As Canada’s capital, Ottawa is the perfect place to experience some of the country’s best attractions, celebrations and flavours in one welcoming city. With its unique blend of urban and rural beauty, year-round outdoor activities, and vibrant neighbourhoods, the Ottawa region is best explored over three days or more.

Around every corner on both the Ontario and Québec sides of the Ottawa River, you’ll find unique, safe and walkable neighbourhoods to explore. Try craft beverages and fresh cuisine, shop for big brands or local designers, and admire colourful urban art. For instance, the historic ByWard Market area is always bustling, with its year-round farmers’ market, restaurants, cafés and nightlife, as well as unique spots such as the original kiosk of the world-renowned BeaverTails pastry treat.

Ottawa is the perfect place to soak up national and regional cultures. Parliament Hill, the seat of Canada’s federal government, welcomes visitors on free tours of its historic buildings. Seven of Canada’s nine national museums immerse you in Canadian history, art, war, aviation, science and more. The National Arts Centre represents the entire country through orchestra, dance, variety, and multilingual theatre programming. Other sites of national importance include the historic Fairmont Château Laurier (the first in a series of hotels constructed by the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway Company), Rideau Hall (historic home of the Governor General of Canada), the RCMP Musical Ride Visitor Centre (where the renowned horse-riding group practises), Laurier House National Historic Site (where famous prime ministers lived) and the Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum (a real bunker-turned-museum).

10 THINGS YOU PROBABLY DON'T KNOW ABOUT CANADA'S CAPITAL.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO.