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18 of the Best Ottawa Tours

July 4, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

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If you’re looking for the best Ottawa tours to enjoy on your next visit, we’ve got you covered.

Welcome to Ottawa, the charming capital city of Canada where history, culture, and maple syrup converge! As you stroll through the picturesque streets, you’ll be captivated by the harmonious blend of old-world elegance and modern vibrancy. Ottawa’s iconic landmarks, including the majestic Parliament Hill and the enchanting Rideau Canal, proudly showcase the nation’s rich heritage. There are many things to do in Ottawa , from incredible museums and cool attractions to amazing food and outdoor activities.

There are also many cool Ottawa tours for those looking to enhance their visit to Ottawa, Ontario . Whether you’re looking for a fun boat ride down the Rideau Canal, a biking tour that takes you through scenic neighbourhoods, or a helicopter ride over the city, these are the best 18 Ottawa tours to consider.

Our Top 3 Picks: Ottawa Tours

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Small Group Tour with River Cruise

✔️ See a lot in a short time ✔️ River Cruise + Parliament Hill

Ottawa Highlights 3.5-hour Bike Tour ✔️ See a lot of the city ✔️ Bike, helmet, and guide included

Wine and Cider Tour Day Trip

✔️ See the countryside ✔️ Wine, cider, and lunch

Ottawa tours Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase, we get a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use and they help keep these travel guides free. It’s a win-win! For more information, visit our  privacy policy.

1. Best of Ottawa Small Group Tour with River Cruise

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (77+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 – 6 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Short on time but hoping to see as much of the city as possible? As Canada’s capital city, there are so many important landmarks, interesting architecture, and fascinating history to indulge in. Although this tour of Ottawa offers lots of sightseeing of popular areas, it also includes a visit to Parliament Hill and a Rideau Canal River Cruise to end your five-six hour tour in a nice relaxing way.

It was very handy being picked up and dropped off. I enjoyed it was a small group. Andrew was very knowledgeable and helpful. Melody, sorry not 100% sure her name, she was fantastic, knowledgeable. She made the cruise entertaining and pleasant. Bartender was also great. Thank you to the captain. -Sandra ( see more reviews )

This 4-hour Ottawa tour includes:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Click Here to See Reviews, Pricing, and Availability.

2. Scenic Helicopter Flight Over Ottawa

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (60+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 10-30 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

While Ottawa has many star attractions you should visit, it’s an entirely different experience to soar over the capital of Canada in a helicopter , snapping breathtaking photos and enjoying marvellous views. Gaze out of the panoramic and curved windows and spot the serene Meech Lake and the Champlain.

In addition to the flight itself, we’ve been told that admission to the Canadian Space and Aviation Museum is included, so you’ll want to ask about that and book your tour accordingly. This is where you’ll find Rockcliffe Airport to begin your flight. See Parliament Hill, Rideau Hall, and so much more from the sky. This activity also makes for one of the best date ideas in Ottawa as well!

Had a great experience. Our pilot Martin was very professional, knowledgeable, and courteous. Great views, smooth ride, so much fun. -Travis ( see more reviews )

Choose between Ottawa tours such as a 10-minute flight covering 30 KM, a 20-minute flight covering 60 KM, or a 30-minute flight covering 90 KM.

This helicopter tour over Ottawa includes:

• Helicopter flight
• Safety briefing

3. Ottawa Highlights 3.5-Hour Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (70+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Experience the beauty and history of Canada’s capital city on this half-day bike tour around Ottawa . See the major attractions and must-see sites while enjoying the natural pathways and waterways of Canada’s capital city. Overall, this is a great tour to get some exercise and get a taste of one of Canada’s most beautiful cities.

Did the 3.5 hour bike tour with Escapes & it was fabulous. We saw so many sites in both Ottawa & Quebec. Also learned a lot about Canadian history. Our guide, Sparky was the best. Want to go back & do the 5 hour tour. -Mary ( see more reviews )

This 3.5-hour biking tour of Ottawa includes:

• Local tour guide (in English, French, German, and Spanish)

4. Best of Ottawa Neighbourhoods & Nature Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (30+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3+ Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

As a relatively small and compact city, Ottawa is a great place to explore on a bike. If that sounds like fun, take part in this 3-hour bike tour to experience the beauty and history of Ottawa , including some of the city’s trendiest and most vibrant neighbourhoods, most of the major sites, and the natural pathways and waterways of Canada’s capital city. This tour is offered by the same company above but focused on the area outside of the busy downtown core.

My husband and I had an amazing time! The shop was easy to find. Our guide was easy going, very informative, and accommodating. Saw much more than we thought we could in our short stay in Ottawa. Great city for biking. The five hours were not strenuous nor stressful. Highly recommended! -Rochelle ( see more reviews )

This 3-hour bicycle tour of Ottawa includes:

• Use of bicycle

5. 2-Hour Ottawa Express City Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (218+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

With more than 200 5-star reviews, this is one of the most popular Ottawa tours. This small-group bike tour is perfect for families and those wanting a safe and leisurely way to see Ottawa in a very short timeframe of just two hours. Most of the route is on designated bike paths or quaint backroads that take you to some of Ottawa’s cultural and natural highlights, such as Rideau Hall, the Rideau Canal path, the War Memorial, Byward Market and more. Stop along the way to learn more about certain locations and get local tips from your guide.

The tour was a great way to explore Ottawa, understand its neighborhoods, green spaces, art museums and culture, while engaging all our senses. Our guide took us to places we would never have normally gone to. She was knowledgeable and very engaging. Highly recommended. -Michele ( see more reviews )

This 2-hour biking tour of Ottawa includes:

• Local guide

6. City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (46+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Beer is so much better when you have transportation taken care of. So jump aboard the beer bus for an afternoon of fun. This 4–5 hour beer tour will take you to 3 (or more, depending on time) local Ottawa craft breweries for a tour and tasting, giving you time to learn about the ingredients and beer-making process, as well as taste the creations. If you like beer and you’re in Ottawa, this is one of the best Ottawa tours you can take.

Our tour guide, Vincent, was very entertaining and spent time with us on the bus chatting. The breweries were very interesting, learning a lot about the production of beers and especially about the different hops that were used and where they come from. The selection of beers at all the breweries was very good and plentiful -Wendy ( see more reviews )

This 4-hour tour of Ottawa breweries includes:

• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• All sampling and tour fees
• Transport by school-style bus
• Alcoholic Beverages

7. Ottawa Private Tour with a Local

⭐️  RATING:  4.4 out of 5 Stars (63+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-6 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

This walking tour of Ottawa is perfect for those looking to customize their own experience and not be with other guests. It’s your chance to explore the city with a friendly local who is passionate and knowledgeable about Canada’s capital city and ready to help you make the most of your trip. Learn about the best places to eat and buy groceries, the easiest ways to get around, and the top things to see and do. Choose between a 2, 3 or 4-hour private tour.

I had a fabulous afternoon in Ottawa and. Especially enjoyed visiting the national art gallery Guillame was a very interesting and engaging person who was a great conversationalist – I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the various highlights around Ottawa. -Happy customer ( see more reviews )

This private tour of Ottawa includes:

• Customized private tour

8. Floating Tiki Bar (Boat Tour) on the Ottawa River

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (31+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for one of the most unique Ottawa tours to do with your friends and family, this is it. Experience a slice of tropical paradise on the Ottawa River when you join a 90-minute floating tiki bar cruise . Connect your own music to the onboard speakers via Bluetooth, and bring your own food and drinks to enjoy along the way. The boat can accommodate up to 12 people, making it ideal for birthday parties or other celebrations. See the sights along the Ottawa River while enjoying a cold beverage. There’s even a restroom on board for your comfort.

We had a very good time. Staff is very friendly and it is a very original activity to do to have a drink or two in Ottawa ! -Nancy ( see more reviews )

This 1.5-hour unique tour of Ottawa includes:

• Restroom on board
• Bluetooth Audio Hookup
• Incredible Memories
• Bring Your Own Food

9. Full-Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour – Day Trip From Ottawa & Gatineau

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (25+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  7 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Is there really a better way to discover a region than through its local products? That’s why we recommend this tour to discover the magnificent Pontiac region , travelling along Route 148 to visit three family-owned wineries and a cider mill. This unique wine and cider tour allows you to taste delicious local products while learning about the history of the region and the process of making these high-quality products. Spend the afternoon This tour includes lots of wine and cider tastings, food, your guide, transportation from Ottawa and Gatineau, and perhaps most importantly, a lot of laughs!

We had a great time tasting Canada’s cold climate grape varietals with Jacob and Lynn! Our guides were fantastic and funny, providing commentary along the drive. The wineries were small and quaint and delicious. The cider mill (and its owner Greg) was our favorite stop. Such a cute place! Definitely recommend this tour to see some Canadian countryside and taste some wine and cider -Erin ( see more reviews )

This Full-Day Winery Tour from Ottawa includes:

• Wine tastings
• Cider tasting
• Free pickup and drop-off from Gatineau & Ottawa

10. Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Bus Tour Pass

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (475+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1-2 Days | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Explore Ottawa at your own pace with this popular hop-on hop-off city bus tour of Ottawa that’s filled with fun, facts, and history! Stay on the bus for the complete 1.5-hour round-trip tour or hop on and off throughout the validity of your ticket. See the sights of Ottawa from a classic open-top, double-decker bus or sit on the lower deck and enjoy the inside comfort. Either way, you’ll get to see Ottawa’s main sights like the Canadian Parliament buildings, Byward Market, and more as your knowledgeable, bilingual guide points out landmarks and shares the city’s history with you.

