Ottawa is Canada’s capital, in the east of southern Ontario, near the city of Montréal and the U.S. border. Sitting on the Ottawa River, it has at its centre Parliament Hill, with grand Victorian architecture and museums such as the National Gallery of Canada, with noted collections of indigenous and other Canadian art. The park-lined Rideau Canal is filled with boats in summer and ice-skaters in winter.
Best Time to Visit Ottawa, Ontario:
Spring (April to June): Spring in Ottawa brings pleasant temperatures (around 10°C to 20°C / 50°F to 68°F) and blooming flowers, especially in Major's Hill Park and the Byward Market. This season is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing with fewer crowds than summer.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Ottawa with warm temperatures (18°C to 28°C / 64°F to 82°F). It's the best time to enjoy outdoor festivals, events, and attractions, though it can be crowded, especially during Canada Day celebrations.
Fall (September to November): Fall brings cooler weather (10°C to 20°C / 50°F to 68°F) and stunning fall foliage. It’s a great time for outdoor activities, walking along the Rideau Canal, and exploring the city’s parks with vibrant autumn colors.
Winter (December to February): Winter in Ottawa is cold (ranging from -6°C to -20°C / 21°F to -4°F), but it’s a magical time to visit. The Rideau Canal becomes the world’s largest skating rink, and winter festivals like Winterlude add to the charm of the city.
How to Get There:
By Air: Ottawa's main airport is Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW), located about 15 minutes from downtown. You can easily access the city via taxis, buses, or rental cars from the airport.
By Train: VIA Rail provides train services to Ottawa from major cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec City. The Ottawa Train Station is well-connected and close to downtown.
By Bus: Several bus services, including Greyhound and Megabus, offer routes to Ottawa from cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Kingston.
By Car: Ottawa is about a 4-5 hour drive from Toronto and a 2-hour drive from Montreal. The Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 417) connects the city to other parts of Canada.
Top Attractions in Ottawa, Ontario:
Parliament Hill: The seat of the Canadian government, this iconic landmark offers free tours of the House of Commons and Senate. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony in summer, and the Light Show in the evening.
Rideau Canal: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal is a popular spot for both summer boating and winter ice skating. It’s the world’s largest naturally frozen ice rink during the winter months.
Byward Market: A bustling market in the heart of downtown Ottawa, known for its fresh produce, local crafts, and restaurants. It's a vibrant area for shopping and dining.
National Gallery of Canada: A must-see for art lovers, this gallery features an extensive collection of Canadian and Indigenous art, as well as international pieces. The stunning building is a work of art itself.
Canadian Museum of History: Located just across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, this museum offers a deep dive into Canada’s cultural history with exhibits on Indigenous peoples, European settlers, and Canadian history.
Gatineau Park: A large natural park just outside Ottawa, offering hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing in the winter. The Pink Lake and Champlain Lookout provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Canadian War Museum: This museum tells the story of Canada’s military history, featuring artifacts and interactive exhibits covering both world wars, peacekeeping missions, and modern military operations.
Royal Canadian Mint: Learn about Canada’s coinage history and see how coins and medals are made in this fascinating facility.
Rideau Hall: The official residence of the Governor General of Canada, this stately building offers guided tours and beautiful gardens.
Diefenbunker – Canada's Cold War Museum: A former government facility built during the Cold War, it has been converted into a museum exploring Canada's history during that time.
Activities to Do in Ottawa, Ontario:
Skating on the Rideau Canal: During the winter months, ice skating along the Rideau Canal is a favorite activity. Rent skates and glide along the world’s largest ice rink, taking in the winter landscape.
Winterlude Festival: Held every February, this annual winter festival celebrates the cold weather with ice sculptures, outdoor concerts, and skating on the Rideau Canal.
Visit Parliament Hill: Tour the Parliament Buildings and watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony. In the evening, enjoy the Northern Lights show which illuminates the Parliament buildings with vibrant lights.
Explore Gatineau Park: Whether hiking in the summer or cross-country skiing in winter, Gatineau Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities with stunning natural views.
Tour the Museums: Explore the National Gallery of Canada, Canadian Museum of History, Canadian War Museum, and Canadian Museum of Nature to learn more about Canada's art, history, and natural environment.
