Looking for the best hotels and things to do in Ottawa? We’ve got you covered!
Did you know that Serge—the main photographer and video editor at Discovering Destinations—is actually from Ottawa? That’s right! While we met and have been living in Montreal for over 15 years, Serge’s family roots bring us back to the capital often. Each visit gives us another chance to rediscover the city we love.
On our most recent trip at the end of summer, we stayed at a hotel instead of with family. It turned out to be the perfect excuse to enjoy not just the stay, but also to revisit parts of downtown Ottawa we hadn’t explored in a while.
So, we’ve put together our favorite local tips: where to stay, what to see, and the best places to eat. Whether you’re planning just one day in Ottawa or extending your trip overnight, this guide will help you experience the city like a local.
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A Little Ottawa History – The Capital of Canada
Ottawa isn’t just Canada’s capital—it’s also a city with deep roots and plenty of stories to tell. From its early days as a trading post along the Ottawa River to becoming the political heart of the country, Ottawa has always balanced history with a lively modern charm.
Beyond Parliament Hill, Ottawa offers countless things to do. You can explore outdoor adventures along the Rideau Canal, step inside world-class museums, or spend an evening enjoying fine restaurants and fun pubs. And of course, no visit is complete without a BeaverTail at the ByWard Market.
💡 Did you know? Ottawa was chosen as Canada’s capital by Queen Victoria in 1857 because it was strategically located between English-speaking Toronto and French-speaking Montreal—and, at the time, far enough from the U.S. border to be secure.
So, let’s dive into the highlights of Ottawa, the capital of Canada!
How to Get to Ottawa
First things first—let’s look at the best ways to get to Ottawa.
As we mentioned above, Ottawa is strategically located between English-speaking Toronto and French-speaking Montreal. That means you can easily add a visit to Ottawa whether you’re coming from Toronto or Montreal.
👉 From Toronto, we recommend staying at least one night, since the drive alone takes about 4h40min.
👉 From Montreal, Ottawa makes a perfect day trip (about 2h12min by car)—or, if you’d like to see more, stay overnight and enjoy a full local experience.
Here are the main options:
By Car – Montreal, Toronto & Beyond
We usually travel by car from Montreal to Ottawa when visiting Serge’s family who live just outside the city center. Renting a car is also a great choice if you’d like to explore Ottawa’s surroundings.
- Montreal to Ottawa by Car: Around 2h12min. Take Highway 40 for the fastest route, or Highway 20 for a more scenic drive.
- Toronto to Ottawa by Car: About 4h40min on the direct route. If you have extra time, turn it into a road trip with stops in Cobourg, Prince Edward County (famous Sandbanks beaches), and Kingston.
💡 Want us to design this road trip for you? Drop us a note on our Contact page—we’d be happy to create a custom itinerary!
Ottawa by Car – Parking Tips
One of the main reasons people usually prefers to take Bus or any other transportation to big cities is the lack of parking. The second reason it’s the price of the Hotels parking, specially the biggest chains as Sharaton and others.
Ottawa is not different. Even though is considered a smaller city than Toronto and Montreal, it’s still difficult to find street parking options in Ottawa specially in high seasons as Sumertime.
However the great news is that Ottawa offers great parking deals in the heart of downtown, such as:
- Byward Market Garage Parking- Precise ParkLink, located at 70 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON K1N 9B8. This is one of Serge’s favorite to park for few hours when we go to Ottawa downtown
- Dalhousie Garage Parking- Precise ParkLink – located at 141 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON K1N 5P9, this city parking is convinient located next to the hotel ByWard Blue Inn where we stayed in our last visit to Ottawa and we paid $19cad per day (September 2025).
- Short stop? Use Lot 272 Queen Street or World Exchange Plaza Garage.
- For long afternoons or evenings? Ottawa City Hall Garage offers a smart blend of convenience and price.
Train with VIA Rail to Ottawa
I (Eli) once took the train from Toronto to Ottawa—it was a smooth, calm ride, though it takes about 5 hours with stops. Serge’s family also used VIA Rail from Montreal’s Bonaventure Station and really enjoyed it.