I enjoyed the tour very much and learned a great deal about the city of Ottawa. I saw some beautiful sights and got great photo. You need at least two days to get everything in. I found that the bus was not on schedule according to the times per stop, so I found myself waiting for the bus a few times. Best time to do this tour in July and Aug is mid week days, Friday and weekends are busy. -Happy Traveller ( see more reviews )

This Ottawa hop-on-hop-off bus tour includes:

• 1-or 2-day hop-on hop-off bus ticket (depending on the option selected)

11. Bilingual Guided City Tour by Amphibious Bus

⭐️  RATING:  4.4 out of 5 Stars (601+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 Hour | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Can’t decide between a river cruise or a boat tour? Combine a little bit of them both on this unique Ottawa tour that consists of an amphibian-style bus that can travel on land and water to discover the historical attractions of Ottawa and the Ottawa River from different perspectives. Spend 40 minutes on land and 20 minutes on the water, admiring landmark monuments and attractions such as Lake Dow, Landsdowne Park, and Byward Market. This activity is both fun and educational for the entire family, and ideal for those who are short of time but want to get a taste of the city.

Very educational and fun. The guide and captain were wonderful. We enjoyed our trip on the water. -Sandra ( see more reviews )

This 1-hour Amphibian-bus tour of Ottawa includes:

• Bilingual guide
• Transportation in an amphibious vehicle

12. Ottawa Boat Cruise – Paul’s Boat Line

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars (399+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re simply looking for a tour along the beautiful Ottawa River while admiring various landmarks and getting insight via live narration, this tour is for you. Cruise by the Parliament Buildings and marvel at the mix of natural beauty and modern, urban development while enjoying refreshments or cocktails from the boat’s canteen (fees apply).

Great experience – the Crew was amazing. Beautiful scenery, great history about places. I will do it again and recommend it to my friend and family -Soleil ( see more reviews )

This 5-hour biking tour of the Niagara wine region includes:

• Bilingual commentaries
• All Fees and Taxes

13. Ottawa Boat Cruise – Rideau Canal Cruise

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars (494+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Linking Canada’s capital city with Lake Ontario, the Rideau Canal is one of Canada’s most famous landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed waterway cuts right through the city, offering a unique way to see the city. Jump aboard the world’s-largest, certified, 100%-electric, passenger vessel and cruise the canal to admire views of the Canadian Museum of Nature, Château Laurier, Dow’s Lake, the National Arts Centre, and more. As you look out at Ottawa, listen as your guide sheds light on centuries of colourful Canadian history and interesting facts.

Our Tour Guide was outstanding. She had a great personality. Her job skills are unparalleled. Going from English to French seamlessly, keeping the group engaged and extremely knowledgable. The entire experience was was first rate from start to finish. Reserving online to boarding and departing was very simple. Nice job. -Victoria ( see more reviews )

This 1.5-hour tour of the Rideau Canal includes:

14. Oh Canada Eh?! Dinner Musical

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (64+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

It can be hard to learn about Canada’s culture and history in just two hours, but you won’t find a more interesting way to do so than with this Canadian dinner musical ! Spend the evening getting to know Canadian culture through its music and folklore. You’ll dine on a 5-course meal while meeting characters such as a lumberjack, a Mountie, and even Anne of Green Gables. Buying admission in advance means you’ll have an evening planned out in Ottawa ahead of time with no scrambling for last-minute plans.

It was all memorable. The food was great. The music was great and the service was spectacular. I would recommend this to all my friends. This is a great night out. The energy was high. -Anne ( see more reviews )

This 1.5-hour dinner musical includes:

• Dinner & Show

15. Self-Guided Biking in Ottawa-Gatineau

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (73+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Sometimes it’s great to just break free of the guided Ottawa tours and explore the city on your own. If that sounds like you, and you like biking, this self-guided tour of Ottawa via bicycle is for you. Choose your own itinerary and pedal your way through the city like a local, using the provided map to reach the sites that most interest you. Safe and scenic bike paths keep you away from car traffic and let you see the green areas of the region.

Very amazing experience. The way they explain the route to you really helps, plus they provide a map that guides through it. Although our map flew in water, but they explained well enough. Overall very memorable experience. -Daman ( see more reviews )

This self-guided biking tour of Ottawa includes:

• Use of helmet

16. Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (211+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

You’ve already learned about the brighter side of Ottawa, so now it’s time to take a spooky stroll through Downtown Ottawa on this guided haunted walking tour and learn about the darker side of Canada’s capital. Hear tales of the city’s haunted heritage as told by a professional storyteller.

Enjoyable and spooky tour. Nice to see some unique parts of downtown Ottawa. Our guide was very energetic, with a strong voice. She did a great job making sure everyone could hear (over traffic, and over rushing water at canal). -Omar ( see more reviews )

This unique Ottawa tour includes:

• Professional guide

17. Haunted Ottawa Jail Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (213+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Let Ottawa’s supernatural history capture your attention on this ghost walk and tour of the Old Carleton County Jail . Alongside a costumed guide, visit haunted spots such as Canada’s last functioning gallows and Carleton County Jail—now a haunted hostel—and listen to terrifying tales of unlawful hangings, faceless ghosts, and infamous assassinations. Choose from two departure times.

Olivia was knowledgeable, humorous, and her presentation was informative. Olivia patiently and kindly answered all of our groups questions. Despite living in Ottawa numerous years, we did not know of it’s harrowing history. It was eye opening! -Katherine ( see more reviews )

This haunted tour of Ottawa includes:

18. Canadian Museum of History Admission

⭐️  RATING:  4.6 out of 5 Stars (68+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 Day | 🚀  BOOK NOW

The Canadian Museum of History is one of the most beautiful and interesting museums in the country. Located in Gatineau, Quebec, along the scenic riverfront across from Parliament Hill, the Museum is housed in an iconic building designed by Indigenous architect Douglas Cardinal and features a collection of more than 4 million items — including archaeological material, cultural objects, works of art, documents, and audiovisual material.

Visiting museums is always the best way to take in rich cultural backgrounds with the limited time we all have. This particular visit was especially memorable since this museum was dedicated to make visitors learn about the fascinating history of Canada. I wouldn’t mind second visits as there are special exhibitions too! -Happy Traveller ( see more reviews )

This self-guided museum tour includes:

• Admission to the Canadian Museum of History
• Access to Canadian Children’s Museum
• Access to Ciné+
• Access to permanent galleries
• Access to special exhibitions
• Multilingual Museum Guide app (available for download)
• Complimentary coat check

Looking for More Than Just Ottawa Tours?

While Ottawa is easily one of the top destinations in the province, there’s so much more to see and do. For more Ontario travel guides, see below:

• Best Brunch in Ottawa
• Best Toronto Tours
• Best Niagara Falls Tours
• Best Niagara Wine Tours
• Best Montreal Tours
• Day trips from Toronto

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

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Guided tours for individuals or small groups in Ottawa

A guided tour is the ultimate way to experience the best of Canada’s capital, including its many outdoor activities, tasty food and drink, cute animals and unexpected history. Currently, some tours are available for individual guests, while other tours are only available for private groups of households, family and friends. Whether you’re solo or with your bubble, you’ll love these safe, fun and unique guided tour options in Ottawa.

Tube, raft or cruise

Guided water experiences—both on or in the water—are plentiful during the warm seasons in Ottawa. You can go tubing or rafting ( bubbles only ) down the Ottawa River with Ottawa City Rafting (trips depart just west of the city centre; more adventurous whitewater experiences are an hour away). You can also relax on a narrated cruise on the Ottawa River with World Famous Paul’s Boat Line , or on Ontario’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site with  Rideau Canal Cruises ( bubbles and individuals ).

Cycle salvation

The ultimate way to explore the region’s more than 800 kilometres (354 miles) of pathways is by taking a cycling tour. Rent a bicycle or use your own and join one of several routes offered by local companies Escape Bicycle Tours and Rentals  and  RentABike . Easy physical distancing outdoors make cycling tours a safe and fun way to visit Canada’s capital. Bubbles and individuals

Urban flavours

Guided food and drink tours provide special access to the city’s best foodie hotspots. Knowledgeable guides take you to several locations in different neighbourhoods and communities, and introduce you to chefs and owners. Depending on the experience, tasty samples or full courses are served along the way! A few options that are all available for bubbles and individuals :

• C’est Bon Ottawa : Gourmet walking tours
• Escape Bicycle Tours & Rentals : Bike & Bites Tour
• Experience Food or Ottawa Tasting Tours : Curated restaurant tours
• Brew Donkey : Brewery bus tours

Countryside gourmet

Book a tour with La Vida Local to discover foodie treasures in Ottawa’s vast rural areas. Board the comfortable mini-coach bus and enjoy a relaxing ride between vineyards, breweries, cheesemakers, farms, cideries, distilleries and more. As you nibble and sip at the different locations, your knowledgeable tour guide tells you all about the region’s specialties. Bubbles only

Beekeeper fun

Gees Bees Honey Company, located south of the city centre, is just one of more than a thousand farms in the Ottawa area. Walk through the apiary’s lovely pollinator gardens and learn how bees make honey on a private beehive tour . You can safely examine a beehive up close while standing behind the outdoor screened viewing area, or by wearing a steam cleaned bee suit. Bubbles only

Animal encounters

Animal-loving bubbles can treat themselves to wild opportunities at Little Ray’s Nature Centre . While closed for drop-in visits, the exotic animal and reptile zoo in Ottawa’s east-end is offering private tours as well as unforgettable encounters with a live sloth! Bubbles only

Fascinating history (spooky and otherwise) 

Join a cloaked guide on a journey through Ottawa’s dark past on a Haunted Walk  Bubble Tour. Hear ghost stories and fascinating historical facts as you walk through downtown Ottawa on the Original tour, or go inside the historic Carleton County Jail on the Haunted Ottawa Jail Tour. Tours take place after dark, plus a new (less spooky) afternoon option to visit the jail in the daytime. For more conventional experiences, check out Ottawa Walking Tours and Ottawa Free Tours . They both offer a variety of routes and topics, including some free tours (pay what you want/tips encouraged). Bubbles and individuals

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THE 10 BEST Ottawa Tours & Excursions

Ottawa tours.

