Updated June 2026

Who wouldn’t like comfortable Ottawa? A blend of Toronto and Montreal – many speak French (in addition to English of course) and it is crazy clean like Toronto. Ottawa is the capital of Canada. As such, there is government galore including Parliament Hill, embassies, diplomats, bureaucrats and other well meaning government employees. The outdoor cafes, the Byward Market, a selection of museums, the canal, etc. Ottawa makes for a very nice long weekend, especially in summer.

Things to do in Ottawa

There is lots to see and do in Ottawa. The Canadian Museum of Civilization and the National Gallery of Canada are among more than 16 museums. There also seems to be a festival every other weekend. The biggest annual party by far is for Canada Day on July 1st (as you would expect in the capital of the country). White Water Rafting is big business on the Ottawa River and a whole lot of fun. If you can brave the winter (and sometimes its not so tough), Winterlude (i.e. winter carnival) in February is the time to come, highlighted by skating on the mostly frozen Rideau Canal.

The Byward Market

At anytime, the coolest spot in Ottawa has to be the Byward Market (located 2 blocks west of the canal and north of Rideau Street). It is in an easily walk-able area (a few square city blocks) filled with restaurants, bars, deli’s, bakeries, shops, fresh produce and flower stands. Something for everyone. There’s some funky pubs like the Auld Dubliner, the Blue Cactus, Pub 101 and more. Street performers on many weekends. The famous Canadian “Beaver Tail” (an over-sized flat donut with toppings) can be sampled right in the middle of Byward. But if you have a taste for fine baked goods, don’t miss Le Moulin de Provence (almost across the street). It’s the European style bakery where Barrack Obama stopped for cookies when he was in town. Their baked goods are worth the trip to Ottawa alone!

Quick Tips for Visiting Ottawa

• Best Time to Go: Anytime. Winter is generally cold but if you like winter, you’ll like Ottawa then too.
• Where To Stay: There are a number of quality hotels in the downtown area. The Fairmont Château Laurier is a historic, French Gothic-style luxury hotel located at 1 Rideau Street in downtown Ottawa. It’s my first choice, but there also Sheraton and Delta as well.
• Getting Around: Ottawa’s transportation include public transit bus, light rail system, taxi services, and ride sharing. The downtown area is fairly small and easily walkable.

Final Thoughts on Comfortable Ottawa

There is something just very comfortable about Ottawa. While there are other places to experience the true spirit of Canada, Ottawa has its own spirit. Like a pair of slippers or your favourite jeans. Hard to define but it just feels right.

Author Bio

Mark Crone is the traveller and storyteller behind Mark’s Travel Journal, where he shares practical tips, destination guides, and real experiences from his adventures around the world. Based in Canada, he aims to help others travel smarter and discover meaningful moments on the road. Explore more of Mark’s work:

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