Ottawa, in southeastern Ontario on the border with Quebec, is Canada’s capital — and while it may be quieter than Toronto or Montreal, it is a green, walkable and surprisingly rewarding city. Grand government buildings, world-class national museums and a famous canal make it well worth a stop. Here is what to see.
Parliament Hill
The heart of the capital, Parliament Hill overlooks the Ottawa River with its dramatic Gothic Revival government buildings and the iconic Peace Tower. In summer there is the ceremonial Changing of the Guard; year-round, the Hill is the symbolic centre of Canadian democracy.
The Rideau Canal
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal winds through the city and is Ottawa’s pride and joy. In summer it is for boating and strolling; in winter, a nearly 8-km stretch freezes into the Rideau Canal Skateway — one of the world’s largest natural ice rinks, where locals literally skate to work.
Museums and Culture
Ottawa is Canada’s museum capital. The National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History (just across the river in Gatineau), the Canadian War Museum and the Canada Science and Technology Museum are all first-rate, holding the nation’s greatest collections of art, history and science.
ByWard Market and City Life
The lively ByWard Market district is the place to eat, drink and browse — a mix of farmers’ stalls, restaurants, bars and boutiques. Don’t leave without trying a BeaverTail, the fried-dough pastry that was invented here.
Festivals and Seasons
Ottawa throws itself into the seasons. Winterlude celebrates the cold each February with ice sculptures and skating, while the Canadian Tulip Festival paints the city with millions of blooms every May — a gift that dates back to the Second World War.
FAQ
Is Ottawa worth visiting?
Yes — for Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and Canada’s finest national museums, all in a compact, green and easily walkable capital.
When is the best time to visit?
Late spring for the Tulip Festival and mild weather, summer for festivals, or February for skating on the canal during Winterlude.
What is the nearest airport?
Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International (YOW), about 15 minutes from downtown.
