bus tour from ottawa

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Ottawa Valley Tours

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Ottawa Valley Tours is a leader in Motor Coach Holidays operating out of the Greater Ottawa-Carleton Region, the Ottawa Valley and Eastern Ontario. For over 55 years we have been specializing in packaging scheduled group tours. We offer a selection of one-day tours and multi-day holidays throughout Canada and the United States including “No Fly” cruises to Bermuda, the Caribbean and the Canada & New England Coast. We also provide custom packages for specialized groups. read more…

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Head Office: 613.723.5701 Toll Free: 1.800.267.5288

Hazeldean Mall 300 Eagleson Road Kanata, Ontario K2M 1C9

Monday to Friday - 9:30 am-4:00 pm Saturday and Sunday - Closed

Travel Registration #2967742-5000006

tours departing from Ottawa

All of our tours depart from Ottawa. Bus tours generally depart from the Westgate Shopping Center, and for most tours, pick-ups are available in Kemptville, Prescott and Brockville.

See all of the tours that Travac offers.

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Splash and Land Tours

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Winter Sightseeing Tours of Ottawa

From November 1st until April 30th, our new winter vintage bus tours are the only ones available during the cold season. Our sightseeing tours of Ottawa and Gatineau will allow you to view the most popular attractions in the city while staying warm on our heated vintage buses. Book your tickets here:

Our tours of Ottawa

 Lady Dive Tours is proud to offer the best bus and boat sightseeing tours of Ottawa and Gatineau. Our tours offer the most variety; whether you choose our amphibus (the only one in the province) or our open top double decker buses, we have a tour that is made for you!

Amphibus Tour

This one hour visit in a bus that goes on land and water is the best way to visit the National Capital Region! Being the only one of its kind in the province of Ontario, the amphibus is a unique experience. Our fantastic tour has a live bilingual guide on board providing an entertaining, informative and relaxing experience. This tour is a must-do if you are looking to see the most important sites of Ottawa-Gatineau and the majestic views from the Ottawa River.

Double decker tour

Hop on and hop off our double decker buses! This practical and enjoyable tour is made for those who are looking to visit some of the best sites in Ottawa! By hopping on and off at various historic sites, museums and attractions, you can truly immerse yourself in the culture of the National Capital Region. Visit our Tours and Services page to buy discounted tickets to some of our stops .​

Double Decker Tour

Hop on and hop off our double decker buses! This practical and enjoyable tour is made for those who are looking to visit some of the best sites in Ottawa! By hopping on and off at various historic sites, museums and attractions, you can truly immerse yourself in the culture of the National Capital Region. Visit our Tours and Services page to buy discounted tickets to some of our stops .​​

Join us on Ottawa’s wine and cider tour for an unforgetable experience! We have stops at 3 unique and local hidden gems: Buyers and Cellars, KIN Vineyards and Farmgate Cider. The tour lasts around 6.5hrs and includes food and at least 12 sample drinks!

Join us on Ottawa’s wine and cider tour for an unforgetable experience! We have stops at 3 unique and local hidden gems: Buyers and Cellars, KIN Vineyards and Farmgate Cider. The tour lasts around 6.5hrs and includes food and at least 12 sample drinks!​

Parking Near Us!

Since we are located downtown, we do not have our own parking! Visit our Maps and Attractions page to view parking options near our starting location. We advise that you come at least 30 minutes in advance in order to find parking.

Tours and Services

If you are looking for a a fantastic holiday experience in Ottawa, you have come to the right place. We offer incredible and relaxing sightseeing tours of Ottawa, allowing you the enjoy the best sites without the stress of public transportation. Take a closer look into the tours we offer and pick the one for you.

Sightseeing Tours of Ottawa

These double decker bus tours allow you to see the city from an elevated perspective. All our sightseeing tours of Ottawa are guided with a live bilingual guide to provide an entertaining, informative, and pleasant experience while learning about all of the sights in the city.

Classic City Tour

This one hour and a half sightseeing tour of Ottawa and Gatineau provides an informative, relaxing, and entertaining way to see all of the most interesting sites with a live guide on board. All guides are completely bilingual.

Our Double Decker tour doesn’t need to be used in a hop on and hop off fashion, it is also a fantastic experience on its own. This one hour and a half sightseeing tour of Ottawa and Gatineau provides an informative, relaxing, and entertaining way to see all of the most interesting sites in the National Capital region. With a live guide on board, come experience Ottawa from the local perspective. This is the perfect tour for travellers who would like to see as much as possible within a limited amount of time.

