City centre Ottawa blends political grandeur with cultural treasures in Canada's capital. Parliament Hill's Gothic towers stand proudly alongside the UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal. National museums showcase Canadian heritage while government buildings buzz with activity. The area comes alive during festivals like Winterlude. The area offers excellent connectivity through three metro stations and walkable streets. Byward Market Square tempts visitors with local flavours just steps from the National Arts Centre. Notre-Dame Cathedral's spires complement the striking National Gallery, making City centre Ottawa perfect for history buffs and art lovers alike.
ByWard Market blends history with vibrant energy in city centre Ottawa. This historic district dates back to 1826, with charming cobblestone streets and 19th-century buildings housing unique shops and eateries. The lively public market offers everything from fresh produce to artisanal maple syrup. By day, browse local vendors and speciality boutiques at Byward Market Square and Rideau Centre. As evening falls, the area transforms into a bustling nightlife hub where restaurants and pubs fill with locals and visitors alike. The neighborhood's walkable streets make exploring Ottawa's oldest commercial district a delightful adventure.
Centretown blends government grandeur with area charm in the heart of Ottawa. Heritage buildings and Victorian homes line quiet residential streets just steps from bustling commercial corridors. The Canadian Museum of Nature and tree-lined parks offer peaceful retreats from the city pace. Bank and Elgin Streets pulse with diverse dining options and independent shops. Catch the metro at Parliament or Lyon Station to explore Ottawa's attractions. The scenic Rideau Canal provides a natural boundary where locals and visitors alike enjoy seasonal recreation.
The Glebe blends historic charm with vibrant urban living just minutes from city centre Ottawa. Travellers love its tree-lined streets filled with heritage homes and lively Bank Street corridor. TD Place Stadium hosts exciting sporting events while the scenic Rideau Canal offers year-round recreation. This walkable area boasts independent boutiques, cosy cafés, and bookshops perfect for leisurely browsing. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate Patterson Creek Park and Brown's Inlet for peaceful green spaces. The Glebe's festivals and live music scene create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors seeking authentic local experiences.
Hip Westboro combines urban style with natural beauty along the Ottawa River. Independent boutiques and craft breweries line Richmond Road, creating a trendy yet authentic atmosphere. Tree-lined streets maintain a charming village feel despite the neighborhood's growing popularity. Westboro Beach offers sandy shores perfect for summer relaxation and swimming. The Ottawa River Pathway connects cyclists and walkers to city centre attractions while providing scenic waterfront views. Most shops and restaurants are locally owned, giving visitors a genuine taste of Ottawa's creative spirit.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Ottawa
Canadian Tire Centre
8.4/10 (3,133 reviews)
Home to the Ottawa Senators NHL team, the Canadian Tire Centre hosts thrilling hockey games and major concerts. Splurge on luxury suites for premium views and enhanced dining options during events.
Parliament Hill
9.0/10 (11,740 reviews)
Parliament Hill stands as Canada's political heart, showcasing stunning neo-Gothic architecture and rich history. Join a guided tour to explore the Centre Block and ascend the Peace Tower for panoramic Ottawa views.
Byward Market Square
9.0/10 (10,339 reviews)
This historic marketplace has been Ottawa's culinary and cultural heart since 1826. Wander through stalls of fresh produce and artisanal goods, then linger at pavement cafés in the surrounding entertainment district.
University of Ottawa
8.6/10 (3,172 reviews)
This bilingual campus blends historic Tabaret Hall with modern STEM facilities in Canada's capital. Explore the university's art installations and green spaces while experiencing both English and French academic culture.
National Arts Centre
9.0/10 (912 reviews)
Canada's premier performing arts venue showcases orchestral concerts, theatre, and dance in its distinctive Brutalist setting. Experience world-class performances in intimate or grand spaces.
Casino du Lac Leamy
8.6/10 (1,692 reviews)
This lakeside casino dazzles with 1,400 slot machines, gaming tables, and live entertainment. Experience the thrill of chance, then unwind at the integrated Hilton hotel's restaurants or waterfront terrace.
Rideau Canal
9.2/10 (10,604 reviews)
The Rideau Canal transforms from a historic UNESCO waterway in summer to the world's largest skating rink in winter. Glide past heritage lockstations while enjoying Ottawa's skyline during Winterlude.
Calypso Water Park
9.2/10 (101 reviews)
Canada's largest waterpark features a wave pool the size of three NHL hockey rinks and 35 thrilling water slides. Secure a VIP cabana for a private retreat between adventures in the themed rivers and foam parties.
"On top of everything Fairmont offers, this venue has very well maintained spacious rooms. They are clean and smell like summer mornings. Friendly staff always ready to help. My family enjoyed every minute of the stay. Will definitely visit again"
"We were supposed to check in at 3:00 PM, but upon arrival, the staff informed us that their system was down and asked us to wait. As a result, we were only able to access our room at 6:00 PM, three hours after the scheduled check-in time.
When we asked if they could allow us a one- or two-hour late check-out to compensate for the inconvenience and the time we lost, the manager refused and said there was nothing they could do to compensate in any way. She also claimed she was not aware of the...
