Ottawa 7-day itinerary,Ottawa family-friendly attractions

Ottawa, Canada’s capital city in the heart of Ontario, is a captivating blend of historic grandeur, world-class culture, pristine nature, and vibrant urban life. This 7-day itinerary is crafted for international travelers—especially those from Asia and beyond—offering a balanced, actionable plan that prioritizes accessibility, cultural immersion, and practicality. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, this guide ensures you experience Ottawa’s best without the stress of last-minute planning.

Pre-Trip Preparation: Essential Tips for International Visitors

Before embarking on your Ottawa adventure, a few key preparations will streamline your journey and prevent avoidable hiccups.

Visa & Travel Documentation

All international visitors (excluding citizens of visa-exempt countries like the US, UK, and Australia) must apply for a Canada Visitor Visa (temporary resident visa) at least 4-6 weeks in advance. Citizens of eligible countries (e.g., Japan, South Korea, Singapore) can apply for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) online, which is valid for 5 years and allows multiple entries. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date and keep digital copies of all documents handy.

Currency & Payments

Canada’s official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and attractions, but carry small cash amounts (CAD $50-$100) for street vendors, public transit fares, and tips. ATMs are abundant in downtown Ottawa, and most offer multi-language interfaces for convenience.

Communication & Connectivity

Stay connected with a local SIM card from major providers like Rogers, Bell, or Telus—prepaid plans start at CAD $30 for 5GB of data, calls, and texts. Alternatively, activate international roaming with your home carrier (note: rates may be high) or use free Wi-Fi available at airports, hotels, cafes, and public libraries. For navigation, download offline maps of Ottawa via Google Maps or Apple Maps before arrival.

Weather & Packing

Ottawa has four distinct seasons, so pack accordingly:

Summer (June–August): Temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C—bring lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and a rain jacket (afternoon showers are common).
Fall (September–October): Crisp air (5°C–20°C) and vibrant fall foliage—pack layers, a sweater, and waterproof shoes.
Winter (December–February): Frigid temperatures (-25°C to 0°C) with heavy snow—invest in a warm parka, thermal layers, snow boots, gloves, and a scarf (most indoor spaces have central heating, so dress in removable layers).
Spring (March–May): Mild (0°C–15°C) but unpredictable—pack a mix of warm and cool-weather clothes and a waterproof coat.

Transportation Passes

Ottawa’s public transit system, OC Transpo, covers all major attractions with buses and light rail (O-Train). For international travelers, a 3-Day Multi-Day Pass (CAD $20.50) or 7-Day Pass (CAD $35) offers unlimited rides and saves money compared to single fares (CAD $3.50 per ride). Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) are readily available for short trips or late-night travel—from Ottawa International Airport (YOW) to downtown, a taxi costs CAD $30–40, while the Route 97 airport bus is just CAD $3.50.

Accommodation Recommendations

Choose accommodation in one of these convenient neighborhoods:

ByWard Market Area: Ideal for foodies and nightlife lovers—steps from cafes, markets, and shops, with mid-range hotels (CAD $150–250/night) and cozy Airbnb rentals (CAD $100–180/night).
Parliament Hill Surroundings: Perfect for history enthusiasts—quiet, walkable to key landmarks, with upscale hotels (CAD $200–300/night) and boutique inns.
Downtown Ottawa: Central to shopping and transit—chain hotels (e.g., Marriott, Holiday Inn) and budget-friendly options (CAD $120–200/night) are plentiful. Book 2–3 months in advance during peak seasons (summer, fall foliage, Winterlude festival).

Day 1: Arrival & Downtown Ottawa Exploration

Kick off your trip with a low-key introduction to Ottawa’s charm, focusing on settling in and sampling local flavors.

Morning/Afternoon: Arrival & Check-In

Land at Ottawa International Airport (YOW)—a compact, easy-to-navigate hub with multilingual staff and currency exchange counters. Collect your luggage, then head to your hotel via:

Route 97 Airport Bus: Departs every 15–30 minutes, drops off at downtown stops (e.g., Rideau Centre), takes 25–30 minutes.
Taxi/Uber: Direct ride to your hotel, takes 15–20 minutes (no surge pricing for airport trips).

Once at your hotel, check in and freshen up. Store any excess luggage if your room isn’t ready yet—most hotels offer this service for free.

