Popular places to visit
Parliament Hill
Spend a day enjoying the lively debates, artworks, library and Gothic Revival architecture of Canada’s political heart.
Rideau Canal
This engineering and scenic marvel fills with pleasure craft in summer and transforms into the world’s longest naturally frozen skating rink in winter.
Byward Market Square
Fresh local produce, artisanal handicrafts and historic courtyards are some of the many features of Ottawa’s oldest and busiest market.
Carleton University
Explore the campus of Carleton University as part of your travels around Ottawa. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
National Arts Centre
You can get tickets for a performance at National Arts Centre during your trip to Ottawa. Experience the acclaimed art galleries or attend a sporting event in this walkable area.
Canadian Museum of History
Up to 20,000 years of history is showcased in this impressive institution dedicated to life in Canada. It also has a Children’s Museum and IMAX theatre.
Activities
Ottawa: Canadian Museum of Nature Admission
Secrets of the Château Laurier Hotel Tour
Fly over the City of Ottawa in a Helicopter
Canadian Museum of History (Canadian Children's Museum included)
Rockcliffe Ottawa: Exploration Game and Tour
Our pick of the best Vanier Hotel Deals
Lord Elgin Hotel
Our stay was absolutely wonderful at the Lord Elgin in downtown Ottawa. The rooms are very nice and comfortable, very clean. Bar has excellent cocktails. But the best part for me is the valley parking. You have to pay extra for it, but it’s well worth every penny especially during the winter months. ...
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Bed was unconformable and noisy !!
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
The Business Inn
Beautiful suit. Very comfortable mattresses. Restaurants in surrounding area are excellent lots of variety. Near by shopping museums. Everything. Remarkable
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG
Room was clean, breakfast was not as good as last time.
Reviewed on 10 Jan 2026
ANDAZ OTTAWA BYWARD MARKET, BY HYATT
Toilet situation over running water, wish more comfortable seating in room. Other than that very comfortable beds and clean. Great customer service.
Reviewed on 16 Jan 2026
Welcominns Hotel Ottawa
Quiet and always welcoming
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Vanier
Sandy Hill
Shopping and restaurants are highlights of Sandy Hill. Make a stop by Rideau Centre or Rideau Mall while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at uOttawa Station to get around town.
Downtown Ottawa
Known for its fascinating museums and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Ottawa. Check out top attractions like Rideau Centre and Rideau Mall, and jump on the metro at Rideau Station or Parliament Station to see more of the city.
ByWard Market
A noteworthy feature of ByWard Market is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Byward Market Square and Rideau Centre.
Golden Triangle
Golden Triangle is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Elgin Street and Ottawa City Hall while in the area.
Centretown
Known for its abundant dining options and interesting museums, there's plenty to explore in Centretown. Top attractions like Elgin Street and Canadian Museum of Nature are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Parliament Station or Lyon Station to see more of the city.
Hull
Hull is a destination visitors seek out for its interesting museums, casinos and stunning river views. You might want to check out attractions like Canadian Museum of History or Casino du Lac Leamy while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
