

Eventually, we checked into the  Dunlop Inn , which was right on the water, just a short walk from the spot in the picture below. The staff recommended eating at their restaurant, the Cable Room , which turned out to be quite tasty. Afterwards, we took a stroll along the water and relaxed a bit in preparation for another long day of driving.

Read the full post about the Cabot Trail here.

Day 5: Halifax

Nova Scotia is a lot bigger than it appears on a map. The minimum drive time between Baddeck and Halifax is 3.5 hours and if you take the coastal route, it will be closer to 5 hours. We had thought about driving through Sherbrooke Village , but after our experience with the roads through Marble Mountain, we opted to take a nice predictable highway. As it turns out, it was the right choice since it allowed us to spend more time in Halifax.

Since we didn’t make any stops, this put us into Halifax just after lunch, which is plenty of time to see both the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site .

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Our first stop was the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic , which will explain all the ways the ocean has influenced Halifax. In addition to the major exhibit on the Titanic disaster corpse recovery, there are also exhibits on ship building, trade, and a major military explosion. It is really quite fascinating.

HALIFAX CITADEL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

After checking into our hotel, we still had time to walk to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site . Sitting at the top of the hill, this fortress was very important to the defense of the city. As much as the patriots tried, they could not dislodge the loyalists during America’s Revolutionary War.

Outside the fortress are some great views of the city.

A Walk Through the City

As evening approached, most of the other museums started to close, but we had seen the ones that interested us most. We decided to simply stroll and enjoy both the downtown and the waterfront, choosing to get dinner along the Harbourwalk.

Halifax Public Gardens

Before heading out in the morning, we decided to try and find a cafe for breakfast and then walk to the Halifax Public Gardens . Breakfast was a big mistake, since nothing was open in the area we chose to walk and we had to backtrack back to the food court at the mall. Fortunately, the gardens were nice. We always enjoy visiting gardens around the world !

Read the full post about Halifax here.

Day 6: Peggy’s Cove, Mahone Bay, and Lunenburg

Peggy’s cove.

After seeing the Public Gardens in Halifax , we checked out of our hotel and started the 45 minute drive to Peggy’s Cove . The town is quite small, but the lighthouse is beautiful! After walking around the lighthouse, we decided to get an early lunch at a lobster shack. If you wait until a more normal lunch hour, the lines will become quite long.

We continued along the water for about an hour until we reached Chester . While cute, it wasn’t as cute as some of the towns that were coming up. We briefly thought about getting out of the car and taking a walk, but were concerned about our timetable, so drove through instead. If you find the lunch lines at Peggy’s Cove to be too long, this could make a good lunch alternative.

Our next stop was Mahone Bay , about 20 minutes further down the road, which is famous for the three churches that you can see in the picture below. We stopped outside the town for a photo, then took a stroll through the town. There are tons of shops and restaurants and we found it to be a pleasant way to spend an hour. We could have spent longer, but knew that our next stop was going to be more impressive so got back into the car.

We drove another 15 minutes and made it to Lunenburg , a UNESCO World Heritage site ! The town is considered to be “the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America.” As we wandered the town and soaked up the atmosphere, we were pleased that we had chosen to spend the night here rather than one of the other towns on our itinerary.

We chose to visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic , which was a reasonable museum for a town the size of Lunenburg, but we found the admission price to be a bit steep for what it is. The history of fishing was quite interesting and we liked the outdoor fishing vessel exhibits, but unless you are an avid sailor interested in the history of the the Bluenose sailing races, the rest of the museum is skippable.

Read the full post about Peggy’s Cove, Mahone Bay, and Lunenburg here.

Day 6-7: Covid Strikes Again

Just as we were making plans for dinner, we got a text saying that one of our kids had a close Covid exposure and was likely to continue to have some level of exposure. Sigh. Not wanting to leave him in that environment, we decided to pack up early and head home. We were able to drive 3.5 hours to Moncton, then get an early start and drive all the way back to the Boston area the next day.

If we would have been able to continue our road trip as planned, we would have spent our seventh day exploring Fundy National Park and then would have spent the night in  Fredricton before taking a slower drive home. We potentially would have tried to spend the next night in Portland, Maine . But alas, Covid can put a real damper on travel plans.

Conclusions

In any case, we did have an amazing time exploring the Maritime Provinces ! It was a very fast paced trip, so do consider slowing down the itinerary a bit if you have a couple of extra days.

