🇨🇦 Ottawa Travel Guide✨

The editor will take you to explore Canada’s capital!

When it comes to traveling to Canada, many people immediately think of Toronto or Vancouver , but Ottawa is actually Canada's capital ! Not only does it boast historic architecture and the magnificent Parliament Hill, but it also boasts distinct seasonal scenery and mouth-watering cuisine. Let's follow our editor to find out what must-dos, must-eats, and must-experiences are in Ottawa!

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🌟 Must-see attractions in Ottawa

1. Parliament Hill

• This magnificent Gothic building is an Ottawa landmark! Visit it during the day, and in the summer, you'll find a Changing of the Guard ceremony . At night, you'll also see a stunning Sound & Light Show !
• A friendly reminder from the editor: The visit is free, but there are many tourists in summer, so it is best to schedule a time in advance.

2. Rideau Canal

• A World Heritage Site! Enjoy boating and canoeing in the summer, and in the winter, it transforms into the world's longest natural ice rink.
• My personal recommendation: Don’t miss out on ice skating in the winter and a BeaverTails (beaver tail shortbread) to complete your Ottawa experience!

3. ByWard Market

• Ottawa's most lively market area has fresh agricultural products and handicrafts during the day, and transforms into a bar and nightlife district at night.
• My personal must-buys: Canadian maple syrup and local handicrafts.

4. National Gallery of Canada

• The building itself is a highlight, with a rich collection that ranges from Canadian Aboriginal art to works by international masters.
• The giant sculpture "Spider Mother" (Maman) in front of the museum is perfect for taking photos and checking in!

5. Canadian Museum of History

• Gatineau, located across the Ottawa River, is one of Canada's most popular museums, showcasing Aboriginal culture and the development of Canadian history.
• The editor thinks it is very suitable for family travel, which is both educational and entertaining.

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🍴 Must-eat food in Ottawa

1. BeaverTails

• This Ottawa-inspired pastry is made with fried dough and topped with cinnamon sugar, chocolate, maple syrup, and more. Enjoy it by the Rideau Canal in the winter, and it's truly magical.

2. Poutine Canadian Poutine

• Originated in Quebec, but also very common in Ottawa. French fries smothered in gravy and topped with cheese curds, it's devilishly delicious!

3. Canadian maple syrup products

• Maple syrup, maple cookies, and maple popsicles (made by pouring maple syrup on the snow in winter) are all must-try desserts.

4. Local craft beer

• There are many small breweries in Ottawa. In the summer, it is super refreshing to sit in the market or bar and have a glass of craft beer.

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🚍 Ottawa Transportation Guide

• Airport : Ottawa International Airport (YOW), with domestic flights and some international flights.
• City transportation :
  • OC Transpo bus & O-Train : The main means of public transportation, reaching almost all downtown attractions.
  • Walking & Cycling : The city center is full of attractions, and cycling along the Rideau Canal is very comfortable in the summer.
• Intercity transportation :
  • It is very convenient to travel to and from Toronto and Montreal by VIA Rail .
  • Buses (such as Greyhound) also provide intercity services.

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📝 Editor’s Summary

Although Ottawa is not as prosperous as Toronto, nor does it have the magnificent mountains and seas like Vancouver, it has a rich historical atmosphere, beautiful scenery with distinct seasons, and unique Canadian culture .

• Spring flower viewing (Tulip Festival 🌷)
• Watching the Changing of the Guard in Summer
• Autumn maple viewing 🍁
• Winter skating and eating beaver tails

Worth a visit any time of year!