As Canada’s capital, Ottawa is the perfect place to experience some of the country’s best attractions, celebrations, and flavours in one welcoming city. With its unique blend of urban and rural beauty, year-round outdoor activities, and vibrant neighbourhoods, the Ottawa region is a perennial favourite.

Since the metropolitan region stretches across the Ottawa River to Gatineau, Québec, you can visit two provinces in one destination. Cross one of the bridges, take a boat across the river, or even ride the world’s first interprovincial zipline, Interzip Rogers (seasonal)!

Pristine outdoor spaces within the city and in the nearby countryside offer a wide variety of activities in all four seasons. Cycling enthusiasts of every level can explore more than 800 kilometres (497 miles) of urban and rural pathways, plus mountain biking trails in the nearby hills of Gatineau Park. 

It’s also the perfect place for cultural exploration: seven of Canada’s nine national museums are located in Ottawa and they immerse you in Canadian history, art, war, aviation, science, and more. In addition, the city’s many vibrant neighbourhoods are home to more than 76 hidden gems, such as festivals, restaurants, concert venues, and attractions that have been given an “unofficial museum” status. The National Arts Centre offers orchestra, dance, and variety programming, plus English, French, and Indigenous theatre options.