The next time you are in Canada , consider visiting this amazing part of the world!

Keep reading  our travel blog  for more  itinerary ideas around the world !

Here are some more posts from this trip through the Maritime Provinces :

Driving through New Brunswick, Canada: Saint John and Moncton

Nova Scotia: Day Trip to Peggy’s Cove, Mahone Bay, and Lunenburg

A Day in Halifax, Nova Scotia

The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

A Day in Prince Edward Island, Canada

One comment.

fyi it is St John, New Brunswick and St. John’s, NFLD. can be super confusing, even google gets it wrong at times!

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The Ultimate East Coast Canada Road Trip: 2 & 4 Week Itinerary

From towering cliffs, beautiful beaches, and colourful cities to welcoming locals and delicious food, there’s nothing quite like Canadian East Coast. It’s a prime region for an epic road trip in Canada!

*This post may contain affiliate links, as a result, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) on any bookings/purchases you make through the links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read our full disclosure

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Located along the wild Atlantic Coast, the region comprises the four East Coast provinces of Canada: the remote Newfoundland & Labrador and the three Maritime Provinces of Nova Scotia , Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick.  

Each province has its own charm and attractions, with an endless amount of things to see and do. We’d heard so much about this region, and in 2022, we finally set off on a 2 months East Coast Canada road trip to see the best this region has to offer. 

While we were lucky enough to spend 8 weeks on the East Coast, we know that most people won’t have that kind of time to explore the region. But don’t fret! It is definitely possible to see the main sights and attractions of the region on a 4-week or even 2-week East Coast Canada Road trip. We hope this guide will help you plan the ultimate East Coast Canada road trip no matter how much time you have!

Traveling Soon?  Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip! Book Your Accommodation HERE Search for Great Tours HERE Get a Car Rental HERE Buy Travel Insurance HERE See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE Order an eSim HERE

How Long Do You Need to Visit the East Coast

As mentioned before, we spent eight weeks on our East Canada road trip, which was just enough time to see most of the region. While it may look small and compact on a map, East Coast Canada is vast with long distances, so it’s best to allow plenty of time to get from one province to the next. 

To see the highlights of each province on a road trip, you’ll need at least 5-6 weeks. 

However, if you don’t have that much time to spare, you could spend 2-4 weeks in the Maritimes, visiting Nova Scotia, PEI and New Brunswick (excluding Newfoundland). This would give you enough time to see the main highlights of those three provinces, which are easily combined on an Eastern Canada road trip itinerary. 

Best Time to Go on an East Coast Canada Road Trip

The best time to explore East Canada is in the summer, with the shoulder season starting as early as April and ending as late as October.  

Eastern Canada is at its best in summer . This is when you’ll experience the best weather, with pleasantly warm days and not-too-cold nights. However, you may want to try and avoid the high season between mid-June and August, when the region can be extremely crowded, and prices tend to go up.  

If you want to avoid the summer crowds, the best time to plan your East Coast Canada itinerary is for fall . It’s far less crowded, and you’ll also get to enjoy the pretty fall foliage colours. Try to plan your Eastern Canada road trip for September/October for the best colours, but be prepared as the temperatures, particularly at night, can drop quite significantly this late in the year.

In winter , temperatures on the East Coast are freezing, and many businesses, tours and small towns almost completely shut down to visitors. There is still fun to be had on the East Coast in the winter, but it would be a very different adventure – one that we have yet to experience!

When is the Best Time for Whale Watching?

The Eastern Coast is known as one of the best places in Canada and in the world for whale watching. The Atlantic Ocean is home to several whale species that migrate through the region from April until October.

New Brunswick is a top spot for seeing humpback, fin and right whales. Newfoundland and Labrador offer visitors the chance to see humpback, fin and minke whales, while Novia Scotia is ideal for sightings of humpback, fin, right and long-filled pilot whales.

When Are the Most Popular East Coast Festivals?

Matching the glorious weather, most of the liveliest festivals on the east coast of Canada take place in summer. There are several great festivals, including TD Halifax Jazz Festival , Nova Scotia Summer Fest, Newfoundland & Labrador Folk Festival, Halifax Busker Festival, Nova Scotia International Tattoo, Festival Acadien and Halifax Seaport Beerfest, all during the summer months. 

