Experience Ottawa's Charm: 3 Day Travel Plan

Explore the captivating charms of Ottawa, Canada.

22 April 2023

Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, boasts a wealth of historical and cultural attractions for visitors. A visit to the Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery of Canada are must-sees. Tourists can also enjoy local cuisine, shopping, and outdoor adventures in this beautiful city.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Sightseeing and Snacking in Downtown Ottawa

  • Check into the boutique Hotel Andaz Ottawa Byward Market, in the heart of downtown
  • Stroll through the Byward Market, with its bustling outdoor stalls and artisanal shops
  • Visit the National Gallery of Canada and admire the impressive collection of Canadian and international art
  • Walk around Parliament Hill and take in the iconic architecture of the Canadian government buildings
  • Stop in at The Scone Witch for a delicious bite to eat the savoury scones are a must-try!
Day 2

History and Nature in Ottawa's Outskirts

  • Begin the day at the Canadian Museum of History, just across the river in Gatineau, Quebec
  • Marvel at the towering totem poles and explore the exhibits on Indigenous culture and history
  • Take a scenic drive to Gatineau Park and lace up your hiking boots for a nature walk
  • Stop at Chelsea Pub for a refreshing beer and a bite to eat
  • Return to Ottawa and cap off the night with a visit to the Haunted Walk of Ottawa if you dare!
Day 3

Festivals and Flavours of Ottawa

  • Start the day at the lively Byward Market again, this time for breakfast at the charming Wilf & Ada's
  • Check out the Ottawa Farmers' Market for some local produce and artisanal food products
  • Visit Rideau Canal and rent a bike or kayak to explore the waterway
  • Dive into the city's multicultural scene with dinner at El Camino, a trendy Mexican spot
  • End the night with a bang at the Sound and Light Show on Parliament Hill a mesmerizing display of lights and music.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Ottawa by plane is to fly into Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) from major cities such as Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver.

Car

The best way to get to Ottawa by car is via Highway 401, which connects Ottawa to major cities such as Toronto and Montreal.

Train

The best way to get to Ottawa by train is via Via Rail Canada from major Canadian cities such as Toronto and Montreal.

Boat

While Ottawa doesn't have direct access by boat, travelers can take a cruise down the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which connects Ottawa to other cities in Ontario including Kingston and Brockville.

Bus

The best way to get to Ottawa by bus is to take Greyhound or Megabus from cities such as Toronto, Montreal, or New York City.

Destination

Ottawa

If you enjoy beavers, hockey, and extreme temperature changes, then Ottawa is the city for you! This capital city has all the cultural and political attractions you could ask for, as well as the occasional maple syrup-induced food coma.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Ottawa on a Budget: Sights, Food, and Fun!

A trip to Ottawa, Canada on a limited budget can still be enjoyable with some strategic planning. Luckily, many of the city's most popular attractions, such as Parliament Hill and the National Gallery of Canada, offer free admission. In addition, there are plenty of affordable dining options and public transportation to help keep costs low.

Ottawa Adventures: A Family-Friendly 4-Day Escape!

A family-friendly trip to Ottawa, Canada offers a rich blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the iconic Parliament Hill, enjoy interactive exhibits at the Canadian Museum of History, and take a relaxing boat tour along the Rideau Canal. With countless parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly attractions like the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Ottawa is the perfect destination for a fun-filled vacation for all ages.

A Blissful 5-Day Romantic Getaway to Ottawa!

A trip to Ottawa, Canada for a romantic getaway would involve wandering through picturesque parks, indulging in delicious local cuisine, and exploring the city's cultural attractions. You can take a relaxing boat ride along the Rideau Canal, explore the historic parliament buildings and art galleries, and catch a show at the National Arts Centre. For a cozy evening, you can snuggle up by a fireplace in a charming inn or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the city's renowned restaurants.

Ottawa Oasis: A Thrilling Family Adventure Awaits!

A family-friendly trip to Ottawa, Canada offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, outdoor activities, and educational experiences. Explore the historic Parliament Hill and witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony, then head to the Canadian Museum of History to learn about Canada's rich heritage. Enjoy outdoor adventures in Gatineau Park, with hiking trails and picnic spots, or visit the Rideau Canal for boating, kayaking, and skating in the winter months. Ottawa promises a memorable and engaging trip for the whole family.