5 Days in Ottawa: A Tourist's Dream

Explore the charm of Canada's capital in Ottawa.

22 April 2023

A trip to Ottawa, Canada as a tourist is a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visit iconic landmarks like the Parliament Hill, explore Gothic architecture at the Notre-Dame Basilica, and stroll through the stunning parks and gardens that dot the city. Discover the rich heritage of Canada at the National Gallery of Canada, Canadian Museum of History, and Canadian War Museum, and indulge in Ottawa's vibrant food and drink scenes, where you can taste local delights like BeaverTails and craft beer.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check into the quirky Novotel Ottawa hotel, located just steps from Parliament Hill
  • Take a stroll through the historic ByWard Market square, where you can sample local cuisine and browse unique boutiques
  • Visit the stunning National Gallery of Canada, home to an impressive collection of Canadian and international art
  • Enjoy a leisurely dinner at Play Food & Wine, a trendy restaurant known for its small plates and locally-sourced ingredients
Day 2

History and Culture

  • Take a guided tour of Parliament Hill, where you can learn about Canada's political history and admire the Gothic architecture
  • Explore the Canadian Museum of History, which houses exhibits on Canada's cultural heritage and First Nations history
  • Visit the Rideau Hall, the official residence of the Governor General of Canada, and stroll through its beautiful grounds
  • Enjoy a dinner at The Whalesbone, known for its sustainable seafood and oyster bar
Day 3

Outdoors and Adventure

  • Rent a bicycle and explore the scenic Rideau Canal pathway, which winds through the heart of the city
  • Admire the stunning views from the top of the Peace Tower at Parliament Hill
  • Head out on the water with Escape Boats, where you can rent a motorized vessel and explore the Ottawa River
  • Enjoy a hearty dinner at Chateau Lafayette, a historic pub known for its live music and cozy atmosphere
Day 4

Art and Entertainment

  • Visit the Canadian War Museum, where you can learn about Canada's military history and view an impressive collection of artifacts
  • Watch a movie or live performance at the famous National Arts Centre, one of Canada's premier performing arts venues
  • Admire the street art on display in the city's vibrant Hintonburg neighborhood
  • Enjoy dinner at Beckta Dining & Wine, a fine dining restaurant known for its exquisite French-inspired cuisine and extensive wine list
Day 5

Relaxation and Farewell

  • Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at the luxurious Nordik Spa-Nature, located just outside the city
  • Explore the beautiful grounds of the Experimental Farm, a sprawling urban farm that features gardens, animals, and historic buildings
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Atelier, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative tasting menus and avant-garde culinary creations.

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 on a Budget: 5 Days of Adventure

A trip to Ottawa, Canada on a limited budget can still be enjoyable and memorable. There are plenty of free or inexpensive things to do, such as visiting the National Gallery of Canada, exploring Parliament Hill, and walking along the Rideau Canal. Additionally, there are budget-friendly accommodations and dining options available throughout the city.

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.