Backpacking in Ottawa
🌟 Highlightcity ranked #5
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 17, 2026

You land in Ottawa and hit your first real fork: do you burn half a day and a chunk of cash on Parliament Hill tours and the Canadian Museum of History, or keep it cheap and slow with canal-side walks, free galleries, and hostel kitchen hangouts. That choice matters because Ottawa quietly punishes lazy planning; it’s a government town where value hides in timing and combos, not in-your-face thrills. Ottawa sits in eastern Ontario, right on the Quebec border across the river from Gatineau. For backpackers, it’s clean, safe, and easy to navigate, with solid buses and walkable cores, but more low-key than Montreal or Toronto. Highlights like Parliament, ByWard Market, and the Rideau Canal are genuinely worth your time, yet nightlife can feel tame and hostels fewer, so meeting other travelers takes a bit more deliberate effort.

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Best time to go: March - November
Population: 1 million [statcan.gc.ca]
Daily cost: USD50 to 80 [numbeo.com]

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✨ Why go?
Ranked #5 city in CanadaWhy Ottawa should be on your travel list

Ottawa is a strategic stop for backpackers weaving through Canada. It offers a unique blend of affordability and accessibility. You’ll find a range of hostels that cater to budget-conscious travelers, making it easy to settle in without breaking the bank. The city’s walkability is a game-changer; you can stroll from one highlight to another, soaking in the atmosphere without the hassle of public transport.

Food options are diverse and often wallet-friendly, from food trucks to cozy cafes, allowing you to fuel up without overspending. As for nightlife, it’s vibrant yet laid-back, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Ottawa also serves as a basecamp for day trips to nearby natural wonders or charming towns, maximizing your experience without the need for extensive travel. If … read more 👉

Ottawa is a strategic stop for backpackers weaving through Canada. It offers a unique blend of affordability and accessibility. You’ll find a range of hostels that cater to budget-conscious travelers, making it easy to settle in without breaking the bank. The city’s walkability is a game-changer; you can stroll from one highlight to another, soaking in the atmosphere without the hassle of public transport.

Food options are diverse and often wallet-friendly, from food trucks to cozy cafes, allowing you to fuel up without overspending. As for nightlife, it’s vibrant yet laid-back, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Ottawa also serves as a basecamp for day trips to nearby natural wonders or charming towns, maximizing your experience without the need for extensive travel. If you’re looking for a city that balances culture and convenience, Ottawa fits the bill, making it more than just a quick stop on your journey.

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💡 HighlightsThe experiences that define the visit

Parliament Hill — The symbolic heart of Canada: tour the Centre Block (when open), watch the Changing of the Guard in summer, and stand on the lawns for unbeatable views of the canal and river; the mix of Gothic Revival architecture and civic ceremony really says “Ottawa.”
Rideau Canal (Locks & Skateway) — A working 19th-century engineering marvel that becomes the world’s largest skating rink in winter; walk the locks by the ByWard Market in summer to see lock operations and layered city history up close.
ByWard Market — Food stalls, boutiques and bars in a historic market grid; great for cheap eats, people-watching, and catching local events (farmers’ market mornings are the best time to go).
National Gallery of Canada — Striking glass-and-stone building with a huge Indigenous and Canadian