👉 Pro tip: Check schedules and compare prices using Busbud, our favorite tool for finding the best deals on VIA Rail tickets.
Bus to Ottawa
Buses are another reliable option. From both Toronto and Montreal, you’ll find frequent departures.
👉 We recommend checking Busbud for the best bus prices and schedules—it’s our go-to for affordable ground travel.
💡 Personal Note: When Serge and I first met in 2009, he lived in Ottawa while I was in Montreal. Every two weeks, I took the bus to see him—and sometimes he came to Montreal the same way. Trust us, the bus trip is calm and easy!
Ottawa By Airplane
Yes, you can fly to Ottawa from Toronto or Montreal, but unless you already have connecting flights, we usually don’t recommend it. Between check-in, security, and waiting times, flying often takes longer than driving or taking the train.
👉 If flying works better for your plans, compare options on Skyscanner (our recommendation for flights worldwide).
Tours from Montreal to Ottawa
If you prefer not to worry about planning, consider joining a guided day trip. From Montreal, there are great options on GetYourGuide where licensed guides show you the highlights of Ottawa in one day.
👉 Here’s one we recommend: Private Full-Day Tour from Montreal to Ottawa
Best Hotels in Ottawa
When it comes to where to stay, Ottawa has plenty of options for every style and budget.
Although usually we stay with our family, sometimes we get a couple of days at Hotels near Ottawa downtown in order to enjoy later city life or seasonal events as the Tulip Festival.
On our last trip to Ottawa by September 2025, we stayed at the ByWard Blue Inn, and it really surprised us! The location was perfect for walking around downtown, and the cozy atmosphere made us feel right at home.
⭐ Compare and get the best hotel deals in Ottawa
When we travel, we usually compare prices on Hotels.com and Booking.com to make sure we’re getting the best deals. Both platforms often have different promos, cancellation policies, or room options, so it’s worth checking both before booking.
👉 To make things easier, we’ve added direct links to Hotels.com plus a Booking widget for each hotel below — so you can quickly see what works best for your trip.
ByWard Blue Inn – Our Last Stay
⭐ 9.4 (Hotels) – 4.5 (Google) – September 2025
The ByWard Blue Inn is right in the heart of ByWard Market, making it super convenient to explore. We loved the friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and the complimentary breakfast that gave us energy to start the day.
It’s budget-friendly without losing charm—a solid choice if you want comfort and location without breaking the bank.
We also appreciated the small touches: our room had a balcony where we could enjoy a drink at night, away from the busy streets. The hotel feels safe, with a 24-hour lobby, and despite its central location, it was quiet at night.
👉 Parking tip: the hotel offers limited spots for $15/day, but just next door is city parking (Dalhousie Garage Parking) at $19/day (September 2025), which is very convenient.
Compare and get the best hotel deals in Ottawa with our Booking.com widget below:
Best Hotels in Ottawa – More Great Options Downtown
Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy Arlo Apartments Downtown
⭐ 9.0 (Hotels) – 4.5 (Google) – September 2025
Another great option for budget-conscious travellers is Sonder by Marriott, known for its clean and modern studio apartments. These units give you more of a “home away from home” feel, with kitchenettes and stylish interiors—perfect if you prefer cooking your own meals or staying a little longer.
Located in the heart of downtown, it’s an ideal balance between affordability and comfort.
Compare and get the best hotel deals in Ottawa with our Booking.com widget below:
Courtyard by Marriott Ottawa – Downtown
⭐ 9.0 (Hotels) – 4.2 (Google) – September 2025
The Courtyard by Marriott Ottawa Downtown is another solid downtown choice, especially if location is at the top of your list. Situated in the ByWard Market area, it puts you just steps away from restaurants, pubs, and shops — perfect if you want to enjoy Ottawa’s nightlife without needing a car.
Rooms are modern and comfortable, and the hotel offers reliable amenities like a fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site dining. It’s a great balance between convenience and comfort, making it a smart option for travelers who want to stay in the heart of the action.