• Starting Location: 44 Sparks St, Ottawa, K1P 5K6.
• Start Time: First tour begins at 10:00am every morning (tours run hourly or every 30 minutes).
• End Time: We may have later tours depending on demand but last tour usually begins from starting location at 4:00pm.
• Price Range: {$18.99 – $27.99} per person.
• Pass Valid: For one tour. Cannot get back on after getting off the bus.
• Tour Length: 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Languages: Live guide in French and English – Audio in German, Mandarin, Ukrainian, Russian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Japanese.

One Day Pass: Hop On and Hop Off

Enjoy a bilingual guided city tour of the Ottawa-Gatineau region on our open top double decker buses. The 1 Day pass allows you to hop on and hop off at the most important sites in the city such as museums, historic sites, and popular attractions for 24 hours.

Enjoy a bilingual guided city tour of the Ottawa-Gatineau region on our open top double decker buses. This informative and entertaining tour has 12 strategically located stops and sees over 75 sites throughout the city. The tour has a live guide on board along with multilingual audio to provide an instructive and pleasant experience. The 1 Day pass allows you to hop on and hop off at the most important sites in the city such as museums, historic sites, and popular attractions for 24 hours.

• End Time: Last tour begins from starting location at 4:00pm.
• Price Range: {$25.79 – $36.79} per person.
• Pass Valid: 24 hours after first use (can be carried over to the following day).

Ottawa Wine and Cider Tour

Join us for a delightful day of wine and cider tasting, accompanied by delicious food parings for an unforgettable experience. This is a must do experience for wine and cider lovers who want to enjoy the experience without the worry of driving.

Join us for a delightful day of wine and cider tasting, accompanied by delicious food parings for an unforgettable experience.  With 3 stops for the day, you will experience a local Ottawa wine cellar with a unique assortments of wines, the region’s most popular vineyard for delightful wine tastings, and finally a cidery and orchard to learn the magical process of making cider whilst trying their various offerings.

• Starting Location: 35 George St, Ottawa, ON K1N 8W5.
• Start Time: Tour begins at 10:30am.
• Tour Length: 6.5 hours.
• Languages: Live guide in French and English.
• Includes: Wine or Cider samples at each location, with food and snacks during the tour.

Two Day Pass: Hop On and Hop Off

Just like the one day pass, the two day pass allows you to hop on and hop off at museums, historic sites, and attractions but for twice as long! The second day is 50% off, so don’t miss the chance to see all the sites you have planned to visit!

Just like the one day pass, the two day pass allows you to hop on and hop off at museums, historic sites, and attractions but for twice as long! We recommend this 48 hour pass if you wish to get off at multiple stops. Enjoy a much more relaxed and efficient visit, while taking your time to see the sites. The second day is 50% off, so don’t miss the chance to see all the sites you have planned to visit!

• Price Range: {$38.69 – $55.19} per person.
• Pass Valid: 48 hours after first use (can be carried over to 3 days, depending when it was first used).
• Languages: Live guide in French and English – Audio in German, Ukrainian, Mandarin, Russian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Japanese.

Double Decker and Boat Cruise Combo

Purchase a boat cruise combo to supplement your hop on hop off activity! These wonderful cruises are a great way to experience the Ottawa River or the Rideau Canal. These cruises are 1.5 hours long, and are always a fantastic way to spend your time.

Purchase a boat cruise combo to supplement your hop on hop off activity! These wonderful cruises are a great way to experience the Ottawa River or the Rideau Canal. The combination of a cruise and the hop on hop off experience is the ultimate way to see Ottawa from all perspectives. The cruises are 1.5 hours long, and are always a fantastic addition to your day.

• Starting Location: 44 Sparks St (Cruise starting point varies depending on Rideau Canal or River Cruise).
• Price Range: {$45 – $99} per person.
• Pass Valid: Selected tour starting time applies for the selected cruise. Double Decker start time is not important since pass is valid for full day length. 
• Tour Length:  1 hour and 30 minutes each for cruise and double decker.

Add - Ons: Ottawa Activities

In addition to our hop on and hop off tours, make it a combo by adding one of these great activities to your experience. Add these to our double decker sightseeing tours of Ottawa to complete your vacation. Some of these activities are available as add-ons during the check out process at discounted rates. Otherwise, speak to our kiosk staff to book these wonderful adventures.

Lady Dive Tours

Looking to try something completely different? This vehicle goes on land and water...and is the only amphibus in Ontario and Quebec! Visit ladydive.com to book a combo with our double deckers.

Ottawa River Cruise

Take a beautiful historic tour on the Ottawa River. This cruise takes you to the falls and behind the parliament! Add this to any double decker tour at a discounted price during the checkout process.

Interzip Zipline

Try a thrilling adventure on Ottawa's new zipline! Fly accross the Ottawa River on this interprovincial zipline. Save 10% on your zipline with the code ZIP-LADY on their website.

