Visiting the capital of Canada, Ottawa, is the perfect way to explore the country’s roots, culinary delights, outdoor adventures and walkable streets. Ottawa, nicknamed Bytown, straddles the border between urban and rural in Ontario, offering a smaller alternative to Toronto with more green spaces and ample opportunities for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It spans across the Ottawa River all the way to Gatineau, Quebec, making it possible to visit two provinces during your trip.
You won’t run out of things to do in Ottawa as you explore the unique neighborhoods and districts of the city, uncovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks along the way. From robust flavors and a thriving arts and culture scene to seasonal wonders like skating on the Rideau Canal in winter or white-water rafting on the Ottawa River in summer, use our guide to Ottawa to plan the perfect itinerary for your visit.
How to Get Around Ottawa
On your trip to Ottawa, walking is the best way to do most of your exploration. The city has a high walkability score with bustling neighborhoods and districts that feature wide sidewalks. Public transportation is great in the city and offers more options to sightsee and enjoy outdoor adventures.
Public Transit
Bus and light rail services connect Ottawa with a network of routes. OC Transpo buses and the O-Train operate on the Ontario side of the Ottawa River, while the Société de Transport de l’Outaouais (STO) handles the Quebec side.
Taxi and Rideshare Services
Ottawa is serviced by taxis and rideshare services that can be hailed from the street or booked in advance. Uber and Lyft operate here, but cannot pick passengers up from the Quebec side.
Water Taxi Services
You can travel between the Ontario and Quebec sides of Ottawa on an Ottawa River water taxi or ferry between May and October.
Bike and E-Scooter Rentals
Rent bikes or e-scooters to explore Ottawa at your own pace between April and November (varies by operator). E-scooters and bikes are parked around the city to rent, some via a smartphone app or kiosk.
Best Time to Visit Ottawa
The best time to visit Ottawa is during spring, from March to May, and in fall, from September to November (these are also the best times to visit Toronto). Both shoulder seasons feature smaller crowds than in summer and mild weather that lends itself to long city strolls, days in the park, attending outdoor festivals, and taking day trips to nearby cities.
Ottawa weather in spring is pleasant, but can be chilly early in the season. Unlike much of Canada, Ottawa’s climate is milder due to its southern location and proximity to the Great Lakes. With daily highs ranging from the upper 30s to the upper 60s, spring features blooming flowers, vibrant greenery in places like Gatineau Park, and just 8-9 monthly days of rain for dry conditions.
Fall in Ottawa is a real treat, boasting brilliant and fiery foliage that transforms the landscape into a painting of high saturation—especially along the Greenbelt in the city center. Highs from the low 40s to the upper 60s make it balmy and mild with 9-10 rainy days each month, perfect for spending time outdoors and sightseeing around the city.
Look for Ottawa festivals and events like these in spring and fall:
- Canadian Tulip Festival (May)
- Ottawa International Children’s Festival (May/June)
- CityFolk Folk Music Festival (September)
- PoutineFest on Sparks (October)
- European Union Film Festival (November)
- Magic of Lights Ottawa (November-January)
Top Things to Do in Ottawa
When you’re planning on traveling to Ottawa, getting your itinerary sorted in advance helps you make room for all the activities you want to do in the city—or leave plenty of unscheduled time to explore! Here are the best things to do in Ottawa.
Check Out the Lively Downtown District
Downtown Ottawa is the center of it all—from skyscrapers and shops to lush green spaces and restaurants with plenty of historic landmarks in between, this is the perfect place to get acquainted with the city. Start by exploring Parliament Hill, taking note of its iconic Gothic Revival structures that look like palaces.
Head to the historic ByWard Market area in the heart of Downtown Ottawa to shop at the local farmer’s markets, visit small cafés and trendy eateries, sip craft beer and cocktails, and browse local shops selling favorites (like delectable BeaverTails pastries and maple candies). Score the best poutine, or fries draped in cheese curds and gravy, and come back in the evening for the buzz of nightlife.
Take a Sightseeing Tour
While many of Ottawa’s attractions are located downtown, there are even more sights to see scattered around the metropolitan area in different districts. The most convenient way to see it all is on the Ottawa Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour, which allows you to move at your pace and only stop at destinations that pique your interest.
From Sparks Street and the Canadian Museum of Nature to Rideau Hall and the Canadian War Museum, you’ll have the chance to see and explore the city’s best stops with the freedom to hop on and off the bus as you choose. Or, opt for the Ottawa Landmarks Tour to sightsee with a local guide on a giant bike or eBike!
