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Ottawa
Destinations › … › Canada › Ontario

Ottawa

Population: 994.000 Since: Founded in 1826 Price: Mid-range Capital city
warning Wildfires (Canada): Forest fires in Canada · Check official travel advisories before you go.

Introduction

Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural diversity. Visitors are often charmed by its beautiful architecture, including the iconic Parliament Hill, and the scenic Rideau Canal, which transforms into the world's largest skating rink in winter.

The city offers a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, with numerous parks and green spaces. Ottawa's friendly atmosphere makes it easy to explore on foot or by bike, though some areas can feel quieter compared to larger Canadian cities like Toronto or Vancouver.

In pictures

Ottawa
Ottawa
Ottawa
Ottawa
The Champlain Sea
The Champlain Sea
Camp used by soldiers and labourers of the Rideau Canal, on the south side of the Ottawa River in 1826. The building of the canal attracted many land speculators to the area.
Camp used by soldiers and labourers of the Rideau Canal, on the south side of the Ottawa River in 1826. The building of the canal attracted many land speculators to the area.

Sightseeing

Parliament Hill: The seat of Canada's government, featuring stunning Gothic architecture.
Rideau Canal: A UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for boating in summer and skating in winter.
National Gallery of Canada: Home to an impressive collection of Canadian and Indigenous art.
Canadian Museum of History: Explores Canada's past through engaging exhibits and stunning views.
ByWard Market: A bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and local artisans.
Canadian War Museum: Offers a deep dive into Canada's military history and contributions.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: A poignant memorial located at the National War Memorial.
Dows Lake: A picturesque spot for picnics and outdoor activities.

"A city of culture and history"Ottawa

Things to do

Explore ByWard Market: Discover local produce, crafts, and eateries in this historic area.
Skate on the Rideau Canal: Experience the thrill of skating on the frozen canal in winter.
Visit the Canadian Museum of History: Learn about Canada's diverse heritage and culture.
Attend a festival: Join in the celebrations during events like Winterlude or Canada Day.
Take a bike ride along the canal: Enjoy scenic views and fresh air on dedicated bike paths.

Top attractions

Local food and drinks - Ottawa

Local food and drinks

BeaverTails: A popular pastry, often topped with sweet toppings.
Poutine: Fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, a Canadian classic.
Butter Tarts: A sweet dessert tart, rich and gooey, a local favorite.
Local craft beer: Ottawa has a thriving craft beer scene worth exploring.
Local traditions - Ottawa

Local traditions

Canada Day: Celebrated on July 1st with fireworks and parades.
Winterlude: A winter festival featuring ice sculptures and outdoor activities.
Tulip Festival: An annual spring event celebrating the blooming tulips gifted by the Netherlands.
BeaverTails Day: A fun day dedicated to enjoying the iconic pastry.
History - Ottawa

History

Ottawa was founded in 1826 as a lumber town, strategically located at the confluence of the Ottawa, Gatineau, and Rideau Rivers. It was chosen as the capital of the Province of Canada in 1857 by Queen Victoria, partly due to its defensible position against American invasions.

Over the years, Ottawa has evolved into a cultural and political hub, with significant developments such as the construction of the Parliament Buildings and various national museums. Today, it stands as a testament to Canada's growth and diversity.

Things to know

Watch out for tourist traps: Some areas can be overpriced, especially in the ByWard Market.
Public transport can be limited: Buses are available, but routes may not be frequent.
Winter weather can be harsh: Dress warmly if visiting during the colder months.
Safety is generally good: However, be cautious in less populated areas at night.

Do's and don'ts

Visit museums: Explore the rich cultural offerings of the city.
Try local food: Sample iconic dishes like poutine and BeaverTails.
Enjoy outdoor activities: Take advantage of parks and the Rideau Canal.
Attend local events: Participate in festivals to experience the local culture.
Don't skip the winter activities: Ottawa's winter scene is unique and enjoyable.
Don't ignore public transport schedules: Plan ahead to avoid long waits.
Don't miss the changing of the guard: A traditional ceremony at Parliament Hill.
Don't forget to dress for the weather: Be prepared for sudden changes, especially in winter.

Good to know

Accessibility: Many areas are wheelchair accessible, but some attractions may have limitations.
Price level: mid-range

Photo: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons