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10 Things to Do in Ottawa

Best Places to Visit in Ottawa

Ottawa, Canada's capital, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore grand parliamentary architecture, world-class museums, and beautiful waterways, making it an ideal destination for discovering highly-rated landmarks and serene green spaces.

PLACE46 Selection

PLACE46 curates Ottawa's top-rated attractions, ensuring travelers experience the city's very best. Our selection highlights highly-rated places, from iconic cultural institutions to unique local experiences, promising memorable and enriching visits.

Good to Know

Ottawa is very walkable, especially downtown, complemented by efficient public transit. Both English and French are widely spoken, and the city is accessible. The best time to visit for pleasant weather is typically from May to September.

Best For

Ottawa is perfect for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers seeking an engaging urban experience with Canadian charm.

Must-see places in Ottawa

Discover Ottawa's absolute highlights. These are the places that best represent the city's history, culture and identity.

2 Must-See Places in Ottawa

places selected by Place46 from 10 top-rated places in Ottawa.

Distances and walking times are approximate estimates based on location data and may vary depending on the actual route.

National Gallery of Canada
Place46 Score: 89.1 - (4.7★ - 10,8K reviews)

Explore Canada's national art collection at the National Gallery in Ottawa. Discover iconic Canadian, Indigenous, and international art masterpieces.

1.0 km away - 13 min walk from city center
The National War Memorial
Place46 Score: 83 - (4.8★ - 4K reviews)

Honor Canadian veterans at The National War Memorial in Ottawa. A powerful symbol of sacrifice, remembrance, and peace in the heart of the capital.

597 m away - 8 min walk from city center

More Top Rated Places in Ottawa

8 more highly rated places in Ottawa selected by PLACE46.

Distances and walking times are approximate estimates based on location data and may vary depending on the actual route.

Parliament Hill
Place46 Score: 101.6 - (4.7★ - 39,9K reviews)

Discover Parliament Hill in Ottawa, the heart of Canadian democracy. Explore iconic architecture, watch the Changing of the Guard, and delve into Canada's rich history.

382 m away - 5 min walk from city center
Canadian War Museum
Place46 Score: 92.9 - (4.8★ - 10,8K reviews)

Discover Canada's military past and present at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa. Explore extensive collections, powerful exhibits, and poignant memorials.

1.3 km away - 16 min walk from city center
Canadian Museum of Nature
Place46 Score: 92.3 - (4.7★ - 15,1K reviews)

Discover the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa. Journey through Earth's history with dinosaurs, minerals, and Canadian wildlife exhibits. Perfect for all ages.

1.3 km away - 16 min walk from city center
Canadian Museum of History
Place46 Score: 88.2 - (4.6★ - 14,8K reviews)

Discover Canada's rich history, diverse cultures, and captivating stories at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Quebec. Explore world-class exhibits.

1.2 km away - 15 min walk from city center
Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica
Place46 Score: 84.1 - (4.8★ - 4,5K reviews)

Explore the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica in Ottawa, a National Historic Site. Admire its grand Gothic Revival architecture, twin spires, and beautiful interior. A must-see landmark!

1.1 km away - 14 min walk from city center
Canada Aviation and Space Museum
Place46 Score: 82.6 - (4.6★ - 8K reviews)

Discover Canada's rich aviation and space history at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Ottawa. See iconic aircraft, rockets, and interactive exhibits.

6.2 km away - 21 min by public transport from city center
Major's Hill Park
Place46 Score: 80 - (4.8★ - 3K reviews)

Discover Major's Hill Park in Ottawa. Enjoy stunning views of Parliament, historic sites, and vibrant events. Your downtown green oasis awaits!

862 m away - 11 min walk from city center
Diefenbunker: Canada's Cold War Museum
Place46 Score: 79.3 - (4.7★ - 3,9K reviews)

Explore the secret Diefenbunker, Canada's Cold War Museum in Ottawa. Discover an underground bunker, nuclear history, and a unique Canadian heritage site.

28.2 km away - 94 min by public transport from city center

Location