Canada
Ottawa
The capital of Canada, spread along the south bank of the Ottawa River. As Ontario's second-largest city, it offers a blend of politics and history.
Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
- Gateway airport
- Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW)
- Best season
- May–Oct
- Time zone
- America/St_Johns
- Sights covered
- 64 places
Sights worth seeing
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Museums & galleries
National Gallery of Canada
This is the national art gallery in Ottawa, Canada, home to a wide range of artworks. It's well worth a visit if you're traveling in Ottawa.
Museums & galleries
Canadian Museum of History
This national museum covers Canadian history, culture, and anthropology, and is notable for its striking building designed by Douglas Cardinal. It offers a broad look at Canada's heritage.
Museums & galleries
Canadian Museum of Nature
The Canadian Museum of Nature is Canada's national natural history museum in Ottawa, with its galleries and programs housed in the Victoria Memorial Museum Building. Its administrative and research facilities are located separately in nearby Gatineau, Quebec.
Museums & galleries
Canadian War Museum
This is Canada's national war museum in Ottawa, presenting the country's military history through a range of exhibits and memorial spaces. Located in a large building near the Ottawa River, it houses a wide array of artifacts and records to explore.
Castles & palaces
Rideau Hall
Rideau Hall is the official residence of Canada's Governor General and the monarch, set on spacious grounds on the outskirts of Ottawa. Visitors can tour the mansion, with its more than 170 rooms, along with its gardens.
Temples & religious sites
Archdiocese of Gatineau
This is a Catholic archdiocese located in Gatineau, in Quebec, Canada. It serves as the metropolitan see overseeing the dioceses of Amos and Rouyn-Noranda.
Temples & religious sites
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
A Roman Catholic cathedral near Ottawa's Lowertown. Designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1990 in recognition of its historical significance, it's a wonderful place to admire fine cathedral architecture.
Museums & galleries
Canada Aviation and Space Museum
This national museum showcases Canada's aviation history and is located on the grounds of Rockcliffe Airport in Ottawa. Visitors can explore a wide range of aircraft and space-related exhibits tracing the country's aviation heritage.
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Getting there
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Getting around the city
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Guides by theme
Best value
How to find the best value accommodation in Ottawa
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5-star & luxury
Where to stay for a luxury experience in Ottawa
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Pool villas & resorts
How to choose a pool villa or resort stay in Ottawa
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Family travel
Where to stay in Ottawa for a family vacation
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Couples & honeymoon
Where to stay in Ottawa for a romantic getaway or honeymoon
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Central & near stations
Where to stay in Ottawa for central access and transport
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Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit Ottawa, Canada?
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First-time guide
How to plan your first visit to Ottawa, Canada
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Getting around
How to navigate public transport and travel in Ottawa
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