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

Escape for a Long Weekend: Romantic Ottawa Getaway

A romantic trip to Ottawa, Canada offers the perfect blend of culture and natural beauty. From strolling through charming streets lined with boutique shops and cozy cafes, to admiring the jaw-dropping views of the Parliament Hill, there's no shortage of things to do. Take a leisurely stroll along the Rideau Canal, catch a show at the National Arts Centre, or savor a romantic dinner at one of the city's many acclaimed restaurants for a truly unforgettable experience.

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.

Experience Ottawa's Charm: 3 Day Travel Plan

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.

Whimsical Wonders: A 3-Day Ottawa Adventure on a Budget!

A family-friendly trip to Ottawa, Canada offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the iconic Parliament Hill and learn about Canada's political legacy, then head to the family-friendly Canadian Museum of History for an interactive journey through time. Enjoy leisurely bike rides or picnics along the scenic Rideau Canal, and don't forget to indulge in delicious beavertails, a local Ottawa treat!