Ottawa - Ideas for Free Time in Canada

Ottawa is an easy city to explore on foot, and in a day or two, you can soak up the unique ambience of Canada’s capital. Start by wandering through ByWard Market, one of the country’s oldest and largest public markets, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of food stalls, boutique shops, galleries, and eateries. Take a stroll along the Rideau Canal or the banks of the Ottawa River and watch locals unwind, whether beside the water or on it.

A guided tour of the Houses of Parliament is a must for those interested in Canada’s political history. Here, you can admire the intricately hand-crafted limestone, wood, and wrought-iron details of this iconic building. Ottawa also boasts a variety of museums and galleries. The National Gallery of Canada is home to the world’s largest collection of Canadian and Inuit art, while the Canadian Museum of History (formerly the Museum of Civilisation) offers a fascinating look into the country’s cultural history and evolving cultural landscape.