… read more 👉

Parliament Hill — The symbolic heart of Canada: tour the Centre Block (when open), watch the Changing of the Guard in summer, and stand on the lawns for unbeatable views of the canal and river; the mix of Gothic Revival architecture and civic ceremony really says “Ottawa.”
Rideau Canal (Locks & Skateway) — A working 19th-century engineering marvel that becomes the world’s largest skating rink in winter; walk the locks by the ByWard Market in summer to see lock operations and layered city history up close.
ByWard Market — Food stalls, boutiques and bars in a historic market grid; great for cheap eats, people-watching, and catching local events (farmers’ market mornings are the best time to go).
National Gallery of Canada — Striking glass-and-stone building with a huge Indigenous and Canadian art collection (don’t miss the Group of Seven and the giant spider outside); the architecture and river views are part of the experience.
Canadian War Museum — Thoughtful exhibits on Canada’s military past, powerful artifacts and immersive galleries; it’s modern, well-curated, and gives real context to national stories you’ll hear around town.
Canadian Museum of Nature — Historic stone building with surprisingly modern displays: fossils, taxidermy, and an excellent dinosaur gallery — a fun, educational stop even if you’re not a museum person.
Central Experimental Farm & Canada Agriculture and Food Museum — A working farm in the middle of the city where you can see heritage breeds, gardens, and agricultural history; perfect for a relaxed stroll and a different kind of Ottawa green space.
Lansdowne Park & Aberdeen Pavilion — Redeveloped stadium, outdoor markets, and the restored “Cattle Castle” (Aberdeen Pavilion) give you sport, events, and local food under one roof; great for weekend festivals or a game.
Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum — A four-storey underground bunker turned museum in Carp that tells the weird, fascinating story of nuclear-era preparedness; hands-on and very different from the usual downtown museums.
Bytown Museum — Small but solid: located right at the Rideau Canal locks, it explains Ottawa’s origin as a lumber town and canal settlement — a compact primer that makes walking the nearby streets much richer.

A few great day trips just outside Ottawa: Gatineau Park (hiking and lookouts — my personal favorite), the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, and the charming Rideau Canal villages like Merrickville.

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🏘️ NeighborhoodsHow different areas shape the experience

Ottawa offers a blend of history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods that cater to backpackers of all kinds. Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate the city’s unique areas.

ByWard Market: This bustling hub is a feast for the senses. Think local produce, artisan shops, and a lively nightlife scene. It’s walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. Prices can be a bit higher here, especially at restaurants, but the energy is worth it. Ideal for short stays where you want to soak up the local vibe.

Centretown: A mix of residential and commercial spaces, Centretown is perfect for those seeking a balance. It’s affordable and offers a range of accommodations. The area is quiet at night, but you’re just a short walk from the action. Great for longer stays, with easy access to public transport. … read more 👉

Ottawa offers a blend of history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods that cater to backpackers of all kinds. Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate the city’s unique areas.

ByWard Market: This bustling hub is a feast for the senses. Think local produce, artisan shops, and a lively nightlife scene. It’s walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. Prices can be a bit higher here, especially at restaurants, but the energy is worth it. Ideal for short stays where you want to soak up the local vibe.

Centretown: A mix of residential and commercial spaces, Centretown is perfect for those seeking a balance. It’s affordable and offers a range of accommodations. The area is quiet at night, but you’re just a short walk from the action. Great for longer stays, with easy access to public transport.

Glebe: Known for its charming streets and local boutiques, Glebe has a laid-back vibe. It’s slightly pricier but offers a cozy atmosphere. Walkability is high, and you can enjoy parks and cafes. Best for those who want a peaceful retreat while still being close to downtown.

Lowertown: This area is rich in history and culture, with a more residential feel. It’s affordable and offers easy access to the Rideau Canal. While nightlife is quieter, it’s perfect for longer stays where you can immerse yourself in local life.

⌛️ 1 dayWhat you can realistically do in a day

Ottawa, Canada’s capital, is a blend of history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods. It’s not just about Parliament Hill; it’s a city that pulses with life, especially along the Rideau Canal and in the ByWard Market. You can easily spend a day here, soaking in the essence of what makes Ottawa tick.

Start your morning in the ByWard Market. Grab a coffee from a local café, like the charming Little Victories, where the baristas know their beans. Stroll through the market stalls, where fresh produce and artisanal goods abound. Don’t miss the iconic BeaverTails stand for a sweet pastry that’s a must-try.

As the morning unfolds, head towards the National Gallery of Canada. The architecture alone is worth the visit, but the collection of Canadian and Indigenous art will leave you inspired. Spend … read more 👉

Ottawa, Canada’s capital, is a blend of history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods. It’s not just about Parliament Hill; it’s a city that pulses with life, especially along the Rideau Canal and in the ByWard Market. You can easily spend a day here, soaking in the essence of what makes Ottawa tick.

