Heart of the Capital Ottawa Stories, Sights and Flavors
Active
8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Ottawa like never before with a tour that brings Canada’s capital to life through stories, sights, and local experiences. From the iconic Parliament Hill to the lively lanes of ByWard Market, you’ll walk through history, culture, and local flavor all in one unforgettable day. What makes this tour special? It’s not just about checking off landmarks it’s about seeing the city through the eyes of a passionate local guide, with exclusive insights, hidden gems, and photo-worthy moments at every stop. Plus, you’ll relax with a scenic Rideau Canal cruise, explore world-class art, and uncover the city’s roots at the charming Bytown Museum. Whether you're here for a day or a week, this tour is the perfect way to connect with the real Ottawa.
Available options
Heart of the Capital Ottawa Stories, Sights and Flavors
What's included
Brunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet at the Centennial Flame on Parliament Hill 10-15 minutes before your scheduled tour begins. Your guide will hold a tour sign and wear a name badge. Dress for the weather, and use Parliament or Rideau Station for transit. Call or text us if you're delayed.
About Ottawa
Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It's known for its stunning architecture, vibrant festivals, and the iconic Parliament Hill. The city offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventures along the scenic Rideau Canal and Gatineau Park.
Top Attractions
Parliament Hill
The political and cultural heart of Canada, featuring the iconic Parliament Buildings and the Peace Tower.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (tours may have fees)
Rideau Canal
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal is the longest skating rink in the world in winter and a popular spot for boating in summer.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (skate rentals available in winter)
ByWard Market
A historic market area with a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore (costs vary for food and shopping)
National Gallery of Canada
A premier art museum featuring Canadian and international art, including works by the Group of Seven and Indigenous artists.
Museum
1-2 hours
CAD 18 (free for youth under 12)
Gatineau Park
A vast natural park across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, offering hiking, biking, and scenic views.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Free (parking fees may apply)
Must-Try Local Dishes
BeaverTails
Fried dough pastries stretched to resemble a beaver's tail, topped with various sweet toppings like cinnamon sugar, Nutella, and maple butter.
Dessert
Vegetarian (check for specific toppings)
Poutine
A Canadian classic made with French fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
Main Course
Vegetarian options available (check for specific ingredients)
Tourtière
A traditional Quebecois meat pie, often made with minced pork, veal, or beef, and seasoned with spices.
Main Course
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Hiking in Gatineau Park
Skiing in Mont-Tremblant
Whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River
Boating on the Rideau Canal
Picnicking in Major's Hill Park
Spa treatments
Visiting museums (National Gallery, Canadian War Museum)
Exploring historic sites (Parliament Hill, Rideau Hall)
Best Time to Visit
June to August, October
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions open. October is also popular for fall foliage.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, French
- Widely spoken: English, French, and other immigrant languages
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone
EST (GMT-5) or EDT (GMT-4) during daylight saving time
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Ottawa is generally safe with low crime rates. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unusual requests
Getting there
By air
- Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Ottawa Station
By bus
Ottawa Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
OC Transpo is the primary public transit system in Ottawa, with a wide network of bus routes and the O-Train light rail system.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
The Glebe
Westboro
Centretown
Day trips
Gatineau, Quebec
15 km from Ottawa • Half-day to full-day
A city across the Ottawa River with cultural attractions, nature parks, and scenic views.
Mont-Tremblant, Quebec
130 km from Ottawa • Full-day
A popular resort town known for its ski slopes, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.
Kingston, Ontario
200 km from Ottawa • Full-day
A historic city on the shores of Lake Ontario with a rich past and vibrant present.
Festivals
Winterlude • February
Canadian Tulip Festival • May
Ottawa Jazz Festival • June-July
Pro tips
- Visit Parliament Hill at sunrise or sunset for stunning views and fewer crowds
- Take a boat tour of the Rideau Canal for a unique perspective of the city
- Explore the ByWard Market on a weekend for the best market experience
- Try local craft beers and foods at the many breweries and eateries in the city
- Use the OC Transpo app for real-time transit information and trip planning
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
