←Canada travel guide
Ontario, Canada
Ottawa
Canada's capital, anchoring the historic Rideau Canal
ArchitectureCultureHistory & HeritageScenic Views
Ottawa is the capital of Canada, set on the Ottawa River and home to Parliament Hill and major national museums. It anchors the northern end of the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage waterway that becomes the world's largest skating rink in winter. The city blends political landmarks with riverside parks and culture.
Check Canada visa requirements →
Best time to visit
May to October for mild weather; winter for canal skating
Region
Ontario
Main airport
Ottawa (YOW)
Beyond the City
Day Trips from Ottawa
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Plan Your Trip
Getting Around Ottawa
Tours, stays, transfers, and flights — curated partner options are on the way.
Tours & Activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided tours, and day experiences — curated partner options are on the way.
Coming soonWhere to Stay
Hotels, apartments, and guesthouses across every neighbourhood — booking options are on the way.
Coming soonAirport Transfers
Private and shared rides between the airport and the city centre — partner options are on the way.
Coming soonFlights
Compare fares from hundreds of airlines to find the best route in — search options are on the way.
Coming soonTravel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Canada
Citizens of many countries — including the UK, Australia, France, Germany, Japan, and others — can visit Canada visa-free but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying. US citizens are visa-exempt and do not need an eTA when flying. Citizens of other countries need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).
Most visitors are permitted to stay for up to 6 months per visit. The exact duration is determined by the border services officer at the port of entry.
A valid passport, a valid eTA (if applicable) or Canadian visa, evidence of sufficient funds, and a return or onward travel ticket. All travellers must clear Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) on arrival.
Canada is one of the safest countries in the world for tourists. Crime rates in most areas are low. Exercise normal caution in all locations, particularly in downtown areas of major cities.
The Canadian Dollar (CAD, symbol C$). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas near the US border, though at unfavourable exchange rates. ATMs are widely available.
Canada has two official languages: English and French. French is predominant in Québec and parts of New Brunswick. The rest of the country is predominantly English-speaking.
Summer (June–August) is peak season for outdoor activities, national parks, and festivals. Winter (December–March) is ideal for skiing at Whistler or in the Rockies. Fall (September–October) brings stunning foliage across much of the country.
Explore Banff National Park, see Niagara Falls, walk Old Quebec City, whale-watch in British Columbia, ski or snowboard at Whistler, experience the Northern Lights from Yukon or Manitoba, visit the CN Tower in Toronto, and go wildlife-watching for bears and polar bears.
Toronto Pearson International (YYZ) is the busiest. Vancouver International (YVR), Montréal-Trudeau (YUL), and Calgary International (YYC) are also major international gateways.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Canada has an excellent public healthcare system but it does not cover foreign visitors. Medical costs can be very high.
No vaccinations are legally required for entry. Standard routine immunisations are recommended.
Yes. A valid foreign driver's licence is accepted in Canada for up to 60–90 days depending on the province. An International Driving Permit is recommended. Drive on the right side of the road.