Start your morning in the ByWard Market. Grab a coffee from a local café, like the charming Little Victories, where the baristas know their beans. Stroll through the market stalls, where fresh produce and artisanal goods abound. Don’t miss the iconic BeaverTails stand for a sweet pastry that’s a must-try.

As the morning unfolds, head towards the National Gallery of Canada. The architecture alone is worth the visit, but the collection of Canadian and Indigenous art will leave you inspired. Spend a couple of hours here, and then make your way to the nearby Rideau Canal. If it’s summer, rent a kayak; in winter, glide along the world’s largest skating rink.

In the afternoon, wander over to the Glebe neighborhood. This area has a laid-back vibe with unique shops and cozy eateries. Stop by the Clocktower Brew Pub for a local craft beer and a hearty lunch. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the canal or explore the nearby Lansdowne Park, which often hosts local events.

As evening approaches, return to the ByWard Market for dinner. Try the Whalesbone for fresh seafood, a bit off the typical tourist path but absolutely worth it. Cap off your day with a stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the city’s charm. Ottawa may be Canada’s capital, but it’s the local experiences that truly make it shine.

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🌤️ When to go?Best time to visit Ottawa

Weather: Ottawa’s climate swings dramatically. Summers are warm and pleasant, averaging 20-26°C (68-79°F), perfect for outdoor exploring. Winters dive below freezing, often -10°C (14°F) or colder, which means snow but also icy challenges for backpackers.

Temperature: Spring and fall offer mild temps, around 10-15°C (50-59°F), but can be unpredictable with sudden chills or warm spells. Summer’s consistent warmth is ideal if you want to avoid bulky layers.

Daylight Hours: Long summer days stretch up to 16 hours, giving you more daylight for sightseeing and hiking. Winter days shrink to about 8 hours, limiting outdoor time and making early nights a norm.

Crowds: Summer draws tourists for festivals and outdoor events, so expect busier streets and higher accommodation demand. Shoulder

… read more 👉

Weather: Ottawa’s climate swings dramatically. Summers are warm and pleasant, averaging 20-26°C (68-79°F), perfect for outdoor exploring. Winters dive below freezing, often -10°C (14°F) or colder, which means snow but also icy challenges for backpackers.

Temperature: Spring and fall offer mild temps, around 10-15°C (50-59°F), but can be unpredictable with sudden chills or warm spells. Summer’s consistent warmth is ideal if you want to avoid bulky layers.

Daylight Hours: Long summer days stretch up to 16 hours, giving you more daylight for sightseeing and hiking. Winter days shrink to about 8 hours, limiting outdoor time and making early nights a norm.

Crowds: Summer draws tourists for festivals and outdoor events, so expect busier streets and higher accommodation demand. Shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall) are quieter, offering a more relaxed pace.

Seasonal Activities: Summer hosts the famous Canada Day celebrations and outdoor markets. Winter transforms the city with ice skating on the Rideau Canal and Winterlude festival, but these come with cold and crowds.

Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and flights peak in summer due to demand. Shoulder seasons see better deals, while winter can be surprisingly affordable if you’re prepared for the cold.

Pro-tip: Aim for late spring or early fall to balance comfortable weather, manageable crowds, and wallet-friendly prices—Ottawa’s sweet spot for backpackers who want to maximize value without sacrificing experience.

source: climatestotravel.comJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Canada

Ottawa’s best backpacker zones cluster around downtown and the nearby neighborhoods where safety, social buzz, and budget options intersect. Centretown is the prime spot—right in the heart of the city, it’s walkable, lively, and packed with affordable hostels and guesthouses. You’re close to Parliament Hill, museums, and a slew of cafés and bars where solo travelers can easily strike up conversations. The vibe here is urban but approachable, with a mix of locals and travelers sharing the streets.

