Canada · Region
Ottawa
Ottawa is Canada's capital, a bilingual city where Gothic Revival parliament buildings rise above the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site that becomes the world's largest skating rink each winter. It blends federal government gravitas with riverside museums, a lively market district and a compact, walkable core.
Top-rated things to do in Ottawa
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Where to stay in Ottawa
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Frequently asked questions about Ottawa
How do I get to Ottawa?
Most travellers arrive via Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW), located a few kilometres south of downtown. From there, OC Transpo buses connect to the city's Confederation Line light rail, reaching the core in roughly 30-45 minutes.
How many days should I spend in Ottawa?
Plan on ~2-3 days to cover Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal and the national museums, with an extra day if you want to explore the Byward Market and nearby Gatineau at a slower pace.
What is Ottawa known for?
Ottawa is Canada's capital, a bilingual city where Gothic Revival parliament buildings rise above the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site that becomes the world's largest skating rink each winter. It blends federal government gravitas with riverside museums, a lively market district and a compact, walkable core.