The Best Things to Do in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Creative vibe, lots of history and fresh sea air: A stop in the versatile port city of Lunenburg is simply a must on a trip through Canada’s second smallest province, Nova Scotia. In this guide, I’ll reveal my personal highlights in Lunenburg and give you some helpful tips for one of Nova Scotia’s greatest treasures.

Lunenburg may be a small town, but it still plays an important role in Nova Scotia’s history. It was founded by the British in 1753 in the hope of attracting more Protestants to the region. Although there were no British Protestants, there were more and more German emigrants who sought their fortune in Lunenburg. To this day, you can find the German-speaking influence not only in the city name, but also in many street names.

With its harbor, Lunenburg also became an important economic pillar of the region: Fishing became an important source of income and also attracted other industries such as large shipyards. Cod and lobster fishing still play a role in Lunenburg today, although not quite as big as they once were.

Thanks to its historic architecture and long-standing maritime tradition, Lunenburg was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 and is now a magnet for many tourists, without being too crowded, on the contrary. For me, Lunenburg was the perfect combination of history and the present, because the place exudes a creative vibe that I would not have expected!

The most important sights in Lunenburg

There are some sights in Lunenburg that you shouldn’t miss! Since the town itself is not particularly large, you can easily reach most of the locations on foot. If you want to delve deeper into the history of Lunenburg and get to know real locals, you can also take part in walking tours that take you to the most important places.

Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic

To learn more about Lunenburg’s history, there is no way around the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. The bright red building directly on the harbor is also hard to miss and is so centrally located on the promenade that you can start your exploration of Lunenburg from here.

Here you will learn about the important role that fishing has always played for Nova Scotia, learn sailor’s knots and simply marvel at the restored ships that are anchored directly in front of the museum.

Bluenose

Lunenburg’s shipyards have also produced a very special ship that every Canadian knows: The Bluenose is the legendary sailing ship that is depicted on the Canadian 10-cent coin. Originally built as a fishing and regatta ship, the schooner is still the ultimate symbol of Canada’s maritime history, similar to the Gorch Fock in Germany, and is considered a national treasure.

Unfortunately, the real Bluenose sank in 1946. Due to its historical significance, it was later decided to build a replica, which was launched in 1963. If you’re lucky, you can admire the Bluenose II today in Lunenburg on the quay directly opposite the Fisheries Museum, when it’s not on the road.

Tip: From Lunenburg and Halifax you can book harbor tours with the Bluenose II! Since the Bluenose II is very popular, it is best to book in advance.

Reservation & timetable for the Bluenose II

Lunenburg Academy

The highest point of the city towers the Lunenburg Academy. In the past, the striking building was used as a school, today it houses offices, a kindergarten, but also rooms for cultural events. If you would like to see the building from the inside, you can also take a guided tour. You can find dates on the website of the Lunenburg Academy Foundation.

St. Johns Anglican Church

A similarly striking building in Lunenburg is the white St. Johns Anglican Church. Inside, the light shines through impressive stained glass windows, giving the church its special atmosphere. In 2001, Lunenburg’s first church (and also one of the oldest in the country) was severely damaged in a fire, but was later completely reconstructed with great support from the population.

Nova Scotia is such an exciting region in Canada!
Discover many more inspiring ideas for an exciting journey in my article about our full road trip.
Road trip through Nova Scotia

Waterfront

You can stroll along the waterfront promenade of Lunenburg and enjoy the sun. From here you also have a truly dreamlike view – absolutely postcard-perfect.

Architecture in Lunenburg

Lunenburg owes its entry as a UNESCO World Heritage Site to its wooden architecture and the many colorful, lovingly preserved houses. You should definitely take some time to explore the side streets on foot and take a look at the beautiful residential buildings with their peculiarities.

Many houses on the top floor have a striking bay window, called Widow’s Watch. Since Lunenburg is partly situated on a hill, legend has it that the wives watched the harbor from here, waiting for the fishermen to return.

Food & Drink in Lunenburg

Lunenburg is a port city and fishing is still very popular. You will especially get your money’s worth if you love fish and seafood – because of course, this is where you can find the best lobster and fresh fish in unique quality.