Just south of Centretown, the Glebe offers a quieter, more residential feel but still keeps you within … read more 👉

Ottawa’s best backpacker zones cluster around downtown and the nearby neighborhoods where safety, social buzz, and budget options intersect. Centretown is the prime spot—right in the heart of the city, it’s walkable, lively, and packed with affordable hostels and guesthouses. You’re close to Parliament Hill, museums, and a slew of cafés and bars where solo travelers can easily strike up conversations. The vibe here is urban but approachable, with a mix of locals and travelers sharing the streets.

Just south of Centretown, the Glebe offers a quieter, more residential feel but still keeps you within easy reach of downtown. It’s a bit pricier but worth it if you want a calmer base with boutique shops and green spaces. Not as hostel-heavy, but some budget lodgings pop up here.

Avoid the distant suburbs unless you have wheels or endless patience for transit. They’re safe but lack the social pulse and convenience that backpackers crave. In Ottawa, time saved on transport translates directly into more exploration and connection. So, pick your base where you can walk, meet people, and keep your wallet intact—Centretown nails that balance every time.

Best hostels in Ottawa

Best quality hotels in Canada

🚌 Getting aroundHow to get from A to B

Ottawa moves with a curious rhythm—neither a frantic rush nor a laid-back drift. It’s a city where schedules matter, but there’s room for a bit of wiggle. The government’s presence means buses and trains mostly stick to their timetables, but the city’s size and layout invite you to mix in some spontaneous wandering. You’ll find yourself balancing between the clock and the street’s pulse, deciding when to save time and when to soak in the atmosphere. This is where the trade-offs between time, money, and comfort become your strategic playground.

OC Transpo Bus: Runs from about 5:30 AM to midnight, with fares around CAD 3.50 per ride. It’s the backbone of Ottawa’s public transit—reliable and budget-friendly, but expect some crowding during rush hours. Speed varies depending on traffic, so

… read more 👉

Ottawa moves with a curious rhythm—neither a frantic rush nor a laid-back drift. It’s a city where schedules matter, but there’s room for a bit of wiggle. The government’s presence means buses and trains mostly stick to their timetables, but the city’s size and layout invite you to mix in some spontaneous wandering. You’ll find yourself balancing between the clock and the street’s pulse, deciding when to save time and when to soak in the atmosphere. This is where the trade-offs between time, money, and comfort become your strategic playground.

OC Transpo Bus: Runs from about 5:30 AM to midnight, with fares around CAD 3.50 per ride. It’s the backbone of Ottawa’s public transit—reliable and budget-friendly, but expect some crowding during rush hours. Speed varies depending on traffic, so it’s best for those who want to save money without sacrificing too much time.

O-Train Confederation Line: Operating roughly from 5:30 AM to midnight, this light rail service costs the same as the bus but shaves off travel time significantly on key routes. It’s smooth and comfortable, perfect for cutting through downtown congestion. If you’re juggling time and comfort, this is your sweet spot.

Walking: Ottawa’s compact downtown and scenic paths along the Rideau Canal make walking a top contender. It costs nothing and offers unmatched freedom to explore at your own pace, but it demands time and energy. Ideal if you’re prioritizing comfort in the form of control and fresh air over speed.

Bike Share (VeloGO): Available from early morning until late evening, with hourly rates starting around CAD 4. It’s a fast, flexible option that blends exercise with transit. You’ll dodge traffic jams and avoid waiting, but weather and physical stamina are your variables here.

Taxi and Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft): Ready 24/7 but pricier, with fares starting around CAD 10 for short trips. This option maximizes comfort and time savings but at a steep cost. Best reserved for late nights or when you’re hauling heavy gear and can’t afford delays.

Understanding these options as a trade-off matrix lets you play the city like a pro. Want to save cash? Walk or bus. Need speed and comfort? O-Train or ride-share. Each choice is a calculated move in your Ottawa game—pick your priorities and own the flow.