Compare and get the best hotel deals in Ottawa with our Booking.com widget below:
Le Germain Hotel Ottawa – Downtown
⭐ 9.4 (Hotels) – 4.6 (Google) – September 2025
Le Germain Hotel Ottawa it’s a boutique-style hotel and it’s one of our dream stays in Ottawa. It combines modern design, cozy rooms, and excellent service. With a strong reputation for comfort and luxury, it’s the kind of place where we could picture ourselves working remotely for a whole month.
For now, it’s on our “dream list”—but we believe dreams happen when you take action 😉.
Compare and get the best hotel deals in Ottawa with our Booking.com widget below:
Fairmont Chateau Laurier Gold Experience – Ottawa Downtown
⭐ 9.2 (Hotels) – 4.4 (Google) – September 2025
The Fairmont Château Laurier is Ottawa’s most iconic hotel. Opened in 1912, this castle-like landmark sits right next to the Rideau Canal and just steps from Parliament Hill.
Staying here is like living inside Canadian history—world leaders, celebrities, and royals have all checked in. While it’s on the pricier side, it’s definitely a bucket-list experience for those wanting luxury with a story.
Compare and get the best hotel deals in Ottawa with our Booking.com widget below:
Four Points by Sheraton Gatineau – Ottawa
⭐ 8.6 (Hotels) – 4.1 (Google) – September 2025
Located just across the river in Gatineau, Four Points by Sheraton Gatineau – Ottawa l is a great option if you’re looking for more affordable rates and cheaper parking. We’ve stayed here a couple of times and we loved the views of Ottawa and Parliament Hill.
It’s about a 32-minute walk into downtown Ottawa, but honestly, that’s part of the fun. Crossing the Portage Bridge gives you breathtaking views, especially in summer at sunset.
You’re also right next to the Canadian Museum of History, a perfect family activity—especially during the winter months. And if walking isn’t your thing, don’t worry: you can always take advantage of Ottawa’s great parking options that we mentioned earlier.
Compare and get the best hotel deals in Ottawa with our Booking.com widget below:
Top Things to Do in Ottawa
Ottawa is one of those cities where history, culture, and nature are all within walking distance. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning to stay overnight, here are some of the must-see highlights.
Parliament Hill – Ottawa
No visit to Ottawa is complete without seeing Parliament Hill. The neo-Gothic architecture is stunning, and the views over the Ottawa River are always worth it.
If you have time, you can also join one of the free guided tours inside Parliament. These include visits to spaces like the House of Commons or the Senate, depending on availability. Tickets are FREE, but you need to book them in advance.
👉 Reserve your spot directly on the official Parliament of Canada website: https://visit.parl.ca
Sparks Street – Ottawa
Just a short walk from Parliament Hill, Sparks Street is a historic pedestrian mall and one of Ottawa’s best spots to stroll, shop, and soak in some local culture.
- Public Art: Don’t miss the four-metre-tall bronze sculpture by the late Bruce Garner, along with several other modern and whimsical installations scattered along the street.
- Shopping & Boutiques: Sparks Street is lined with small shops and seasonal kiosks, perfect for browsing souvenirs or local crafts.
- Dining & Pubs: One of the most famous stops here is D’Arcy McGee’s Pub, a cozy Irish pub known for hearty meals, live music, and a warm atmosphere.
- Events & Festivals: The street often hosts festivals like RibFest, poutine festivals, and cultural celebrations, adding to its lively vibe.
- Historic Charm: With heritage buildings and its car-free setup, Sparks Street has a laid-back atmosphere that contrasts nicely with busy downtown Ottawa.
👉 Whether you come for the art, the events, or just a pint at the pub, Sparks Street is one of those places where you feel Ottawa’s local spirit.
ByWard Market – Ottawa
The ByWard Market is one of Ottawa’s liveliest neighbourhoods. By day, you’ll find local shops, artisans, and cafés; by night, it transforms into a hub filled with restaurants, pubs, and patios. And yes — this is the spot where you have to try a classic Canadian BeaverTail.
👉 Don’t forget to check our Where to Eat section in this blog for our favorite restaurants and pubs around the Market.
