Ottawa

Nestled at the junction of three scenic rivers and home to Canada’s federal government, Ottawa is considered to be one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world. Its famous Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, becomes the world's largest natural skating rink in winter. It's no surprise that our capital is often part of a Canada self-drive itinerary. 

Situated just across the river from the province of Quebec, Ottawa is a dynamic environment with strong French and English roots and a rich cultural and ethnic diversity.
 

CENTENNIAL FLAME

Located in the forecourt of Parliament Hill, the Centennial Flame commemorates Canada’s 100th anniversary as a Confederation. The flame burns in the centre of a fountain surrounded by the 12 coats of arms of Canada's provinces and territories, and is the symbol of Canadian unity.

The Centennial Flame offers a superb view of the Parliament Buildings. Time to get out your camera! The flame burns year-round, in summer and winter alike!

CHANGING OF THE GUARD

You can enjoy the music and colourful drills of the changing of the guard (much like the one at Buckingham Palace). It begins on Parliament Hill at 10:00 every morning, but be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes ahead of time to get a good spot. Best of all, it's free of charge!

Daily from the end of June until the end of August when weather makes it possible.

NORTHERN LIGHTS

This superb sound and light show will take you on an unforgettable audiovisual journey through the history of Canada against the backdrop of the iconic Parliament Buildings.

Presented free of charge on Parliament Hill every evening in summer from early July to early September, at 10 p.m. in July, 9:30 p.m. in August and 9 p.m. in September. The show lasts 30 minutes.

BOAT CRUISE ON THE OTTAWA RIVER

Take a sightseeing cruise on the famous Ottawa River for superb views of Rideau Falls, Parliament Hill and the sumptuous homes of Sussex Drive, including the Prime Minister's residence.

Daily from mid-May to early October, departing at 10:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. From mid-June to early September, additional departures at 5:15 p.m. and 7 p.m.

BYWARD MARKET 

Established in 1826, the ByWard Market (Marché By in French) is one of Canada's oldest and largest public markets. This quaint market, covered in winter, is home to farmers with their fresh flowers, fruits and vegetables throughout the warm months, and local artisans and specialty food shops year-round. The area also features many cafés, restaurants, boutiques and tea shops, as well as a dynamic night life!

Open year round.

SPARKS STREET MALL 

Sparks Street is an attractive and thriving pedestrian mall lined with trees and colourful flowerbeds, shops and cafés, located just south of Parliament Hill.

It is also home to a wide variety of events and activities throughout the year.

RIDE ON THE RIDEAU CANAL

The Rideau Canal is the heartbeat of Ottawa and an integral part of the lifestyle of its residents. One of the best ways to explore the Canal and its magnificent views of the city is with a sightseeing cruise on its calm waters. You will learn all about the history of Canada's Capital and its main attractions from your on-board tour guide. Departing from the National Arts Centre (1 Elgin St) below the Plaza Bridge (Rideau St. bridge).

Daily from mid-May to early October (departing at 10 a.m., noon, 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.). From mid-June to early September, an additional departure is possible daily at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 8:30 p.m.

CANADIAN MUSEUM OF HISTORY

This museum complex is dedicated to 1,000 years of Canadian history. Learn about the arrival of the Vikings, the art and traditions of Canada's First Peoples and the country's 275 ethnic groups. You will have the chance to admire the world's largest indoor collection of totem poles in the heart of a reproduction of a West Coast tribal village. The museum houses an impressive collection of 5 million artifacts, with a focus on Canadian cultural traditions.

Visit the Canadian Children's Museum for a trip around the world, where you and your children will discover a host of fascinating people and places. The complex also features an IMAX theatre.

Open Wednesday-Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (7 p.m. on Thursdays).

NOTRE-DAME CATHEDRAL BASILICA

This magnificent Neo-Gothic style cathedral was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1990 because of its great heritage value. The building's notable features include its stone exterior, its two square towers, an ornately decorated interior with vaulted ceilings and extensive woodwork, and its interior sculptures carved by notable Canadian sculptor, Philippe Hebert.

Paid guided tours are possible by reservation only, Tuesday-Friday at 9 a.m. and Wednesday-Thursday at 1:30 p.m. or 3 p.m.
 

NEARBY

GATINEAU PARK

This park, just 15 minutes from downtown Ottawa, is the largest green space in the Outaouais region, known for its rich biodiversity and its rolling green hills and forests. People come here in summer to visit historic sites, such as the Mackenzie-King Estate, to hike along its 183 km of trails (accessible from April 15 to September 15), and to cycle, swim and camp. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are the activities of predilection.

There are also scenic drives leading to lookouts, lakes and waterfalls. The park is open 24 hours a day, all year round, except during severe weather.

The Visitor Centre is open daily in May-October from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and in November-April from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday (closed December 25).