👛 Costs (as of 2 January 2026)Typical daily expenses

Backpacking in Ottawa means balancing a few key costs that shape your daily experience. Here’s the breakdown to help you see exactly where your money goes and what you’re trading off.

Dorm Accommodation (High Season): Expect to pay around $30 to $45 USD per night in peak months (summer and early fall). Hostels fill up fast, and prices reflect demand, especially near downtown or the ByWard Market.
Dorm Accommodation (Off-Season): In the quieter months (late fall through spring), prices drop to about $20 to $30 USD. You’ll find better deals, but some places might have limited services or closures.
Meals: Budget roughly $10 to $20 USD per day if you stick to casual spots, food trucks, or groceries. Ottawa has a solid mix of affordable eats, but dining out at mid-range restaurants pushes costs

… read more 👉

Backpacking in Ottawa means balancing a few key costs that shape your daily experience. Here’s the breakdown to help you see exactly where your money goes and what you’re trading off.

Dorm Accommodation (High Season): Expect to pay around $30 to $45 USD per night in peak months (summer and early fall). Hostels fill up fast, and prices reflect demand, especially near downtown or the ByWard Market.
Dorm Accommodation (Off-Season): In the quieter months (late fall through spring), prices drop to about $20 to $30 USD. You’ll find better deals, but some places might have limited services or closures.
Meals: Budget roughly $10 to $20 USD per day if you stick to casual spots, food trucks, or groceries. Ottawa has a solid mix of affordable eats, but dining out at mid-range restaurants pushes costs higher quickly.
Local Transport: Single bus rides cost about $3.50 USD. If you’re hopping on and off, this adds up fast.
City Transport Pass: A day pass runs around $10 USD, which is a smart buy if you plan multiple trips. Weekly passes are available too, but only worth it if you’re staying longer.
Basic Activities/Entry Fees: Museums and galleries typically charge $10 to $15 USD. Some parks and outdoor spots are free, but special exhibitions or tours can push this higher.
Miscellaneous Expenses: Factor in about $5 to $10 USD for things like bottled water, snacks, or small souvenirs. These add up quietly but noticeably.

Add it all up, and you’re looking at roughly $50 to $80 USD per day for a no-frills, independent backpacking experience in Ottawa. The trade-off is clear: spend less on accommodation and meals, and you might sacrifice some comfort or convenience, but you gain more flexibility and time to explore. Conversely, splurging on a central hostel or more meals out means less wiggle room elsewhere. Knowing these numbers lets you play the system smartly, choosing where to lean in or pull back to craft your ideal trip rhythm.

source: numbeo.com

⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🚌 Day tripsBest day trips from Ottawa

Ottawa is a fantastic launchpad for day trips that blend adventure with culture. You can easily dive into the surrounding natural beauty and vibrant towns without breaking the bank or sacrificing comfort.

Gatineau Park
Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park is a nature lover’s paradise. With over 361 square kilometers of trails, lakes, and lookout points, it’s perfect for hiking or biking. The views from the Champlain Lookout are jaw-dropping, especially in the fall when the leaves explode in color. Expect to spend around $10 for parking and bring your own snacks to keep costs low. Avoid the mistake of underestimating the trails; some can be more challenging than they appear.

Montreal
A quick 2-hour train ride will land you in Montreal, where the blend of French … read more 👉

Ottawa is a fantastic launchpad for day trips that blend adventure with culture. You can easily dive into the surrounding natural beauty and vibrant towns without breaking the bank or sacrificing comfort.

Gatineau Park
Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park is a nature lover’s paradise. With over 361 square kilometers of trails, lakes, and lookout points, it’s perfect for hiking or biking. The views from the Champlain Lookout are jaw-dropping, especially in the fall when the leaves explode in color. Expect to spend around $10 for parking and bring your own snacks to keep costs low. Avoid the mistake of underestimating the trails; some can be more challenging than they appear.

