Hi. We are in Halifax for 1 day during a cruise in September. Any suggestions for a day trip? What are the highlights of Halifax and its immediate surroundings?

We sightsee independently on our own, not with tour groups. What are local transportation options?

We don't want to spend an hour or more on excursions such as Peggy's Cove - I hope to return someday to tour the coast leisurely.

Is bicycling an option? Can you bicycle, say between 5 & 20 miles from the city center. Is it relatively flat, and are there bike lanes?

Thanks for any help you can toss my way.

If you are only in Halifax for one day I would suggest you spend it exploring the city. From your cruise ship, take time and explore Pier 21 where immigrants landed for many years when entering Canada. Walk along the waterfront - explore the Maritime Museum and the many shops. Barrington St. up to the Public Gardens on Spring Garden Road, lots to see. Enjoy people watching at the Library while enjoying Bud the Spud french fries. Walk up Citadel Hill and enjoy the views plus the history of the fort.

Believe me, you don't need to travel very far!

I totally agree-save the bike tours for your next trip. Halifax is a major city with much of historical interest to see. And "flat" is not a word you will associate with Halifax!

with only one day, just hang out in the central area. the citadel hill is worth a visit and the gardens next to it are beautiful. the martime museum is really good to. if you feel like a short ferry ride, head over to dartmouth for a look backwards at halifax.

Thanks to everyone for your input. I heard about the gardens - are they extensive?

The gardens are lovely - not sure of your definition of extensive. You can spend a few hours strolling or simply relaxing on one of the park benches and enjoy the ducks. The Public Gardens were devastated 4 years ago by a hurricane and lost a lot of its majestic trees.

I was wondering about the size of the gardens. I have visited numerous botanical gardens in NYC, Netherlands, UK, Victoria, Longwood Gardens (DuPont estate in Delaware) & elsewhere. Some are vast in size, which I quite enjoy. I'm trying to get a handle on how to allocate my time as I tend to move alot and will likely not sit for too long in any one spot irrespective of its beauty or interest.

A mere 16 acres located smack dab in the middle of Halifax, the Public Gardens is designed around the victorian era. I would say an hour would do it.

I´m also going on a cruise to halifax on October and my options are: Evangeline and the Arcadian Journey - 6 hours or Peggy´s Cove and Double Decker City Tour. What do you suggest? (I like tours)

Gosh, I still would recommend spending time in Halifax. The trip to Evangeline will probably take you close to two hours each way by the time you get out of the downtown area. Halifax is really an amazing city with lots to offer.