• Private Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Helicopter Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Fly over the City of Ottawa in a Helicopter

2. Canadian War Museum Admission

3. Ottawa Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour

4. Oh Canada Eh!? Dinner Musical

5. Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa

6. Private Investigator Exploration Game in Downtown Ottawa

7. Ottawa City Tour by Land and Water

8. Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise

9. Best of Ottawa Small Group Tour with River Cruise

10. Ottawa Self-Guided Audio Tour

11. Street Art Outdoor Escape Game in Ottawa

12. Rockcliffe Neighborhood Outdoor Escape Game in Ottawa

13. Ottawa Boat Cruise - Paul's Boat Line

14. Best of Ottawa Small Group Walking Tour with Boat Cruise

15. Ottawa Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour

16. Ottawa Highlights 3.5 Hour Bike Tour

17. City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries

18. Lilo Floating Tiki Bar on the Ottawa River

19. Ottawa Landmarks

20. Ottawa Small Group Night Tour with River Cruise + Light Show

21. Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ottawa by Wacky Walks

22. Full Day Montreal and Cruise Tour from Ottawa

23. Ticket to WonderStruck: Ottawa's Magic Experience

24. 2-Hour Ottawa Express City Bike Tour

25. Self-Guided Biking in Ottawa-Gatineau

26. Best of Ottawa Neighbourhoods & Nature Bike Tour

27. Cycling the Nation's Capital, self-guided

28. Ottawa Private Day Tour from Montreal

29. Private Arrival Transfer from Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier Airport YOW

30. Private Shopping Tour from Ottawa hotels to Tanger Outlets Ottawa

What travelers are saying.

• Canadian War Museum Admission
• Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa
• Fly over the City of Ottawa in a Helicopter
• Ottawa City Tour by Land and Water
• Ottawa Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
• Questo Outdoor Escape Games in Ottawa
• Escape Tours – Ottawa
• A-Excursions
• Ottawa Free Tours
• Ottawa Walking Tours
• Pirate Life
• Paul's Boat Lines
• Capital Cruises
• Rideau Canal Cruises
• c'estbon Ottawa
• The Haunted Walk
• Boreal River Adventures - Ottawa River Outpost
• Peoples' History Walking Tours
• Ottawa Private Yacht Rentals
• Escape Bicycle Tours and Rentals
• Brew Donkey
• Ottawa Biplane Adventures
• Thursty Pedaler
• Ottawa City Rafting
• Jetski Ottawa

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9 Best Places to Visit in Ottawa (From a Local)

Table of Contents

Ottawa is a great city to visit in Canada, but most people don’t realize there’s more to do than visiting Parliament. Both Canadians and foreigners often associate the city with government, and forget all the other amazing places you can visit that aren’t on Parliament Hill.

I’ve visited Ottawa my whole life from Toronto, and moved here in 2021. I’ve spent years exploring the city’s best popular spots and hidden gems, and I want to share them with you.

Of course I’ll include popular spots like Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal, but we’ll also go off the beaten path to my favourite noodle spot in Kanata and the only spot you can see cows in Downtown Ottawa.

Let’s start planning your perfect Ottawa trip!

1. Parliament Hill

We’re kicking off this list with a classic: you can’t miss Parliament Hill when you visit Ottawa.

The iconic buildings are a national historic site and feature stunning Gothic architecture. Plus, it’s free to visit! You can take a tour of the buildings or simply stroll around the grounds and snap some photos.

At 10 am every morning during the summer, there is a changing of the guards ceremony that’s also free to attend. In winter, at night the Parliament Buildings become the backdrop for one of the best Christmas Lights displays in Ottawa.

Since it’s such a central location, Parliament Hill is an easy place to stop while you’re Downtown. I recommend popping down to the Rideau Canal Walkway beneath the Parliament Buildings to get the best pictures of them on top of the cliff. It’s especially pretty at twilight.

You can also view it from Major’s Hill Park, which neighbours the Art Gallery of Ontario. I recommend combining a day at Parliament with a trip to the AGO.

2. Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is a stunning place to visit in Ottawa. But since it’s a giant canal that runs around the downtown core, there’s a lot of places to visit along it.

I recommend heading down to the Dominion Arboretum beside Dow’s Lake. Here you’ll be able to see the tulips from the Canadian Tulip Festival and go for summer bike rides along the canal. You can also rent kayaks here in the summer and paddle your way down the canal.

In winter, the canal freezes and becomes the world’s longest outdoor skating rink. This is a popular spot for getting on the canal and houses one of the huts where you can rent skates.

I love walking my dog along the canal. When he was a crazy puppy, we’d go all the way around the city just to tire him out enough that he wouldn’t eat my baseboards. It took about 90 minutes all told.

If you don’t have a dog with you, you can stop by the Experimental Farm located at the Dominion. It’s got cows, pigs, and more for the whole family to explore. This was my favourite place in Ottawa as a kid – I even tried to feed the cows my Barbies!

Kanata is a suburb 30 minutes West of Ottawa. I moved there after my first year living right beside Parliament became too much with a puppy.

Kanata is a hidden gem most tourists never visit, which is a shame because it’s home to some of the best hiking in Ottawa and the best noodles.

Kanata Noodle House is a must visit. I get laksa every week from there for like $20 and it lasts me 3 meals because it’s giant!

Nearby, you can explore the Beaver Pond and South March Highland to walk off some of the food you just ate. Both are very dog friendly – although the latter requires dogs to be on leash. They’re open year round and are easy to explore in winter.

Pair a visit to Kanata with a stop at the Diefenbunker Museum in Carp (the suburb directly beside Kanata). This is a Cold War museum that features military artifacts and exhibits.

4. Gatineau Park

I know it’s weird to say one of the best places to visit in Ottawa isn’t even in Ottawa, but it’s true! Ottawa is the gateway to Gatineau. Drive 30 minutes north of the city, or take the leaf peeping bus in fall, to go on the city’s best hikes.

Ottawa kind of unofficially claims Hull and Gatineau as part of the city, like bonus suburbs.

I took my dog almost every weekend during summer of 2022, and we still go regularly, to hike the different trails.

The easiest that’s still fun is the Mackenzie King Estate. A harder one that I loved in spring is Luskville Falls. In winter, many of the trails become cross country ski and snowshoe trails. I’ve only snowshoed on them, and they’re very well maintained.

In the summer, it’s a perfect spot for camping in Ottawa.

Gatineau is also just north of Chelsea, which has cute little cafes with amazing hot chocolate and sausage rolls.

To the East of Downtown Ottawa is Orleans. It’s home to Mer Bleue Bog which is one of the most popular interpretive walks in the city. Many people call it a “hiking” trail, but since it’s a boardwalk I don’t really agree.

I see it as a great walking trail though.

My next favourite thing in Orleans is Petrie Island Beach. The white sand really doesn’t feel like it belongs in Canada. In the summer, this is a hugely popular beach with locals.

The shallow area makes the Ottawa River warmer than in other spots, so it’s easy to swim.

Don’t forget to stop for beer ! Stray Dog Brewing Company and Orleans Brewing Company are both based here. My roommate often made us stop on our way home from hikes to have a bevvy before going home.

The best museum in Ottawa hands down is the Canadian Museum of History in Hull. It’s just across from Parliament Hill, so you get great views of the whole city.

I’ve been a number of times and between the permanent and rotating exhibits, I always feel like I need to spend more time there to see it all.

My favourite are the totem pole in the lobby. They often have local Indigenous Peoples come to teach about their culture in front of them on holidays, like Canada Day.

You can easily spend a whole day, but you’ll need at least 2 hours to really enjoy the museum.

Just beside the museum is the Interprovincial Zipline where you can zip between Quebec and Ontario.

7. Westboro and Wellington Village

Wellington is my favourite area of Ottawa. It and Westboro are home to local boutiques and the best brunch spots in the city.

If you enjoy food at all, you need to get yourself down to Chesterfields to try their eggs benedict. I’ve eaten through their menu twice over now and I’ve yet to find anything that isn’t delicious.

Shoppers will enjoy the small businesses with one of a kind items, and great souvenir options.

The area is more residential than Downtown, but it still has a lot going on. It’s always just busy enough to feel lively, and there are always new spots for food popping up.

Some other classics of the village are: Suzy Q’s Donuts, Strawberry Blonde Bakery, Wellington Diner, and TacoLot.

8. ByWard Market

ByWard is a market dating back to the 1800s. Now it’s less of an open air market – except on weekends in the summer when extra stalls open up – and more of an indoor experience.

It’s one of the best places to get fresh meat, seafood and bread in the city. It’s home to a cafe where Barack Obama got a cookie once and it blew up on social media.

My favourite thing to get here is a BeaverTail from the stand outside the market. I’ve got a serious sweet tooth, so I’m always snacking on the cinnamon sugar versions.

