Ottawa

Canal skating, grand parliament, national museums and two-nation flavour

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The capital of Canada pairs stately architecture with an easy, outdoorsy feel: the Gothic parliament above the river, world-class national museums, and the Rideau Canal that becomes the largest skating rink in the world each winter. French-speaking Gatineau sits just across the water. Our local picks run from the ByWard Market to canal-side paths. Filter by category and budget below to plan your visit.

Ottawa at a glance

Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: May to October, or February for the canal skating
Highlights: Parliament Hill, the national museums and the Rideau Canal
Where to stay: downtown near Parliament and the ByWard Market
Local picks: a growing set of hand-chosen tips
Getting around: a walkable centre plus buses and the O-Train

Where to stay in Ottawa

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The Glebe (Lansdowne)

Beandigen Cafe

Why it matters: owned by Anishinaabe mother-daughter duo Paula and Jayde Naponse of Atikameksheng Anishinawbek First Nation, this Lansdowne cafe is a community hub for Indigenous people and their supporters. Alongside the coffee bar you’ll find clothing, art and goods from Indigenous makers, plus regular beading workshops. Order a coffee, browse the shelves and pick up a gift that actually supports the artist who made it. Closed Monday and Tuesday; weekends open at 9am.

★ 4.6

ByWard Market

Chez Lucien

A cosy local haunt pouring good beer and grilling one of the citys best burgers.

★ 4.6

ByWard Market

La Bottega Nicastro

A beloved Italian deli in the ByWard Market, famous for its sandwiches.

★ 4.7

ByWard Market

Restaurant e18hteen

Upscale Canadian dining in an elegant heritage stone building.

★ 4.5

$$$

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Ottawa travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Ottawa?

Two to three days covers Parliament Hill, the main museums and the canal, with time to cross into Gatineau or visit Gatineau Park.

Where is the best area to stay in Ottawa?

Downtown near Parliament and the ByWard Market keeps the sights, restaurants and nightlife within walking distance.

What are the best things to do in Ottawa?

Browse the local picks above, from Parliament Hill and the Canadian Museum of History to the ByWard Market and skating or strolling the Rideau Canal.

What is the best time to visit Ottawa?

Late spring to autumn brings warm, green days and festivals; February is magical if cold, when the canal opens for skating.