Evening: ByWard Market Adventure

In the late afternoon, walk or take a 5-minute bus ride to ByWard Market—Ottawa’s oldest and most beloved public market, established in 1826. This bustling district is a feast for the senses:

Market Stalls: Browse fresh Canadian produce (maple syrup, wild blueberries, artisanal cheeses), handcrafted jewelry, Indigenous art, and vintage souvenirs. Don’t miss the iconic “Ottawa” branded gear for gifts.
Local Snack Time: Try Canada’s famous BeaverTails—a fried dough pastry shaped like a beaver’s tail, topped with cinnamon sugar, Nutella, or maple butter (CAD $6–8 at BeaverTails’ flagship stall on George Street). For a savory bite, grab poutine (fries, cheese curds, and gravy) from a street vendor (CAD $8–10).
Dinner: Dine at one of the market’s family-owned restaurants. For a taste of Canadian cuisine, order maple-glazed salmon (sweet, smoky, and tender) or tourtière (a traditional French-Canadian meat pie) at The Keg Steakhouse + Bar or Café Mio. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available—try the lentil soup or roasted vegetable sandwich at The Green Door.

Night: Relax & Unwind

After dinner, stroll along the market’s tree-lined streets to soak in the lively atmosphere, then return to your hotel to rest for the days ahead.

Day 2: Political Heart of Canada – Parliament Hill & Royal Landmarks

Dedicate Day 2 to Ottawa’s most iconic historic sites, where you’ll dive into Canada’s political and royal heritage.

Morning: Parliament Hill Tour & Changing of the Guard

Start your day early (8:30 AM) to beat the crowds at Parliament Hill—a stunning Gothic Revival complex that houses Canada’s House of Commons, Senate, and Peace Tower.

Free Guided Tour: Book your tour 2–3 weeks in advance via the Parliament of Canada website—tours (available in English and French) last 45 minutes and include access to the Hall of Honour, Senate Chamber, and House of Commons.
Changing of the Guard Ceremony: From late June to early August, catch this colorful 30-minute ceremony at 10 AM on the front lawn of Parliament Hill. Watch as the Canadian Grenadier Guards (in red tunics and bearskin hats) relieve the sentries—arrive 15 minutes early for a good spot.
Peace Tower Visit: Climb the 92-meter Peace Tower for panoramic views of Ottawa’s skyline, including the Ottawa River, Gatineau Hills, and Rideau Canal. The tower’s clock and carillon (53 bells) are iconic landmarks—don’t miss the daily carillon recital at noon.

Lunch: Parliament Hill circum Bites

Grab lunch at a nearby café or bistro. Café Parliament (steps from the hill) serves casual fare like sandwiches, salads, and coffee (CAD $10–15 per person). For a heartier meal, try the smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz’s Deli (a Montreal-style spot with locations downtown).

Afternoon: Supreme Court & Rideau Hall

After lunch, walk 10 minutes to the Supreme Court of Canada—a neoclassical building with a striking marble interior. Free guided tours (1 hour) offer insight into Canada’s judicial system, including the role of the Supreme Court in interpreting the Constitution.Next, take a 15-minute bus ride (Route 11) to Rideau Hall—the official residence of Canada’s Governor General (the monarch’s representative in Canada). Explore the 88-acre grounds, which feature formal gardens, a totem pole, and historic statues. The free guided tour of the residence (book in advance) includes the State Dining Room, Ballroom, and Governor General’s study—you may even spot the resident peacocks roaming the lawn!

Evening: Rideau Canal Walk & Elgin Street Dinner

In the late afternoon, walk back to downtown via the Rideau Canal—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Ottawa’s most beloved landmarks. In summer, rent a paddleboat or kayak (CAD $20–30/hour) to explore the canal’s calm waters; in winter, it transforms into the world’s longest skating rink (7.8 km).For dinner, head to Elgin Street—a vibrant strip lined with restaurants, pubs, and boutiques. Try French cuisine at Le Cordon Bleu (coq au vin, escargots) or pub classics (fish and chips, beer-battered onion rings) at The Heart & Crown Irish Pub. Pair your meal with a local craft beer from Ottawa’s Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company (CAD $7–9 per pint).

Day 3: Museum Marathon – War & Natural History

Day 3 is all about cultural enrichment, with two of Ottawa’s most acclaimed museums that cater to history and science lovers.

Morning: Canadian War Museum

Take the O-Train Line 2 to the Canadian War Museum—one of the world’s top military museums, located on the banks of the Ottawa River. The museum’s architecture is a work of art in itself, with angular concrete walls that evoke the ruggedness of war-torn landscapes.