How to Get to East Coast Canada

Whether you’re on an extended road trip from western Canada or arriving from international destinations, there are plenty of ways to get to the East Coast. 

By car from within Canada

Both Newfoundland & Labrador and New Brunswick provinces border Quebec . The French-speaking province acts as the only gateway to the region on any Eastern Canada road trip itinerary. If you are traveling by car from the West Coast or from Ontario, your route will have you passing both Montreal and Quebec City.  

Once you hit Quebec, you can start to get excited – the East Coast is not too far away!. 

From Quebec City to Fredericton in New Brunswick is 590 km or 6-hour drive.

Another popular starting point for an Eastern Canada travel itinerary is Ontario . While an Eastern Canada road trip from Toronto to reach the coastal provinces is quite lengthy, there are plenty of places to stop on the way. Keep in mind that Toronto to Halifax road trip distance is nearly 1800 km, so you’ll need to add a few days of driving the journey.

By car from the US

If you’re coming from the US, you could easily extend your North American East Coast trip into the Maritime provinces of Canada. A road trip from Boston to St John in New Brunswick is a 650 km or 7-hour drive via Portland in Maine on the main highway. 

Arriving by Plane

Halifax, Nova Scotia, has the region’s major air hub. Halifax Stanfield International Airport has frequent flights in and out of the region to both domestic and international locations. 

Other major airports include Saint John, New Brunswick, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island and St. John’s, Newfoundland.  

Air Canada is the main carrier that flies in and out of the region, but you’ll also find ​​Delta Connection, Porter Airlines, United Airlines, and WestJet offering flights too.

Renting a car 

If you’re planning on flying into the region, we recommend arriving into Halifax, as it’s the most central city. From there, you can easily rent a car for your Maritimes road trip. We highly recommend having your own car for the entire trip around the region, as it makes getting around to all the destinations much easier. 

Alternatively, renting a campervan would also be a great option for those looking to camp out and explore more of the national parks. You can check out Canadream or Adventure Touring Canada for RV rental.

We did our East Coast Canada Road Trip in our self-converted Sprinter Campervan, Benji , a trusty home on wheels that we built during the pandemic. We loved exploring the East Coast in a campervan and think that road-tripping in an RV is the best possible way to experience this region. Our campervan was comfortable to drive and offered a lot more flexibility than getting around by car. We had a chance to experience camping in some of the East Coast’s best national parks and had an amazing time going off the beaten path!

Ok. Now let’s get to that itinerary!

Ultimate East Coast Road Trip Itineraries

An East Coast Canada road trip deserves as much of your time as you can possibly spare. We recommend at least 4 weeks to make this road trip around Atlantic Canada. 

Assuming that you’re beginning your trip in Halifax, you can divide your time between Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick quite easily. 

4 weeks will allow you to see the main highlights of the east coast in Canada without compromising too much.  If you’re building your own East Coast Canada road trip itinerary, here are our suggestions for how you spend your time in the region. 

4 Week East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Here’s an example of a  4-week Eastern Canada itinerary to help you start planning your road trip!

Start in Nova Scotia: 1 Week

As one of the Maritime provinces, Nova Scotia has a beautiful coastline filled with dramatic views, historic lighthouses, delicious seafood and local vineyards. It’s also home to the Cabot Trail, one of the most beautiful road trips in Canada. A week is a minimum time you need to see the highlights of Nova Scotia. Here’s how.

Halifax – 2-3 days

Halifax is the charming capital city of Nova Scotia. Home to one of the world’s largest harbours, the city has a relaxing atmosphere and plenty of cultural and historical attractions to explore over at least a couple of days.

Things to do in Halifax:

• Halifax Waterfront: The bustling working port is one of the most visited attractions in the area. It’s home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as a few shops.
• Halifax Maritime Museum: This is Canada’s largest maritime museum, home to over 30,000 artifacts relating to maritime history, with a large collection of ship models, navigation tools, and wreck relics.
• Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse: No East Coast of Canada road trip is complete without visiting Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse. Located less than an hour southwest of Halifax, Peggy’s Point is one of the most iconic landmarks in Nova Scotia with the lighthouse being one of the most recognized around the world.

READ NEXT: 48 Hours in Halifax

Wolfville – 1-2 days 

Halifax to Wolfville: 92 km or 57 miles or 1 hour 10-minute drive

Wolfville lies in the beautiful Annapolis Valley . As the main city on the eastern end of the valley, it has both historic and horticultural significance as it’s home to several amazing wineries and nearby Acadian historical sites. 

