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Ottawa

Canada

Pace: balanced Historic Cultural Scenic Clean
Ideal trip length
3 - 7 days
Busiest
Jun-Aug
Ottawa
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
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Where to stay

Hotels in Ottawa

Book direct on our own Ottawa hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

At a glance

Climate
Continental
Languages
English and French
Local currency
CAD (CAD)
Local time
(GMT-4)
Ideal trip length
3–7 days
Cost level
3 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
Downtown
Tap water
Generally described as safe to drink
Tipping
15-20% customary

What this place is for

History

95 · Outstanding

Culture

90 · Outstanding

Food

90 · Outstanding

Family 85 · Very good

Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.

Food to try

Poutine BeaverTails Maple Syrup products Nanaimo Bars

When to visit Ottawa

How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.

Best months: July Busiest: Jun-Aug
  1. Jan
    40

    Very cold, snowy

  2. Feb
    50

    Cold, snowy, festivals

  3. Mar
    45

    Chilly, melting snow

  4. Apr
    60

    Cool, rainy, budding

  5. May
    80

    Mild, blooming, pleasant

  6. Jun
    85

    Warm, sunny, vibrant

  7. Jul
    90

    Hot, sunny, festivals

  8. Aug
    88

    Warm, pleasant, busy

  9. Sept
    85

    Cool, crisp, fall colors

  10. Oct
    75

    Cool, vibrant foliage

  11. Nov
    55

    Cold, grey, early snow

  12. Dec
    65

    Cold, snowy, festive

Things to do in Ottawa

7 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.

Best in the morning

3 places

Explore Parliament Hill

Downtown 1.5 hrs

Discover Canada's iconic legislative buildings and the Peace Tower.

Indoors Good for children

Explore the Canadian Museum of History

Gatineau 3 hrs

Journey through Canada's rich past and diverse cultures.

Indoors Good for children

Cycle or Hike Gatineau Park

Gatineau 4 hrs

Enjoy scenic trails and beautiful landscapes just minutes from the city.

Outdoors Good for children

Best in the afternoon

2 places

Skate the Rideau Canal Skateway

Downtown 2 hrs

Glide along the world's largest naturally frozen skating rink (winter only).

Outdoors Good for children

Visit the National Gallery of Canada

Downtown 2.5 hrs

Admire extensive collections of Canadian and international art.

Indoors Good for children

Any time of day

2 places

Wander ByWard Market

ByWard Market 3 hrs

Experience Ottawa's historic market with food stalls, boutiques, and nightlife.

Outdoors Good for children

White Water Rafting on Ottawa River

Ottawa Valley 6 hrs

Experience thrilling rapids and scenic beauty on a guided rafting trip.

Outdoors

Ottawa itineraries

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Culture and history

3 Days in Ottawa — Culture & History

Uncover the rich tapestry of Canada's capital, from historic parliamentary halls to world-class museums.

This 3-day itinerary is designed for history buffs and culture enthusiasts eager to delve into Ottawa's profound heritage. Explore iconic landmarks, national museums, and hidden historical gems, offering a deep dive into Canadian identity and governance. Perfect for those who appreciate immersive learning and architectural beauty.

3 Days 12 Stops
See the full plan
Things to book

Tours and activities in Ottawa

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Practical ratings

Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.

Eating & Culinary

Poutine 95 · Outstanding
BeaverTails 87 · Outstanding
Maple Syrup Products 78 · Very good
Nanaimo Bars 70 · Good

Signature Experiences

Explore Parliament Hill 95 · Outstanding
Skate The Rideau Canal Skateway 91 · Outstanding
Wander ByWard Market 87 · Outstanding
Visit The National Gallery Of Canada 83 · Very good
Explore The Canadian Museum Of History 78 · Very good
Cycle Or Hike Gatineau Park 74 · Good
White Water Rafting On Ottawa River 70 · Good

Best Suitable For

Families 95 · Outstanding
Couples 89 · Outstanding
Friends 83 · Very good
History 76 · Very good
Culture 70 · Good

Planning & Tips

Dress in layers, especially during spring and fall, as weather can change quickly. 95 · Outstanding
Consider purchasing an Ottawa Pass for discounted entry to multiple attractions. 83 · Very good
Explore Gatineau, Quebec, just across the river, for a different cultural experience. 70 · Good

Ratings and recommendations are curated from local travel data.

Near Ottawa

Straight-line distance from the centre of Ottawa.

Getaways from Ottawa

Places people from Ottawa travel to, from our own travel research.

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