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Ottawa

Canada, North America

Ottawa, Canada's capital, enchants visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Home to iconic landmarks like Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Rideau Canal, which transforms into the world's largest skating rink in winter, Ottawa offers year-round attractions. The city's festivals, such as Winterlude and Canada Day celebrations, highlight its cultural flair, while its diverse neighborhoods provide unique dining and shopping experiences.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Ottawa Macdonald Cartier

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

8 Best Things to Do in Ottawa

1. Visit Parliament Hill

Tour Canada's iconic government buildings and stunning architecture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

2. Explore the Rideau Canal

Skate on the world's largest skating rink in winter.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

3. Visit the Canadian Museum of History

Discover Canada's rich history and culture through engaging exhibits.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

4. Stroll through ByWard Market

Experience local shops, eateries, and vibrant nightlife.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Visit the National Gallery of Canada

Admire stunning art collections and architecture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

6. Experience the Canadian Tulip Festival

Witness thousands of tulips in bloom each spring.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

7. Tour the Royal Canadian Mint

Learn about coin production and Canadian currency.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

1 hr

8. Relax at Major's Hill Park

Enjoy beautiful views and greenery in the heart of Ottawa.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~15-20%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

12 (#1 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Canadian Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Poutine

V

Fries topped with cheese curds and gravy (National dish)

Tourtière

Savory meat pie from Quebec

Montreal-style Bagels

VE

Chewy, sesame-seeded bagels from Montreal

Butter Tarts

V

Sweet pastry filled with butter and sugar

Nanaimo Bars

V

Layered dessert bar with chocolate and custard

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)