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Museums & galleries

National Gallery of Canada

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National Gallery of Canada

National Gallery of Canada

The National Gallery of Canada is the country's premier art museum, Indigenous arts, and heritage museum. Travelers visit this institution to view a comprehensive collection of Canadian and international artworks, ranging from historical pieces to contemporary installations.

Getting There

The gallery is located near the downtown core of Ottawa. From the city centre, it is accessible via a short taxi ride, public transit, or a walk of approximately 10 to 15 minutes depending on your starting point.

Duration of Visit

Depending on the number of exhibitions and the depth of the permanent collection you wish to explore, allow between 3 and 5 hours for a visit. This provides sufficient time to navigate the galleries without rushing.

When to Visit

The museum is open year-round, making it a viable option during both the summer and winter seasons. Like most major galleries, it can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. Visiting on weekday mornings typically offers a quieter experience.

Nearby Attractions

Due to its central location, the gallery can be combined with several other landmarks within walking distance:

  • Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica (0.2km)
  • Peacekeeping Monument (0.2km)
  • Major's Hill Park (0.2km)
  • Peace Tower (0.5km)

Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near National Gallery of Canada

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica

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.

0.2 km away

Peacekeeping Monument

Heritage & monuments

Peacekeeping Monument

This monument in Ottawa, Canada's capital, honors soldiers who took part in international peacekeeping operations. It's a fitting place to reflect on the sacrifices of those devoted to peacekeeping missions.

0.2 km away

Major's Hill Park

Parks & gardens

Major's Hill Park

Major's Hill Park sits on a hill in downtown Ottawa where the Rideau Canal meets the Ottawa River. Parliament Hill is visible across the canal, and the National Gallery, ByWard Market and the Fairmont Château Laurier are all nearby, making it a great stop on a downtown walk.

0.2 km away

Peace Tower

Views & landmarks

Peace Tower

A bell and clock tower rising from the center of Canada's Parliament Buildings in Ottawa, and one of the country's most iconic landmarks. Its majestic look makes it a popular spot for photos.

0.5 km away

ByWard Market

Shopping & districts

ByWard Market

ByWard Market is Ottawa's iconic market district, located near Parliament Hill in the downtown core. Open year-round, it's a great place to stroll past stalls of fresh produce, flowers, crafts and souvenirs.

0.5 km away

Valiants Memorial

Heritage & monuments

Valiants Memorial

A memorial honoring 14 figures from Canadian military history, made up of fourteen life-size busts and statues. It was dedicated in 2006 in the presence of the Governor General.

0.6 km away