Begin your tour at Parliament Hill (Wellington St), the heart of Canada’s capital, with its Gothic Revival buildings and iconic Peace Tower. The sandstone architecture and sweeping lawns evoke a grand, historic atmosphere. Spend 25 minutes strolling the grounds or peeking into the public areas of the Centre Block (free entry, no bookings needed; check for guided tours if time allows).
Walk 10 minutes to the ByWard Market, Ottawa’s vibrant historic district, and stop at The Green Door (198 Main St), a beloved vegetarian restaurant with a cozy, bohemian vibe. Its affordable, buffet-style dishes and no-reservations policy make it a local gem, perfect for a quick coffee or light breakfast. Spend 40 minutes enjoying the food and lively market atmosphere, arrive early to avoid queues.
Stroll 10 minutes through the market’s cobblestone streets to Major’s Hill Park, a scenic green space with views of the Ottawa River and Parliament. Pop into La Bottega Nicastro (64 George St), a nearby Italian deli and café, for a quick espresso or pastry,. Spend 20 minutes relaxing in the park or browsing the deli’s artisanal goods.
Walk 10 minutes to Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and pause at the Bytown Museum (1 Canal Ln), housed in Ottawa’s oldest stone building. This small museum, with its 19th-century artifacts, offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Spend 30 minutes exploring the exhibits or admiring the canal’s locks, a nod to Ottawa’s historic waterways.
Continue 15 minutes to Sparks Street, a pedestrian mall lined with historic buildings and boutiques. Stop at C’est Bon Cooking (250 Slater St, a short detour), a chic café with French-inspired fare like quiche or croissants, affordable and no bookings needed for a quick bite. Spend 45 minutes dining and soaking in the street’s elegant atmosphere.
Finally, walk 15 minutes to the National Gallery of Canada (380 Sussex Dr), a striking glass-and-granite building housing Canadian and European art. Spend your final 40 minutes browsing a gallery (like the Canadian or Indigenous collections) or grabbing a hot chocolate at the gallery’s Café des Beaux-Arts. The nearby Nepean Point, with its statue of Samuel de Champlain and river views, offers a picturesque finale.This tour covers Ottawa’s historic Parliament, vibrant ByWard Market, scenic canal, and cultural gems in about four hours, blending history, food, and local colour. The route is roughly 4 km, so wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket for Ottawa’s breezy weather