Another favourite of mine in the area is Level One Game Pub. It’s a boardgame cafe on the 2nd level, and a video game cafe on the 1st level. They have the best deep fried mac and cheese bites, and the best chicken fingers in all of Ottawa.

9. The Glebe

The Glebe is one of the most popular neighbourhoods for young locals to live in. It’s just south of Downtown Ottawa – sometimes still considered a part of Downtown.

The area is more unique than downtown, with small businesses and a lot of alternative stores.

And it’s home to amazing food.

I’m a big fan of the St. Rita and Jericho. For ice cream, stop by Moo Shu for their unique flavours.

It’s also where you can find the Natural History Museum. I went with my friends once and was shocked at how big the place was! You can spend 1-2 hours easily just walking without reading anything, but you’ll need longer if you really want to deep dive into any of the exhibits.

If you visit in summer , be sure to spend your time in Gatineau Park. In winter , I’d focus on Kanata and the Rideau Canal areas.

But no matter where you go in Ottawa, you’ll be surprised by how many things there are to do.

Everyone told me I’d be bored when I moved out from Toronto, but I found it more accessible to actually do the things than in Toronto. It’s easier to get around, more affordable, and there’s more variety in the activities.

I hope this inspires you to make a trip to Ottawa a reality. Be sure to check out the best time to visit though!

Read More About Ottawa

• Local’s Ottawa Pronunciation Guide: How to Pronounce “Ottawa”
• What is the Primary Language in Ottawa, Canada?
• Is Ottawa in Quebec?
• Is Ottawa tap water safe to drink?
• How to Get From Ottawa Airport to Downtown Ottawa
• Where to Stay in Ottawa: 13 Best Neighbourhoods and Hotels
• Is Ottawa a Province?
• How Many Days in Ottawa is Ideal?
• Best Grocery Stores in Ottawa: Where to Shop in Ottawa
• 71 Fun Facts About Ottawa Canada
• 12 Best Ottawa Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room
• Is Ottawa a Good Place to Live? 27 Pros & Cons
• 22 Best Hotels in Ottawa with Pools
• What is the Drinking Age in Ottawa?
• Is Ottawa Worth Visiting? (Local’s Guide)
• What is Ottawa Known For? 31 Reasons Why Ottawa is Famous
• Ottawa Trip Budget Calculator to Plan Your Dream Trip

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Ottawa Travel Planning Guide

🚑  Should I buy Ottawa travel insurance?

100% YES!  — There’s a misconception that Canada has “free healthcare” for everyone. Nope! Only Canadians. So you’ll need to get travel insurance to visit Ottawa. I recommend this one.

💧 Can you drink the tap water in Ottawa?

Yes – ish  — While you can technically drink the tap water in Ottawa, as a local I don’t recommend it. Old hotels especially can have some nasty things in their pipes. Instead, get a filtered water bottle . ( Read more )

🚙💨  Do I need to rent a car in Ottawa?

Yes  — Renting a car in Ottawa is one of the best ways to get around! You’ll be able to see more of the city and beyond, like the epic hiking trails. I recommend Discover Cars for the cheapest rates possible.

📲  Do I need to know French in Ottawa?

Nope!  — The primary language of Ottawa is English. While French is also spoken and on some signs, you can easily get by without knowing any French. ( Read more )

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Ottawa accommodations?

For Ottawa hotels,  Booking  is the best site. If you’re considering an Ottawa Airbnb, don’t forget to also check  VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb. My #1 hotel recommendation in Ottawa is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Ottawa flights?

For finding cheap Ottawa flights, I recommend  Skyscanner . You can even set a price alert to find out when flights are on sale.

🎫  Do I need a Visa for Ottawa?

Likely Not  — U.S. and most European Passport holders don’t need a Visa to visit Canada.

📍  Where is Ottawa? And what’s nearby?

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located in Ontario. It’s right on the border of Quebec . It’s about 2 hours from Mont Tremblant, 3 hours from Montreal, or 5 hours from Toronto . You can take a road trip to get to other places or fly.

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Ottawa Things to Do. Nina has lived in 18 countries before deciding to settle in Ottawa, nearby Toronto where she grew up. She has spent years proving that Ottawa isn't the town "fun forgot" and helping locals and tourists alike find fun things to do. She helps over 60,000 people a month discover the amazing activities in Ottawa, Canada.

9 Best Ottawa Tours and Experiences You’ll Love

• Post author: Lisa Garrett
• Post last modified: April 1, 2024
• Post category: Canada / Weekend Getaways

Disclaimer :  This page may contain affiliate links.  I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links (at no additional cost to you).

Looking for an unforgettable way to experience Ottawa?

I had a fantastic time exploring Ottawa last summer on my Canada road trip (along with Montreal and Toronto).

I’ve rounded up all of the best Ottawa tours for you, from walking tours to bike tours to scenic canal cruises!

In a hurry? No worries! The best Ottawa tour is this small group Ottawa highlights tour . Enjoy behind-the-scenes access to the stunning Parliament buildings and relax on a scenic river cruise!

Ottawa, Canada’s capital city, has something for everyone to enjoy, from its iconic Parliament Hill to the Rideau Canal. There is certainly no shortage of amazing things to do in Ottawa .

But, with so many great options, how do you decide what to do in Ottawa? Don’t worry, I’ve got all the information on the best tours in Ottawa right here for you.

Lace up your shoes and let’s go!

Table of Contents

My Top 3 Picks: Best Tours in Ottawa Canada

#1 TOP PICK

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best of Ottawa Small Group Tour ✔️ Behind the scenes access to Parliament Buildings ✔️ Scenic cruise ✔️ Maximum of 6 people

Ottawa Highlights Bike Tour ✔️ Ride along the Rideau Canal pathways ✔️See the Ottawa Locks ✔️ Rideau Hall + Gardens

ByWard Market Food Tour ✔️ Sample delicious local favorite dishes ✔️ Famous BeaverTails! ✔️ Alcoholic drinks

9 Best Ottawa Tours and Experiences

1. best of ottawa small group tour with river cruise (top pick).

⏳ Tour Length: ~4 hours | ⭐ Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars (100+ reviews) | 🏛️ Book now

🏛️ Highlights:

• Visit Parliament Hill and get a behind-the-scenes look at the Parliament facilities
• Skip-the-line access
• Explore the grounds of the Canadian Parliament Building
• Narrated driving tour of Ottawa’s highlights
• 1.5 hour Rideau Canal cruise (seasonal)

Discover the charm and beauty of Ottawa with this half-day tour that will take you to some of the city’s most popular landmarks including the majestic Parliament buildings. Your knowledgeable guide will provide fascinating insights about Ottawa’s rich history, culture, and heritage along the way.

Upon reaching Parliament Hill , you’ll be awestruck by the grandeur of the buildings and the picturesque views of the city that spread out before you.

Get ready for an exclusive tour of the Parliament headquarters that will give you a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the workings of the Canadian government. Admire the state-of-the-art facilities, the beautiful architecture and artwork.

Perfect tour, walking, riding in a very clean van, canal cruise and an amazing tour guide… It was almost a private tour since we were only 6. Highly recommended. Read more reviews

After the Parliament building adventure, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore the grounds. Take pictures of the stunning Peace Tower and other magnificent buildings or see the Centennial Flame.

The highlight of this exciting tour is the 1.5-hour scenic river cruise down the lovely Rideau Canal (available seasonally from mid-May to mid-October). Along the way, you’ll be captivated by breathtaking views of Ottawa’s most iconic sites.

Whether you’re just visiting Ottawa for a day or want an overview of the city to kick off a longer stay, this small group tour is the perfect way to see Ottawa’s top attractions!

🔑 Key Information:

• Tour offered in English
• Complimentary pick-up offered from downtown Ottawa hotels
• Note: Canal cruise is seasonal (~mid-May through mid-October). In the off season, the river cruise is replaced with a visit to the Canadian Museum of History
• Small group : A maximum of 6 people will be on your tour

2. Ottawa Highlights Bike Tour

⏳ Tour Length: ~3.5 hours | ⭐ Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars (80+ reviews) | 🚲 Book now

🚲 Highlights:

• See the Rideau Canal National Historic Site
• Stop by the Ottawa Locks and watch the operation of the locks
• Cycle through the lovely waterfront pathways in the Arboretum
• Ride through Ottawa’s great neighborhoods: Little Italy, the Glebe, and more!
• Enjoy great views of Ottawa from both sides of the river
• See Rideau Hall (the home of the Governor General) and its spectacular gardens
• ByWard Market

Explore the breathtaking city of Ottawa like never before on this invigorating half-day bike tour . Get some exercise and fresh air while admiring the stunning natural pathways and waterways of Canada’s capital city.

This 3.5-hour sightseeing tour includes a top-quality bike, a helmet, a water bottle, and a tasty snack. It’s the perfect way to explore Ottawa!

Pedal along the famous Rideau Canal Western Pathway and discover the trendy neighborhood of the Glebe. Feast your eyes on the natural beauty of Hog’s Back Falls, Carleton University, and the Dominion Arboretum.

Excellent way to see Ottawa! Pathway system in the City is fantastic and our Tour Guide was terrific. Sue V ( Read more reviews )

As you cycle back to downtown Ottawa, marvel at Ottawa’s iconic landmarks , including the Canadian War Museum. Ride across the river to the province of Quebec and enjoy spectacular views of downtown Ottawa.

Finally, glide back to the starting point, passing the impressive National Gallery of Canada, bustling ByWard Market, mesmerizing Rideau Falls, and magnificent Rideau Hall.

