How do I get to Dartmouth?

Drive via Highway 103 and cross the Halifax Harbour Bridges.

Yes, the ferry connects downtown Dartmouth to downtown Halifax.

How much is the toll?

Tolls are approximately 1 CAD for passenger vehicles.

Is it faster than Halifax?

It depends on your final destination within the city.

No, there is no passenger rail service to Dartmouth.

Lunenburg

Dartmouth

Driving

Lunenburg to Dartmouth

Updated: 31 May 2026

Traveling from Lunenburg to Dartmouth involves a 110-kilometer journey, typically taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes. You will follow Highway 103 toward Halifax, then navigate through the city to cross either the Macdonald or MacKay bridge into Dartmouth. This route connects the South Shore to the eastern side of the Halifax Harbour. Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, especially near the bridge approaches. Ensure you have a plan for bridge tolls if you are driving.

Total Distance: 110 km driving distance; 80 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via Highway 103 and the MacKay Bridge is the fastest route.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most practical and cost-effective method.

Compare Lunenburg to Dartmouth Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

1 hour 45 mins

Avg Price

25-35 CAD in fuel

Operator

N/A

Route

Highway 103 to Highway 102, crossing the Halifax Harbour Bridges

Use the MacKay Bridge to avoid the downtown Halifax core if you are heading directly to Dartmouth.

Travel Tips

Bridge Tolls
Have a MacPass or exact change for the bridge tolls.
Traffic
Avoid the bridges between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM to save time.
Navigation
Use GPS to navigate the complex highway interchanges near Halifax.
Parking
Dartmouth has several public parking lots near the ferry terminal.
Weather
Check bridge status during high wind events, as they may close to high-sided vehicles.

Safety Tips

Bridge Safety
Stay in your lane on the bridges; they are narrow and busy.
Road Conditions
Be prepared for sudden lane changes in the Halifax highway system.
Emergency
Halifax Regional Police handle all incidents in the Dartmouth area.
Visibility
Use headlights during the frequent coastal rain showers.