Cessna Plane Ride

Try an awesome plane ride over the city of Ottawa!. Minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 3 per plane. Add this option to any double decker tour at a discounted price during the checkout process.

Rideau Canal Cruise

Take a relaxing and enjoyable cruise on the Rideau Canal, one of Ottawa's most famous landmarks. Add this option to any double decker tour at a discounted price during the checkout process.

Ottawa Yachts - Luxury Experience

“From the open-air deck of these luxury yachts, you’ll see Ottawa’s riverside landmarks such as the Chateau Laurier, the Rideau Canal Locks, the Parliament Buildings, and Rideau Falls.”

Museum Discounts

Speak to our kiosk attendants to receive discount coupons! We offer discounted museum admission coupons to some of the museums seen below. Our sightseeing tours of Ottawa have stops at all of these museums.

Canadian War Museum

The Museum’s collections are among the finest military holdings in the world, including rare vehicles, artillery, uniforms, medals, personal memoirs and 14,000 works in the Beaverbrook Collection of War Art.

Canadian Museum of History

It is one of Canada’s oldest public institutions and a respected centre of museological excellence, sharing its expertise in history, archaeology, ethnology and cultural studies. This is the most visited museum in Canada.

The National Art Gallery

The National Gallery of Canada is one of the world’s most respected art institutions, and is renowned for its exceptional collection of approximately 65,000 works of art. Wonderful for all ages and all levels of artistic knowledge.

Canadian Museum of Nature

The museum’s signature galleries and special exhibitions draw visitors from around the world. There’s something here for everyone: fossils and dinosaurs, mammals, birds, water, Earth. It’s worth a visit for the architecture alone!

The Royal Canadian Mint

The Royal Canadian Mint occupies the historic building where the Mint was founded in 1908. The Ottawa facility produces hand-crafted collector and commemorative coins, gold bullion coins, medals and medallions.

Looking for a place to stay?

Book with one of our partners to receive a discount on your hotel stay. 

Courtyard by Marriott

Courtyard Ottawa Downtown is located in the historic ByWard Market district, within walking distance of Parliament Hill and Shaw Centre.

Four Points by Sheraton

Experience the perfect combination of convenience and comfort at Four Points by Sheraton Hotel & Conference Centre Gatineau-Ottawa.

New offering

Fireworks tour.

Enjoy a live bilingual tour that takes you through the beautiful streets of Ottawa at night, then enjoy the amazing fireworks display from the roof of our double decker with a completely unobstructed view of the river!

Dates: August 3rd, 7th, 10th, 14th and 17th

Gray Line Ottawa

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Ottawa insider blog.

What’s happening in the Ottawa area

Top 10 things to do in Ottawa

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Tours: Sparks at Elgin Streets (blue kiosk) Ottawa ON K1R 7S5 Canada

Related Attractions

Ottawa Boat Cruise – Paul’s Boat Line

Sample the East

General inquiries: 1-833-864-7839 [email protected]

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Ottawa Bus Tours

Experience the best of ottawa with grayline, one day pass.

All Ages • 8 Hours Hop-On/Hop-Off at Any Popular Sites

Ottawa Grayline specializes in guided tours of the National Capital region of Ottawa-Gatineau. These unique multilingual guided tours of Canada’s capital let you appreciate Ottawa’s historic scenery from every possible angle.

Two Day Pass

90 Min Tour

Our tours are narrated from start to finish and are available in 8 languages: French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Mandarin, Japanese or Russian.

* Please note : with the 90 minute tour you cannot hop off at a location and get back on, you are on the bus for the duration of the tour.*

Tours and Services - Ottawa Sightseeing Tours

Ottawa's wine tasting tour.

Join us for a delightful day of wine and cider tasting, accompanied by delicious food parings for an unforgettable experience.  With 3 stops for the day, you will experience a local Ottawa wine cellar with a unique assortments of wines, the region’s most popular vineyard for delightful wine tastings, and finally a cidery and orchard to learn the magical process of making cider whilst trying their various offerings.

Wine and/or cider samples, food pairings, and a tour/presentation at each location .

Start time is 10:30am at 35 George St, Ottawa, ON K1N 8W5 every Saturday. The bus will be in front of the Totem pole of Canada.

The tour is 7 hours long and our tour guide is bilingual in both French and English.

Amphibus Tour

This one hour sightseeing tour of Ottawa takes you to see the most important sites in the city on land while also being able to enjoy a beautiful scenic cruise on the Ottawa river! The view from the water is incredible. In addition, our trained guides will provide you with entertaining and informative commentary in both French and English. Join us for a splash to experience this unique moment with us, while also enjoying a relaxing cruise on the river. Come try this Ottawa city tour for an exciting adventure!