Join us on this unforgettable Ottawa Highlights Bike Tour and immerse yourself in Ottawa’s fascinating history and breathtaking scenery.

If you like the sound of a scenic bike tour of Ottawa but would like a shorter option, check out this 2-hour Express Ottawa Bike Tour . (This popular tour has over 200 5-star reviews!). And if you’re visiting in May, don’t miss out on this Ottawa Spring Tulip Festival Bike Tour !

• Tours offered in English, French, German, and Spanish
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Infant seats available
• A maximum of 10 people will be on your tour

3. Taste of the ByWard Market Food Tour

⏳ Tour Length: ~2.5 hour | ⭐ Ratings: 4.8 out of 5 stars (20+ reviews) | 🍴 Book now

🍴 Highlights:

• Learn about the history of Ottawa’s ByWard Market
• Sample local favorite treats (4 savory, 2 sweet) including a stop at the world-famous BeaverTail stand
• Choice of two alcoholic beverages (beer or wine); non-alcoholic options available
• Meet local producers, chefs, and artisans who are passionate about great food

Immerse yourself in Ottawa’s vibrant ByWard Market with this Taste of the ByWard Market Food Tour . Discover the rich history of this iconic neighborhood as you indulge in a diverse array of local favorites on this culinary walking tour.

Let your knowledgeable guide introduce you to the best culinary destinations in the market, where you’ll meet the talented chefs, producers and artisans that make it all happen.

Delicious food, animated guide, great experience. Highly recommended. Read more reviews

Enjoy six mouthwatering food stops , including four savory and two sweet. Be sure to save room for the last stop — the world-famous BeaverTail stand, where they make Ottawa’s favorite pastry!

I loved visiting the ByWard Market on my trip to Ottawa. So fun to peruse the crafts, and the fresh fruit was irresistible!

So bring along your comfy walking shoes and your appetite! Your taste buds will thank you for taking this delicious ByWard Market Food Tour !

• Tours offered in English and French
• Please indicate any dietary restrictions when booking your food tours
• Not wheelchair accessible

4. Ottawa Craft Brewery Tour

⏳ Tour Length: ~4-5 hours | ⭐ Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars (45+ reviews) | 🍺 Book now

🍺 Highlights:

• Visits to 3 or more craft breweries in Ottawa
• Enjoy tours, tastings, and snacks at each brewery
• Transportation by school-style bus

Discover the best way to experience Ottawa’s vibrant craft beer scene with this Ottawa Brewery Tour !

This 4-5 hour tour takes you on a journey to three (or more!) local breweries and is perfect for any craft beer fan. At each brewery, you’ll enjoy behind-the-scenes tours, tastings, and snacks.

Always a fun time This is a great gift for a craft beer fan… It’s a great activity. Feels like an exciting school trip. WOOOOO!!!! Read more reviews

You’ll be in the company of other like-minded beer aficionados as you learn about the beer-making process and sample a variety of brews.

With tasting note cards provided, you can keep track of your favorite flavors and learn about the unique ingredients that make each beer special.

Don’t miss out on this fun and informative tour of Ottawa’s thriving craft beer scene! Cheers!

• Tours offered in English
• Minimum drinking age is 19 years
• Service animals allowed
• A maximum of 25 people will be on your tour

5. Night Tour of Ottawa with River Cruise and Light Show

⏳ Tour Length: ~3.5 hours | ⭐ Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars (20+ reviews) | 🌙 Book now

🌙 Highlights:

• Stunning sunset river cruise
• Stroll through the ByWard Market
• See Ottawa’s attractions beautifully illuminated at night
• Northern Lights show projected on the Parliament Buildings (seasonal, typically starts in July)

Discover the magic of Ottawa at night with this small group night tour !

Your evening begins with a tranquil sunset cruise along the Ottawa River, providing breathtaking views of the city’s most iconic landmarks. As you cruise , learn about the history and culture of the city from your knowledgeable tour guide.

Next, you’ll enjoy a fully narrated driving tour of the city, passing by multiple attractions such as the Supreme Court, Parliament Hill, Nepean Point, and the Canadian Museum of History. Marvel at the beautifully illuminated sights of Ottawa and take a stroll through Ottawa’s bustling ByWard Market.

BEST tour of Ottawa… The river cruise was lovely, offering a different perspective of the city… the highlight was the light show on the Parliament Bldg with the finale… singing ‘Oh Canada’. I would highly recommend this evening tour. Patti S. ( Read more reviews )

As the tour comes to an end, witness the magnificent “Northern Lights” show projected on the wall of the Parliament Building.

(The show lasts about 30 minutes and is popular with locals and tourists alike. I was surprised at how early people arrive to claim a good seat on the lawn!)

This nighttime show is a history of Canada told with exceptional sound and light visuals against the backdrop of Parliament Hill’s Center Block and Peace Tower.

This fun-filled small group night tour is the perfect way to end a day in Ottawa. So come and join us now to explore Canada’s Capital City in a whole new way!

• Wheelchair accessible (wheelchair must be able to be folded and fit into the back of the van)
• Stroller accessible
• River cruise is weather dependent
• Small group : A maximum of 6-7 people will be on your tour

6. Ottawa Sightseeing River Cruise

⏳ Tour Length: ~1.5 hours | ⭐ Ratings: 4.2 out of 5 stars (1000+ reviews) | 🛥️ Book now

🛥️ Highlights:

• See Ottawa’s highlights from the river with live bilingual commentary
• See the stunning Parliament Buildings from the river
• View the Rideau Canal Locks
• Enjoy the open-air top deck or the enclosed lower deck

Experience the natural beauty and rich history of Ottawa from a unique perspective on this Ottawa sightseeing river cruise . This cruise is the perfect way to admire unforgettable views and see some of Ottawa’s most majestic icons that are only visible from the water.

As you glide down the river, your guide will provide entertaining and informative insights in both English and French. You’ll learn about the region’s rich history and the river’s past life as a watery highway for transporting resources.

We really enjoyed seeing our City from the Ottawa River… The view of the Chateau Laurier and Rideau Canal Locks at sunset and nightfall were beautiful. We also really liked the how the dome of the Art Gallery was lit up at night. Spectacular! Highly Recommend this tour. Read more reviews

During your cruise, you’ll be treated to fabulous views of the city , including the Parliament Buildings and the Rideau Canal Locks. (I will say that there are some incredible views that you can only get from the river, or by crossing over to Gatineau!)

This sightseeing river cruise is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Ottawa and is the perfect introduction to the Canadian capital. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the spectacular views!

• Downloadable app offers information in 9 other languages
• Choose to board in Ottawa or Gatineau (across the river)
• Wheelchair accessible

7. Ottawa Guided City Tour by Amphibious Bus

⏳ Tour Length: ~1 hour | ⭐ Ratings: 4.4 out of 5 stars (920+ reviews) | 🛥️ Book now

• See the sights of Ottawa in a unique amphibious vehicle
• Pass by Ottawa’s attractions by land (~40 min) and by river (~20 min)
• See Byward Market, Landsdowne Park, and Lake Dow
• Enjoy spectacular views of Ottawa from different perspectives

Explore the captivating city of Ottawa by land and water on these fun amphibious bus tours . Enjoy breathtaking views of Ottawa’s iconic landmarks and historical attractions from multiple perspectives.

Discover the city’s enchanting sights during 40 minutes of land-based exploration, including the picturesque Lake Dow , Landsdowne Park, and the lively Byward Market .

We actually live here in Ottawa… A bus that goes in the water sounded like fun and it was so much fun and educational… actually leaned so much more about this city. It’s a great tour for tourists and people who live here with an hour to spare. You won’t regret it. Read more reviews

Then, embark on an aquatic adventure that unveils Ottawa’s charms from a whole new vantage point. Spend 20 minutes cruising along the Ottawa River in a unique vehicle that seamlessly transitions from land to water.

This unique amphibious bus tour of Ottawa is an excellent choice for those who are short on time but still want to see and do it all. It’s a fun (and educational) activity that is perfect for the whole family!

• Tours are offered in English and French (bilingual guide)

8. Ottawa Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour

⏳ Tour Length: ~1.5 hours | ⭐ Ratings: 4.4 out of 5 stars (700+ reviews) | 🚎 Book now

🚎 Highlights:

• Hop-on and hop-off as many times as you like and see the city at your own pace
• See all of Ottawa’s top sights including the Canadian Parliament building, museums, and galleries
• Enjoy the city views from the open-top double decker bus or trolley

Discover the stunning city of Ottawa with this hop-on hop-off guided city tour ! Get comfy in a classic double-decker bus or trolley as you take a relaxing trip through Canada’s historic capital.

Over the course of 1.5 hours, you’ll have the opportunity to visit all of Ottawa’s most iconic sites . These include the renowned Canadian Parliament buildings, fascinating museums, and the bustling Byward Market.

Staff were very friendly, engaging commentary which was clear and informative… The route was carefully thought out and offered a very comprehensive overview of the city. Read more reviews

The beauty of a hop-on hop-off tour is that you can explore each attraction at your own pace . Admire art in a world-class museum, wander through a picturesque park, or feast on delicious local cuisine — the choice is yours!