🌟 Extra Tips: Hidden Gems in ByWard Market – Ottawa
If you want to explore beyond the obvious, here are a few tucked-away spots we love:
- Jeanne d’Arc Court – A charming hidden courtyard with a European feel, perfect for photos.
- Tin House Courtyard – A quirky art installation made of tin panels, tucked just off Sussex Drive.
- York Steps – A small but pretty stairway connecting Sussex Drive and Mackenzie Avenue, offering a unique view of the Market area.
Rideau Canal – Ottawa
The Rideau Canal is Ottawa’s most iconic landmark and truly a must-visit year-round.
- In summer, it’s perfect for a walk or bike ride, and you can even hop on one of the famous boat tours for gorgeous views of Ottawa from a different perspective.
- In winter, the canal transforms into the world’s largest outdoor skating rink, stretching 7.8 km through the city. Fun fact: that’s the size of about 90 Olympic hockey rinks!
When we visited in winter, we loved seeing people not just skating, but also stopping for hot chocolate, having little picnics on benches along the ice, and of course snapping fun photos. It’s such a unique Canadian experience — whether you’re on skates or just soaking up the atmosphere.
👉 Both seasons show the canal in a different light, and each one is unforgettable in its own way.
Museums Worth Visiting in Ottawa
If you love history, art, or simply need something to do on a rainy day or during Ottawa’s chilly winters, you’re in luck — some of Canada’s best museums are right here in the capital. From world-class national collections to unique local exhibits, there’s always something inspiring (and warm!) to explore indoors.
- National Gallery of Canada – Famous for its striking glass-and-granite design and the giant spider sculpture Maman outside. Inside, you’ll find Indigenous art, Canadian classics, and international masterpieces.
- Canadian Museum of History – Technically across the river in Gatineau, but worth the short walk or drive. It’s Canada’s most visited museum, and the Grand Hall with its totem poles is breathtaking. Plus, the view back toward Parliament Hill is postcard-perfect.
- Canadian Museum of Nature – A family favorite! The exhibits cover everything from dinosaurs to gems, and the castle-like building itself is an Ottawa landmark.
- Canadian War Museum – This is one of Ottawa’s most unique museums. Its modern design reflects themes of both conflict and hope, while the exhibits take you through Canada’s military history in a very human way. From artifacts to personal stories, it’s powerful and memorable — even if you don’t usually consider yourself a “museum person.”
- 👉 Personal note: We once had the chance to attend a dinner event here when Serge was working as a VW representative in Ottawa. It was such a fun experience, and we even got to explore parts of the museum after hours!
Ottawa by Season: Best Times to Visit
Although we love visiting Ottawa in the summertime — it’s easier to walk around and enjoy the city to the fullest — the best part is that Ottawa has something to do in every season. Here are a few highlights you can expect throughout the year:
- Winterlude Festival (February): Ice sculptures, skating on the Rideau Canal, and warming up with hot chocolate.
- Tulip Festival (May): A colorful celebration of Ottawa’s ties with the Netherlands, with millions of tulips blooming across the city.
- Summer Festivals (July & August): From Canada Day celebrations with live shows and fireworks at Parliament Hill to Ottawa Bluesfest, one of North America’s biggest music festivals, summer is full of energy.
- Fall Colors in Gatineau Park: Just a short drive from downtown, it’s the perfect place for hiking, leaf-peeping, and photography.
Our Suggested One-Day Itinerary
Want our complete map with all these stops plus a few hidden gems nearby the ByWard Blue Inn?
👉 [Get our Ottawa Day Itinerary here] and start exploring with our personal Google My Maps guide.
Suggested Guided Tours in Ottawa
Sometimes the best way to discover a city is through the eyes of a local guide. One of our favorite platforms to find tours is GetYourGuide. It’s basically a marketplace where local guides share their services — from walking tours to food tastings — so you can easily compare itineraries, prices, and read reviews before booking.
We’ve personally used GetYourGuide in places like Morocco, Colombia, and even Montreal, and it’s always been a positive experience. What we like most is the transparency: you can see exactly what’s included, read customer reviews, and most tours come with flexible cancellation policies (always double-check the details for each tour).