Hop On, Hop Off Bus Tour

Enjoy a bilingual guided city tour of the Ottawa-Gatineau region on our open top double decker buses. This informative and entertaining tour has 12 strategically located stops and sees over 75 sites throughout the city. The tour has a live guide on board along with multilingual audio to provide an instructive and pleasant experience. The hop on/hop off options allows you to hop on and hop off at the most important sites in the city such as museums, historic sites, and popular attractions.

Opening Hours

Weekdays: 0900-1600

Weekends: 0900-1730

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Ottawa - Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour & Tickets

• North America

Explore the captivating blend of Canadian history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty in Ottawa, where iconic landmarks, vibrant festivals, and scenic waterways await exploration. Discover the Parliament Hill, visit the National Gallery of Canada, or explore the picturesque Rideau Canal. Whether you're admiring the blooms at the Canadian Tulip Festival or skating on the frozen Rideau Canal, Ottawa promises a journey filled with elegance, diversity, and Canadian charm.

Explore the top attractions in Ottawa at your own pace with hop-on hop-off bus tour!

Ottawa City Tour: Hop-on Hop-off Bus

• Ottawa , Canada

The best and easiest way to get around Ottawa.

Local Currency

Country code, best months.

Explore the charming capital city of Canada, Ottawa, known for its historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and scenic natural beauty.

Visit Parliament Hill, the seat of Canada's federal government, with its iconic Gothic-style buildings, majestic Peace Tower, and beautiful views of the Ottawa River and downtown skyline.

Discover the rich history and culture of Canada at the Canadian Museum of History, with its exhibits on indigenous peoples, Canadian history, and cultural heritage.

Indulge in the culinary delights of Ottawa's ByWard Market, one of the oldest and largest public markets in Canada, offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts in a vibrant atmosphere.

When to visit

Visit Ottawa in the spring, from April to June, when the city's tulip festival showcases vibrant blooms, and outdoor activities abound along the Rideau Canal.

For winter sports and festivities, the best time to visit Ottawa is in the winter, from December to February, when the city transforms into a winter wonderland with skating, skiing, and holiday celebrations.

Getting around

Embark on a cultural exploration of Ottawa on a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, discovering landmarks like Parliament Hill and the National Gallery of Canada, where you can delve into the country's artistic and political heritage.

Navigate Ottawa's scenic pathways and waterways by renting a kayak or joining guided paddling tours, offering unique perspectives of the city's landmarks and natural beauty along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River.

• Discover Ottawa's history and culture on a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, visiting landmarks like Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, and ByWard Market, with informative commentary along the way.
• Navigate Ottawa's downtown area on foot, exploring attractions like museums, galleries, and historic sites, including the National Gallery of Canada and Canadian Museum of History.
• Treat yourself to Canadian cuisine by dining at restaurants, bistros, and food markets, enjoying dishes like poutine, beavertails, and maple syrup-infused specialties.
• Pack comfortable shoes and layers for exploring Ottawa's outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and riverfront trails, perfect for picnics, cycling, and leisurely walks.
• Take advantage of the Visit Ottawa Pass for access to top attractions, discounts on tours, and unlimited rides on public transportation during your visit.

The Ottawa 's Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Ottawa City Tour: Hop-on Hop-off Bus. Book your tickets online and discover the best way to get around Ottawa.

Smartphone tickets accepted

Free cancellation, free rescheduling, live guides:, audio guides:.

Take the Hop-on Hop-off Bus tour of Ottawa for 1 or 2 days, depending on your selected ticket option

Get a feel for the city's sights and 75 top destinations with live commentary in English and French

Want more info? Just plug into the audio guide that's available in 8 different languages

What's Included

Hop-on hop-off tour of Ottawa in an open-top double-decker bus (1 or 2 days, depending on your selected ticket option)

Live commentary in English and French

Opening Hours

Cancellation policy.

• Cancellation is possible until 24 hours before your visit.
• Rescheduling is possible until 24 hours before your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ottawa

Discover 4 other cities in Canada and explore their sightseeings with tourist bus tour tickets.

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Gray Line Ottawa 1 Day: Hop-On, Hop-Off tour

Activity schedule, key highlights.

• Inclusions & Exclusions

May to October: Daily

24 hours after first use (can be carried over to the following day)

1 loop is 1.5 hours long

10 am to 4 pm, every 30 min

• Meeting Point Hop on the bus at any of the stops to start the tour. The first stop is 44 Sparks St, Ottawa, K1P 5K6.