Cycle along the Rideau Canal Pathway: Ottawa offers great cycling paths, especially along the Rideau Canal, which is scenic and enjoyable during warmer months.
Visit the Canadian Science and Technology Museum: Perfect for families, this museum features interactive exhibits on technology, space, and transportation.
See the Tulips at Commissioners Park: If visiting in May, the annual Canadian Tulip Festival features over one million tulips blooming around Ottawa’s parks and gardens, particularly in Commissioners Park along the Rideau Canal.
Hike to the Lookout Points at Champlain Lookout: For breathtaking views of Ottawa and the surrounding wilderness, take a short hike to the Champlain Lookout in Gatineau Park.
Go on a Boat Tour: In summer, take a scenic boat cruise along the Ottawa River for unique views of Parliament Hill, the National Gallery, and nearby landmarks.
Accommodation in Ottawa, Ontario:
Fairmont Chateau Laurier: This historic and luxurious hotel is located near Parliament Hill and offers stunning views of the Rideau Canal. It's one of the most iconic hotels in Ottawa.
Lord Elgin Hotel: Located in downtown Ottawa, this charming and historic hotel offers modern amenities and is a short walk from major attractions like the National Gallery and Byward Market.
The Westin Ottawa: Situated right on Rideau Canal, this modern hotel offers great views, comfortable rooms, and easy access to downtown attractions.
Ottawa Marriott Hotel: A contemporary hotel with a pool and fitness center, offering great views of the Parliament Buildings and Rideau Canal.
Byward Blue Inn: A budget-friendly option located near the Byward Market, perfect for those looking for a convenient, comfortable, and affordable stay.
Airbnb: For a more personalized experience, you can find various Airbnb options throughout Ottawa, from downtown apartments to cozy suburban homes.
Capital Hill Hotel & Suites: This affordable hotel is located within walking distance of Parliament Hill and offers spacious rooms, making it a good option for those on a budget.
Food and Restaurants in Ottawa, Ontario:
Play Food & Wine: A contemporary and chic restaurant offering small plates, excellent wines, and locally sourced ingredients. It’s perfect for those who enjoy creative dishes.
Ottawa’s Byward Market: This vibrant market is filled with various restaurants, cafes, and food stalls. Beau’s All Natural Brewing Co. and The Manx Pub are popular spots for local food and craft beer.
The Whalesbone Oyster House: Known for fresh seafood, particularly oysters, this cozy and trendy restaurant is a must for seafood lovers.
Atelier: A fine-dining restaurant that offers an innovative, multi-course tasting menu, perfect for a special night out.
Les Fougères: Located just outside Ottawa in Gatineau, this farm-to-table restaurant offers French-inspired cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Riviera Ottawa: Set in a beautifully restored bank building, Riviera serves up modern Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an impressive wine list.
Stella Luna Gelato Café: For a sweet treat, head to this local gem offering delicious, authentic Italian gelato, as well as coffee and baked goods.
Kettleman’s Bagel Co.: A local favorite for Montreal-style bagels, Kettleman’s offers a variety of bagel sandwiches and baked goods in a casual setting.
The Standard: A trendy bar and restaurant offering craft cocktails, local brews, and a delicious menu of comfort food and creative dishes.
Café Alt: A local café in the Byward Market offering coffee, pastries, and light lunch options in a cozy atmosphere.
Local Culture in Ottawa, Ontario:
Bilingualism: Ottawa is a bilingual city, with both English and French being widely spoken, reflecting the country’s cultural diversity.
Political Heart of Canada: As the capital of Canada, Ottawa is the political center of the country. Parliament Hill and the nearby government buildings play a significant role in the city’s culture.
Festival Culture: Ottawa is home to numerous cultural festivals, such as the Canadian Tulip Festival, Winterlude, Ottawa International Film Festival, and the NAC (National Arts Centre)’s arts programming.
Indigenous Heritage: Ottawa has a deep Indigenous history, with several cultural centers and museums showcasing the contributions and history of Indigenous peoples in Canada.
Outdoor Lifestyle: With its abundant green spaces, parks, and trails, Ottawa has a strong outdoor culture. The city embraces cycling, hiking, and skating, with activities available year-round.
Public Art: The city boasts a thriving public art scene with installations along the Rideau Canal, Ottawa Art Gallery, and Bank Street, as well as street art and sculptures found in various areas.