Key Exhibits: Explore galleries covering Canada’s military history from the French and Indian War (1754–1763) to modern peacekeeping missions. Don’t miss the First World War Trench Experience (a life-sized replica of a frontline trench) and the Vimy Ridge Gallery (honoring Canadian soldiers who fought in the 1917 Battle of Vimy Ridge).
Family-Friendly Features: Interactive displays, a children’s play area, and guided tours for kids make this museum engaging for all ages. Admission is CAD $18 for adults, CAD $15 for seniors, and free for children under 18.

Lunch: Museum Café or Nearby Eats

Grab lunch at the museum’s Café 1812, which serves soups, sandwiches, and salads (CAD $10–12 per person). For a quicker bite, walk to the nearby Starbucks or Subway—both are a 5-minute walk from the museum.

Afternoon: Canadian Museum of Nature

Take a 10-minute bus ride (Route 10) to the Canadian Museum of Nature—a historic sandstone building (built in 1912) that houses one of Canada’s largest natural history collections.

Key Exhibits: Marvel at the Dinosaur Gallery (featuring a 26-meter-long Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton), the Mammal Gallery (with polar bears, moose, and bison), and the Geology Gallery (which showcases Canada’s mineral wealth, including diamonds and gold). The museum’s rooftop observation deck offers stunning views of Parliament Hill.
Interactive Fun: Kids (and kids at heart) will love the Birds of Canada exhibit (with live bird feedings) and the Water Gallery (a hands-on display about aquatic ecosystems). Admission is CAD $17 for adults, CAD $14 for seniors, and free for children under 12.

Evening: Sparks Street Shopping & Asian Fusion Dinner

In the late afternoon, walk to Sparks Street—Ottawa’s first pedestrian mall, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. Browse Canadian brands like Roots (casual clothing) and Lululemon (athleisure) or pick up souvenirs at The Canadian Gift Shop (maple syrup, ice wine, and Indigenous crafts).For dinner, satisfy your craving for familiar flavors at an Asian fusion restaurant. Thai House serves authentic pad thai and green curry (CAD $12–15 per dish), while Sushi Shop offers fresh sushi and sashimi (CAD $15–20 per roll). Vegetarian and gluten-free options are clearly marked on menus.

Day 4: Art, History & Riverfront Views

Day 4 blends art, local history, and outdoor beauty, taking you to Ottawa’s most iconic cultural and natural spots.

Morning: National Gallery of Canada

Start your day at the National Gallery of Canada—a striking glass-and-granite building that houses over 65,000 works of art, including Canadian, Indigenous, and international masterpieces.

Key Exhibits: Don’t miss the Group of Seven collection (paintings of Canada’s rugged landscapes by iconic Canadian artists), the Indigenous Art Gallery (works by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists), and the European Masters (featuring Picasso, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt). The gallery’s glass dome (a 36-meter-tall masterpiece) is a photo op must.
Guided Tours: Free 1-hour tours (in English and French) depart hourly from the main lobby—they’re a great way to learn about the gallery’s most important works. Admission is CAD $20 for adults, CAD $17 for seniors, and free for students and children under 18.

Lunch: ByWard Market Brunch

Walk 10 minutes to ByWard Market for a leisurely brunch. The Whalesbone Oyster House serves fresh oysters and eggs Benedict (CAD $18–22 per dish), while Café Lola Rosa offers vegan brunch options (avocado toast, tofu scrambles) for CAD $12–15 per dish. Pair your meal with a Canadian maple latte (a local favorite) for CAD $5–6.

Afternoon: Major’s Hill Park & Bytown Museum

After brunch, walk to Major’s Hill Park—a 10-acre green space overlooking the Ottawa River, Rideau Canal, and Parliament Hill. Pack a picnic (grab snacks from ByWard Market) and relax on the grass, or take a leisurely stroll to the park’s historic monuments (including a statue of Queen Victoria).Next, visit the Bytown Museum—located in Ottawa’s oldest stone building (a former lockmaster’s house, built in 1827). The museum tells the story of Ottawa’s origins as Bytown, a rough-and-tumble logging town founded in 1826. Key exhibits include artifacts from the Rideau Canal’s construction, 19th-century street scenes, and Indigenous tools. Admission is CAD $8 for adults, CAD $6 for seniors, and free for children under 12.