Here are some Ottawa tours we think are worth checking out:
🚶🏻♂️Walking & History Tours
Want to discover Ottawa with a local guide? Here are three walking tours we think are worth checking out. Pick the one that matches your interests — history, food, or something different.
Personally, we’re really curious about the Haunted Walking Tour… it’s on our list for the next trip!
🥘 Ottawa Food Tour We Recommend
Ottawa’s food scene is best explored with a local expert, and if there’s one tour we suggest, it’s the Tastes of the ByWard Market Food Tour.
This guided walk takes you through the historic ByWard Market while sampling Ottawa’s flavors — from Canadian classics to hidden local gems. It’s sightseeing and eating all rolled into one, and a fun way to experience the city’s culture through food.
👉 Check dates and availability below to see if it fits your trip:
⛴️ Traditional & Fun Boat Cruise Tours
Exploring Ottawa by water is always a good idea in the summer. You’ll find classic options like a peaceful Rideau Canal Cruise, fun choices such as the Ottawa Tiki Tour (yes, it’s a floating bar 🍹), and even the famous Amphibus Tour that goes from land to river in one ride.
To be honest, the Amphibus looks a little scary to me (Eli) — but it’s really popular, and plenty of travellers say it’s a must-try. If you’re more adventurous, this one might be perfect for you.
👉 Check the tours below and pick the experience that best fits your Ottawa trip.
🚲 Discover Ottawa on Two Wheels
One of the best ways to see Ottawa is by bike — the city has scenic cycling paths along the Rideau Canal and the Ottawa River, plus easy access to downtown landmarks. If you’d like to cover more ground without rushing, a guided bike tour is a fantastic choice.
We recommend the Ottawa Guided Sightseeing Bike Tour. In just 2 or 3.5 hours, you’ll pedal past Parliament Hill, ByWard Market, Rideau Canal, and hidden gems only locals point out. The pace is easy, and with a guide leading the way, you’ll learn fun stories while enjoying the ride.
👉 Check availability below and see Ottawa from a whole new perspective!
✨ Pro tip from us: Even if you only have a day in Ottawa, joining a guided tour helps you cover more ground and hear fascinating stories that make the city feel alive.
Best Places to Eat in Ottawa + Local Food Tips
One of the best parts about visiting Ottawa is exploring its food scene. Since Serge grew up here, every trip feels like a mix of rediscovering old favorites and trying out something new. Whether you’re after a quick snack or a full sit-down meal, Ottawa has plenty of flavours waiting for you.
Local Flavours & Favorites We Love
BeaverTails – You can’t visit Ottawa without trying this iconic Canadian pastry. Warm, crispy, and topped with everything from cinnamon sugar to chocolate — it’s the perfect sweet treat after a walk around ByWard Market.
Classic Poutine – Quebec may be famous for it, but Ottawa does a solid version too. Fries, cheese curds, and gravy — simple, filling, and comforting. You’ll find great poutines across the city, but for a tasty one right in the ByWard Market, stop at Lapointe Street Food. For something a bit more classic and old-school, try Elgin Street Diner, a 24/7 spot that’s been serving comfort food for decades. If you’re after a modern twist, head to Smoke’s Poutinerie, where the toppings range from traditional to adventurous.
Smoked Meat Sandwiches – A Montreal specialty that’s also found its way into Ottawa’s foodie scene. Many delis and pubs around ByWard Market serve their own versions — tender, smoky, and piled high on rye bread with mustard. For a hearty Southern-style twist, check out Fatboys Southern Smokehouse, where the smoked meat comes with a BBQ edge.
Maple Goodies – From maple syrup drizzled on pancakes to maple butter and taffy (when in season), Ottawa has plenty of spots to indulge in this Canadian classic. Check local markets and specialty shops for maple souvenirs you can bring home.
ByWard Market Restaurants
The ByWard Market isn’t just for shopping and nightlife — it’s one of Ottawa’s best places to eat. You’ll find everything from cozy cafés and pubs to international restaurants. It’s a great spot to spend an evening, hopping from a casual dinner to a fun local bar.
Ottawa Restaurants – Our Personal Picks
Every time we visit, we make a point to try something new—and over the years, we’re delighted to have discovered go-to spots that never disappoint.