Montreal
A quick 2-hour train ride will land you in Montreal, where the blend of French and English cultures creates a unique vibe. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, grab a bagel from St-Viateur, and soak in the street art. A round-trip ticket costs about $40, making it a budget-friendly option. The best time to visit is during the summer when festivals light up the city. First-timers often miss the underground city—don’t skip it!
👉 Explore Montreal

Kingston
About 2.5 hours from Ottawa, Kingston is rich in history and waterfront charm. Explore Fort Henry, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take a stroll along the waterfront. The city is also known for its vibrant food scene, so be sure to try some local cuisine. Total costs will hover around $50 for transport and meals. Spring and fall are ideal for fewer crowds and pleasant weather. A common pitfall is not allowing enough time to explore the Thousand Islands—plan for a boat tour if you can!
👉 Explore Kingston

Almonte
Just a 45-minute drive away, Almonte is a quaint town that feels like stepping back in time. The historic mills and charming shops along the Mississippi River are perfect for a leisurely day. You can enjoy a coffee at a local café and wander through the artisan boutiques. Expect to spend around $30 for gas and treats. The best time to visit is during the summer when the farmers’ market is in full swing. Many first-timers overlook the local art galleries—don’t miss them!

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🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

Ottawa’s food scene is a delightful mix of local flavors and vibrant culture. Start with the beaver tail, a deep-fried pastry topped with everything from cinnamon sugar to Nutella. It’s a must-try street food that captures the spirit of the city.

For something heartier, dive into poutine—fries smothered in gravy and cheese curds. You’ll find it at casual eateries and food trucks, where locals gather to indulge. The ByWard Market is a bustling hub, perfect for sampling fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and local meats. The atmosphere buzzes with chatter, and the aromas of grilled meats and baked goods fill the air.

When it comes to drinks, don’t miss out on Canadian craft beers. Many bars offer a rotating selection of local brews, and trying a flight is a fun way to explore the region’s … read more 👉

Ottawa’s food scene is a delightful mix of local flavors and vibrant culture. Start with the beaver tail, a deep-fried pastry topped with everything from cinnamon sugar to Nutella. It’s a must-try street food that captures the spirit of the city.

For something heartier, dive into poutine—fries smothered in gravy and cheese curds. You’ll find it at casual eateries and food trucks, where locals gather to indulge. The ByWard Market is a bustling hub, perfect for sampling fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and local meats. The atmosphere buzzes with chatter, and the aromas of grilled meats and baked goods fill the air.

When it comes to drinks, don’t miss out on Canadian craft beers. Many bars offer a rotating selection of local brews, and trying a flight is a fun way to explore the region’s offerings.

Etiquette is relaxed; sharing food is common, and don’t hesitate to chat with locals. They love to share their favorites. Embrace the casual vibe, and let your taste buds guide you through this culinary adventure.

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

Ottawa is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it has its quirks. Areas like the ByWard Market can get lively, especially at night. Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly if you’re solo. Stick to well-lit streets and avoid shortcuts through alleys after dark.

Scams are rare, but be cautious of overly friendly strangers asking for money or offering unsolicited help. If someone approaches you with a sob story, a polite decline is usually best. Everyday annoyances include the occasional street performer who might get a bit too persistent, but a simple smile and a firm “no, thank you” usually do the trick.

Carry your belongings close and keep your phone handy for navigation. This way, you can enjoy the city’s charm without unnecessary distractions.

Check Country Safety

Other Canadian cities near Ottawa

Explore more nearby:

Kingston—Lake Ontario, limestone buildings, university town| 146 km away
Montreal—Mount Royal, diverse neighborhoods, festivals| 167 km away
Trois-Rivières—St. Lawrence River, industrial heritage, French culture| 265 km away

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We 💚 feedbackParting advice and final tips

Ottawa’s charm lies in its blend of history and culture. Strolling along the Rideau Canal, especially in winter when it transforms into the world’s largest skating rink, is a unique experience. But be prepared: it can feel a bit quiet compared to other Canadian cities. If you’re after nightlife or bustling streets, you might find it lacking. Still, the rich stories and stunning architecture make it worth your time.

