Top 5 tourist attractions in Ottawa - Discover the capital of Canada

The capital Ottawa is not only the political heart of Canada but also the place that holds the soul of an entire nation. With its gentle beauty along the poetic Ottawa River, magnificent architectural works, and profound history combined with modern life, this city always has something that makes visitors stop and be moved. Among the myriad of attractive destinations, let's explore the top 5 most charming tourist destinations in Ottawa, where every step is a journey filled with beauty and emotion.

1. Canadian Parliament Building

The Canadian Parliament Building is a bright gem in the capital's cultural picture (Photo source: Collected)

Situated majestically on the banks of the Ottawa River, the Canadian Parliament Buildings are a shining jewel in the capital's cultural landscape. This is not only the center of national political life but also an architectural masterpiece bearing the mark of Gothic Revival. Standing before the building with its spires reaching high into the sky, one can feel the breath of time, where history and the present meet in quiet solemnity.
Millions of visitors each year make it a must-see on their Ottawa itinerary. Free tours take you deep inside the building, where the Library of Parliament, with its intricate wooden dome and magical lighting, resembles a cathedral of knowledge. Come summer, don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony in front of the building, a colorful and solemn military ceremony that recalls the difficult days of the nation’s founding.
At night, the shimmering lights from the Sound and Light Show will transform the Parliament Building into a vivid historical storytelling stage, breathing life into every stone and every ancient door.

2. Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal has now become part of a UNESCO-recognized world heritage site (Photo source: Collected)

If Ottawa were a poem, the Rideau Canal would be the gentle and charming prelude. This 200km-long canal was built in the early 19th century as a military transport route and is now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In spring and summer, the Rideau acts as a long mirror reflecting the blue sky, with lush trees on both sides of the banks, where visitors can stroll, bike or kayak, let themselves drift along the water and enjoy the slow pace of life.
Each season brings a new look to the Rideau. Autumn is a symphony of brilliant maple leaves stretching along the water. But perhaps the most beautiful is when winter knocks on the door, the canal freezes and becomes the world's longest natural skating rink. Gliding on the ice under the pale yellow streetlights, holding a hot BeaverTail, it's a unique experience only available at this enchanting Ottawa tourist destination. The Rideau is not only an engineering marvel, but also the artistic and emotional heart of the city, a place where romantic stories, childhood memories and dreams have not yet grown up.

3. Canadian Museum of History

Interior space of the Canadian Museum of History (Photo source: Collected)

Just a short bridge from downtown Ottawa to Gatineau, the Canadian Museum of History tells the story of Canada’s history, from prehistoric times to the present. The building’s curvaceous design reflects respect for nature and indigenous culture, making it an artistic landmark in the heart of the capital.
Stepping into the museum, you feel like you are lost in another world - where time is no longer linear but flows quietly among the artifacts, models and stories. Giant totem poles towering in the middle of the space are a living testament to the culture of the First Nations. The Grand Hall gallery with its wide glass walls overlooking the Ottawa River and the Parliament Buildings creates a sense of connection between the past and the present.
More than just a place to see, the Canadian Museum of History is also a place to listen and feel. Sounds, lights, and interactive models take you through each period of history. An intellectual and emotional experience, not to be missed on your journey to discover memorable Ottawa tourist destinations.

4. Major's Hill Park

Major's Hill Park is hidden among the majestic buildings of the city center (Photo source: Collected)

Nestled among the majestic structures of the city center, Major's Hill Park is like a symphony of nature, gently soothing the souls of tired people. With a beautiful location overlooking the Parliament Building, the Ottawa River and the Museum of History, this place is an ideal place for visitors to let their souls follow the wind, read a book or simply lie on the grass listening to the birds chirping.
In spring, the park is filled with vibrant tulips – part of the famous Ottawa Tulip Festival. It is said that this is the “flower balcony of the city”. The ancient stone benches, winding paths, centuries-old trees and smooth lawns make this place a poetic stop in the heart of the vibrant Ottawa tourist destination.
On hot summer days, the park is an ideal place to escape the sun. In autumn, the yellow leaves fall like rain, creating a poetic scene that touches the heart. Major's Hill is not noisy, not ostentatious, but chooses to touch people's hearts with its serenity and pure gentleness.

5. ByWard Market

ByWard Market is a vibrant and colorful place where all cultures converge (Photo source: Collected)

You can't talk about Ottawa tourist attractions without mentioning ByWard Market, where the vibrant atmosphere and colors converge from all cultures. Established in 1826, this is one of the oldest and most famous markets in Canada. ByWard is where people find life, joy and small but colorful stories in the heart of the capital.
From early morning, the market bustles with the sounds of vendors selling coffee, fresh-baked bread, and fresh flowers lining the walkways. The stalls are lined with local specialties such as pure maple syrup, artisan cheeses, and the iconic BeaverTail cake – a culinary icon of Ottawa. The handicraft stalls are also full of ideas and personality, giving each item a soul of its own.
When night falls, ByWard takes on a new look - vibrant and youthful with bars, restaurants, live music and street performers. This is not just a market, but an identity, a living symbol of the city's daily rhythm.
ByWard does not surprise people with its splendor, but conquers the hearts of visitors with its sincerity and never-ending pace of life. That is the special soul that makes this place an indispensable part of the charming Ottawa tourist map.
Ottawa is not only a place of history, but also a place of emotions. Every street corner, every river, every building and market tells its own story, creating a symphony of culture, nature and people. Whether you are a dreamer who loves art, a history buff, or simply a traveler looking for a peaceful place to stay, in the top 5 Ottawa tourist destinations above, you will surely find a piece that fits your heart. Let Ottawa tell you a story – not only with words, but also with colors, sounds, scents and emotions. A city not only to explore, but to feel and remember forever.

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/dia-diem-du-lich-ottawa-v17169.aspx