So why wait? Book your seat on this hop-on hop-off guided tour of Ottawa today. It’s the perfect way to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

• Audio guides available in additional languages (German, Russian, Chinese, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese)

9. Ottawa Rideau Canal Cruise

⏳ Tour Length: ~1.5 hours | ⭐ Ratings: 4 out of 5 stars (650+ reviews) | 🛥️ Book now

• Cruise along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Glide through the city center and see Ottawa’s highlights on the world’s largest certified 100% electric passenger vessel
• See the operation of the Ottawa Locks

Embark on an eco-friendly journey through Ottawa on this Rideau Canal cruise . Experience one of Canada’s most historic waterways on the world’s largest certified, 100% electric passenger vessel.

Admire the breathtaking views of Ottawa’s top attractions as you glide along the Rideau Canal, honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site . Enjoy views of the Canadian Museum of Nature, Chateau Laurier, and the National Arts Centre as you glide along the canal.

Love the Rideau Canal Tour. An all-electric craft is in keeping with current ecological and environmental goals. Great historical information on Colonel By and the Canal… A wonderful experience. Judy B ( Read more Rideau Canal Cruise reviews )

Listen to your knowledgeable guide showcase the rich heritage and illustrious history of the city as you cruise from Dow’s Lake to the Ottawa River. Admire the ever-changing landscapes as you pass by sights ranging from museums to foreign embassies to some of Ottawa’s most beautiful parks.

This Rideau Canal cruise offers a refreshing perspective of Ottawa’s landmarks, allowing you to discover the city’s incredible history in a unique way.

• Audio guides available for download in English, Chinese, French, German, Russian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish
• A maximum of 30 people will be on your tour

Ottawa Tours Tips and FAQ

Three days is the perfect amount of time to see Ottawa . This gives you plenty of time to explore Ottawa’s must-see attractions such as the Parliament Buildings, the Rideau Canal, and the ByWard Market. You can also spend a day visiting Ottawa’s world-class museums, such as the Canadian Museum of History or the National Gallery of Canada.

The best time to visit Ottawa is in late spring and summer . In May, enjoy the Canadian Tulip Festival in Commissioners Park, with over 300,000 tulips! And the Northern Lights sound and lights show is a must-see for any visitor to Ottawa. It generally runs from the beginning of July through the beginning of September.

The number one thing to do in Ottawa is to see the Parliament Buildings . The Parliament Buildings and the Peace Tower are stunning, and in summer the Northern Lights show is projected onto the Parliament Buildings. You can also take guided tours of the Parliament Buildings to get a behind-the-scenes look at the seat of Canada’s federal government.

The legal drinking age in Ottawa is 19 years old. Note that there are differences in the legal drinking age across Canada, with some provinces (for example, the legal drinking age is 18 years old in the neighboring province of Quebec).

No, tips are not included in the cost of a tour in Ottawa. If you enjoyed your tour and your tour guide, gratuities are always appreciated!

Final thoughts..

From the iconic Rideau Canal to stunning Parliament Hill, there are countless reasons why Ottawa is a must-see travel destination in Canada.

Taking a guided tour in Ottawa ensures that you get to see all the city’s top sights. But if you’re ready to explore on your own, check out this post with all my recommendations for all the best things to do in Ottawa !

Planning a trip to Ottawa? Don’t miss out on all these amazing Ottawa tours — pin this for later!

You might also enjoy these posts about my favorite places to travel in Canada:

• Should you visit Montreal or Toronto?
• Best Food Tours in Montreal
• What to See at the Montreal Botanical Garden
• Best Things to Do and See in Victoria

Lisa Garrett

Lisa Garrett is the founder of Waves and Cobblestones. She has taken 18 cruises ranging from a multi-generational Caribbean cruise to solo Alaska cruises to fabulous Mediterranean cruises.

She lived in Ireland for 4 months and has taken over a half-dozen multi-city vacations in Europe (primarily relying on train and public transit). Lisa helps people plan amazing vacations to Europe and popular cruise destinations.

Learn more about Lisa !

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Privacy Overview

Ottawa Private Tour With a Local

Enjoy Ottawa’s captivating tapestry as you stroll through its picturesque streets guided by a local expert. Uncover the city’s rich history and cultural nuances while meandering past iconic landmarks and hidden gems .

With insider knowledge at your fingertips, this private tour offers a personalized experience like no other.

But what truly sets this experience apart is the opportunity to…

• Customizable private tours in Ottawa with passionate local guides
• Dive deep into local culture and hidden gems
• High-rated guide performance and customer satisfaction
• Convenient, flexible , and personalized tour experience

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Ottawa,Ultimate City Tour of Experience!: Discover the Best!
• Ottawa: Yacht Cruises on Ottawa River – Wed, Thu, or Fri
• Ottawa: Haunted Night Walking Tour
• Ottawa: Canadian War Museum Admission

Activity Details

Set out on a customizable private tour in Ottawa with a local guide, offering a duration of 2 to 6 hours and the option for live guides in Spanish and English , as well as audio guides in Albanian and Aymara . This immersive experience provides insider tips and deep dives into the local culture .

Guests benefit from the personalized touch of a passionate guide, ensuring a memorable exploration of Ottawa’s hidden gems. The tour allows visitors to feel comfortable navigating the city, armed with valuable insights and knowledge shared by their guide.

Experience Highlights

What makes this Ottawa private tour stand out among others?

This personalized experience offers guests the opportunity to explore the city’s hidden gems and local culture insights .

With a focus on exploration, visitors are guided by passionate locals who share their in-depth knowledge of Ottawa.

From the bustling markets to the serene parks, guests are immersed in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and feel at ease navigating its streets by the end of the tour.

Meeting friendly locals and learning city secrets are at the core of this unique experience, ensuring that guests not only see the sights but also gain a deeper understanding of Ottawa’s rich heritage and culture.

Review Summary

With remarkable ratings across various aspects, this Ottawa private tour has garnered high praise for its engaging guides and enjoyable experiences. The guide performance received an impressive rating of 4.9 out of 5, showcasing the dedication and expertise of the tour guides.

Customers expressed a high level of satisfaction with the value for money, service , and overall organization , rating them at 4.3 , 4.6, and 4.6 respectively. Positive feedback highlighted the engaging nature of the guides, ensuring guests have an immersive and memorable experience.

This strong emphasis on customer satisfaction contributes to the tour’s reputation for providing top-notch service and creating lasting memories for visitors exploring Ottawa.

Location and Logistics

Located in Ottawa, Ontario , Canada , this private tour offers convenient pickup from your hotel lobby or Airbnb, ensuring a personalized and hassle-free experience for guests. The pickup options cater to guests staying in various accommodations, enhancing the overall convenience of the tour.

With flexible duration options ranging from 2 to 4 hours, guests can choose a timeframe that best fits their schedule. This flexibility allows visitors to tailor their experience to match their preferences and time constraints.

The private group tours guarantee a personalized experience, where guests can interact closely with their local guide and explore Ottawa’s hidden gems at their own pace. Tour ID 82260 ensures a seamless booking process for those looking to embark on this adventure.

Customer Testimonials

Barbara’s review vividly captures the essence of a fabulous afternoon in Ottawa, highlighting visits to the national art gallery and engaging conversations with the guide, Guillaume. Her feedback emphasizes the enriching experience of exploring Ottawa’s art scene and the insightful discussions that accompanied the tour.

Barbara’s review reflects the positive sentiment towards the tour highlights and the personalized touch provided by Guillaume. Visitors can expect a memorable and enjoyable time seeing Ottawa’s cultural offerings while being guided by knowledgeable locals.

Cancellation and Reservation Policies

For guests seeking to understand the cancellation and reservation policies for the Ottawa Private Tour With a Local, it’s vital to note the flexible options available to ensure a seamless and stress-free booking experience.

The activity allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing a full refund for those who need to adjust their plans. Plus, guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, offering booking flexibility to accommodate various travel arrangements.

These policies aim to prioritize customer satisfaction and convenience, allowing individuals to engage in the experience with peace of mind. The refund policy and booking flexibility are designed to cater to the diverse needs of visitors looking to explore Ottawa in a personalized and hassle-free manner.

Tour Options and Inclusions

Enjoy a personalized and engaging Ottawa experience with the diverse tour options and inclusions available to explore the city’s hidden gems and local secrets.

• Tour Customization : Tailor your tour to your interests, whether it’s history , art, food, or nature.
• Local Insights : Gain insider knowledge about Ottawa’s culture, history, and must-see spots.
• Flexible Duration : Choose between 2, 3, or 4-hour tours to fit your schedule and preferences.
• Private Group Tours : Enjoy a personalized experience with just your group and a knowledgeable local guide.

These tour options provide a unique way to discover Ottawa, ensuring a memorable and insightful journey filled with authentic experiences and fascinating discoveries.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Ottawa: City Exploration Game and Tour
• Ottawa: Private Custom Tour With a Local Guide
• Ottawa: 4 or 8-Hour Bike Rental With Self-Guided Tour
• Ottawa: Scenic Helicopter Flight
• Ottawa: Best of Ottawa Small Group Tour With River Cruise
• Ottawa Downtown: Detective Outdoor Escape Game

Common questions

Are there any specific off-the-beaten-path locations that the local guide can take us to during the tour.

Hidden gems and local culture are the focus of the tour. Guests will explore unique spots off the beaten path with the local guide. This personalized experience offers insights into Ottawa’s culture beyond traditional tourist locations.

Can Guests Request a Specific Theme or Focus for Their Private Tour, Such as Architecture, History, or Food?

Guests can request a specific theme for their private tour, such as architecture, history, or food. They can enjoy customized experiences with personalized itineraries, local insights , and hidden gems. This ensures a tailored and enriching exploration.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour if Guests Want to Explore More of Ottawa With Their Local Guide?