✈️ When did I visit Canada?
As part of my 1.5 year travel around the world trip, I visited Canada in 2016.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Canada, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.

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👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpack

Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

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Canada🇨🇦 | citiesOttawaParliament Hill, Rideau Canal, national museums | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Ottawa
🌟 Highlightcity ranked #5
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 17, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #5 city in CanadaWhy Ottawa should be on your travel list

💡 HighlightsThe experiences that define the visit

Things to do in Ottawa

Ottawa Boat Cruise - Paul's Boat Line

2-Hour Ottawa Express City Bike Tour

Medium Intensity Rafting on the Ottawa River | Day Trip

Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa

Canadian War Museum Admission

Oh Canada Eh!? Ottawa Dinner Musical with Live Music and Comedy

Self-Guided Biking in Ottawa-Gatineau

Ottawa City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based

Ottawa Highlights 3.5 Hour Bike Tour

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

🏘️ NeighborhoodsHow different areas shape the experience

⌛️ 1 dayWhat you can realistically do in a day

🌤️ When to go?Best time to visit Ottawa

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutCanada Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Canada

🚌 Getting aroundHow to get from A to B

👛 Costs (as of 2 January 2026)Typical daily expenses

🚌 Day tripsBest day trips from Ottawa

🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

Other Canadian cities near Ottawa

We 💚 feedbackParting advice and final tips

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Canada🇨🇦 | citiesOttawaParliament Hill, Rideau Canal, national museums | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Ottawa🌟 Highlightcity ranked #5By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 17, 2026addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d3242c')

✨ Why go?Ranked #5 city in CanadaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d33057')Why Ottawa should be on your travel listaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d3305e')

💡 HighlightsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d34ffc')The experiences that define the visitaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d35008')

Things to do in Ottawa

Ottawa Boat Cruise - Paul's Boat Line

2-Hour Ottawa Express City Bike Tour

Medium Intensity Rafting on the Ottawa River | Day Trip

Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa

Canadian War Museum Admission

Oh Canada Eh!? Ottawa Dinner Musical with Live Music and Comedy

Self-Guided Biking in Ottawa-Gatineau

Ottawa City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based

Ottawa Highlights 3.5 Hour Bike Tour

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

🏘️ NeighborhoodsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d35aa4')How different areas shape the experienceaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d35aae')

⌛️ 1 dayaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d364b7')What you can realistically do in a dayaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d364be')

🌤️ When to go?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d36f0b')Best time to visit OttawaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d36f12')

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutCanada Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d38c95')Best areas to stay in CanadaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d38c9c')

🚌 Getting aroundaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d39767')How to get from A to BaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d3976e')

👛 Costs (as of 2 January 2026)addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d3a21e')Typical daily expensesaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d3a225')

🚌 Day tripsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d4cb43')Best day trips from OttawaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d4cb4b')

🍲 FoodaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d4d181')What to Eat & DrinkaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d4d187')

🛡️ SafetyaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d4d303')Traveler Safety GuideaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d4d307')

Other Canadian cities near OttawaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d4f679')

We 💚 feedbackaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d4f7e5')Parting advice and final tipsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d4f7ed')

👋 Meet the founderaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d4f83a')Who’s Behind Take Your Backpack?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a621f3d4f83d')

Backpacking in Ottawa
🌟 Highlightcity ranked #5
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 17, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #5 city in CanadaWhy Ottawa should be on your travel list

💡 HighlightsThe experiences that define the visit

🏘️ NeighborhoodsHow different areas shape the experience

⌛️ 1 dayWhat you can realistically do in a day

🌤️ When to go?Best time to visit Ottawa

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Canada

🚌 Getting aroundHow to get from A to B

👛 Costs (as of 2 January 2026)Typical daily expenses

🚌 Day tripsBest day trips from Ottawa

🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

Other Canadian cities near Ottawa

We 💚 feedbackParting advice and final tips

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?