A lively cultural scene, rich history and friendly people combine to make Halifax a uniquely charming city. There’s a lot to love about this city; read on for some of our favourites.

1. Halifax Citadel
One of Canada’s most popular National Historic Sites, this fortress was the city’s raison d’etre and still dominates the downtown.

2. Halifax Public Gardens Sunday Concerts
Free concerts return to the bandstand Sundays at 2 p.m., beginning June 15.

3. The Lower Deck Pub
On the waterfront, friendly crowds and live music nightly -- little wonder this is the quintessential Maritime pub.

4. French fries on Spring Garden Road
Fresh P.E.I. potatoes, transformed into golden crispy fries, served in a paper bag and consumed on the wall in front of the library -- it's a rite of summer.

5. The Hydrostone
 Destroyed in the Halifax Explosion of the First World War, this neighbourhood re-blossomed as one of the city’s most stylish, offering fine dining and tony shopping.

6. Nova Scotian Crystal
Canada’s only makers of fine, mouth-blown, hand-cut crystal, in action at the George Street glassworks.

7. Whale watching
Board a Murphy’s on the Water boat from downtown Halifax and minutes later you can be treated to the breathtaking sight of a surfacing whale.

8. The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
Visit Lower Water Street to learn all about Halifax's seafaring history ... and its links to the Titanic.

9. Neptune Theatre
The beloved theatre company wrapped up its season with the Broadway smash The Producers. Check with the Argyle Street box office for new productions.

10. Alexander Keith's Nova Scotia Brewery
How does a Scottish brewer become a Nova Scotian icon? Tour the Lower Water Street brewery for the whole story.

11. Discovery Centre
Dozens of hands-on exhibits and displays will keep the kids playing (and learning) for hours.

12. Maurizio Bertossi
A godfather on the dining scene, this chef struts his considerable talents at Bish on Lower Water Street.

13. Sidewalk patios
Opa Greek Taverna, The Economy Shoe Shop and countless others -- this city embraces al fresco dining in the summer.

14. Halifax City Farmer's Market
Every Saturday, Nova Scotian farmers, crafters and food producers get up early to share their creations with you.

15. Metro Transit
The ferry from the Halifax waterfront to Dartmouth’s Alderney is a great way to get a quick and cheap ($2!) look at the harbour.

16. Historic Properties
This collection of heritage buildings hearkens back to privateers and piracy.

17. Opera Nova Scotia
This company works tirelessly to bring opera to the masses, performing Mozart's Idomeneo from June 13 to 15.

18. Mic Mac Mall
Shopaholics take note -- Atlantic Canada’s biggest shopping centre is just across the harbour in Dartmouth.

19. Vision Air Services
Take a Bell 206 helicopter for a unique tour of the city.

20. Peggy’s Cove
OK, it’s not actually in Halifax, but the fishing village with the iconic lighthouse is only 44 kilometres away.