2025-07-03
No more excuses for not visiting Ottawa, because I’ve prepared this article with everything you need to know about things to do and visit in Ottawa, Canada’s discreet but surprising capital.
If there are cities that surprise you without any fuss, Ottawa is at the top of the list. It has the sobriety of a political capital and the lightness of a city surrounded by nature.
It also has excellent museums, friendly neighborhoods, surprising gastronomy and one of the most vibrant markets in the country. Ottawa doesn’t shout, but it convinces. No rush, no exaggeration. Quietly and genuinely.
So, in this article, discover the best things to see and do in an itinerary to visit Canada’s capital in 1, 2 or 3 days, including suggestions of what to visit near the city, such as Gatineau Park or the Rideau Canal.
After one day, we realized that Ottawa has the gift of making us feel at home, but the ideal is to stay a little longer.
It’s clean, safe and easy to explore on foot or by bike. It has a rich history, told in several languages and accents.
And a very distinctive way of showing what it means to be Canadian. So if you’re looking for a destination with a balance between culture, nature and urban comfort, Ottawa could be just what you’re looking for.
And believe me, there’s plenty to see and do in Ottawa!
Regardless of your time available, in this guide you’ll find our suggestions of attractions, places and activities you can’t miss for a 1, 2 or 3-day itinerary in and around Ottawa.
👉 Choose the best tours and excursions in Ottawa.
👉 Don’t travel to Canada without travel insurance.
Things to do and visit in Ottawa, Canada?
Explore Parliament Hill: where it all begins
Even under construction, Canada’s political center remains an iconic site in Ottawa.
The neo-Gothic buildings impress from a distance and the changing of the guard in summer remains one of the most photographed moments.
Although access to the Peace Tower and some areas is limited, it’s worth taking a stroll through the gardens and enjoying the view over the Ottawa River.
The hill continues to host events and offer pleasant spaces to relax, even with the scaffolding in the background.
Strolling along the Rideau Canal: Ottawa’s living postcard
The Rideau Canal is one of the great symbols of the Canadian capital and deserves to be discovered with time and calm.
In summer, the scene comes alive as pedestrians, cyclists and small pleasure boats fill the area.
Walking along the canal is a pleasant way to explore the city, with plenty of benches, shade and green spaces. It’s also possible to take a cruise and learn more about the history of this waterway, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In winter, the atmosphere changes completely: the canal freezes over and gives way to one of the largest ice-skating rinks in the world.
Locals and visitors put on their skates and travel for miles over the white mirror, in an experience that seems straight out of a picture postcard. There are stalls with hot drinks and typical snacks to warm you up, which makes the walk even more special.
Whatever the season, crossing the Rideau Canal is a must for anyone visiting Ottawa. It is here that you can feel the true rhythm of the city, serene but full of life, and where you can admire the harmony between nature, history and urbanism.
Explore ByWard Market: local flavors and crafts
The ByWard Market is one of Ottawa’s most emblematic and vibrant places, with a history dating back to the early 19th century.
Considered one of the oldest and liveliest markets in Canada, this space is a meeting point between culture, gastronomy and local tradition.
So, during the day, you can explore stalls full of fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses, flowers and Canadian specialties.
It’s also the ideal place to sample the famous poutine, try typical sweets such as beavertails and get to know the authentic flavors of local producers.
However, in addition to the food, there are plenty of handicrafts to discover, such as handmade jewelry, wood pieces and indigenous art.
In the late afternoon, the atmosphere changes as the bars, cafés and restaurants start to fill up.
So whether you fancy dining out, listening to live music or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, the ByWard Market is a must on any Ottawa itinerary.
Visit the Canadian Museum of History
Located in Gatineau, just across the Ottawa River, the Canadian Museum of History is one of the most important and visited cultural spaces in the country.
The building, with its undulating lines inspired by the Canadian landscape, makes its presence felt.
Inside, the permanent exhibitions tell the story of Canada from ancient times to the present day, with a special emphasis on indigenous cultures, known as First Nations.
In addition, the museum has one of the best views of Parliament Hill, especially from the main atrium.
Visiting the National Gallery of Canada: art, architecture and symbolism
Even if art museums aren’t at the top of your list, the National Gallery of Canada is worth a visit.
Located near Parliament Hill, the modern building, designed by architect Moshe Safdie, is a work of art in itself, as the glass walls and structure create a luminous atmosphere where art and architecture complement each other.
Right at the entrance, it’s impossible not to notice the gigantic sculpture of the Maman spider by Louise Bourgeoi.
This iconic piece has become a symbol of Ottawa and one of the most photographed places in the city.
Inside, the gallery houses a vast collection of indigenous, Canadian and international art.
In addition, the works are well organized and contextualized, providing an enriching experience even for those with little knowledge of art.
Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is one of the most striking spaces in the Canadian capital.
Located directly opposite the National Gallery of Canada, it stands out for its neo-Gothic architecture and the silver towers that tower over the city.