You can hop off at any of the designated stops along the way

• Discover the best of Ottawa on a hop-on, hop-off tour that covers more than 75 attractions
• This excursion provides you with a complete tour experience of the Canadian capital from all avenues
• Hop on and off at 12 strategically located stops to visit attractions of your choice
• Enjoy informative audio commentary in multiple languages
• Enjoy the services of an English and French-speaking guide
• Buses arrive frequently at short intervals, so less waiting and more sightseeing
• Both printed and smartphone vouchers accepted!

Discover the best of Ottawa on a 1-day hop-on, hop-off bus tour and enjoy sightseeing according to your own preferences. No more sticking to rigid itineraries and hiring guides. Simply hop on and off at any of the 12 well-placed stops around the city and visit attractions of your choice.

Not in the mood for hectic sightseeing? Sit back as you enjoy a 1.5-hour drive around the city while enjoying informative prerecorded commentary in multiple languages and seeing the landmarks and attractions of Ottawa from open-top, double-decker buses.

The route covers more than 75 points of attraction around Ottawa like Christ Church Cathedral, Canadian War Museum, Jaques Cartier Park, the Rideau River, New Edinburgh, Dow’s Lake, City Hall, University of Ottawa, the Byward Market, Lansdowne Park and more!

Some of the main stops are:

• Parliament of Canada
• Canadian Museum of Nature
• Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
• Ottawa Sign / Byward Market
• Rideau Hall
• RCMP Stables
• Canada Aviation and Space Museum

Inclusions & Exclusions

• Hop On Hop Off Ticket (1 day)
• Live guide in French and English
• Audio guide in German, Mandarin, Ukrainian, Russian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Japanese
• Entrance fee to attractions

Useful downloads

Please note.

Voucher information: You can show your voucher on your smartphone (But if you’d rather print a copy – that’s fine too!)

Ottawa is a functioning city and weather, traffic and events may occasionally cause disruption.

Timings and stops are subject to change. The updated map will be available on the bus. 

Customer Reviews

Michal recka.

Very nice tour. We enjoyed it very much. A tip for the organizers: you could skip French guidance when everyone on the bus clearly speaks English. You could e.g. use different wrist bands to distinguish between preferred language so the guide doesn't even have to ask all the time. ?? I didn't mind hearing language I don't understand but it is definitely something that requires a bit of extra brain power to keep filtering out what is not useful for me.

Trevor Chapman

Price is competitive and worth the cost

Doriane Pezo

Was the cheapest price l could find.

Things to do in Ottawa

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

18 of the Best Ottawa Tours

July 4, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for the best Ottawa tours to enjoy on your next visit, we’ve got you covered.

Welcome to Ottawa, the charming capital city of Canada where history, culture, and maple syrup converge! As you stroll through the picturesque streets, you’ll be captivated by the harmonious blend of old-world elegance and modern vibrancy. Ottawa’s iconic landmarks, including the majestic Parliament Hill and the enchanting Rideau Canal, proudly showcase the nation’s rich heritage. There are many things to do in Ottawa , from incredible museums and cool attractions to amazing food and outdoor activities.

There are also many cool Ottawa tours for those looking to enhance their visit to Ottawa, Ontario . Whether you’re looking for a fun boat ride down the Rideau Canal, a biking tour that takes you through scenic neighbourhoods, or a helicopter ride over the city, these are the best 18 Ottawa tours to consider.

Our Top 3 Picks: Ottawa Tours

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Small Group Tour with River Cruise

✔️ See a lot in a short time ✔️ River Cruise + Parliament Hill

Ottawa Highlights 3.5-hour Bike Tour ✔️ See a lot of the city ✔️ Bike, helmet, and guide included

Wine and Cider Tour Day Trip

✔️ See the countryside ✔️ Wine, cider, and lunch

Ottawa tours Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase, we get a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use and they help keep these travel guides free. It’s a win-win! For more information, visit our  privacy policy.

1. Best of Ottawa Small Group Tour with River Cruise

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (77+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 – 6 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Short on time but hoping to see as much of the city as possible? As Canada’s capital city, there are so many important landmarks, interesting architecture, and fascinating history to indulge in. Although this tour of Ottawa offers lots of sightseeing of popular areas, it also includes a visit to Parliament Hill and a Rideau Canal River Cruise to end your five-six hour tour in a nice relaxing way.

It was very handy being picked up and dropped off. I enjoyed it was a small group. Andrew was very knowledgeable and helpful. Melody, sorry not 100% sure her name, she was fantastic, knowledgeable. She made the cruise entertaining and pleasant. Bartender was also great. Thank you to the captain. -Sandra ( see more reviews )

This 4-hour Ottawa tour includes:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Click Here to See Reviews, Pricing, and Availability.

