Top Ottawa Private Sightseeing Tours

Are you looking for a way to explore Ottawa at your own pace? On this self-guided audio tour, you will relive Ottawa‘s turbulent early history when rioters and rogues ran rampant. Ottawa‘s significance extends beyond its Houses of Parliament and famous museums. Before becoming Canada‘s capital, it was a rough, lawless place in the wilderness. On this walking tour through old Bytown, you’ll trace the city’s evolution from a small lumber town to Queen Victoria‘s choice as Canada‘s capital and discover Ottawa‘s hidden backstory. You'll stroll down York Street and learn about the early days of the iconic Byward Market. Ottawa‘s past will come to life in the serene Jeanne d‘Arc Courtyard, where you‘ll hear about the religious and spatial divisions that fueled the feuding Bytown residents. On Sussex Drive, you‘ll explore popular sites from new perspectives and travel back to when rogues, rioters, and disease made the streets unsafe.

Are you looking for things to do in Ottawa? Our Ottawa scavenger hunt is a 3-hr self-guided walking tour with challenges, taking you from Chateau Laurier to the Supreme Court and the Byward Market, without missing Parliament Hill of course! Solve challenges at every step to discover your next destination and earn points. Learn a little history as well as interesting facts about what surrounds you. The Ottawa Scavenger Hunt is a 4.5 km / 2.8 mi self-guided walking tour with challenges along the way. It takes 3 hours to complete. A fun learning experience. See the 44 locations sights. Learn some local history. Challenge your knowledge with 57 varied challenges. Fun for all ages and kids included. Walk at your own pace. Pets are allowed throughout the tour. Wheelchair and stroller accessible throughout. Start whenever you are ready, from your smartphone – no fixed schedule. Take as little, or as much time as you wish to complete your hunt. Also available in French

Maximize your time in Ottawa and Gatineau on a whirlwind sightseeing tour by land and water, all in an amphibious vehicle. Aboard your "amphibus," pass top city attractions including Parliament Hill, Notre Dame Basilica, the National War Memorial Monument, and more. When cruising along the street gets dry, plunge into the Ottawa River to see the city from a different angle. A fun tour for both kids and adults.

Our journey will take us through the heart of Ottawa, exploring the city's past and its role in shaping the nation. You’ll see the art, sculptures, markets, memorials, walking streets, churches, parliament building and so much more. Go at your own pace, anytime. This tour is location aware and plays as you walk. Feel free to put your phone in your pocket and explore with your head up. The tour provides engaging audio and sound effects to set the mood and tell the story of Ottawa. Go anytime, 24/7/365, the tour is all outside.

Escape the city and experience the best wildlife near Ottawa on a private safari to Parc Omega — one of Canada's most unforgettable nature experiences. This private day tour takes you deep into Parc Omega's vast natural landscapes, where Canada's most iconic animals roam freely across expansive habitats. Travel comfortably from your Ottawa accommodation and enjoy a relaxed, personalized experience designed around your pace. As you journey through the park, friendly deer and elk will approach your vehicle for carrots — one of those spontaneous, joyful moments that makes this trip truly memorable. From a safe distance, observe bison, wolves, wild boar, and bears, all living in environments that reflect their natural habitat. This is not a zoo. Your guide adds local knowledge and storytelling, turning every sighting into a meaningful Canadian experience. Parc Omega is spectacular year-round.

The Rideau Canal links Canada’s capital—Ottawa—with majestic Lake Ontario. On this tour, cruise in comfort along the UNESCO World Heritage–listed waterway and admire sweeping views over top attractions including the Canadian Museum of Nature, Château Laurier, Dow’s Lake, and the National Arts Centre. Along the way, listen as your guide sheds light on centuries of colorful Canadian history.

Ottawa, Canada’s capital, invites you to explore its 25 iconic sites in one day. This 5.7 km route takes you along the majestic Ottawa River, through historic monuments such as Parliament, the Library of Parliament and Château Laurier. Discover Canadian history at the Canadian Museum of History and admire art at the National Gallery. Enjoy this walking tour to savour the local culture and captivating cityscapes. - 5.7 km tour through 25 places of interest - Visit iconic sites such as Parliament and Château Laurier - Ideal for history and culture lovers - Duration of the visit: about 2 hours and 20 minutes

Combine a private street art tour of Ottawa with a treasure hunt on your phone. Follow clues and solve puzzles to unlock new places and street art in the Canadian capital. Listen to stories of the city and the street art, discover hidden gems, and have fun at your own pace.

Discover Ottawa’s wild side! Spot iconic wildlife downtown, then head to Gatineau Park for outdoor adventures and animal sightings, explore fascinating exhibits at the Canadian Museum of Nature, or enjoy a drive-through safari at Parc Oméga—Canadian nature at its best! Solve puzzles, explore the city, and find hidden gems at your own pace. Try a new type of experience with your smartphone, the perfect mix between a walking tour, sightseeing, and a scavenger hunt.

See a new perspective on the Canadian capital—and enjoy a relaxed, hassle-free sightseeing experience—during this narrated boat tour along the Ottawa River. Choose a departure point and tour time that work best for you, find your preferred seat on the two viewing decks, and get comfortable. You can look out for sights ranging from Parliament Hill to Nepean Point, all while learning more from the bilingual commentary.

