Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Visit Ottawa, Canada

Visit Ottawa, Canada

Jump to:

Canada’s delightful capital city occupies an enviable location high on the Ottawa River on the Ontario/Québec provincial border.

This is a city steeped in tradition which manifests itself in the magnificent Parliament buildings, the Governor-General’s residence and the many parks and gardens.

Things to see and do

Tulips on Parliament Hill, OttawaThe Parliament buildings, in particular the Peace Tower and library, are well worth a visit, especially during mid-summer when the Changing of the Guards ceremonies take place.

Another principal attraction is the Rideau Canal which freezes over in winter to form the world’s largest ice-skating rink.

As capital, the city is home to the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian War Museum and the Royal Canadian Mint. The Museum of Civilisation is particularly impressive, with its insights into First Nations culture.

Speak to someone
who's been there

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Ottawa by contacting one of our Canada specialists

TrustScore 4.9 | 2697 reviews

Suggested itineraries featuring Ottawa

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Ottawa, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of Ottawa

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near Ottawa

    Photos of Ottawa

    • Rideau Canal, Ottawa
      Rideau Canal, Ottawa
    • Rideau Canal, Ottawa
      Rideau Canal, Ottawa
    • The Canadian Museum of History, Ottawa
      The Canadian Museum of History, Ottawa
    • The Parliament Buildings, Ottawa
      The Parliament Buildings, Ottawa
    • The National War Memorial, Ottawa
      The National War Memorial, Ottawa
    • Kayaking on the Rideau Canal, Ottawa
      Kayaking on the Rideau Canal, Ottawa
    • The Rideau Canal, Ottawa
      The Rideau Canal, Ottawa
    • The National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa
      The National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa

    Accommodation choices for Ottawa

    We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Ottawa. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

    • Fairmont Chateau Laurier, Ottawa

      Fairmont Chateau Laurier

      First Class

      This grand hotel has an excellent central location in Ottawa. From indulgent afternoon tea to a well-equipped health club, you’ll find plenty of ways to relax during your stay after long days spent exploring the city.

    • Lord Elgin, Ottawa

      Lord Elgin

      Medium

      A landmark Ottawa hotel, the Lord Elgin is set in a stately limestone building and offers comfortable, corporate-style rooms and discreet service from its experienced staff. It's a convenient base with a central location for exploring the city.