Published on December 13, 2023 · Written by Zack Fenech
Ottawa is often referred to humorously as “the city that fun forgot.” While there might be some gravitas to that tongue-in-cheek statement, the truth is that Ottawa is a pretty fun city for a government town. I’ve been at least ten times by now and look forward to the next opportunity to visit Canada’s capital.
In this Ottawa travel guide, we’ll detail everything you’ll want to know before visiting. There are many things to do in such a small city – and this is, after all, the epicentre of the Canadian government, meaning there’s at least something fun to do if you’re a history buff or just looking to experience a new city for a few days. For more destinations in the country, check out our Canada travel guide.
Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Ottawa, Ontario
- Be sure to get travel insurance before your trip.
- Ottawa is surrounded by the Rideau Canal, which means it can get very cold in the winter. Be prepared for the cold weather.
- Ottawa is a very safe city. You will likely not face any crime nor visit any unsafe area.
- Ottawa is somewhat bilingual – most residents speak English but many also speak French.
- Ottawa is bordered by Gatineau, Quebec, which is worth visiting if you have some time to explore. Note that people in Gatineau and Quebec mostly speak French, though many residents are bilingual.
How to Get to Ottawa, Ontario
Via Airplane
Use Skyscanner to find and compare the best flights to Ottawa. If you are visiting Ottawa via airplane, Ottawa International Airport is served by public transit. The 97 bus runs to the downtown core and requires a transfer.
Via Coach Bus
MegaBus offers coach bus service from Toronto and Kingston. At the time of writing, a round trip from Toronto costs around $60 CAD.
Via Train
Via Rail offers train service to Ottawa from Montreal and Toronto. Train tickets cost around $100 round trip.
Transportation in Ottawa
Ottawa is walkable and easy to navigate. The city offers buses and a Light Rail Transit (LRT) line. The fare costs $3.75 and can be used on buses as well. Most points of interest are within walking distance, so a day pass is rarely necessary. Uber, Lyft, and taxis are all available. Ottawa street corners also host rental scooters from companies like Lime and Byrd.
Things to Do in Ottawa, Canada
Ottawa has many places you can visit. Since it is a government town, there are more than enough parliament buildings to visit. But it’s also home to interesting museums, fun neighbourhoods, and lots to do outdoors, in all seasons.
1. Parliament Hill
The most important building in Canadian politics and a centrepiece of Canadian history. Completed in 1856, it experienced a massive fire in 1916 and was rebuilt into the massive building it is today. Never skip it when visiting Ottawa.
2. Centennial Flame
A flame representing over 100 years of Canadian confederation, created in 1967 to commemorate Canada’s centennial achievement. It uses natural gas and burns all year round, no matter how cold it gets.
3. Byward Market
An outdoor market square in Ottawa’s downtown core, populated by various stores, restaurants, and markets. The epitome of Ottawa’s centre, and one of the most populated places in the city. Offers a farmer’s market in the summer and seasonal winter activities.
4. Lucky Ron at the Laff
Lucky Ron is an Ottawa legend with a residency playing Johnny Cash, Stompin’ Tom Connors, and other country favourites every Saturday from 4 PM to 7 PM at the Lafayette – affectionately known as the Laff – Ottawa’s oldest bar. In a matter of minutes of Lucky Ron hitting the stage, the Laff turns into a wildhouse of singing from adoring fans. Genuinely one of the best live music experiences in Canada.
5. Westboro
The trendy side of Ottawa – full of unique boutiques and restaurants that merge casual and fancy in a great combination. Great bars, fun nightlife, and even glow-in-the-dark bowling.
Food to Eat & Restaurants to Try in Ottawa
Ottawa isn’t exactly a bastion of original local food, but it is a great food city.
1. Pickled Eggs
Ottawa bars are home to pickled eggs. It’s a treat to enjoy with a beer in one of Ottawa’s many dive bars – served with saltines and pickled onions. Cheap, weird, and oddly great.
2. Ottawa-Style Pizza
Ottawa has its own style of pizza which places the toppings under the cheese. Somehow, this makes pizza taste better than regular pizza. Ottawa is one of the best cities in Canada for pizza.
3. Steames
Steamed hotdogs served at many Ottawa dive bars. Traditionally a Quebec food, available in Ottawa since the two cities are so close. Have them dressed with your condiments of choice, or Montreal style: onions, cabbage, and mustard.
4. Shawarma
Ottawa has a large Lebanese population, and shawarma is a staple of the region. Grab a shawarma or falafel if you’re in the mood for something uniquely Ottawa.
5. Poutine
You can’t be this close to Quebec and not stumble across a poutine joint. Fries covered with gravy and cheese curds – the staple way of eating this delicious, carby meal.
6. Beavertails
Beavertails are fried dough covered in various toppings, including apple and cinnamon, Oreo, Reese’s, and many more. A Canadian treat and a must-try in Ottawa.
Final Thoughts on Ottawa, Canada
For the best deals on places to stay, book hotels online ahead of your visit.
Ottawa is a beautiful city with a lot to offer for those looking for a fun little getaway. As the saying goes, Ottawa is the “city that fun forgot.” I think that’s incredibly untrue. Ottawa is the city where fun’s been hiding.
FAQs About Travelling to Ottawa, Canada
Is Ottawa safe?
Yes. Ottawa is one of the safest cities in Canada.
Is Ottawa in Ontario or Quebec?
Ottawa is in Ontario. However, it is a 15-minute walk from Quebec. The closest city across the river is Gatineau.
Is Ottawa expensive to visit?
Ottawa is not cheap to visit, but it’s no more expensive than any other Canadian city.