Things to do in Wolfville:

• Wine tasting: Wolfville is located at the heart of Canada’s smallest and coolest wine region, producing crisp wines that pair particularly well with seafood. Lots of wineries offer wine tastings in the region, but our favourites were Luckett Vineyards and Lightfoot and Wolfville Vineyards .
• Grand-Pré National Historic Site: The Grand-Pré National Historic Site commemorates Acadian history and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The interpretive centre at Grand-Pré is surrounded by walkways and beautiful gardens.
• Domaine de Grand Pré: The oldest farm winery in Atlantic Canada. You can sample delicious reds and whites just down the street from the national historic site.

READ NEXT: Guide to Visiting Annapolis Valley

Tidal Bore Rafting – Stop

Wolfville to Tidal Bore Rafting Resort: 105 km or 65 miles or 1 hour 20 minute drive

One of the most unique things to do in Nova Scotia is to go rafting down the Shubenacadie River . The river’s rapids are powered by the dramatic tides of the Bay of Fundy, which moves more than 100 billion tons of water twice a day. 

We went Tidal Bore Rafting with Tidal Bore Rafting Resort and highly recommend it as a stop on any East Coast Canada Road Trip itinerary. They offer guided tours for all ages ranging from 2 hours to full-day adventures.

READ NEXT: Tidal Bore Rafting in Nova Scotia

Cape Breton Island – 2-3 days

Halifax to Baddeck: 351 km or 217 miles or 4 hours  

Take a few days to explore Cape Breton Island. Located at the northeastern end of Nova Scotia, it is known for its beautiful landscapes, great hiking trails and scenic route known as the Cabot Trail.

Things to do on Cape Breton Island:

• Cabot Trail: Widely considered to be one of the most scenic drives in the world, the 300km (185 miles) drive winds its way around Cape Breton National Park on the north cape of the island. We recommend spending at least 2-3 days taking in the sights of the Cabot Trail, including scenic lookouts and walking trails.   
• Skyline Trail: One of the best hikes in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park is this 7km (4.3 mi) walk with steps down to the headland, which opens up to a birds-eye view of the coast. We recommend going at sunset to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets on the East Coast.
• Baddeck: The start or finish of the Cabot Trail drive, this beautiful small town is home to a strong Gaelic heritage and culture. Located on the shores of Bras d’Or Lake, it’s a charming place for cultural immersion. 
• Ingonish: A popular town on the east coast of the island, it’s known for great hiking, and a stunning white sand beach.

READ NEXT: Our Suggested Cabot Trail Road Trip Itinerary 

Newfoundland – 10 days

To get to Newfoundland from Nova Scotia, take a ferry from North Sydney to Port Aux Basque with Marine Atlantic . The crossing takes about 7 hours and costs just over CAD $200 for a vehicle and two passengers. (Be prepared to pay a few hundred dollars more if you are crossing with a campervan)

This wild and rugged province is known for its unspoiled wilderness and stunning landscapes. Favoured by outdoor enthusiasts, it has plenty of activities to do and places to explore. If you’re planning to visit Newfoundland, allow at least 10 days to explore the region.

READ NEXT: Things to do in Newfoundland, Canada

Gros Morne National Park  2-3 days

Located in western Newfoundland, Gros Morne National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an absolute must-visit. The vast landscape of the park was formed over hundreds of millions of years. It boasts a variety of landscapes, including barren Tablelands, moody fjords and Newfoundland’s second-highest peak – Gros Morne Mountain.  

Things to do in Gros Morne National Park:

• Hike the Tableland Trail (4 km / 2.5 mi) : This easy loop follows the famous red rocky Gros Morne Tablelands landscape and is a must for hikers.
• Hike to Gros Morne Mountain (17km/10.5 miles return) : You can hike this trail just to the base of the mountain (first 4.5km) or all the way to the top with 500m in elevation gain. The difficult hike is through the beautiful Arctic-alpine terrain with rewarding views of the mountains. 

Fogo Island – 2 days

Take a Farewell Ferry to Fogo Island: 75-minute sailing time

Fogo Island is definitely one of the most special places to see in Newfoundland. A small community rejuvenated by Fogo Island Inn , this island is as rich in culture and stories as it is in its beautiful scenery. 