Evening: Rideau Canal Cruise & Seafood Dinner

In the evening, book a Rideau Canal Dinner Cruise (CAD $80–100 per person) with Croisières AML. The 2-hour cruise takes you along the canal’s most scenic stretches, with views of Parliament Hill, the National Gallery, and historic neighborhoods. The cruise includes a 3-course dinner (choose from salmon, steak, or vegetarian pasta) and live music.If a cruise is out of your budget, dine at a waterfront seafood restaurant instead. The Fish Market serves fresh lobster rolls and fish and chips (CAD $15–20 per dish), with outdoor seating that overlooks the Ottawa River.

Day 5: Day Trip to Gatineau Park – Nature Escape

Escape the city on Day 5 with a trip to Gatineau Park—a 361-square-kilometer nature reserve just 20 minutes from downtown Ottawa (in Quebec province). The park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails, lakes, and stunning views.

Morning: Drive or Bus to Gatineau Park

Get to the park via:

Taxi/Uber: A one-way ride costs CAD $25–30, and most drivers are familiar with the park’s main entrances.
OC Transpo Bus: Take Route 33 to Hull Station, then transfer to Route 15 (Gatineau Park Express)—the trip takes 45 minutes and costs CAD $3.50 (included in your multi-day pass).

Start your day at the Gatineau Park Visitor Centre (located at Chelsea Gate) to pick up a trail map and get recommendations from park rangers. The visitor centre also has exhibits about the park’s flora, fauna, and Indigenous history.

Mid-Morning: Hike to Pink Lake

Hike the Pink Lake Trail—a 1.5-kilometer loop around Pink Lake, a meromictic lake (its waters don’t mix) with striking turquoise-pink hues (caused by algae and mineral deposits). The trail is flat and easy, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Keep an eye out for wildlife—deer, foxes, and birds are common in the area.Note: Swimming is not allowed in Pink Lake to protect its fragile ecosystem, but you can rent a canoe or kayak at the nearby Meech Lake Marina (CAD $20–30/hour) if you want to get on the water.

Lunch: Picnic or Park Café

Pack a picnic from ByWard Market (sandwiches, fruit, and Canadian cheese) and eat at one of the park’s picnic areas (equipped with tables and grills). If you forget snacks, stop at the Gatineau Park Café (near Meech Lake) for soups, sandwiches, and coffee (CAD $10–12 per person).

Afternoon: King Mountain Lookout

In the afternoon, hike the King Mountain Trail—a 3-kilometer moderate hike that leads to a lookout with panoramic views of the Gatineau Hills and Ottawa River. The trail takes 1–1.5 hours round-trip and is shaded by maple and pine trees (in fall, the foliage is breathtaking).For a more relaxed activity, drive or take a shuttle to Meech Lake—a pristine lake with beaches, hiking trails, and a historic lodge (the Château Montebello is a 10-minute drive from the lake and worth a quick visit for its grand architecture).

Evening: Return to Ottawa & Casual Dinner

Take a taxi or bus back to downtown Ottawa, then grab a casual dinner at your hotel’s restaurant or a nearby pub. The Royal Oak serves classic pub fare (burgers, fries, and poutine) for CAD $10–15 per dish, and has a wide selection of Canadian craft beers.

Day 6: Aviation History & Shopping Spree

Day 6 combines a unique museum experience with retail therapy, perfect for wrapping up your trip with memorable souvenirs.

Morning: Canada Aviation and Space Museum

Take the O-Train Line 2 to the Canada Aviation and Space Museum—the largest aviation museum in Canada, with over 130 aircraft and spacecraft on display.

Key Exhibits: Marvel at the Avro Arrow (a legendary Canadian jet fighter), the Space Shuttle Endeavour replica, and vintage planes from the First and Second World Wars. The museum’s Flight Simulator Zone lets you try your hand at flying a fighter jet or commercial airliner (CAD $15–20 per session).
Guided Tours: Free 1-hour tours depart hourly and include behind-the-scenes access to the museum’s restoration hangar. Admission is CAD $18 for adults, CAD $15 for seniors, and free for children under 18.

Lunch: Museum Café or Fast Food

Grab lunch at the museum’s Sky-High Café, which serves sandwiches, salads, and pizza (CAD $10–12 per person). For a quicker option, walk to the nearby McDonald’s or Tim Hortons (Canada’s iconic coffee and doughnut chain—try a Timbit, a bite-sized doughnut hole, for CAD $0.50 each).