Discover the beauty and history of Canada's capital when you book this private tour of Ottawa’s highlights. Explore Rockcliffe Park, featuring sights like the US Ambassador's residence and the Governor General's house. Take a Rideau Canal Cruise for a scenic view of the city and Rideau Falls. Drive past iconic landmarks like the Parliament Buildings and Supreme Court, concluding with a self-guided walking tour of Parliament Hill's Gothic revival-style architecture.

Have only a limited time to explore Ottawa? See the best of the city—and travel by air-conditioned minivan and by boat—on this time-saving, two-in-one tour. With just a small group for company, you'll see Rockcliffe Park, which is off-limits to larger tour vehicles. Next, trawl the Ottawa River and admire a new perspective on the sights. Then, go for a narrated drive past the Parliament Buildings and more, plus time to sightsee on foot.

Discover the captivating charm of Montreal on this private full-day tour from Ottawa. Enjoy a comfortable car tour as you traverse the scenic Canadian countryside, allowing for leisurely sightseeing and photo opportunities along the way. Explore iconic attractions such as the Old Port, Mont Royal, all while indulging in the local culture at Jean-Talon Market. This flexible itinerary caters to your interests, ensuring a memorable journey filled with history and beauty. - Private tour for a stress-free day trip from Ottawa to Montreal - Visit top landmarks including Old Port, Mont Royal, and Jean Talon Market - Flexible schedule allows for personalized sightseeing and photo stops - Enjoy a comfortable ride with planned rest breaks along the route

Make your time in Ottawa extra fun with this exploration game that takes you on a journey through downtown. Become a private investigator and uncover the city's history by deciphering clues on your phone. Immerse yourself in the role of a detective solving a disappearance mystery. With each challenge solved, the story unravels, leading you to the next location. If you get stuck, help is available 24/7.

Ottawa’s political landmarks and historic neighborhoods can feel distant without guidance. Take the mystery out of your visit by exploring with a local on a private walking tour. This personalized tour allows you to discover the exterior of monuments, including museums, while learning about the city’s history and culture. If you wish to include a museum visit, your guide can customize the itinerary to fit your interests—just let us know in advance. Your guide contacts you beforehand to understand your preferences, ensuring you see the places you truly want to experience. Perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples, this tour uncovers Ottawa’s local gems and vibrant culture.

Choose your own itinerary during this self-guided tour of Ottawa via bicycle. Pedal your way through the city like a local, using the provided map to reach the sites that most interest you. Safe and scenic bike paths keep you away from car traffic and let you see the green areas of the region.

You wake up in a stranger's house with no memory of last night. Someone's chasing you, your car is missing, and your pockets hold a pet collar, a coffee receipt, and a mysterious note. Retrace Jackson's wild night through 12 stops across Rockcliffe Park, Ottawa's most prestigious neighbourhood. Decode crests and flags at embassy residences from Norway to Japan, piece together clues, and figure out why "Lornado" is tattooed on your arm. Download the Questo app, activate your quest with the booking code, and start at the Norwegian Ambassador's Residence on Lisgar Road. No guide, no schedule, explore at your own pace. Along the way, discover stories most locals miss: why Ottawa blooms with Dutch tulips every spring, the Irish mansion controversy, Thailand's sacred elephants, and the entrepreneur who shaped modern Ottawa. Perfect for couples, friends, or families exploring Ottawa beyond Parliament Hill. About 70 minutes, 12 stops through Rockcliffe Park.

Explore Ottawa— your way—on this self-guided half-day bike tour. Consult the provided map to discover where you want to explore and then spend the day biking along the paths of your choice. Choose from a variety of bike models (including the option to upgrade to a version with electric assistance) and get professionally fitted for your bike to ensure you get the experience you want.

Enjoy a hassle-free arrival in Ottawa with this private transfer service. Meet your driver at Ottawa/Macdonald-Cartier International Airport, and relax on the journey to your hotel or private residence. These private vehicles can accommodate up to eight passengers.

A visit to the Canadian War Museum is your opportunity to learn about the contribution of Canada and its military to many conflicts in Canadian history, and how we commemorate the accomplishments and the loss.  Spend as much time as you need exploring the rare and historically important artifacts, uniforms, vehicles, art, and memorabilia that make up the 3 million pieces in the collections.

Take a spooky stroll through Downtown Ottawa on this guided haunted walking tour. Experience the darker side of Canada’s capital and hear tales of the city's haunted heritage as told by a professional storyteller. Hear the hair-raising stories and see the area’s most haunted sites. It’s a fascinating, spine-tingling adventure.

This private walking tour reveals Ottawa’s hidden cultural and historic heritage. Discover lesser-known landmarks that reflect the city’s rich architectural legacy and evolving identity. Walk through quiet streets where historic buildings and overlooked monuments preserve remarkable stories. What secrets remain beyond Ottawa’s famous attractions? Explore hidden corners shaped by early settlers, national transformation, and cultural diversity. Admire elegant architecture that blends historic character with modern civic life. Experience peaceful spaces where history and local traditions continue to thrive. Enjoy an inspiring journey through Ottawa’s hidden heritage, where every stop reveals another chapter of a city with remarkable cultural depth and lasting historical significance. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

This small-group bike tour is perfect for families and those wanting a safe and leisurely way to see Ottawa. Most of the route is on designated bike paths or quaint backroads that take you to some of Ottawa’s cultural and natural highlights. See Rideau Hall, cycle the Rideau Canal path, plus see the War Memorial, Byward Market and more. Stop along the way to learn more about certain locations and get local tips from your guide.