Yes, guests can extend their tour duration to explore more of Ottawa with their local guide. This option allows visitors to discover hidden gems and delve deeper into the city’s secrets, creating a more immersive experience.

How Are the Local Guides Selected and Trained for These Private Tours in Ottawa?

Local guides for private tours in Ottawa are carefully selected through a rigorous process that evaluates their knowledge, communication skills , and passion for the city. They undergo extensive training methods to ensure engaging and informative experiences for guests.

Are There Any Special Arrangements Available for Guests With Specific Mobility Needs or Requirements During the Tour?

Accessibility accommodations are tailored for guests with specific mobility needs, ensuring personalized experiences. Local guides are equipped to provide support and adapt the tour to accommodate individual requirements, guaranteeing a comfortable and inclusive exploration.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Ottawa: Rideau Canal Cruise
• Ottawa: Half-Day Guided Craft Beer Tour by Bus
• Ottawa Highlights 3.5 Hour Bike Tour
• Ottawa: 2 or 3.5-Hour Sightseeing Bike Tour
• Self-Guided Biking in Ottawa-Gatineau
• 4-Hour Private Tour of Ottawa
• Rockcliffe Neighborhood Outdoor Escape Game in Ottawa
• Canadian War Museum Admission
• Ottawa Small Group Night Tour With River Cruise Light Show
• 3-Day Algonquin Park Canoe Trip
• City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries

Set out on a personalized journey through Ottawa with the Ottawa Private Tour With a Local.

With friendly guides fluent in multiple languages, including Spanish , English , Albanian , and Aymara , guests can explore the city’s hidden gems and local secrets.

Whether you choose a 2-hour or 6-hour tour, this experience promises a memorable and enjoyable time filled with culture, history, and engaging interactions with locals.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to discover Ottawa in a whole new way!

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31 Awesome Things to Do in Ottawa, Canada (Picked by a Local)

By: Author Taylor Lorenz

Posted on Last updated: 11/03/2021

I grew up in Ottawa and while I loved to dismiss this capital city as boring, Ottawa is far from it! There are so many things to do in Ottawa from your traditional sightseeing to outdoor activities that get you out in nature and on the water, to foodie highlights, and more.

I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Ottawa for tourists and locals alike with my personal recommendations plus the must-see sites in Ottawa. Whether you’re here for one day in Ottawa, a weekend in Ottawa, or you live here, there is plenty to see, do, and taste.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Ottawa

Hand-picked by a local, here are the must-consider things to do in Ottawa.

Ottawa Sightseeing

Ottawa sightseeing alone will keep you busy, so pick your favourites if you’re only here for a short while.

Visit Parliament Hill

Don’t think that Parliament Hill is a place to skip, Ottawa has beautiful, neo-gothic Parliament buildings that are in central downtown and easy to get to. Even if you just go to see the outside and snap a few pictures, it’s worth it. But you can go inside with guided tours that take you through the East Block, the House of Commons (West Block) and to see the truly grand Library of Parliament (but just for a peek). Tickets must be reserved and are limited. Keep in mind you can only bring in a small bag and one bottle of water, so pack light for this day of Ottawa sightseeing!

Join a walking tour

Like many major cities around the world, Ottawa, too, has a free walking tour you can join. The catch? You just have to tip. These tours are informative, giving you a basic outline of Ottawa’s history, and fun or unique facts about the capital, plus they help to orient you around the downtown core.

See the Changing of the Guard

Just like in London, Budapest, and other capital cities, in Ottawa, you can watch the changing of the guard, and you have two options! The smaller of the two changing of the guards can be seen at the National WW1 Memorial, just down Wellington Street from the Parliament Buildings. It showcases two guards and a piper changing duties in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The larger, quite impressive, changing of the guard happens on Parliament Hill’s east lawn at 10AM every day from late June until the end of August. Arrive early not only for a good view but to hear the explanation of the ceremony at 9:45AM that is modeled after one performed in England that began in 1959.

Check out the ByWard Market

An area of downtown Ottawa and a market of the same name, the Byward Market is the best place to visit in Ottawa for first-time visitors. The market itself is a collection of shops and restaurants, and it’s here that you can find the famous Obama cookies (find them at Le Moulin De Provence) that represent the new era between Canada and the US when Obama became president. During the summer vendors pop up around the indoor part of the market selling lots of handmade pieces, clothing, fresh produce from the area, and flowers.

Aside from the actual market, there is an abundance of restaurants, hotels, clubs, bars, and shopping, including one of Ottawa’s finest malls, the Rideau Centre. Don’t miss getting a beavertail from the BeaverTail stand on the corner of George and William Streets!

Go to Court

If you visit the Supreme Court of Canada and opt to take a tour, you can actually attend a trial if one is happening while you’re in the building! The building itself was built in 1939 and is an impressive art deco building with a grand marble entrance. Tours are free and are conducted every day in English and French. In the summer months, all you have to do is show up. During the off-season of September to April, you must book in advance .

Stroll down Sparks Street

Sparks Street is Canada’s first pedestrian mall and it’s here that you can grab food, find souvenir shops, lots of cafes, patios, and a relaxed area to wander through. It’s also where a number of festivals in Ottawa are held including Rib Fest , the Ottawa Busker Festival, and more.

Haunted Walk of Ottawa

Ottawa has a bit of an eerie past and you’ll learn all of the stories around some of Ottawa’s most famous sites on the famous Haunted Walk of Ottawa . It’s a great way to get to know the city and a different side to places such as the Fairmont Château Laurier and a haunted high school.

Enjoy the Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal has historical significance as it was originally built to connect Ottawa and Kingston (the original capital) and Lake Ontario, but it also was used for military defense when Canada and the US were at war in 1812.

Today this 200 kilometre waterway is a picturesque part of Ottawa that is enjoyed year-round. In the summer you can boat along the canal (or join a canal cruise if you don’t have a boat), opt to stay on land and enjoy a meal or drinks alongside the canal or try out the walking and cycling paths that are on either side. Don’t miss seeing the Ottawa locks (beside the Chateau Laurier). There is a patio and a green space to sit at and watch as boats move through the locks to the Ottawa River.

In the winter the Rideau Canal turns into one of the world’s longest skating paths (apparently Winnipeg and has gone and beat the record), which is one of the best things to do in Ottawa in winter . Skates can be rented on the canal and you can get hot drinks and BeaverTails right on the ice.

See the views from Major’s Hill Park

One of my personal favourite things to do when visiting cities is to check out the local parks. Ottawa’s main downtown park does not disappoint. Major’s Hill Park is a decently sized park that delivers optimal views. On one side you get the back of the Fairmont Chateau Laurier which is a picturesque castle-like hotel. On another, you have the Parliament Buildings and the Ottawa River, and on another, you see the pretty glass building that is the National Art Gallery.

Take some time to chill out here in the grass and walk around the paths, especially in the spring when the Ottawa Tulip Festival is happening. Tavern on the Hill is here, where you can grab nice cocktails and street food with a great view.

Nepean Point

An easy stroll from Major’s Hill Park, Nepean Point is one of the best viewpoints in central Ottawa. Take a walk up here (don’t worry it’s not a big hill and it’s paved) to see the back of the Parliament Buildings that feature the original Library of Parliament, where the Rideau Canal meets the Ottawa River, and over into Quebec.

Notre Dame Basilica

Located behind Major’s Hill Park and right across from the National Art Gallery, this so-called minor basilica has two shiny spires that were added later (after 1846 when it was originally built), that certainly grabs your attention. Inside the basilica, it is a detailed masterpiece. It is the oldest and largest church in Ottawa and is a designated National Historic site, so be sure to pop in for a look or join in on one of the guided tours that are run in the summer months.

Ottawa Museums

Ottawa has a wide selection of museums, so no matter what kind of museum you like, there’s one for you. Many of the museums in Ottawa are free on Thursdays after 4 or 5PM (it depends on the museum) until close.

National Gallery of Canada

This art museum has a great selection of both Canadian and international art and always brings in spectacular exhibits that change every so often. The big draw to the National Gallery of Canada , though, is Maman, a giant bronze spider that sits out front of the gallery. It’s one of six spiders that the artist Louise Bourgeois created. The others are located in destinations such as Tokyo, London, England, Doha, and more.

Canadian Museum of Nature

One of my personal favourite museums in Ottawa, the Canadian Museum of Nature has excellent permanent exhibits of animals from around Canada and the world. Plus, the building the museum is in looks like a castle!

Canadian Museum of History

The Canadian Museum of History is actually located in Hull, on the Quebec side of the river but it’s still a popular thing to do in Ottawa. The museum has a large space, the Grand Hall with art and pieces from Indigenous people’s which is one of the main highlights. But there is also a wide selection of permanent and travelling exhibitions showcasing history over the last 20,000 years.

Canadian War Museum

Located in a striking, modern building along the Ottawa River, the Canadian War Museum details Canada’s military history as well as the formation of Canada. You can expect to find a collection of tanks, jeeps, armored vehicles, and even Hitler’s limo.

Canadian Science and Technology Museum

Great for kids and curious adults alike, the Canadian Science and Technology Museum is an interactive playground that highlights Canada’s innovation. It underwent major upgrades in 2017 so for locals who only visited as kids…it’s worth checking out again!

Canada Aviation and Space Museum

With over 130 aircraft and artifacts that are from civil and military service, this museum that’s focused on Canadian achievements in the air is one to visit. The Canada Aviation and Space Museum is located on what was once a military base and includes details on Canada’s contribution to air and space travel since 1909.