But it’s inside that all its grandeur is revealed, with hand-painted ceilings, meticulous wood carvings, colorful stained glass windows and a richly decorated altar that catches the eye.
Even for those without a religious connection, the atmosphere inspires respect, silence and reflection.
Throughout the year, various concerts and ceremonies take place in this space, reinforcing its role as Ottawa’s cultural and spiritual center.
I therefore recommend that you include this place on your list of places to visit in Ottawa.
Taking a cruise on the Ottawa River: another way to see the city
Taking a cruise on the Ottawa River is one of the most enjoyable experiences you can have in the city, especially in the evening, when the golden light of sunset highlights the contours of the historic buildings.
This is because from the water, you get a different and unique perspective of some of the Canadian capital’s main monuments, such as Parliament, the museums and the bridges linking Ottawa to Gatineau.
There are various types of cruises available, from shorter, more relaxed trips to options with dinner on board.
Some boats have a tour guide, who shares curiosities, historical facts and details about the places you pass, which makes the trip even more enriching.
It’s also a comfortable way to take a break from walking around the city while still exploring.
Things to do in Ottawa in 1, 2 or 3 days
- 1 day: Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, ByWard Market, river cruise.
- 2 days: include Canadian Museum of History, National Gallery and night tour.
- 3 days: add Gatineau Park and the Diefenbunker, or explore neighborhoods like The Glebe or Westboro for a more alternative side of the city.
Gatineau Park is ideal for those who want to get away from the city for a while. It has hiking trails, viewpoints and lakes where you can swim in the summer. In autumn, the colors of the leaves make it one of the most beautiful parks in the region.
Diefenbunker: the Cold War bunker. An unusual and surprising visit. This former nuclear bunker is open to the public and shows how the government prepared for a possible attack during the Cold War. It’s a little out of the way, but it’s a different and educational visit.
👉 Find out how much it costs to rent a car in Ottawa!
Where to stay in Ottawa?
I stayed at the Swiss Hotel, a three-star boutique hotel near ByWard Market, and I liked it a lot.
However, the city has different types of accommodation catering to different travelers.
So, as I recognize that choosing where to stay in Ottawa is an important decision, I’ve written a full article on the subject, if you’d like to explore.
👉 See how much it costs to stay at the Swiss Hotel
👉 Read the article: Where to stay in Ottawa, the capital of Canada?
What to eat in Ottawa?
Ottawa may not be the first city that springs to mind when you think of gastronomy, but Canada’s capital has a rich, multicultural and surprising culinary scene.
I already knew about poutine but was completely unaware that Ottawa is the capital of shawarma! So here are some suggestions of what to eat in Ottawa and where to try it.
BeaverTails
What is Beaver Tails? A typical Canadian sweet, with fried dough in the shape of a beaver’s tail, topped with sugar and cinnamon, chocolate, banana, peanut butter or other creative toppings.
Where to eat Beaver Tails? At the BeaverTails kiosk in the ByWard Market, because this is where this iconic treat was born!
Poutine
What is Poutine? A comforting dish made with fried potatoes topped with cheese curds and gravy. Simple, but addictive.
Where to eat Poutine in Ottawa? Elgin Street Diner or Chez Lucien are two good options for trying authentic poutine.
Mixed Shawarma Poutine
What is Mixed Shawarma Poutine?
It’s a delicious fusion of traditional poutine and Middle Eastern shawarma. Crispy fries are topped with cheese curds and savory gravy, then layered with spiced chicken or beef shawarma. An unexpected combination, but one that works surprisingly well.
Where to eat Mixed Shawarma Poutine in Ottawa?
Head to 3 Brothers Shawarma & Poutine, a casual spot in Ottawa that’s perfect for trying this comforting and modern twist on the classic Canadian dish.
Local Products at ByWard Market
What to do: Stroll through this historic market and sample artisan cheeses, maple syrup, seasonal fruits, Indigenous products, and street food.
Tip: Don’t leave without tasting pure maple syrup, or take a small bottle home as a souvenir.
If visiting Ottawa during Winterlude, the city’s winter festival, be sure to try gourmet hot chocolate, seasonal dishes at outdoor food stalls, and ice kiosk treats.
In the summer, food festivals like Ribfest or Taste of Wellington West are great opportunities to enjoy local flavors in the open air.
How to Get to Ottawa, Canada
It’s possible to reach Ottawa from several European cities, usually with a layover somewhere in Canada.
In my case, I flew with Air Canada from Porto Airport in Portugal, with a stopover in Montreal. From there, it was just a short flight to Ottawa.
From Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport, the most practical and convenient way to reach downtown is by train (O-Train), a modern, efficient, and affordable system.
The trip to the city center takes about an hour, and tickets can be purchased at the self-service machines.
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We travel as a family, focusing on authentic experiences, sustainable choices, and that extra touch of comfort that makes all the difference. At passaportenobolso.com, we share travel tips and practical information about destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. I’ve visited over 40 countries and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Every now and then, I also travel solo… Follow along on YouTube / Instagram / Facebook / TikTok / X / Pinterest.
