Ottawa

Canada

Safety rating
8.6/10
Best time to visit
May to October brings tulips, festivals, and warm weather, while February's Winterlude turns the frozen canal into the world's largest skating rink. Fall colors are stunning.
Population
1.5M

Overview

Canada's capital is a dignified riverside city of national museums, Gothic parliament buildings, and the historic Rideau Canal. It is green, bilingual, and walkable, with a relaxed governmental feel.

Top attractions

Tour Parliament Hill, skate or stroll the Rideau Canal, and visit the National Gallery and Canadian Museum of History across the river.

Getting around

The O-Train light rail and OC Transpo buses cover the city on a Presto card or contactless tap, and the core is easily walked. Cycling and canal paths are excellent in summer.

Airports near Ottawa

Ottawa essentials