But Lunenburg, like so many other places in Nova Scotia, surprised me a lot: The gastronomy scene here is surprisingly diverse and innovative! There are so many great locations that the decision is really difficult.

Here are my personal tips for Lunenburg:

Lincoln Street Food is a bit off the main street with most of the restaurants, but it’s a great insider tip. Emphasis is placed on regional ingredients, the menu changes frequently and the dishes are really very creative.

Bar Salvador Who would have thought that an absolutely authentic tapas bar would be located in a fishing village in Nova Scotia? Before you stop for dinner in one of the surrounding restaurants, I highly recommend a small aperitif in a Mediterranean atmosphere!

The Beach Pea Kitchen & Bar So cozy, right across the street – and the lobster pasta is a poem!

The South Shore Fish Shack You should stop here for good Fish & Chips. From the terrace you have a beautiful view of the idyllic bay.

The Half Shell Oysters & Seafood Next door there is fresh lobster and oysters, which you can also enjoy in the open air with a great view.

The Savvy Sailor Café If you’re in the mood for a hearty Canadian breakfast, then you should stop here. The Savvy Sailor Café is also located in the middle of Lunenburg with a view of the harbor.

No.9 Coffee Bar Absolutely love this café! With modern artworks by local artists adorning the walls and cozy, stylish furnishings, it feels both inviting and unique. Their homemade granola is a delightful treat! No.9 really has a warm, special atmosphere that makes it a favorite spot for locals to meet up and enjoy good times.

The Laughing Whale is the place to go for coffee connoisseurs: As soon as you enter, you will be enveloped by the scent of freshly roasted coffee. The atmosphere is super warm and cozy.

Lightship Brewery From hoppy-fruity IPAs to strong stouts, you can test local craft beers here. But even if you don’t like beer at all, you should definitely drive out to the Lightship Brewery on the opposite bank: From here you have a fantastic view of the historic center of Lunenburg and its waterfront.

Next door at Boathouse Bites there is delicious poutine; the crispy fries with a topping of cream sauce and cheese cubes are a real temptation!

Fancy even more travel inspiration for a trip to Canada?
Read more about destinations in Canada here.

Shopping in Lunenburg

If you enjoy exploring creative and unique stores and studios, then Lunenburg is the perfect destination for you. You’ll discover some charming, inspiring shops that are sure to spark your imagination.

Lunenburg Bound is one of the small but fine bookstores where I could browse for hours. Plus point: Around the corner you will find the colorful Lunenburg mural on the facade.

Pearl’s Vintage & Thrift If you are looking for unusual unique pieces, then you will love this store. Vintage clothing and accessories are lovingly put together and just browsing here is a pleasure.

Staying in Lunenburg

I really liked Lunenburg. There’s just something so charming about this city that I could have just settled down here for the rest of the trip. But maybe our accommodation wasn’t entirely innocent either.

Because from our attic in the B2 Lofts we had the perfect view over the harbor of Lunenburg. Being able to slowly watch the sunrise over the misty water here in the morning was simply magical. The location in the middle of the village is also perfect for strolling through the bars and restaurants in the evening without having to get in the car.

Here you will find more great accommodations in the center of Lunenburg*

Map with the most important highlights in Lunenburg

If you are planning a trip to Lunenburg, just save my map with all the highlights. So you always have all the tips from the article at hand on the go!

Excursion from Lunenburg

From Lunenburg you can also take a quick detour to the nearby Blue Rocks. The tiny fishing village is great for some great photo opportunities, especially at sunset.

Arrival: How to get there

Lunenburg is located approximately 90 kilometers southwest of Halifax. The best way to reach Lunenburg is by car, e.g. with a rental car. However, there are also several tour operators that offer day trips from Halifax to Lunenburg; also in connection with Peggy’s Cove, which is also very worth seeing.

Book a tour from Halifax to Lunenburg here*

However, I would recommend that you plan a little more time for Lunenburg – the place is really very charming and I am sure you will love it!

My trip to Nova Scotia took place in cooperation with Tourism Nova Scotia.