2. Scenic Helicopter Flight Over Ottawa

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (60+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 10-30 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

While Ottawa has many star attractions you should visit, it’s an entirely different experience to soar over the capital of Canada in a helicopter , snapping breathtaking photos and enjoying marvellous views. Gaze out of the panoramic and curved windows and spot the serene Meech Lake and the Champlain.

In addition to the flight itself, we’ve been told that admission to the Canadian Space and Aviation Museum is included, so you’ll want to ask about that and book your tour accordingly. This is where you’ll find Rockcliffe Airport to begin your flight. See Parliament Hill, Rideau Hall, and so much more from the sky. This activity also makes for one of the best date ideas in Ottawa as well!

Had a great experience. Our pilot Martin was very professional, knowledgeable, and courteous. Great views, smooth ride, so much fun. -Travis ( see more reviews )

Choose between Ottawa tours such as a 10-minute flight covering 30 KM, a 20-minute flight covering 60 KM, or a 30-minute flight covering 90 KM.

This helicopter tour over Ottawa includes:

• Helicopter flight
• Safety briefing

3. Ottawa Highlights 3.5-Hour Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (70+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Experience the beauty and history of Canada’s capital city on this half-day bike tour around Ottawa . See the major attractions and must-see sites while enjoying the natural pathways and waterways of Canada’s capital city. Overall, this is a great tour to get some exercise and get a taste of one of Canada’s most beautiful cities.

Did the 3.5 hour bike tour with Escapes & it was fabulous. We saw so many sites in both Ottawa & Quebec. Also learned a lot about Canadian history. Our guide, Sparky was the best. Want to go back & do the 5 hour tour. -Mary ( see more reviews )

This 3.5-hour biking tour of Ottawa includes:

• Local tour guide (in English, French, German, and Spanish)

4. Best of Ottawa Neighbourhoods & Nature Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (30+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3+ Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

As a relatively small and compact city, Ottawa is a great place to explore on a bike. If that sounds like fun, take part in this 3-hour bike tour to experience the beauty and history of Ottawa , including some of the city’s trendiest and most vibrant neighbourhoods, most of the major sites, and the natural pathways and waterways of Canada’s capital city. This tour is offered by the same company above but focused on the area outside of the busy downtown core.

My husband and I had an amazing time! The shop was easy to find. Our guide was easy going, very informative, and accommodating. Saw much more than we thought we could in our short stay in Ottawa. Great city for biking. The five hours were not strenuous nor stressful. Highly recommended! -Rochelle ( see more reviews )

This 3-hour bicycle tour of Ottawa includes:

• Use of bicycle

5. 2-Hour Ottawa Express City Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (218+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

With more than 200 5-star reviews, this is one of the most popular Ottawa tours. This small-group bike tour is perfect for families and those wanting a safe and leisurely way to see Ottawa in a very short timeframe of just two hours. Most of the route is on designated bike paths or quaint backroads that take you to some of Ottawa’s cultural and natural highlights, such as Rideau Hall, the Rideau Canal path, the War Memorial, Byward Market and more. Stop along the way to learn more about certain locations and get local tips from your guide.

The tour was a great way to explore Ottawa, understand its neighborhoods, green spaces, art museums and culture, while engaging all our senses. Our guide took us to places we would never have normally gone to. She was knowledgeable and very engaging. Highly recommended. -Michele ( see more reviews )

This 2-hour biking tour of Ottawa includes:

• Local guide

6. City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (46+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Beer is so much better when you have transportation taken care of. So jump aboard the beer bus for an afternoon of fun. This 4–5 hour beer tour will take you to 3 (or more, depending on time) local Ottawa craft breweries for a tour and tasting, giving you time to learn about the ingredients and beer-making process, as well as taste the creations. If you like beer and you’re in Ottawa, this is one of the best Ottawa tours you can take.

Our tour guide, Vincent, was very entertaining and spent time with us on the bus chatting. The breweries were very interesting, learning a lot about the production of beers and especially about the different hops that were used and where they come from. The selection of beers at all the breweries was very good and plentiful -Wendy ( see more reviews )

This 4-hour tour of Ottawa breweries includes:

• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• All sampling and tour fees
• Transport by school-style bus
• Alcoholic Beverages

7. Ottawa Private Tour with a Local

⭐️  RATING:  4.4 out of 5 Stars (63+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-6 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

This walking tour of Ottawa is perfect for those looking to customize their own experience and not be with other guests. It’s your chance to explore the city with a friendly local who is passionate and knowledgeable about Canada’s capital city and ready to help you make the most of your trip. Learn about the best places to eat and buy groceries, the easiest ways to get around, and the top things to see and do. Choose between a 2, 3 or 4-hour private tour.

