Top Ottawa Sightseeing Tours

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Experience Downtown Ottawa from the Water aboard the Aqua Taxi! Looking for a fun, affordable way to see the city? Hop aboard the Aqua Taxi for a relaxing 25-minute cruise through the heart of downtown Ottawa. Take in spectacular views of Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, the Ottawa Locks, and the city’s beautiful waterfront from a unique perspective. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, snap memorable photos, and enjoy the fresh air as you glide along the Ottawa River. Powered by clean electric energy, the Aqua Taxi offers a quiet, eco-friendly ride that’s ideal for visitors, families, couples, and locals alike. Downtown service only. Fast, scenic, and affordable—it’s one of the best ways to experience Ottawa from the water.

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

Your experience begins as you meet your guide at 380 Sussex Drive in-front of the Maman Giant Spider Sculpture. Enjoy a guided walk toward the vibrant ByWard Market, one of Canada’s oldest and most lively public markets. Along the way, take in stunning pass-bys of the Royal Canadian Mint and the breathtaking Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, while your guide shares stories of Ottawa’s rich history and culture. Continue on toward Canada's Palirament Hill & Centennial Flame, passing the elegant Fairmont Château Laurier along the way. This iconic flame-shaped fountain commemorating Canadian Confederation is a must-see highlight in the capital. For your final experience, head to the waterfront where you’ll board a relaxing Rideau Canal cruise. Sit back and enjoy scenic views of downtown Ottawa while learning about this UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you board the boat, your guided walking tour concludes, and you’ll continue your experience on the water at your own pace.

If you love nature, wildlife, and especially turtles, this tour is for you. Grandmaître Ecological Reserve is an amazing place to paddle. The peace and tranquility here is outstanding. What makes it special is the numerous inlets which protect all the wonderful creatures from the high winds and fast water currents. This is their hang out place! Also, I should mention that these conditions are great for humans too. It makes it easier to paddle your kayak. This is a great activity for children.

Ottawa shines at night. Start with a leisurely sunset cruise on the river, passing Ottawa landmarks and giving you lovely views of the sky as it changes color. From there, enjoy a ride through Ottawa, and a wander through the bustling Byward Market.

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.

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.

Discover Ottawa on a fully customizable private tour, tailored to your interests and pace. Explore iconic landmarks like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and ByWard Market, or uncover hidden gems and cultural spots that most visitors never see. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories about the city’s history, politics, and vibrant culture, while helping you create an experience that’s truly your own. Choose optional stops at museums, scenic viewpoints, local food spots, or shopping destinations. Perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized and unforgettable Ottawa adventure – reserve your private tour today.

Experience the beauty and history of Ottawa on a half-day bike tour in and around the city. See the major attractions and must-see sites while enjoying the natural pathways and waterways of Canada’s capital city.

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.

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.

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.

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

Get ready for a short and sweet Solar Palapa Experience, the ultimate way to explore the beauty of downtown Ottawa from the water. In just 25 minutes, soak in the best views of the Ottawa River while snapping selfies, enjoying tropical vibes, and sipping on refreshing drinks. Relax and soak in the stunning views of Ottawa's iconic landmarks as you drift along the water. It's a short but sweet adventure designed to help you unwind, snap a few memorable photos, and enjoy a unique perspective of the city. Glide along the river on a solar-powered floating Tiki boat. Choose from beer, wine, and handcrafted Bartesian cocktails for that extra flair. This is Ottawa’s most affordable and unique water tour.

Escape the city and soak up the summer vibes with our ultimate lazy river adventure from Ottawa and Gatineau. Drift along the gentle Coulonge River for relaxing fun, with plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the ride. End your day with a delicious barbecue lunch on a white sand beach and channel your inner lumberjack with outdoor axe throwing.

There is probably nothing more Canadian then taking full advantage of winter with a dog sledding experience in the great winter landscape! This winter, join Aventure Outaouais for this Ultimate Dog Sledding Tour where we will not only take you on a dog sledding adventure in the beautiful Petite-Nation region of the Outaouais, but we will be visiting the regions tallest waterfall at over 63 m tall! All this with the most experiences guides and your transportation from Ottawa and Gatineau! This is truly the best way to enjoy a beautiful Quebec winter day!