Why Go to Ottawa
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Ottawa may not be as big as Toronto or Montreal, but Canada's capital is lively, welcoming and full of things to see. Set in southeastern Ontario on the border with Quebec, it's small enough to explore on foot, family-friendly yet fun after dark, and while it gets chilly, its spirit is warm.
The heart of the city is Parliament Hill, with its Gothic Revival buildings overlooking the Ottawa River, and in summer you can watch the colorful Changing of the Guard. Ottawa is packed with excellent national museums, including the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History across the river in Gatineau and the Canadian War Museum. Browse the shops and food stalls of the ByWard Market, and try a BeaverTail pastry. The city loves to celebrate, with festivals all year, including Canada Day and the spring Canadian Tulip Festival.
In winter, Ottawa truly shines: skate along the Rideau Canal Skateway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's largest naturally frozen skating rinks, and warm up with hot chocolate. Ottawa pairs nicely with Montreal, about two hours away. I'll plan your stay and festival or winter visit.
BEST FOR
Museumgoers, families, history lovers and urban walkers
BEST MONTHS
May–October; February for winter festivals
EXPLORE
Parliament Hill anchors downtown; ByWard Market has dining and shops; Centretown offers restaurants; the Rideau Canal connects scenic green corridors.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Ottawa
North America › Ontario & Quebec › Canada › Ontario
National museums, canal scenery and a welcoming capital
Historical & Heritage
Canals
Politics
Museums
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Book parliamentary tours in advance and remember that Centre Block remains under rehabilitation.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Check current parliamentary tour locations and reserve ahead.
Parliament Hill
Admire Gothic Revival government buildings above the Ottawa River; parliamentary tours may take place at separate buildings during renovations.
Do not assume winter skating is open; consult official ice-condition notices.
Rideau Canal & Ottawa Locks
See the UNESCO-listed canal and historic lock staircase near Parliament Hill; the canal is popular for promenades and seasonal recreation.
Visit earlier for shopping and later for dining.
ByWard Market
Explore Ottawa’s longstanding market district with independent eateries, shops and street life.
Review current exhibitions and admission arrangements.
National Gallery of Canada
See Canadian, Indigenous and international works in a striking gallery near Major’s Hill Park.
Allow extra time for the river crossing and galleries.
Canadian Museum of History
Cross into Gatineau for exhibits exploring Canadian history and First Peoples.
This landmark château-style hotel stands close to Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal locks, and ByWard Market. Its central location suits first-time visitors who plan to see key civic landmarks on foot.
Fairmont Château Laurier
Downtown / Rideau Canal
Hotel Tags
A contemporary hotel in the lively ByWard Market area, convenient for restaurants, cafés, galleries, and the National Gallery of Canada. Travelers seeking especially quiet evenings should consider the neighborhood’s nightlife.
Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market
ByWard Market
Hotel Tags
Located near the Ottawa Art Gallery and downtown cultural attractions, this modern hotel works well for visitors combining museums and restaurants. ByWard Market and central landmarks are accessible from this part of the city.
Le Germain Hotel Ottawa
Downtown / Arts District
Hotel Tags
This boutique-style downtown property provides a central base for Parliament Hill, shopping, and downtown restaurants. It is a good choice for travelers who value a city location over a resort setting.
The Metcalfe Hotel
Downtown / Metcalfe Street
Hotel Tags
A historic hotel on Elgin Street near Confederation Park and the National Arts Centre. Its location is useful for walking to the Rideau Canal, Parliament precinct, and the Golden Triangle’s dining options.
Lord Elgin Hotel
Elgin Street / Golden Triangle
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Ottawa
High 40°F · Low 27°F · Rain 3.1 in
Winter returns, and the city prepares for the skating season.
May through October is comfortable for walking and outdoor festivals; winter may bring skating only when ice conditions are officially approved.
Best Times to Visit Ottawa
WHEN TO GO
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Rental Cars
A car is useful for rural museums and regional parks. Account for downtown parking and event closures.
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VIA Rail
Ottawa station serves selected intercity trains. Confirm the station location and onward city transfer.
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Cross-River Travel
Gatineau is across the Ottawa River in Québec. Check transit operator and route coverage for cross-border-in-province trips.
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Downtown Walking
Parliament Hill, ByWard Market and central museums are walkable in sections, with winter weather an important factor.
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O-Train and OC Transpo
Ottawa public transit includes rail and buses. Check service disruptions, station access and fares.
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Ottawa Airport
YOW is the capital’s commercial airport; arrange a taxi, rideshare, bus or transfer according to current services.
Downtown is walkable; OC Transpo buses and O-Train lines connect broader areas. Check seasonal access for canal activities.
Getting Around Ottawa