Although it’s the capital, it’s a smallish city (about 1m people) so it’s possible to walk round. Unlike a lot of other Canadian cities they’ve preserved their historical buildings so the city has a real sense of history and heritage. The verdi-gris roofs of the parliament buildings in contrast to the brickwork are a lovely sight and their gothic tone is very atmospheric.
Ottawans have the typical Canadian trait of being very friendly and helpful so expect a warm welcome whatever the weather.
Weather –
On a par with most other major Canadian cities – warm in summer but freezing in winter.
Things to do –
- Parliament buildings. You can go and watch the ministers at work in the House of Commons then do a free tour of the buildings and the peace tower. After go see the cat sanctuary behind the building where local strays are sheltered according to an old tradition. In summer, changing of the guard ceremonies take place here aswell so it’s your chance to see a mountie.
- Rideau Hall. Official residence of the Governer General with large park open to the public.
- Museums and galleries. Quite a number of these, Gallery of Photography just down from the Parliament buildings is interesting and has innovative exhibitions, the National Gallery has Canada’s major art collections. (Museums in Canada are normally closed on Mondays.)
- Ice skating on the canal. The large canal that runs through the city freezes over in Winter and becomes an ice rink. It wasn’t cold enough when I was there but the pictures looked great.
- Old jail tour. See Where to stay below.
- Shopping. There are a number of shopping malls and a local food market.
Getting there –
I flew into Ottawa airport which is small enough to not get lost in. The volunteer on the information desk was great at helping me get a bus to my accommodation in town which wasn’t far away. Air transport within Canada is very cheap and it’s easy to fly between major cities.
Where to stay –
Ottawa Youth Hostel based in the old jail where prisoners were incarcerated and executed. The rooms are the original cells, seemingly untouched, complete with narrow barred doorways. It gives you an idea what it must have been like being locked up there and is very exciting and creepy to stay in. The 7th floor where condemned prisoners were held and executed (by hanging) is not habited but is open to the public. A ‘shock’ tour is operated by a local company so be prepared for screaming! A genuinely scary place.
Overall –
Canada is a fantastic place to visit. If you want mountains and lakes, go to Banff and Jasper. If you want culture and heritage, go to Ottawa. It’s a city with a real feeling of history and tradition, unlike the rather colourless nearby Toronto.
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