Things to do on Fogo Island:

• Hike Brimstone Head : Take the 2 km (1.2 mi) trail up the stairs to a gorgeous lookout that is known as one of the four corners of the earth. It’s particularly beautiful at sunset. 
• Stay at Fogo Island Inn : This beautiful luxury hotel operates as a social enterprise. It plays a huge role in the overall economic development of this small community. They offer an all-inclusive package with dining, tours and accommodation. A stay here is a very special experience, but be sure to book ahead. Despite the high price tags, it sells out almost every summer.

Twillingate – 1-2 days

Gros Morne to Twillingate: 420 km or 261 miles or 4.5-hour drive

You can experience the magic of icebergs in Twillingate, known as the iceberg capital of Newfoundland. The colourful fishing town is one of the quintessential Newfoundland points of interest, with rocky shores and stunning scenery. 

Things to do in Twillingate:

• Long Point Lighthouse: The lighthouse looks over Notre Dame Bay and is an amazing lookout point for icebergs and whales.   
• Iceberg boat tour : Seeing icebergs from the water is even better than seeing them from land. Get up close and personal on a boat tour from town.

Bonavista Peninsula – 2 days

Twillingate to Bonavista: 351 km or 217 miles or 4.5 hours

Located towards Eastern Newfoundland, the Bonavista Peninsula is worth a couple of days of your time. It is the site of the historic landing in 1497 by John Cabot. The peninsula is home to colourful small towns, photogenic streets and historic buildings. 

Things to do on Bonavista Peninsula:

• Stay in Trinity: The historic seaside village is one of the most picturesque in Newfoundland and the kind of place you want to enjoy for a while. Stay in town, enjoy the atmosphere and the food, and take some time to walk the streets. There are plenty of opportunities for photographs. 
• Visit Bonavista: Walk along Church Street, visit Cape Bonavista Lighthouse, and explore Dungeon Provincial Park.
• See Puffins at the Elliston Puffin Viewing Site: The puffins nest on a rock very close to shore, making this one of the best places to see puffins from land. For the best experience, bring binoculars and a zoom lens.
• Hike the Skerwink Trail in Port Rexton : This incredible trail is a 5.3-km coastal loop offering incredible views. It’s often considered one of the top walks in North America.

St John’s and around – 2 days

Bonavista to St John’s: 300 km or 186.5 miles or 3.5-hour drive

St John’s is an undeniably Newfoundland top travel destination. The city’s colourful jelly bean houses, winding streets, and historic harbour boast a history and culture that’s older than any other city in Canada.  

Things to do in St Johns:

• Signal Hill National Historic Site : Once home to military battles, Signal Hill celebrates the rich communication and military history and offers a gorgeous vantage point over the city. 
• Cape Spear Lighthouse : A National Historic Site and Newfoundland’s oldest surviving lighthouse. It’s an iconic symbol of marine history located at North America’s most easterly point.

READ NEXT: Things to do in St John’s, Newfoundland

Ferry back from Argentia

From Argentia on the Avalon Peninsula, you can take the ferry back to North Sydney in Nova Scotia. This crossing runs from June to September and is a much longer journey of 16 hours on a good day. It costs about double, around CAD $470 for a vehicle and two passengers but spares the long drive across the island.

Alt tag: east coast vacations canada 

Prince Edward Island – 4 days 

While it may be the smallest province, it’s worth visiting on your East Coast Canada road trip. PEI is known for its stunning coastal scenery, red sand beaches, rolling farmlands and fantastic food. There are plenty of things to do at this underrated destination. 

The island is connected to New Brunswick by the 13-kilometre Confederation Bridge , which is the longest bridge over ice-covered waters in the world.

READ NEXT: Things to do on Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown – 2 days

The province’s capital city is a vibrant destination home to a variety of cultural attractions. This includes art galleries, museums, and theatres. In addition, Charlottetown offers a great selection of restaurants and cafes, as well as plenty of shopping options.

Things to do in Charlottetown:

• Victoria Row: This is a pedestrian-only street in the heart of Charlottetown’s historic district. Lined with charming Victorian-era buildings, this popular spot has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.
• Confederation Centre of the Arts: Home to a variety of cultural attractions, including an art gallery, a museum, and a theatre. In addition, its most popular attraction is the annual production of Anne of Green Gables, the Musical.