I had a fabulous afternoon in Ottawa and. Especially enjoyed visiting the national art gallery Guillame was a very interesting and engaging person who was a great conversationalist – I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the various highlights around Ottawa. -Happy customer ( see more reviews )

This private tour of Ottawa includes:

• Customized private tour

8. Floating Tiki Bar (Boat Tour) on the Ottawa River

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (31+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for one of the most unique Ottawa tours to do with your friends and family, this is it. Experience a slice of tropical paradise on the Ottawa River when you join a 90-minute floating tiki bar cruise . Connect your own music to the onboard speakers via Bluetooth, and bring your own food and drinks to enjoy along the way. The boat can accommodate up to 12 people, making it ideal for birthday parties or other celebrations. See the sights along the Ottawa River while enjoying a cold beverage. There’s even a restroom on board for your comfort.

We had a very good time. Staff is very friendly and it is a very original activity to do to have a drink or two in Ottawa ! -Nancy ( see more reviews )

This 1.5-hour unique tour of Ottawa includes:

• Restroom on board
• Bluetooth Audio Hookup
• Incredible Memories
• Bring Your Own Food

9. Full-Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour – Day Trip From Ottawa & Gatineau

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (25+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  7 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Is there really a better way to discover a region than through its local products? That’s why we recommend this tour to discover the magnificent Pontiac region , travelling along Route 148 to visit three family-owned wineries and a cider mill. This unique wine and cider tour allows you to taste delicious local products while learning about the history of the region and the process of making these high-quality products. Spend the afternoon This tour includes lots of wine and cider tastings, food, your guide, transportation from Ottawa and Gatineau, and perhaps most importantly, a lot of laughs!

We had a great time tasting Canada’s cold climate grape varietals with Jacob and Lynn! Our guides were fantastic and funny, providing commentary along the drive. The wineries were small and quaint and delicious. The cider mill (and its owner Greg) was our favorite stop. Such a cute place! Definitely recommend this tour to see some Canadian countryside and taste some wine and cider -Erin ( see more reviews )

This Full-Day Winery Tour from Ottawa includes:

• Wine tastings
• Cider tasting
• Free pickup and drop-off from Gatineau & Ottawa

10. Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Bus Tour Pass

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (475+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1-2 Days | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Explore Ottawa at your own pace with this popular hop-on hop-off city bus tour of Ottawa that’s filled with fun, facts, and history! Stay on the bus for the complete 1.5-hour round-trip tour or hop on and off throughout the validity of your ticket. See the sights of Ottawa from a classic open-top, double-decker bus or sit on the lower deck and enjoy the inside comfort. Either way, you’ll get to see Ottawa’s main sights like the Canadian Parliament buildings, Byward Market, and more as your knowledgeable, bilingual guide points out landmarks and shares the city’s history with you.

I enjoyed the tour very much and learned a great deal about the city of Ottawa. I saw some beautiful sights and got great photo. You need at least two days to get everything in. I found that the bus was not on schedule according to the times per stop, so I found myself waiting for the bus a few times. Best time to do this tour in July and Aug is mid week days, Friday and weekends are busy. -Happy Traveller ( see more reviews )

This Ottawa hop-on-hop-off bus tour includes:

• 1-or 2-day hop-on hop-off bus ticket (depending on the option selected)

11. Bilingual Guided City Tour by Amphibious Bus

⭐️  RATING:  4.4 out of 5 Stars (601+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 Hour | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Can’t decide between a river cruise or a boat tour? Combine a little bit of them both on this unique Ottawa tour that consists of an amphibian-style bus that can travel on land and water to discover the historical attractions of Ottawa and the Ottawa River from different perspectives. Spend 40 minutes on land and 20 minutes on the water, admiring landmark monuments and attractions such as Lake Dow, Landsdowne Park, and Byward Market. This activity is both fun and educational for the entire family, and ideal for those who are short of time but want to get a taste of the city.

Very educational and fun. The guide and captain were wonderful. We enjoyed our trip on the water. -Sandra ( see more reviews )

This 1-hour Amphibian-bus tour of Ottawa includes:

• Bilingual guide
• Transportation in an amphibious vehicle

12. Ottawa Boat Cruise – Paul’s Boat Line

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars (399+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re simply looking for a tour along the beautiful Ottawa River while admiring various landmarks and getting insight via live narration, this tour is for you. Cruise by the Parliament Buildings and marvel at the mix of natural beauty and modern, urban development while enjoying refreshments or cocktails from the boat’s canteen (fees apply).