Royal Canadian Mint

Located in the original building where the Canadian Mint was located in 1908, today you can visit to see how coins in Canada are made as well as medals, gold bullion coins, and more. It’s also here that you can see the Vancouver 2010 athlete medals.

Bank of Canada Museum

The Bank of Canada is a highly interactive museum that aims to show Canadian’s how they play a part in the economy by understanding it better.

Diefenbunker Museum

Named Canada’s Cold War Museum , the Diefenbunker is an underground bunker that has been converted into a museum detailing the history of the cold war era in Canada. The bunker was originally built during this era for the then Prime Minister, John Diefenbaker (hence the name), and other important Canadian officials in case of a nuclear attack. Since this museum is located on the outskirts of Ottawa, a car is needed to get to it.

Adventure in Ottawa

There are plenty of spaces in and around Ottawa to get outdoors.

Go White Water Rafting

Think you need to get out of the city to go white water rafting? Think again! You have your choice of white water rafting or tubing down the Ottawa River with great views, cliff jumping, and more with Ottawa City Rafting .

Hiking in Gatineau Park

Technically not in Ottawa, but within a 20-minute drive, Gatineau Park is an incredible area to explore for outdoor lovers. As a destination to visit year-round, the summer has numerous hiking trails to stellar viewpoints, cycling paths, and mountain biking, not to mention places to rent kayaks, canoes, and more, plus caves to explore. In the winter the trails are wonderful for cross country skiing.

Popular Trails in Gatineau Park:

• King Mountain
• Luskville Falls

Hiking on the Greenbelt

In Ottawa itself, there are a number of hiking trails on the Greenbelt, an area of the city that was created in the 1950s to stop urban sprawl into rural areas. Today you can hike and cycle this biodiverse area of the city.

Popular Trails on the Ottawa Greenbelt:

• Shoreline Trail
• Stony Swamp Trails
• Old Quarry Trail
• Jack Pine Trail

Ottawa Food Experiences

This capital packs a punch when it comes to delicious treats.

Try a BeaverTail

When in Canada…don’t miss trying a beavertail! This delicious pastry is fried dough, stretched out to look like a beavertail, and topped with goodies. The original is cinnamon sugar, but these days you can get a huge variety with toppings that can include Oreos, Reese’s Pieces, Nutella, and more.

Fine dine at Fairmont Chateau Laurier

The Chateau Laurier is a fabulous hotel but you don’t have to be a guest to enjoy the luxuries it offers. Try afternoon tea at Zoe’s, it’s spectacular, or head to La Terrasse, their patio that has one of the most over-the-top caesars I’ve ever seen and a view over the Ottawa locks.

Get to Stella Luna Gelato

A charming little cafe on Bank Street, this gelato shop has a romantic back story. The owners are an Ottawa local and Italian-born couple that began their relationship in Italy, Rome specifically. They moved to Ottawa and opened this gelateria to serve up delicious gelato, in true Italian style.

Sip a cocktail at Tavern on the Hill

Located in Major’s Hill Park, this is one patio that you’re going to want to visit. With delicious (and big) cocktails and a menu that includes gourmet hot dogs and tacos, you can kick back in the heart of Ottawa with a great view.

Relaxation in Ottawa

Don’t forget to take some time to indulge and pamper yourself.

Hop over to Quebec to find Le Nordik, a nordic spa that can be visited any season. With thermal pools, saunas, and cool dips, the real experience here is taking part in the whole thermal cycle. Massages, other treatments, food, and drinks can be enjoyed on-site too. This is one relaxing day that you won’t regret!

Dows Lake is a manmade lake that is an ideal spot to relax in the summer months. Check out this spot close to downtown to sit by the water or get out on it by renting a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or pedal boat. In the winter skating is an option here too.

Catch the sunset at Andaz

Andaz has the highest rooftop patio in Ottawa and it’s at this trendy Ottawa hotel that you can find delicious cocktails and a stellar view to watch the sunset as the sun disappears behind the Parliament Buildings.

Head to the beach

If you need a break from all the hustle and bustle, head to one of Ottawa’s beaches. On the west side of the city, you’ll find Britannia Beach and Westboro Beach, and on the east side, there is Petrie Island.

You’re covered for things to do in Ottawa, enjoy your time in my hometown! And welcome!

Continue planning your trip to Ottawa!

• The Ultimate Ottawa Food Tour
• Best Day Trips from Ottawa
• Canada Trip Planning

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Ottawa Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Ottawa. We've got 145 adventures going to Ottawa, starting from just 7 days in length, and the longest tour is 41 days. The most popular month to go is June, which has the largest number of tour departures.

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145 ottawa tour packages with 2,373 reviews.

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Toronto, 8 Days, Toronto Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 8 Days)

I LOVED this tour. This was my first time as a solo traveller. The tour guide and the driver were both excellent. The experiences were incredible. Trying to arrange the amount of cities, and experiences solo, with hotels, travel etc is not possible for anywhere near the amount paid. Value for money is excellent. Hotels overall were good. There were some that were a little out of the cities, however the tour guide and driver did their best to accommodate by driving everyone back into the city if they wanted to go. Most of the experiences were really good. The Montmorency Falls as an extra trip with meal was a little pricey. There was not enough time at the Falls and the best view would be down the bottom. This could have been a free trip, without the meal, I would suggest this is looked at. Also in Montreal the tour guide who took us round, was not very engaging and it was difficult to hear her. Everything else was spot on. Well organised, excellent value for money, lovely people, beautiful country, wide range of experiences. LOVED IT. Will definitely be doing another tour.

• Sightseeing

Canadian Capitals ( 8 days )

Best of Eastern Canada (End Toronto, 9 Days, Toronto Airport Departure Transfer)

Very nice tour. Would have liked more time in a place or two but, overall, good.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Ontario & French Canada (6 destinations)

The tour was all that had been promised. We have one comment that we hope is useful: it relates to accommodations containing baths with shower over, rather than separate showers. If your target traveller is 65+ years, as we are, separate showers instead of baths are more suitable (and safer).

Eastern Journey

Paul, our our director was knowledgeable, informative and very helpful We also enjoyed the Montreal tour, guided by Suzanne. Great itinerary, hotels were generally basic, comfortable with good breakfasts

Best of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 9 Days)

Optional excursions were reasonably priced. Suggest you put together other places in each city as a walking guide or short taxi or uber ride. Example access to close by museums open late and could walk to from hotel. Free time activities and what they are and where located is helpful.tour guide can offer to accompany a group interested to explore more during free leisure tome.Provide more detail info about the logistics of site visits. Niagara falls..suggest more water proof gear clothing and shoe types etc. Terrain to expect when visiting certain sites and possible alternatives.climbing and how difficult-easy or more strenuous or advanced climbing activity. Overall, small groups so much better than filling up bus. Thank you for giving single travelers their own bus space. Would love to watch more travel videos on longer driving distances.

• Christmas & New Year

Eastern Canada Highlights in a Week

WY were fantastic. The hotels that were booked were above our expectations, central to all the tours we were booked on. Instructions regarding travel and meeting places were very clear and the included tours gave us a wonderful taste of each place, with a balance of free time for our own exploring. One of our flights was delayed by almost 6 hours (NOT WY’s fault) and we arrived in Toronto very early in the morning. WY organised our driver, contacted the hotel and thus we avoided what could have been a difficult situation in an unfamiliar city. Thank you WY - We absolutely recommend you as a reasonably priced, high quality, well organised tour group!!

Eastern Canada Discovery (Classic, 8 Days)

The Sky's the Limit: Eastern Canada By Design

Historic Cities of Eastern Canada

This was the first time I’d been on a holiday to North America and also the first time I’d been on an escorted holiday. The group size was around 30 people (mainly couples), in total there were four single travellers on the holiday, most people on the holiday would have been over 50 years old. This holiday isn’t suitable for someone who can’t stand heights or who doesn’t like boat trips as two boat trips are included and lunch up the CN Tower is included, while some of the hotels in Canada are very tall and don’t have that many rooms per floor – I was on the 30th floor of the hotel in Toronto. The first day we got an oldish, not very luxurious coach but the tour director did say the coach and driver would just be for that day and for the rest of the trip we would have a different coach, which was a newish Globus branded coach which had better seating and more leg room than the coach we had on the first day. Apparently the different coach and driver on the first day was down to working hours for the main driver so I imagine it happens every time. In Ottawa the tour director promised us something that wasn’t advertised. It turned out this was the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Museum. I found this disappointing as it wasn’t very interesting and an included tour of the Parliament building or the Royal Mint would have been of far more interest to me. Local guides provided tours in Quebec City and Montreal. I think the one of Quebec City worked well but the one of Montreal was 2 hours, mainly on the coach (after already having spent most of the morning on the coach) alighting only to go inside a Cathedral and at a photo opportunity from a vantage point so I would have preferred a bit more walking around Montreal. For included meals be aware that you won’t have the full restaurant menu to order from but a special menu which doesn’t have as many options, in some cases there was only one available option for starter or dessert. If you book this tour and it’s possible I’d recommend arriving on Thursday and departing on Sunday as both Toronto and Montreal are huge cities and the tour only gives you limited time in both cities. For me it wasn’t possible to stay an extra night in Montreal and I don’t feel there wasn’t enough time to see the city.

Eastern Canada Adventure (Summer, 9 Days)

• Train & Rail

Ontario & French Canada with Ocean Train to Halifax

East Coast Essential End Toronto

Grand Canadian (19 Days)

What people love about ottawa tours.

Peter was awesome and knew his stuff.

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