Green Gables – 1 day

Charlottetown to Green Gables: 40 km or 24.8 miles or 40-minute drive

For lovers of Anne of Green Gables, this place is a dream come true on the Canadian east coast. The area around Cavendish is home to white sand beaches and plenty of historical attractions.

Things to do in Green Gables:

• Visit Anne of Green Gables Museum: Dedicated to the life and work of Lucy Maud Montgomery, who wrote the series of novels. The museum contains exhibits on Montgomery’s life, as well as on the history of Prince Edward Island.
• Visit Green Gables Heritage Place : Used as inspiration for the fictional home of Anne Shirley, the house is open for tours from May to October.
• Spend a day on Cavendish Beach: This was our favourite beach in the area. It’s the perfect place to spend the day relaxing on the sand and swimming in the water.

North Point – 1 day

Cavendish to North Point: 130 km or 80 miles or 1 hour 40-minute drive

If you head north on the island, we recommend taking the N orth Cape Coastal Drive to North Point Lighthouse . Offering stunning views at the very northern tip of the province, the lighthouse and walking trail is one of the highlights of the region.

New Brunswick – 1 week

For nature lovers, New Brunswick is a dream come true. The scenic province is home to incredible beaches, lush forests and the famous Bay of Fundy coast. With vibrant cities, you’ll also get a balance of culture and history. 

Plan to spend at least a few days in New Brunswick. If you have time, it’s worth hanging around for at least a week.

Moncton – 2 days

Moncton offers a true taste of Atlantic Canada , combining the amenities of the big city with a small-town atmosphere. Surrounded by nature and the Bay of Fundy, Moncton is one of the best places to visit in Eastern Canada. It’s a great base for exploring further afield, with much to do in the area.

Things to do in and around Moncton:

• Witness the Tidal Bore: Head to the Bore Park in Downtown Moncton to witness the rise and fall of the world’s highest tides, occurring twice a day. It’s a chance to see one of the most unique natural phenomena.
• Shediac: Located just 30 mins outside of Moncton, Shediac is known as the lobster capital of New Brunswick . It’s a charming town best known for its lobster festival, which takes place every summer.
• Parlee Beach Provincial Park: The warm, calm waters make Parlee Beach a great spot to spend a day with the family. The beach is busy in summer, but it has plenty of picnic areas and a long sandy beach.
• Kouchibouguac National Park: About an hour north of Moncton, this coastal area offers year-round recreation. This includes camping, canoeing, skiing, hiking and biking.

READ NEXT: Things to do in Moncton, New Brunswick

Hopewell Rocks – day trip from Moncton

Located about an hour south of Moncton, Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park is home to a series of tidal rock formations along the coast of the Bay of Fundy. They can be reached by walking on the ocean floor at low tide. So, it’s best to time your visit and plan to stay for a few hours and appreciate the changing scenery.

Fundy National Park & Fundy Trail Parkway – 1 day

Located just an hour outside of Moncton, this national park is filled with hiking trails, historical sites, beaches and campsites. There’s a lot to do. But, you can try to fit in as much as possible in one long day. Otherwise, a couple of days is ideal.

Things to do in Fundy National Park:

• Fundy Trail Parkway: The road between the towns of St Martins and Alma, known as Fundy Trail Parkway, offers amazing scenery. There are plenty of stops on the way , so it’s best to take your time to soak it all in. It is not an all-seasons attraction, though; it is open from mid-May to mid-October only.
• Dickson Falls: Walk the moderate 1.5 km loop (0.9 miles) to the most photographed waterfall in the park. 

READ NEXT: Best Stops on the Fundy Trail Parkway

Saint John – 1-2 days

Situated where the Saint John River meets the sea, the large city is known for its Reversing Falls or Rapids. The historic city is also home to some of the best Victorian-era architecture in Canada. Saint John also features plenty of streets, bars and restaurants to explore.

Things to do in Saint John:

• Area 506 Waterfront Container Village: The container village is the newest addition to the Saint John waterfront. It’s a vibrant spot with dozens of colourful shipping containers stacked up with a variety of restaurants and shops inside. 
• Rockwood Park: Rockwood Park is one of the largest urban parks in Canada. It features extensive hiking and biking trails, lakes for swimming and fishing, rock climbing, kayaking, and hydro-bikes and a restaurant with a fantastic patio right on Lily Lake.
• Saint John City Market: Known as Canada’s oldest continuous farmer’s market, it houses local vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, crafts and art. It’s open every day except Sunday.