"Great stay, room was huge, very clean and comfortable. Pool was great tho a bit gross (hair everywhere). Front desk guy at check in was a bit rude tho (no greeting, and at the end, he put key on desk and turned around to his colleagues - no mention of room number, incidentals, amenities, breakfast etc anything that is typically the norm when checking in, or even mere courtesy)."
"Garbage and recycling hadn't been emptied under the sink. Dogs whined and howled all night. Spoke to manager and nothing offered but the sign read " If you are unsatisfied we will give you a night stay". Will choose elsewhere next time."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You can grab a holiday package to this destination on Expedia. But how much your holiday to Ottawa costs will depend on factors like the season, length of stay and hotel choice.
What are the cheapest months to go to Ottawa?
January, February and November are great times to look for cheap Ottawa holiday packages. Choosing to travel in less busy months means you can generally find lower prices on accommodation and flights.
How many days is enough for Ottawa?
Ottawa holidays can be short or long, but to get a real feel for this destination, we'd say 2 days is about right. With this timeframe, you can visit top sights like Canadian Museum of Nature and Centrepointe Theatre and track down some lesser-known spots. Don't miss out on cool areas such as Downtown Ottawa and Byward Market - Parliament Hill either. If you plan wisely, you can even schedule a day trip or two from Ottawa too.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Ottawa?
During your Ottawa holiday, you can look forward to experiencing some top-notch culture and history. Leave enough room in your itinerary to check out major attractions like Byward Market Square and Canadian Museum of History.
How to find the best Ottawa package deals?
Landing a cheap Ottawa package deal is a breeze with Expedia. Once you've entered your destination and travel dates under our "Packages" tab, set your maximum budget, add a couple of filters and browse what's available. You can tweak your search by "Property class," "Number of bedrooms," "Traveller experience" and more. Order the results by "Price: low to high" to discover the most wallet-friendly Ottawa package deals. Want a simple trick to get the biggest savings? Be flexible with your departure dates and consider going away on a weekday, when prices are often lower.
Is it cheaper to book an Ottawa holiday as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your Ottawa getaway by booking a tailored holiday package. Check the "Package" heading, then enter your destination and travel dates to view the best hotel prices and airfares. Bundling can save travellers hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a rental car and you may score a better deal.
When to book a holiday package to Ottawa?
If you're considering an impromptu Ottawa holiday, browse our last-minute deals that can be booked up to one week before you take off. Prefer not to wait until the last minute? You can score sensational deals on your flights and hotels by booking well in advance.
How to plan a trip to Ottawa?
Choose when to get away: Check your schedule and pack your bags. Your favourite time of year and the activities available will also help you decide when to escape to Ottawa.
Work out your budget: Ensure you have enough money to cover everything from dining out and transportation to flights and experiences. Your hotel will likely be the largest expense during your trip to Ottawa.
Decide how long to go away for: Now that you know more about Ottawa, you can figure out the perfect length of your break. Put together a rough itinerary and give yourself enough time for all the things you want to do.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your car rental, hotels, flights and more into a customised Ottawa holiday package.
Byward Market Square offers a vibrant public market atmosphere, perfect for unique gifts and souvenirs. For a mix of shopping and entertainment, visit Kanata Centrum Shopping Centre. South Keys Shopping Centre provides a family-friendly experience with various shops, making it an ideal spot for your shopping needs.
Recreation
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere at the Canadian Tire Centre, where sports events energise the spirit. Enjoy recreational activities at Lansdowne Park, a hub of sports and leisure. At Walter Baker Sports Centre, engage in a variety of sports that promote wellness and fitness.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of Commando Paintball with its family-friendly atmosphere, or make a splash at Calypso Water Park, perfect for adventure and entertainment alike. For more fun, visit Midway Family Fun Park, where adventure vibes await for the whole family to enjoy.
Nightlife
Ottawa's nightlife buzzes with energy, featuring vibrant bars and live music venues. Visit The Bourbon Room for an eclectic mix of tunes and cocktails or head to The 27 Club for a taste of local talent and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy the city's diverse entertainment offerings.
Find the best attractions in Ottawa
Ottawa is an excellent destination for city-themed, family, and outdoor vacations, offering a variety of attractions such as urban parks, historic civic government buildings, and modern colleges and universities. Visitors can immerse themselves in outdoor activities and cultural experiences, perfect for families. Don't miss exploring the scenic Ottawa River for a delightful experience in and around the city.
Parliament Hill: Immerse yourself in Canada’s political heart at Parliament Hill. This historic site offers guided tours, allowing you to explore stunning architecture and learn about the nation’s governance, all while enjoying vibrant cultural vibes.
Elgin Street: A bustling thoroughfare, Elgin Street is known for its friendly atmosphere, making it ideal for families and business travellers alike. Enjoy a variety of dining options and shops, all within a welcoming community vibe.
National Gallery of Canada: Discover a treasure trove of Canadian and Indigenous art at the National Gallery. This impressive museum not only showcases stunning artworks but also provides a deep cultural experience in a beautifully designed space.
Best time to go to Ottawa
The best time to visit Ottawa is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Ottawa
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Ottawa.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically March and December to January) for more affordable package holidays to Ottawa.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.