Paddle and Play on the Rivers and Canals
Ottawa is the meeting place where three rivers converge: The Ottawa, Rideau, and Gatineau rivers. That means there’s always a scenic view of the water and places to play and paddle on a beautiful day, so plan on a Full Day Rafting on the Ottawa River, renting a kayak or paddle boat, taking a Rideau Canal Cruise down the UNESCO World Heritage Site canal and locks, or venturing across the Ottawa River to reach Quebec on a water taxi during the summer!
Even in chilly weather, the fun doesn’t stop on the water. One of the most popular things to do in Ottawa during the winter is strapping on ice skates to skate the famous Rideau Canal—it becomes the world’s largest ice skating rink at nearly five miles wide with more surface area than 90 Olympic hockey rinks! Skaters line up for hot chocolate and soup to eat in heated huts beside the canal for a fun-filled, not-so-frozen adventure.
Explore Local Museums
Ottawa has a lot to offer in the way of museums, from science and technology to history, art, and aviation. No matter your interests, you’ll be able to find an institution that holds intriguing exhibits that are right up your alley, from artistic masterpieces in the National Gallery of Canada to seeing ancient and significant artifacts with your Canadian Museum of History Admission Ticket.
Aviation buffs and space aficionados will want to spend a few hours in the massive Canada Aviation and Space Museum, while the Canadian War Museum details a somber and wrought history of the nation’s past. For outdoor lovers, the Canadian Museum of Nature is set in an old castle that makes a visit even more enchanting.
After a morning or afternoon of perusing the city’s best museums, you can enjoy a tasty meal at one of the downtown eateries or stick around for live music, drinks and a taste of the local culture!
Hike and Bike Scenic Trails
Many people come to Ottawa to enjoy the great outdoors. This green, walkable city has so much to offer for adventurers, like cycling, kayaking the rivers and canals, hiking forested and mountain trails, and climbing to lookout points with panoramic views. You can even take a Spring Tulip Festival Bike Tour if you visit in May!
Some of the best biking and hiking trails are located across the 90,000 acres of beautiful Gatineau Park, just 15 minutes from downtown Ottawa on the border with Quebec. Rent a bike or set off on foot to explore the park’s trails and activities. Hike up to the Champlain Lookout to see for miles (kilometers, that is) around the Ottawa Valley and circle Pink Lake. In winter, more activities open up on the trails and within the parks, like snowshoeing and skiing (downhill and cross-country) and ice skating on the Rideau Canal.
Where to Stay in Ottawa
Ottawa’s status as the Canadian capital means there’s no shortage of great places to stay around the city. You’ll find hotels for every price point with a range of amenities and proximity to popular attractions, but we’ve found that these are the best hotels in Ottawa.
Fairmont Château Laurier
- Address: 1 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON, K1N 8S7
- Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
- Best for: Palatial comfort and grandeur on the Rideau Canal
If only the best will do for your Ottawa vacation, stay at the Fairmont Château Laurier. Just east of Parliament Hill, ByWard Market, and trendy boutiques and restaurants downtown, this luxurious and historic hotel was established in 1912 and features grand touches that are still impeccable today. With an Eco-Certification, heated indoor pool, spa, and onsite restaurant with a full bar, this is the most sophisticated option in the city.
The Westin Ottawa
- Address: 11 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa, ON, K1N 9H4
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best for: Upscale stays in the heart of downtown Ottawa
The Westin Ottawa is an Eco-Certified hotel that brings top-tier comforts and amenities to your Ottawa stay, including a heated indoor saltwater pool, oversized showers, bicycles to rent, a restaurant and bar, and health club that offers massages and a sauna. See the Rideau Canal from your window and reach downtown shops and the ByWard Market in minutes on foot.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre
- Address: 101 Lyon St, Ottawa, ON, K1R 5T9
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best for: Comfort and sophistication with downtown location
Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre has a prime location downtown on Lyon Street, close to shopping malls, cathedrals, and parks if you want to explore on foot. This eco-friendly hotel features its own restaurant and bar with guest rooms and beds that are highly rated and known for enhanced comfort. Swim in the saltwater indoor pool, enjoy the sauna and exercise room, and take advantage of your proximity to Ottawa’s best attractions and dining spots when you stay.
Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market
- Address: 325 Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON, K1N 7G1
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best for: Luxurious stays with galleries, museums, and markets nearby
Modern and stylish with the benefit of being located just steps away from the famous ByWard Market, the Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market is the hotel of choice if you plan on walking the city during your trip. Dive into a soft bed and enjoy living areas, rainfall showers, walk-in closets, and private patios with suites that overlook the Gatineau Hills. Dinner can be as simple as it is delicious at the hip restaurant and bar onsite.
Courtyard by Marriott Ottawa East
- Address: 200 Coventry Rd, Ottawa, ON, K1K 4S3
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best for: Seclusion and upscale amenities at affordable rates
Located outside the bustling downtown district, Courtyard by Marriott Ottawa East offers more peace and quiet with its less-busy location. While rates are more affordable than staying downtown, you won’t find it short on amenities, which include a heated indoor pool, restaurant, bar, and hot tub. Expect a clean, comfortable guest room or suite with great views of the Ottawa skyline.
Where to Eat in Ottawa
While you might be thinking about favorites like poutine and BeaverTails when you think about food in Ottawa, this city has an eclectic and vibrant culinary scene with dishes and cuisines hailing from all around the world. Restaurants here are known for fresh, local ingredients, thanks to the 1,000+ farms surrounding the city. These are the best restaurants in Ottawa!
e18hteen
- Address: 18 York St, Ottawa, ON, K1N 5T5
- Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
- Reservations: Suggested
- Type of Cuisine: Canadian
Housed in an 18th-century building, e18hteen is Ottawa’s premier destination for fine dining and contemporary menus created by a talented chef. Seasonal menus reflect the local farms’ availability with farm-to-fork experiences highlighted by innovative sauces, sides, and desserts. An extensive wine and cocktail menu is available, and guests can choose to dine from the chef’s tasting menu for a truly inspired culinary experience.
Tosca Ristorante Ottawa
- Address: 144 O'Connor Street, Ottawa, ON, K2P 2G7
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Reservations: Suggested
- Type of Cuisine: Italian
For an Italian meal that leaves nothing to be desired, Tosca Ristorante in downtown Ottawa is the perfect selection. Traditional and unique dishes featuring Mediterranean flavors highlight the weekly lunch and dinner menus, which include choices like burrata salad, seafood pasta loaded with scallops, mussels, and clams, and snails prepared with a flavorful garlic butter. Try the tiramisu for dessert and enjoy the relaxed-yet-upscale atmosphere at Tosca.
Perch
- Address: 300 Preston St, Ottawa, ON, K1R 7R6
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Reservations: Required
- Type of Cuisine: Canadian
Leave your meal up to the chef at Perch, a sophisticated take on a blind date with five and nine-course tasting menus offered by the chef each night. The blind menu lets you relinquish control of your order and enjoy sumptuous contemporary Canadian creations inspired by the chef’s intent. The kitchen is open to the dining room, and part of the experience is identifying the aromas and sights of your courses being freshly prepared. Opt for a wine or cocktail pairing to complete the experience.
Luxe Bistro
- Address: 47 York Street, Ottawa, ON, K1N 5T2
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Reservations: Suggested
- Type of Cuisine: Steak, Seafood
Enjoy lunch, dinner, or the famous weekend brunch at Luxe Bistro on York Street. Located in the historic market district, this bistro is cozy and offers everything from burgers to steak and lobster. Crisp salads, inspired appetizers, and an impressive wine list make it a popular place to eat, while the extensive weekend brunch menu with cocktails is a favorite event for locals and tourists alike.
Wilfrid’s Restaurant at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier
- Address: 1 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON, K1N 8S7
- Diamond-designation: Not Diamond-designated
- Reservations: Suggested
- Type of Cuisine: International
One of the more affordable places to enjoy a world-class meal in Ottawa, Wilfrid's Restaurant is located in the stately Fairmont Chateau Laurier hotel downtown on the banks of the Rideau Canal. Come in for a light lunch, afternoon tea, or drink. The menu features charcuterie boards with local ingredients, salads, sandwiches, and soups to satisfy every palate. The atmosphere is historical with modern touches, like panoramic windows and lush, tropical plants inside.
Ottawa Photo Spots
Whether you’re out to capture the vibrancy of the city, natural shots that highlight Ottawa’s green spaces, or architectural photos that showcase your technical ability, you’ll find that Ottawa has abundant opportunities to grab picture-perfect photos to encapsulate the atmosphere of Canada’s capital.
