Things To Do
in Ottawa
As the capital city of Canada, it stands on the south bank of the Ottawa River in the eastern portion of southern Ontario. Known for its picturesque Parliament Hill, with grand Victorian architecture and museums such as the National Gallery of Canada, the city reflects both the country's English and French heritage.
It also serves as a hub for culture and outdoor activities, with the Rideau Canal offering boating in the summer and becoming the world's largest skating rink in winter.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided tour of the iconic Parliament Hill, where you can learn about Canada’s political history. Don’t forget to snap a picture of the stunning architecture.
Head to ByWard Market for lunch at one of the charming cafés and explore the local shops. Try some famous BeaverTails for a unique Canadian treat.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at one of the market's many restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant nightlife of the area.
Rent a bike and ride along the beautiful Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stop at various parks and enjoy the scenic views.
Visit the National Gallery of Canada to admire an impressive collection of Canadian and European art. Make sure to check out the famous Maman sculpture.
Have a cozy dinner at a nearby restaurant featuring local cuisine. If you're up for it, enjoy a walk along the canal, especially beautiful at night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- High quality of life and safety.
- Rich cultural scene, including museums, art galleries, and festivals.
- Bilingual environment with both English and French spoken.
- Access to beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
- Strong economy with diverse job opportunities.
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other Canadian cities.
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation can be less efficient in some areas.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours.
Best Activities in Ottawa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Ottawa River Pathway, which offers stunning views of the river and downtown Ottawa.
Explore the beautiful trails and scenic viewpoints in Gatineau Park, just a short drive from downtown Ottawa.
Paddle along the historic Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and experience the city from a unique perspective.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ottawa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ottawa
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the Ottawa River and downtown Ottawa, with the iconic Parliament Buildings as a backdrop.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers picturesque views especially during the winter when it transforms into the world's largest skating rink.
Located behind the National Gallery of Canada, provides stunning views of Parliament Hill, the Ottawa River, and the Alexandra Bridge.
Food in Ottawa
Ottawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular Canadian pastry stretched into the shape of a beaver's tail, served with various toppings such as chocolate, cinnamon, or fruit. They can be found at the iconic BeaverTails stalls on the Rideau Canal Skateway and in the ByWard Market.
Must-Try!
A classic Canadian dish featuring crispy french fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy. Try it at places like Elgin Street Diner or Dunn’s Famous.
Made by pouring hot maple syrup onto fresh snow, which creates a sweet and chewy treat. Experience this Canadian delight at the Sugar Bush in the city or during winter festivals.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ottawa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of Canada's oldest and largest public markets, offering a wide array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and international street food stalls. Don't miss the BeaverTails stand for their famous pastries.
A pedestrian street turned market, featuring food vendors offering diverse options ranging from gourmet hot dogs to international cuisine. Perfect for a quick and casual dining experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ottawa, it's important to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It's also common to use titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Dr. when addressing others.
Ottawa is a diverse city, so it's important to show respect for different cultures, customs, and languages. Being open-minded and tolerant is highly valued.
Punctuality is highly regarded in Ottawa, so it's important to be on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings. Being late without a valid reason may be considered disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ottawa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ottawa
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ottawa, Canada, it is customary to tip 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as haircuts and taxi rides. Tipping is not mandatory, but it is considered good etiquette to show appreciation for good service.
In Ottawa, Canada, payment methods widely accepted include cash, debit/credit cards, and mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. Contactless payment is also common, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, with many establishments encouraging the use of electronic payment methods.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ottawa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Ottawa is in the spring when the city comes alive with blooming flowers and various festivals such as the Canadian Tulip Festival. Expect comfortable temperatures and the chance to witness the beauty of nature awakening after winter.
Summer is a popular time to visit Ottawa due to numerous outdoor activities, events, and festivals. Expect warm weather, bustling patios, and the opportunity to explore outdoor attractions such as parks, waterways, and bike paths.
In the fall, Ottawa's foliage turns into a spectacular display of vibrant colors, making it an ideal time for nature enthusiasts. Expect cooler temperatures and the chance to attend events like the Ottawa International Animation Festival and enjoy harvest-themed activities.
Winter in Ottawa offers a magical experience with outdoor skating, Winterlude festival, and stunning snowy landscapes. Expect cold temperatures but also the chance to enjoy winter sports and the beauty of a snowy cityscape.
Ottawa at Night
Hiking in Ottawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast park located just across the river from Ottawa, featuring a network of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, with beautiful views of the Ottawa Valley.
Situated in Montreal, it's a short drive from Ottawa and offers several scenic trails along with breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding areas.
A unique wetland area featuring boardwalk trails and scenic views of the bog ecosystem, with several hiking paths ideal for nature enthusiasts.
A long-distance hiking trail that stretches from Kingston to Ottawa, offering beautiful natural landscapes and a variety of terrains.
Located within the city, this area features a network of trails that are great for walking and enjoying views of the Rideau Canal.
A local park with gentle hiking trails, perfect for families and those looking to enjoy a leisurely walk in nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ottawa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ottawa by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Canada, located in Mississauga, Ontario, approximately 450 km southwest of Ottawa.
Located in Dorval, Quebec, about 150 km east of Ottawa, it is the second-largest airport in Canada.
The primary airport serving Ottawa, located about 10 km south of the city center.
Located in Buffalo, New York, approximately 550 km south of Ottawa, this airport serves as an alternative for international flights.
Situated in Syracuse, New York, around 340 km southwest of Ottawa, it is another regional option for international travelers.
Located in Plattsburgh, New York, approximately 260 km south of Ottawa, it offers various flights to tropical destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly European descent, this group represents the largest demographic in Ottawa.
This group includes individuals with origins from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Includes individuals of African descent from various regions.
Represents individuals with origins from China and other Chinese-speaking regions.
Includes individuals from a range of Arab countries.
This group includes First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples.
Represents individuals with origins from the Philippines.
Includes people from various countries in Latin America.
A diverse group including various ethnic backgrounds not specified in other categories.
The Soul of Ottawa
Discover the essence of Ottawa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Ottawa, with teams like the Ottawa Senators playing in the NHL and a strong community of amateur leagues.
Canadian football has a significant following in Ottawa, especially with the Ottawa Redblacks, who compete in the Canadian Football League (CFL).
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Ottawa, with a professional team, Atlético Ottawa, that competes in the Canadian Premier League (CPL).
Lacrosse is recognized as Canada's national summer sport, and Ottawa has a rich history of lacrosse with teams in various leagues.
Basketball is widely played in schools and community leagues, and interest has surged with the success of Canadian players in the NBA.
Rugby is a growing sport in Ottawa, with clubs that participate in regional competitions and programs aimed at youth development.
Running is immensely popular in Ottawa, with many organized events such as marathons, fun runs, and community races throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ottawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ottawa has numerous dining options for vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering dedicated plant-based menus. Places like Pure Kitchen and Café My House are great choices for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
Several eateries in Ottawa cater to gluten-free diets, providing specific menus or accommodating requests. Check out The Table Vegetarian Restaurant or The Joy of Gluten Free for delicious gluten-free options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ottawa with these cultural adventures.
