What to do and see in Ottawa?

If you are planning to go to Canada Soon, it would be good to stop for a few days in its capital Ottawa. This city offers many attractions for tourists, home to numerous museums, delicious gourmet restaurants and human-scale neighborhoods in which you will certainly love to get lost. In order to prepare your getaway more easily, here is what to do and what to see in Ottawa.

The 5 essential steps to discover absolutely in Ottawa

Take a tour of Parliament Hill

If you’re wondering what to do and see in Ottawa, your first stop will definitely be Parliament Hill. Very close to the city center, and covered in lush nature, it owes its name to the Parliament building, which is worth a look for its characteristic Gothic architecture in Canada.

Beyond Parliament itself, you can stop at the Memorial Chapel (in memory of fallen soldiers since Confederation), or simply enjoy the panoramic view of the city of Ottawa. It is also an obligatory stop for many tourists, who can benefit from a free guided tour.

Sailing on the Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal connects Ottawa and Kingston (which is located on the famous Lake Ontario). Ideal for pleasure boating, it is also the oldest canal on the North American continent, which also transforms into the largest ice rink in the world in winter. You can take the opportunity to visit the city without having to walk. But it is also a perfect observation spot for the numerous birds, reptiles and mammals that populate its banks.

Giving national museums a chance

Impossible to stay in Ottawa without stopping at its many museums. You will be able to admire the numerous works of art that Canadians owe to the Indians, but also breathtaking totem poles. Art and history buffs can get lost there for an entire day without being able to fully satisfy their curiosity as they are full of hidden treasures.

Get lost in the Byward Market district

The ByWard Market is the oldest farmers’ market in Canada. It’s the ideal place to discover all the fresh products the country has to offer (like excellent maple syrups). In this maze of 175 stalls, you can stroll among flowers and fruits, but also rare pieces of local crafts and luxury boutiques. It’s also the ideal place to taste a beaver tail, this deliciously sweet pastry.

Take a food tour of the city

Ottawa is also a foodie city full of culinary expeditions for all curious people who would like to discover Canadian specialties. For example, C’est Bon Cooking allows you to explore the Byward Market with locals, but also Chinatown and Wellington West. Each step is an excuse to taste a regional specialty and stop at small merchants who will introduce you to their region and their delicious local products.