1. Parliament Hill
Stunning Neo-Gothic buildings with the Ottawa River as a backdrop make this one of the most iconic areas of Ottawa to photograph. Arrive in time for daily 10:00 a.m. Changing of the Guard ceremonies, or come in winter for twinkling light displays that enrich the castle-like feel of the buildings on the hill.
2. National Gallery of Canada exterior
As architecturally artful as the masterpieces contained inside, this geometric-inspired glass exterior and the famous spider sculpture are musts for any photographer or ambitious Instagrammer in Ottawa.
3. Gatineau Park
Nature photographers will find endless inspiration here, with beautiful arches, waterfalls, scenic trails, and the Carbide Willson Ruins for a unique photo opportunity of urban decay as an old lab is taken over by the natural world.
4. Ottawa Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica
Arched, vaulted ceilings, splashes of color, and long-spanning history with sections done in Neoclassical and the imposing Gothic Revival style make this cathedral an incredible photography subject.
5. Prince of Wales Falls
Affectionately known as Hog’s Back Falls, these artificial waterfalls on the Rideau River where the canal splits off are gorgeous to capture in pictures year-round, but best in spring and fall.
Day Trips from Ottawa
With so much to see and do right in the heart of the city, don’t neglect to venture further out to explore even more around Ottawa! Some of the best day trips from Ottawa take under two hours to reach by bus or car and can broaden your experience with wine and cider tours, visits to mountain villages, and thrilling kayaking adventures nearby.
1. Take a Wine and Cider Tour in the Pontiac Region
- Distance: 1-2 hours from Ottawa
Lovers of wine and cider shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit Canada’s most productive wine region in Pontiac. The Pontiac region is bucolic and pastoral, featuring hills teeming with grapevines and orchards where local wines and ciders are developed and aged to perfection. Choose a Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour: Day Trip From Ottawa & Gatineau to travel Route 148, tasting wine, cider, and food at Little Red Wagon Winery, an old dance hall turned cider house, and Vignoble les Collines before returning to Ottawa in time for dinner.
2. Go Kayaking at Grandmaitre Ecological Reserve
- Distance: About 30 minutes from Ottawa
Looking for a family adventure while visiting Ottawa? Book a Ecological Reserve Tour that takes you on a relaxing paddle tour to enjoy nature and wildlife! This peaceful and protected area makes it easy to navigate a kayak and shelters creatures such as turtles, beavers, river otters and herons. An experienced guide will take you to the many beautiful, hidden inlets of Petrie Island Park on a two hour tour.
3. Hike or Ski on Majestic Mont Tremblant
- Distance: About 1 hour and 45 minutes from Ottawa
If driving up to the summit of Mont Morissette doesn’t quite fulfill your need for adventure, lace up your hiking or ski boots and head on a day trip to Mont Tremblant. You’ll be able to explore what has become the most popular winter destination during the colder months and remains a top hiking spot during the spring and summer. Stopping at attractions like the Sentier des Cimes observation tower, the Tremblant Resort Villages, and venturing up the mountain itself, you can take a few hours after the guided portion of the trip to explore at your own pace, hike trails or ski.
Visiting Ottawa on a Budget
Visiting Ottawa doesn’t have to mean throwing your travel budget to the wind. You can make your trip more affordable by keeping these tried-and-true budget travel tips in mind when you visit.
- Skip the downtown hotels. While they’re among the best in the city, hotels downtown cost more because of their prime location. Choose hotels further from the city center to save money on your room.
- Plan lots of free activities. Guided tours are the best way to experience a new city, but costs can rack up, so make plans to do some free activities, too. Downloading maps and following free, self-guided tours through places like Parliament Hill and museums is a cost-effective way to see Ottawa.
- Take advantage of your AAA membership. Score savings in Ottawa with vehicle discounts, affordable tickets, and special rates on hotels just by being a AAA member.
- Consider using public transit. The OC Transpo bus and tram system can be a cheaper way to get around if you don’t want to rent a car or walk everywhere (especially if you’re not staying downtown).
- Book a room with a kitchenette. The ByWard Market is a great place to buy low-cost produce and food, but this is most useful if you book a hotel with a kitchenette where you can actually prepare some meals at “home.”
- Spend time outdoors. Hanging out at Gatineau Park, hiking and biking Greenbelt trails, and visiting places like the Rideau Canal are all free and get you out enjoying the beautiful outdoor areas in Ottawa—a win-win scenario!
Plan Your Ottawa Vacation with AAA
Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream Ottawa trip on Trip Canvas, contact one of AAA’s Travel Agents today to start making your dream a reality, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or à la carte options.