- Sconewich – A must-visit at any hour. With many locations across the city, our favorite is just a 10-minute walk from Parliament Hill. Comfort food with a Canadian twist!
- The Brig Pub – Cozy vibes, friendly service, and a great pint paired with satisfying pub snacks.
- Ratatouille Bistro – Tucked away at 278 Dalhousie St, this charming family-run spot is perfect for a relaxed brunch.
- Fatboys Southern Smokehouse – Finger-licking barbecue with excellent flavour and hospitality.
- Level One Game Pub – Equal parts pub and board-game café, this spot pairs craft beers and comfort food with shelves of games to play with friends. A fun way to wind down after sightseeing in ByWard Market — especially perfect for a winter afternoon.
Travel Essentials for Ottawa
Packing for Ottawa really depends on when you’re visiting, but a few essentials always make the trip smoother. Since we often visit year-round to see family, here are some tried-and-true tips:
- Comfortable walking shoes 👟 – Ottawa is a very walkable city, especially around Parliament Hill and ByWard Market.
- Seasonal clothing 🧥👕 – Winters are cold (think layers, gloves, hats), while summers can be warm and humid. Spring and fall can be unpredictable, so bring a light jacket just in case.
- Reusable water bottle 💧 – Handy for long walks along the Rideau Canal or exploring museums.
- Camera or smartphone 📸 – Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the Tulip Festival all deserve more than one snapshot. For handy advice on getting the best shots, check out Serge’s guide: Travel Photography Made Easy – Photography Tips.
- Day bag or backpack 🎒 – Great for carrying snacks, souvenirs, and layers if the weather changes.
We’ve put together a full blog with all our best tips, from packing lists to must-have gear. Take a look here: Travel Essentials – Stay Prepared for Stress-Free Travel.
Bonus: Don’t forget to download our FREE Travel Essentials Checklist at the end to get organized fast and pack like a pro.
📲 Staying Connected – eSIM Canada
Skip the roaming headaches and stay online the easy way.
We use Airalo eSIMs to keep connected while traveling, whether it’s checking maps, booking tickets, or calling family from abroad. One of our favorite moments was using Airalo to call family during Canadian Thanksgiving — right from the Sahara Desert! Read more about how it works here: Discover Airalo eSIM – Stay Connected.
Ottawa Travel FAQ
Here are some of the most common questions travelers ask about visiting Ottawa — with our personal notes to help you plan:
Is one day enough to see Ottawa?
Yes — if you focus on the highlights, you can cover Ottawa in a day. Parliament Hill, ByWard Market, and the Rideau Canal are all walkable from downtown. If you have more time, an overnight stay lets you enjoy the city at a slower pace and explore more museums.
What language do they speak in Ottawa?
English is the main language spoken in Ottawa. However, since it’s so close to Quebec, many locals and hotel staff also speak French — especially in bigger hotels like the Sheraton or Le Germain. Don’t be surprised if you hear both languages everywhere you go!
What currency does Ottawa use, and how do you pay?
Ottawa, like the rest of Canada, uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). You can usually pay by credit card, debit card, or cash.
Most hotels, restaurants, and attractions accept credit cards without issue. But during our last visit, we noticed that some smaller shops and stalls in ByWard Market only accepted debit or cash. That’s something to keep in mind, especially if you plan on buying local treats or handmade crafts.
💡 Tip for international travellers: Instead of paying high bank fees on your home credit card, consider using a service like Wise. It lets you pay with a debit card in CAD at real exchange rates, usually cheaper than traditional banks. For foreign visitors, this can be a budget-friendly way to handle everyday expenses in Ottawa.
What’s the best time of year to visit Ottawa?
- Spring (May) – The Tulip Festival is one of the city’s most colorful events.
- Summer – Perfect for walking tours, biking, and boat rides.
- Fall – Gorgeous foliage in Gatineau Park just across the river.
- Winter (February) – Magical during Winterlude and skating on the Rideau Canal.
Do you need a car in Ottawa?
