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Lunenburg harbour, Nova Scotia

Visit Lunenburg, Canada

Visit Lunenburg, Canada

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Lunenburg is one of Nova Scotia’s most historic towns, captivating visitors with its colorful waterfront, narrow streets and old wooden buildings.

This pretty town, lying on a narrow peninsula, was established by the British in 1753 as their first and only colonial settlement in Nova Scotia outside Halifax.

Architecture of Lunenburg

The early settlers, from various parts of Europe, created a vibrant and stable economy built on farming, fishing, ship building and ocean-based commerce. Even now Lunenburg combines a healthy economy with a rich historical legacy, manifesting itself in brightly-painted wooden buildings that clamber up from the main harbor, ringed by an eclectic mix of old wooden churches and mansions.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Lunenburg waterfront, Nova ScotiaToday the town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its principal attraction is the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic which houses a great aquarium, the record-breaking schooner Bluenose, and Theresa E. Connor, the last salt-bank schooner to fish from Lunenburg. Visitors can relive past glories by sailing on Bluenose II, a replica of the original vessel.

There are some excellent craft shops, art galleries and restaurants here: be sure to try the two local specialities, Solomon Grundy — marinated herrings with sour cream — and Lunenburg Sausage.

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Start planning your tailor-made trip to Lunenburg by contacting one of our Canada specialists

Suggested itinerary featuring Lunenburg

This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Lunenburg, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of Lunenburg

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near Lunenburg

    Photos of Lunenburg

    • Lunenburg waterfront, Nova Scotia
      Lunenburg waterfront, Nova Scotia
    • The Bluenose II sailing from Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
      The Bluenose II sailing from Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
    • Lunenburg waterfront, Nova Scotia
      Lunenburg waterfront, Nova Scotia
    • Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
      Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
    • Lunenburg
      Lunenburg
    • Lunenburg
      Lunenburg
    • Model ship builder outside the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, Lunenburg
      Model ship builder outside the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, Lunenburg
    • Arts and Crafts in Lunenburg
      Arts and Crafts in Lunenburg

    Our expert guides to exploring Lunenburg

    Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Lunenburg, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Lunenburg at its best.

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      Canada’s Maritime Provinces

      Canada’s Maritime Provinces

      Canada’s Maritime Provinces offer a quieter alternative to the west coast. Here, you can follow coastal roads to secluded coves and traditional lighthouses. Visit peaceful fishing villages where saltbox houses line the waterfront. And, explore the area’s Celtic roots. Canada specialist Jon shares his highlights of the region.

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      Read this guide

    Accommodation choices for Lunenburg

    We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Lunenburg. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.