Ottawa, Canada’s capital, is a small, easy-going city with heaps of history, culture and green space. Explore Parliament Hill, wander the ByWard Market, cruise along the Rideau Canal or visit the city’s excellent museums and galleries. Come winter, the canal famously turns into one of the world’s longest skating rinks.
Downtown & Parliament Hill is the ideal spot for first-time visitors to Ottawa. Tour the neo-Gothic Parliament buildings, stroll pedestrianised Sparks Street, visit the National Arts Centre and follow the Rideau Canal towards the locks and Major’s Hill Park. Just east, ByWard Market is a more lively choice, centred on one of Canada’s oldest public markets. Browse food and craft stalls, duck into independent shops and galleries, then stay for dinner, cocktails or live music. The National Gallery of Canada, Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Ottawa Art Gallery are also close by, while the Rideau Canal and Major’s Hill Park are an easy walk away.
Ideal for: Sightseeing, architecture, history, museums, city breaks
Downtown & Parliament Hill is the natural choice for history and culture lovers. The grand Gothic Revival buildings are Ottawa’s most recognisable sight, plus you'll find the Peace Tower and sweeping views across the Ottawa River. The surrounding area is easy to explore on foot, with the Rideau Canal, Major’s Hill Park, National Arts Centre and ByWard Market all close by. In summer, catch the Changing of the Guard, while winter brings skating on the frozen Rideau Canal. It’s also a particularly convenient base for visitors keen to pack in Ottawa’s museums, galleries and historic sights. There’s a good choice of upmarket and luxury hotels nearby, including several historic properties.
Did you know? Parliament Hill’s Peace Tower houses the Memorial Chamber, a memorial to Canadians who died in military service. The tower’s clock is also modelled on London’s Big Ben.
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Ideal for: Foodies, nightlife, shopping, city breaks
ByWard Market is a great pick for foodies and nightlife lovers who want to be in the middle of the action. Ottawa’s historic market district is packed with food stalls, independent shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, with plenty of options for browsing by day and drinks and live music after dark. It’s also within easy walking distance of Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Rideau Canal. The area has a lively, urban feel and a good mix of boutique, upscale and mid-range hotels, making it a handy base for exploring central Ottawa.
Did you know? ByWard Market dates back to 1826, making it one of Canada’s oldest and best-known public markets. It was established by Lieutenant-Colonel John By, the engineer behind the Rideau Canal.
