Ottawa Travel Guide

Stepping into Ottawa always feels like a breath of fresh air compared to the high-energy pulse of Toronto. Even after living in Ontario for 20 years and traveling across the country—including my time living in Saskatoon and my international stays in Japan and South Korea—I still find Ottawa to be one of the most unique capitals in the world. It has a sense of stately importance, but it remains incredibly approachable and “walkable.”

For me, Ottawa is a city of layers. You have the grand, historical weight of Parliament Hill on one side, and on the other, you have vibrant, creative neighborhoods and stunning natural green spaces. As an amateur photographer, I’ve spent many visits capturing these contrasts. Photography is my favorite way to document my travels, and Ottawa offers some of the best “vistas” in the country.

Getting to the Capital: My Personal Experiences

Over the years, I’ve traveled from Toronto to Ottawa using almost every method possible. Each offers a different “vibe” for a traveler:

• The VIA Rail Experience: This is often my preferred way to travel. The 4.5-hour trip is relaxing and allows me to see the changing landscape of Eastern Ontario through the window. Arriving at the station and taking the light rail into downtown is seamless.

• Driving from Toronto: Having driven the long stretches of highway between Toronto and Saskatoon, the 5-hour drive to Ottawa feels like a short, easy trip. It’s a straight run up the 401 and 416, and it’s great if you want to explore the outskirts of the city.

• The Bus Journey: I’ve used the bus several times as well; it’s a budget-friendly and reliable way to get dropped right into the city center.

A City of Seasons and Stories

There’s a certain rhythm to Ottawa that I find quite appealing. It’s a city that respects its past while looking towards the future. I love how accessible everything feels—many key attractions are within easy walking distance, and the canal path offers a fantastic way to see the city.

• The Rideau Canal: This is the heart of the city. Whether it’s frozen over for skating in the winter or filled with boats in the warmer months, it’s a focal point for local life. I’ve personally visited in different seasons to see how the atmosphere shifts.

• A Culture of Celebration: Ottawa knows how to celebrate. From the massive Tulip Festival in the spring—where millions of flowers turn the city into a sea of color—to the grand Canada Day festivities, there is always a sense of community.

• The Museum Scene: Ottawa is home to some of the best museums I’ve seen. The architecture of these buildings is just as impressive as the exhibits inside.

My Detailed Ottawa Guides & Reviews

I’ve put together several articles based on my own visits to help you plan your journey. These aren’t just lists of facts; they are honest insights from my personal archives and my hobby as a photographer.

• The Charming Capital of Canada: My overview of why Ottawa is a must-visit for every traveler.

• The Rideau Canal: My seasonal guide to the world’s longest skating rink and a beautiful summer waterway.

• ByWard Market: A look at the food, the murals, and the energy of Ottawa’s oldest public market.

• Canadian Tulip Festival: Tips for catching the blooms and the best spots I’ve found for photos.

• Canadian War Museum: A moving look at Canada’s military history through architecture and artifacts.

Local Logistics: Getting Around Ottawa

Since I’ve spent 20 years navigating Ontario, I’ve picked up a few tricks for Ottawa:

• Walk Whenever Possible: The downtown core (Parliament, ByWard Market, and the Canal) is very compact. It’s the best way to stumble upon “hidden gems” you might miss from a car.

• The O-Train: The light rail system is modern and very easy to use for getting across the city quickly.

• Parking Tip: Like Toronto, downtown parking can be tricky. I usually look for the city-run “Green P” style lots or leave my car at the hotel and use my feet!

I hope my insights help you plan a visit to Ottawa that is both informative and enjoyable. It’s a city with a unique character, and after two decades in Canada, I think it’s one of the best places to truly understand the country’s story.