Afternoon: Shopping in Downtown Ottawa

Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs and gifts:

Rideau Centre: Ottawa’s largest mall, with over 200 stores including Canadian brands like Roots, Lululemon, and Hudson’s Bay (Canada’s oldest department store, founded in 1670). Pick up maple syrup, ice wine, and Canadian-themed clothing here.
Lansdowne Park Farmers’ Market (weekends only): A vibrant market with local produce, artisanal bread, and handcrafted gifts. Open Saturdays from 9 AM to 3 PM and Sundays from 10 AM to 3 PM—perfect for picking up fresh maple butter or homemade jam.
ByWard Market Souvenir Shops: Browse shops like Ottawa Souvenirs and Canadian Gift & Novelty for flags, keychains, and Indigenous art (dreamcatchers, totem poles, and handwoven blankets).

Evening: Montreal Smoked Meat Dinner & Local Pub

For your last dinner in Ottawa, try a classic Montreal smoked meat sandwich at The King Eddy—a historic pub in downtown Ottawa. The sandwich is piled high with tender, smoked beef brisket and served with pickles and mustard (CAD $12–15). Pair it with a pint of Canadian beer (try Molson Canadian or Labatt Blue) for an authentic Canadian experience.After dinner, stop by a local pub like The Black Thorn for live music—Ottawa has a thriving live music scene, with folk, rock, and jazz performances most nights of the week.

Day 7: Farewell to Ottawa – Last-Minute Souvenirs & Departure

Spend your final day in Ottawa wrapping up loose ends and picking up last-minute souvenirs before your departure.

Morning: ByWard Market Last-Minute Shopping

Wake up early and head to ByWard Market for last-minute souvenirs:

Maple Syrup: Pick up pure Canadian maple syrup (Grade A is the most popular) from Maple House—prices start at CAD $10 for a 250ml bottle.
Ice Wine: A sweet, dessert wine made from frozen grapes—pick up a bottle from Peller Estates or Inniskillin (CAD $20–30 per bottle).
Indigenous Crafts: Buy handcrafted jewelry or artwork from Native Art Gallery—all pieces are made by local Indigenous artists.

Mid-Morning: Breakfast at Tim Hortons

Grab a final Canadian breakfast at Tim Hortons—try the Double-Double (coffee with two creams and two sugars) and a Breakfast Sandwich (egg, cheese, and bacon on a biscuit) for CAD $7–8.

Lunch: Quick Bite Before Departure

If your flight is in the afternoon, grab a quick lunch at a downtown café or sandwich shop. Subway or Quiznos are reliable options, or pick up a pre-made sandwich from Whole Foods Market (located in Rideau Centre).

Afternoon: Check-Out & Departure

Return to your hotel to check out (most hotels have a 11 AM check-out time—store luggage if your flight is later) and head to the airport:

Route 97 Airport Bus: Departs every 15–30 minutes from downtown stops, arrives at YOW 25–30 minutes later.
Taxi/Uber: Direct ride to the airport, takes 15–20 minutes (CAD $30–40).

Arrive at the airport 2–3 hours before your international flight to allow time for security, customs, and boarding.

Essential Travel Tips for a Smooth Ottawa Trip

Tipping Etiquette: In Canada, tips are expected for most services: 15–20% for restaurant servers, 10–15% for taxi drivers, and CAD $1–2 per bag for hotel bellhops.
Safety: Ottawa is one of Canada’s safest cities, but keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas (e.g., ByWard Market) and avoid walking alone in remote areas after dark.
Accessibility: Most attractions, hotels, and public transit vehicles are wheelchair-accessible—contact venues in advance if you have specific needs.
Water: Tap water in Ottawa is safe to drink—carry a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce plastic waste.
Cultural Respect: When visiting Indigenous sites or museums, be respectful of cultural traditions—ask before taking photos of sacred objects or art.

Conclusion

Ottawa’s unique blend of history, culture, nature, and urban charm makes it the perfect destination for international travelers. This 7-day itinerary offers a balanced, actionable plan that ensures you experience the best of Canada’s capital without feeling rushed. Whether you’re exploring Parliament Hill’s historic halls, hiking Gatineau Park’s trails, or savoring poutine and BeaverTails in ByWard Market, Ottawa will leave you with unforgettable memories. Pack your bags, prepare for adventure, and get ready to fall in love with this vibrant Canadian city!