Not really. If you’re staying downtown, most attractions are walkable. You can use buses, Ubers, or even join a guided tour if you don’t want to deal with parking. That said, having a car is handy if you plan to explore nearby areas like Gatineau Park.
Where’s the best area to stay in Ottawa?
ByWard Market – Our top choice. It’s lively day and night, with restaurants, pubs, and shops just steps away. We stayed at the ByWard Blue Inn and loved being close to the action while still enjoying quiet nights.
Near Parliament Hill – Hotels like the Sheraton Ottawa Hotel are in a great central location. But keep in mind this area is busier on weekdays (government workers) and quieter at night and on weekends.
Across the river in Gatineau – The Four Points by Sheraton offers cheaper parking and fantastic views of Ottawa. It’s a longer walk, but we enjoyed crossing the bridge at sunset.
Is Ottawa safe at night?
es, Ottawa is generally safe, especially in tourist areas. Like any big city, you’ll see some homeless people in parts of downtown, particularly around bus stations and quieter streets at night. We recommend sticking to well-lit areas like ByWard Market in the evening — it feels lively and welcoming.
What is Ottawa famous for?
Ottawa is famous for being Canada’s capital city, but it’s also known for its events, festivals, and unique Canadian experiences.
- 🌷 Tulip Festival (May): Every spring, millions of tulips bloom across the city, a tradition that started as a gift from the Netherlands after World War II. The colorful displays make Ottawa one of the most beautiful places in Canada during May.
- 🎆 Canada Day (July 1st): Ottawa is the heart of Canada Day celebrations. Expect live concerts, cultural shows, and spectacular fireworks over Parliament Hill. It’s the biggest celebration of the year, drawing people from all over the country.
- 🎶 Ottawa Bluesfest (Summer): Despite the name, this music festival isn’t just about blues. It’s one of North America’s largest outdoor music festivals, featuring international stars and local talent across many genres.
- ❄️ Winterlude (February): Ottawa shines in winter with ice sculptures, skating on the Rideau Canal, and family-friendly activities that celebrate Canadian winter traditions.
Beyond festivals, Ottawa is also famous for its Parliament Buildings, ByWard Market, the Rideau Canal, and world-class museums.
Is Ottawa, Canada worth visiting?
Yes — absolutely! Even if you only have one day in Ottawa, it’s worth visiting Canada’s beautiful capital. The city blends history, culture, and outdoor experiences in a way that makes it stand out among Canadian destinations.
If you have more time, we recommend exploring not just downtown Ottawa but also some of the nearby streets and neighborhoods that give the city its charm:
- Bank Street – Known for its mix of unique shops and restaurants, plus local favorites like Kettlemans Bagel. It’s also home to TD Place, a hub for sports and events.
- Elgin Street – Often called “Sens Mile” during hockey season (thanks to the Ottawa Senators), this lively strip is full of pubs, patios, and restaurants. It’s especially popular at night and is close to landmarks like the National War Memorial and Confederation Park.
- Rideau Street – One of Ottawa’s busiest streets, connecting the ByWard Market with the Rideau Centre shopping mall. Always buzzing with shops, cafés, and people on the move, it’s a great place for an afternoon stroll.
👉 Whether you come for the big attractions like Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal or for the lively local streets, Ottawa offers plenty to enjoy — and yes, it’s definitely worth visiting.
Final Thoughts
For us, Ottawa will always be more than just Canada’s capital — it’s also home. With Serge’s family roots here, every visit feels like reconnecting with the city in new ways. Even though we’ve been living in Montreal for over 15 years, Ottawa keeps surprising us with its mix of history, festivals, outdoor adventures, and cozy food spots.
Whether you’re planning just one day in Ottawa or a longer stay, we truly believe it’s a city worth discovering. From walking around Parliament Hill to enjoying ByWard Market at night, there’s always something special waiting to be experienced.
If you’d like to make your trip even easier, we’ve created a personal one-day itinerary map starting from the ByWard Blue Inn, with all our favorite spots nearby. It’s a simple way to see Ottawa like we did.
👉 Coming Soon [Get our Ottawa Day Itinerary here] and start planning your own perfect day in Canada’s capital.