Great experience – the Crew was amazing. Beautiful scenery, great history about places. I will do it again and recommend it to my friend and family -Soleil ( see more reviews )

This 5-hour biking tour of the Niagara wine region includes:

• Bilingual commentaries
• All Fees and Taxes

13. Ottawa Boat Cruise – Rideau Canal Cruise

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars (494+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Linking Canada’s capital city with Lake Ontario, the Rideau Canal is one of Canada’s most famous landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed waterway cuts right through the city, offering a unique way to see the city. Jump aboard the world’s-largest, certified, 100%-electric, passenger vessel and cruise the canal to admire views of the Canadian Museum of Nature, Château Laurier, Dow’s Lake, the National Arts Centre, and more. As you look out at Ottawa, listen as your guide sheds light on centuries of colourful Canadian history and interesting facts.

Our Tour Guide was outstanding. She had a great personality. Her job skills are unparalleled. Going from English to French seamlessly, keeping the group engaged and extremely knowledgable. The entire experience was was first rate from start to finish. Reserving online to boarding and departing was very simple. Nice job. -Victoria ( see more reviews )

This 1.5-hour tour of the Rideau Canal includes:

14. Oh Canada Eh?! Dinner Musical

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (64+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

It can be hard to learn about Canada’s culture and history in just two hours, but you won’t find a more interesting way to do so than with this Canadian dinner musical ! Spend the evening getting to know Canadian culture through its music and folklore. You’ll dine on a 5-course meal while meeting characters such as a lumberjack, a Mountie, and even Anne of Green Gables. Buying admission in advance means you’ll have an evening planned out in Ottawa ahead of time with no scrambling for last-minute plans.

It was all memorable. The food was great. The music was great and the service was spectacular. I would recommend this to all my friends. This is a great night out. The energy was high. -Anne ( see more reviews )

This 1.5-hour dinner musical includes:

• Dinner & Show

15. Self-Guided Biking in Ottawa-Gatineau

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (73+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Sometimes it’s great to just break free of the guided Ottawa tours and explore the city on your own. If that sounds like you, and you like biking, this self-guided tour of Ottawa via bicycle is for you. Choose your own itinerary and 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.

Very amazing experience. The way they explain the route to you really helps, plus they provide a map that guides through it. Although our map flew in water, but they explained well enough. Overall very memorable experience. -Daman ( see more reviews )

This self-guided biking tour of Ottawa includes:

• Use of helmet

16. Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (211+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

You’ve already learned about the brighter side of Ottawa, so now it’s time to take a spooky stroll through Downtown Ottawa on this guided haunted walking tour and learn about the darker side of Canada’s capital. Hear tales of the city’s haunted heritage as told by a professional storyteller.

Enjoyable and spooky tour. Nice to see some unique parts of downtown Ottawa. Our guide was very energetic, with a strong voice. She did a great job making sure everyone could hear (over traffic, and over rushing water at canal). -Omar ( see more reviews )

This unique Ottawa tour includes:

• Professional guide

17. Haunted Ottawa Jail Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (213+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Let Ottawa’s supernatural history capture your attention on this ghost walk and tour of the Old Carleton County Jail . Alongside a costumed guide, visit haunted spots such as Canada’s last functioning gallows and Carleton County Jail—now a haunted hostel—and listen to terrifying tales of unlawful hangings, faceless ghosts, and infamous assassinations. Choose from two departure times.

Olivia was knowledgeable, humorous, and her presentation was informative. Olivia patiently and kindly answered all of our groups questions. Despite living in Ottawa numerous years, we did not know of it’s harrowing history. It was eye opening! -Katherine ( see more reviews )

This haunted tour of Ottawa includes:

18. Canadian Museum of History Admission

⭐️  RATING:  4.6 out of 5 Stars (68+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 Day | 🚀  BOOK NOW

The Canadian Museum of History is one of the most beautiful and interesting museums in the country. Located in Gatineau, Quebec, along the scenic riverfront across from Parliament Hill, the Museum is housed in an iconic building designed by Indigenous architect Douglas Cardinal and features a collection of more than 4 million items — including archaeological material, cultural objects, works of art, documents, and audiovisual material.

Visiting museums is always the best way to take in rich cultural backgrounds with the limited time we all have. This particular visit was especially memorable since this museum was dedicated to make visitors learn about the fascinating history of Canada. I wouldn’t mind second visits as there are special exhibitions too! -Happy Traveller ( see more reviews )

This self-guided museum tour includes:

• Admission to the Canadian Museum of History
• Access to Canadian Children’s Museum
• Access to Ciné+
• Access to permanent galleries
• Access to special exhibitions
• Multilingual Museum Guide app (available for download)
• Complimentary coat check

Looking for More Than Just Ottawa Tours?

While Ottawa is easily one of the top destinations in the province, there’s so much more to see and do. For more Ontario travel guides, see below:

• Best Brunch in Ottawa
• Best Toronto Tours
• Best Niagara Falls Tours
• Best Niagara Wine Tours
• Best Montreal Tours
• Day trips from Toronto

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

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