Ottawa is Canada's charming capital, defined by its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, the scenic Rideau Canal, and a vibrant cultural scene. It is best visited in late spring or summer for the Tulip Festival and outdoor festivities, or in winter to experience the world's largest skating rink.
Top Things to Do in Ottawa
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Getting Around Ottawa
From the Airport
Bus. OC Transpo Route 97 provides frequent service between the Ottawa International Airport and the downtown core, taking about 30-40 minutes for a standard fare. Rideshare. Uber and Lyft operate extensively at the airport, with dedicated pickup zones located just outside the arrivals level.
Once You're There
Light Rail. The O-Train (Line 1) is the primary light rail system, efficiently connecting major hubs like Parliament, Rideau, and Bayview stations. Walking. The downtown core, including Parliament Hill and the ByWard Market, is extremely walkable and best navigated on foot. Rideshare. Uber is the standard rideshare app used throughout the city for getting to neighborhoods like Westboro or the Glebe.
Where to Stay in Ottawa
Hotel picks for Ottawa are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Ottawa
Supply and Demand★ 4.8 (1,277)1335 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3B7, CanadaThis Westboro neighborhood gem is widely celebrated for its handmade pasta and raw bar selections.
Atelier★ 4.7 (672)540 Rochester St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4M1, CanadaThis innovative restaurant offers a sophisticated 12-course tasting menu that pushes the boundaries of modern Canadian cuisine.
Whalesbone Oyster House★ 4.7 (647)430 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1Y8, CanadaThis is the go-to destination in the city for sustainably sourced oysters and impeccably prepared fresh seafood.
Riviera★ 4.6 (1,711)62 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5, CanadaHoused in a former bank, this elegant space serves elevated classic cocktails and expertly prepared contemporary dishes.
Play Food & Wine★ 4.6 (1,457)1 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S7, CanadaFamous for its creative small plates, this ByWard Market staple is perfect for sampling a variety of seasonal local ingredients.
Corazón de Maíz★ 4.6 (1,318)55 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON K1N 1K1, CanadaTucked inside the ByWard Market building, this humble stall serves some of the most authentic Mexican street food in the city.
Murray Street Kitchen★ 4.5 (80)110 Murray St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5P5, CanadaFocusing on nose-to-tail dining and local charcuterie, this spot offers a rustic and truly Canadian farm-to-table experience.
El Camino★ 4.4 (2,367)380 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1M9, CanadaKnown for its buzzy atmosphere and addictive street-style tacos, it remains a favorite for a casual yet trendy dinner.
Fairouz Cafe★ 4.3 (1,129)15 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON K1N 5P9, CanadaExperience refined Middle Eastern flavors in a beautifully restored heritage home located in the heart of Somerset Village.
Zak's Diner★ 4.2 (7,051)14 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON K1N 7A1, CanadaA ByWard Market institution, this retro-style diner is the ultimate spot for a classic milkshake and hearty comfort food.
Tours & Activities
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3 Days in Ottawa
Parliamentary Prestige & Historic Markets
Morning. Start your first morning at the iconic Parliament Hill, where you should aim to arrive early to secure a spot for the Changing of the Guard ceremony during summer months. Spend time wandering the grounds to admire the Peace Tower and the intricate Gothic architecture of the Centre Block. After soaking in the views of the Ottawa River, walk east toward the historic Rideau Canal locks, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases engineering history. It is a perfect spot for photos before you head toward the nearby Major's Hill Park for panoramic vistas of the city skyline. Finally, walk a few blocks into the bustling ByWard Market to experience the city's oldest commercial district.
Afternoon. Spend your afternoon exploring the sensory delights of the ByWard Market, where you can browse local artisan stalls and pick up a famous BeaverTails pastry. Once you have satisfied your sweet tooth, walk over to the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, known for its breathtaking blue-vaulted ceiling and intricate wood carvings. After a quiet moment in the cathedral, head to the National Gallery of Canada to view its world-class collection of Indigenous and Canadian art. The glass-and-granite architecture of the gallery itself is a masterpiece worth documenting. Before leaving, make sure to snap a picture of the giant Maman spider sculpture located in the gallery's plaza.
Evening. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a stroll along the canal's edge before heading to a dinner reservation in the heart of the market district. The area comes alive at night with locals and tourists alike spilling out of lively pubs and restaurants. Enjoy a refined meal at a local bistro to reflect on the day's sights. If you still have energy, walk toward the nearby Sparks Street, a pedestrian-only street that often hosts evening events and live music. Wrap up your night by walking back toward the Parliament buildings to see them beautifully illuminated against the night sky.
Culture Across the River
Morning. Cross the Alexandra Bridge to Gatineau to spend your morning at the Canadian Museum of History, which is arguably the most important museum in the region. The grand architecture, designed by Douglas Cardinal, is meant to evoke the natural landscape of Canada, and the Grand Hall features a stunning collection of totem poles. Spend at least three hours here to fully appreciate the First Peoples Hall and the immersive history exhibits. Because it is across the river, you get a unique perspective of Ottawa's skyline from the museum's terrace. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Ottawa River Pathway to enjoy the natural scenery.
Afternoon. After a morning of history, head back to the Ontario side to visit the Canadian War Museum, a powerful and sobering space that chronicles Canada's military history. The building's design, with its sharp angles and concrete aesthetic, perfectly complements the serious nature of the exhibits. Spend your time in the LeBreton Gallery to see the impressive collection of tanks and artillery before heading to the reflection gallery. Once you are finished, take a quick ride or a long walk toward the Wellington Street area to see the Supreme Court of Canada. The neoclassical building is an architectural marvel and sits on a cliff overlooking the river.
Evening. Conclude your day by heading into the trendy Westboro neighborhood, which offers a more local, neighborhood-focused vibe compared to the downtown core. Wander along Richmond Road to browse independent boutiques and unique specialty stores. This area is a local favorite for its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the river. Find a table at a high-end restaurant to enjoy some of the city's best contemporary cooking. It is the perfect way to unwind after a day of heavy history and walking.
Secret Bunkers & Green Escapes
Morning. For your final day, take a short drive or shuttle out to Carp to visit the Diefenbunker, Canada's Cold War Museum. This massive, four-story underground bunker was built to protect the government in the event of a nuclear war and remains an incredibly eerie and fascinating time capsule. You will need to book your tour in advance, as wandering through the decontamination showers and the Prime Minister’s suite is a highlight that requires a guide. Spend the morning exploring the various levels, including the CBC broadcast room and the vault. It is a truly unique experience that you won't find anywhere else in the country.
Afternoon. Return to the city and head toward the Experimental Farm, a massive green space that feels like a rural escape within the city limits. Spend your afternoon wandering through the Ornamental Gardens or visiting the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum located on the property. It is a peaceful place to decompress and enjoy some fresh air before your trip concludes. If you have time, drive a bit further to see the nearby Arboretum, which offers beautiful views and a diverse collection of tree species. It is a favorite spot for locals to picnic and enjoy the afternoon sun.
Evening. Spend your final evening in the Glebe, a charming historic neighborhood known for its Victorian homes and the vibrant Bank Street. Start with a walk along the canal near Lansdowne Park, where you can see the mix of old heritage buildings and modern developments. Grab a final dinner at one of the many cozy restaurants lining Bank Street, which offer everything from casual pubs to fine dining. It is a great place to people-watch and soak in the local Ottawa lifestyle one last time. End your trip with a stroll through the quiet residential streets to admire the architecture.