2 Week East Coast Canada Road Trip Itinerary

If you only have 2 weeks for an East Coast Canada Road trip, you’ll have to make a different choice and narrow down the destinations you can visit. 

Option 1: You can cut out Newfoundland and follow the above-suggested itinerary to spend roughly 2 weeks in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. This is the most common choice for East Coast travelers as it allows them to get the most variety in their 2-week road trip. Plus, Newfoundland makes for an excellent destination to visit on another trip. 

Option 2: Focus your East Coast Canada road trip itinerary on Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, leaving PEI and New Brunswick for another time

Option 3: Ditch the car and fly to Newfoundland. Spend 1 week split between Gros Mourne National Park, Bonavista Peninsula and St Johns (You can use regional flights to get from Gross Morne to St John’s). Then fly to Nova Scotia, pick up a rental car and spend a few days in Halifax and the Cabot Trail. Continue the road trip for a day or two in PEI and 3-4 days in New Brunswick, focusing on Moncton, Parlee Beach, and Hopewell Rocks over 2-3 days and then Fundy National Park over one long day.

Have More Time? 

If you have 6 weeks or more for your East Coast Canada trip itinerary, consider adding the following destinations to your list for each province.

Nova Scotia 

• Spend a few more days on Cape Breton Island , so you can hike more, see more sights and slow down a little.
• Add some extra time in the Annapolis Valley , including visiting the National Historic Sites in Annapolis Royal, trying the delicious scallops in Digby and going whale watching off Brier Island.
• Add a stop in Lunenburg , on Nova Scotia’s south shore just 100 km southwest of Halifax. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is known as one of the prettiest towns in the world. It is also home to the outstanding Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic.
• You could also add a short trip to nearby Blue Rocks , one of the hidden gems just down the coast.

Newfoundland

• Terra Nova National Park is often overshadowed by Gros Morne but is still worth a visit if you have extra time. Hiking and kayaking are popular activities to do in the forested area.
• Head to St Anthony and L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site in the north, particularly if your visit coincides with iceberg season, to explore the Viking settlement and stunning views of icebergs.
• Spend more time on the Avalon Peninsula, not far from St John’s. Follow the Irish Loop to check out Berry Head Arch, Ferryland Lighthouse and the cliffs at Mistaken Point.

Prince Edward Island

• Add a few more days to your East Canada itinerary to explore beaches along the Points East Coast Drive , including the Basin Head Provincial Park, known for its unique “singing sands” beach.
• Spend a couple of days in Summerside , the second-largest city on the island. It’s home to some delicious restaurants and trendy bars, as well as a nice stroll out to Indian Head Lighthouse.  

New Brunswick

• You can add a couple of days to your East Coast Canada road trip by enjoying a visit to St Andrew’s . A pretty seaside town is a popular place for vacations, with relaxing resorts and an old market square. 
• We would also highly recommend a couple of days in St Martins . It was our favourite destination in New Brunswick with a laid-back vibe, a beautiful beach adorned by impressive sea caves, two covered bridges, great hiking and fresh seafood.

No matter how much time you have to spend on the East Coast, we can guarantee you that you’ll love your experience. We found the region to be so different from other parts of Canada. We loved East Coast Canada’s laid-back vibe, great beaches, amazing lobster and incredible scenery all along the coast. 

An East Coast Canada Road Trip is a bucket list item for every Canadian and a highly recommended trip for any traveler visiting Canada. 

About The Author

Oksana & Max St John

2 thoughts on “the ultimate east coast canada road trip: 2 & 4 week itinerary”.

Thank you for your recommendations. Very helpful for planning. So much to do see and experience. Planning on taking a camper van. Any suggestions on campgrounds? is boondockkng allowed? Do reservations have to be booked in advance during summer? And ferry reservations too? Thanks again.

Yes to booking in advance! It gets very busy on the East Coast in the summer. So book campsites and ferries in advance. We didn’t do a lot of boondocking while on the East Coast. Used a lot of Harvest Host stays and campgrounds in state parks and national parks. If you want more advice, follow through to individual articles we have on traveling in Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, PEI and New Brunswick. You’ll find some campground, hotel, restaurant and other recommendations there!

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