MARITIME MELODIES

Cruise to Sydney, Nova Scotia

The sight of the world's largest fiddle welcomes you to Sydney, Nova Scotia. In this enclave on Cape Breton Island, metropolitan charm meets down-home hospitality. Originally founded by Loyalists spooked by the American Revolution, Sydney remains a haven — but today, it's one replete with golf courses, a hearty music scene and the world-famous Cabot Trail. Step back into the 18th century while you walk among the town's classically inspired buildings and dramatically steepled churches. Cruise to Nova Scotia and stroll the boardwalk, indulge your inner lover of learning at the Cape Breton Centre for Heritage and Science, and end your day toe-tapping to Celtic beats.

National Language English

Currency Accepted Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Things To Do in Sydney

Antique Telephone, Sydney, Nova Scotia

Answer the Call

Visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, which overlooks the inventor's summer home in Baddeck. Learn how Bell achieved invented only the telephone but also the world's fastest boat, Canada's first powered airplane flight and advanced recording technology. Marvel at his artifacts, films and family photographs.

Close up View of the Exterior, Fort Louisbourg, Sydney, Nova Scotia

Dance Like It's 1744

Visit the 18^th century at the Fortress of Louisbourg. The largest reconstructed French fortified town in North America is alive with music, dancing, cooking and military drills. Don't leave without sipping the Fortress Rum, sold in traditional bottles and sealed in wax.

Celtic Sojourn

Gaelic may not be your first language, but it's worth the trip to Highland Village in the Bras d'Or Lakes region to hear the melodic sounds of Celtic culture. Traditional music, stunning vistas and friendly farm animals backdrop 11 period buildings, a general store and a one-room schoolhouse.

A Baked Salmon fillet, Sydney, Nova Scotia

Local Cuisine

It's all about fresh and local. Head to one of the many pubs along the downtown waterfront for maple-glazed Atlantic salmon or a lobster dinner. Be sure to try the island's signature mussels before you go. Wash it all down with a mug of Sydney's favorite beer from Big Spruce Brewing.

Shopping

It's an artisan extravaganza in Sydney. Head to the Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design for affordable hand-crafted lamb's wool apparel, leather, glass and art. Get on Canada cruises to pick up some raw local lambswool or sheep's wool to take home and work with yourself.