How to Explore Ottawa on a Hop-on Hop-off Double Decker Bus Tour

If you’re planning a trip to the Canadian capital, one of the best ways to see the sights is by taking a hop-on hop-off double-decker bus tour. With this tour, you can explore all the main attractions at your own pace and learn about the city’s history from an onboard bilingual guide. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your ultimate tour of Ottawa.

Experience

This hop-on hop-off double-decker bus tour of Ottawa is a comprehensive way to explore the city. You can choose to stay on the bus for the full 1.5-hour round-trip tour, or hop off and back on at any of the stops along the way. With this tour, you’ll see all the city’s important sites, including museums, galleries, and the Canadian Parliament. You’ll also be able to enjoy the views from the open-top double-decker bus or trolley and learn about the history of Ottawa from the onboard bilingual guide.

Highlights

The highlights of this tour include:

• The Canadian Parliament buildings
• The Byward Market
• The National Gallery of Canada
• Rideau Hall
• Nature Museum
• The Royal Canadian Mint
• The Canadian Museum of History

How to Plan Your Tour

To plan your perfect tour of Ottawa on a hop-on hop-off double-decker bus, follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose your departure point

There are two departure points for this tour:

• 111 Sparks St (Gray Line kiosk)
• 59 Sparks St (Byward Market location)

Choose the departure point that is most convenient for you based on your location.

Step 2: Decide on a ticket type

There are two ticket types available for this tour: a 1-day ticket or a 2-day ticket. The 1-day ticket is valid for one day after the first use, while the 2-day ticket is valid for two days after the first use. Choose the ticket type that best fits your schedule.

Step 3: Map out your route

Before you begin your tour, map out your route based on your interests and the attractions you want to see. There are six stops on this tour, and you can hop on and off at any of them:

• Stop 1: Sparks Street (111 Sparks St)
• Stop 2: Canadian Museum of History (100 Rue Laurier)
• Stop 3: National Gallery of Canada (380 Sussex Dr)
• Stop 4: Byward Market (55 Byward Market Square)
• Stop 5: Rideau Hall (1 Sussex Dr)
• Stop 6: Downtown Ottawa (90 Sparks St)

Step 4: Hop on and off at your leisure

Once you’ve mapped out your route, hop on the bus at your chosen departure point and start exploring Ottawa. You can hop off at any of the stops along the way to explore the sights and attractions that interest you. When you’re ready to continue your tour, simply hop back on the bus and continue to the next stop.

Step 5: Enjoy the onboard bilingual guide

While you’re on the bus, enjoy the onboard bilingual guide who will provide you with fun facts and history about Ottawa. Whether you’re sitting on the lower deck for inside comfort or riding on the top deck for fantastic views, you’ll have a great time learning about the city’s unique culture and history.

Booking Information

To book your hop-on hop-off double-decker bus tour of Ottawa, click here or copy and paste this link on your browser: https://www.getyourguide.com/ottawa-l285/hop-on-hop-off-double-decker-bus-in-ottawa-t32180/?partner_id=UWJ1LS2. Choose your preferred departure point and ticket type, and you’re all set to explore Ottawa!

Frequently Asked Questions about Ottawa

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada and is located in the province of Ontario. It is a popular tourist destination for its stunning architecture, rich cultural history, and natural beauty. Here are some frequently asked questions about Ottawa:

1. What is the best time to visit Ottawa?

The best time to visit Ottawa is during the summer months of June to August. This is when the city experiences the warmest weather and the longest days. The city also hosts many outdoor festivals and events during this time. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the fall (September to November) and spring (April to May) seasons are also great times to visit the city.

2. What are some top attractions in Ottawa?

Ottawa has plenty of attractions for tourists to enjoy. Some of the top attractions include:

• Parliament Hill
• National Gallery of Canada
• Canadian War Museum
• Canadian Museum of History
• Rideau Canal
• ByWard Market
• Canadian Tulip Festival

3. What is the currency used in Ottawa?

The currency used in Ottawa is the Canadian dollar (CAD). It is recommended to exchange your currency at a bank or a currency exchange office instead of airport kiosks, as they often have high fees and low exchange rates.

4. What is the language spoken in Ottawa?

The official languages of Ottawa are English and French. However, the majority of the population speaks English.

5. What is the transportation system like in Ottawa?

Ottawa has a well-developed transportation system that includes buses, light rail trains, and taxis. The city’s public transportation system is run by OC Transpo and has a fare system that uses a reloadable smart card called the “Presto card”.

6. What are some good restaurants in Ottawa?

Ottawa has a diverse food scene, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. Some of the best restaurants in the city include:

• Restaurant e18hteen
• Play Food & Wine
• Beckta Dining & Wine
• Purrfect Pickle
• El Camino
• Sidedoor Contemporary Kitchen & Bar

7. What are some outdoor activities to do in Ottawa?

Ottawa has plenty of outdoor activities to offer, especially during the summer months. Some popular outdoor activities include:

• Biking or walking along the Rideau Canal
• Boating on the Ottawa River
• Visiting one of the many local parks, such as Gatineau Park or Major’s Hill Park
• Attending outdoor festivals and events, such as the Ottawa International Jazz Festival or Canada Day celebrations

8. What is the weather like in Ottawa?

Ottawa has a four-season climate with cold winters and warm summers. The average temperature in the summer months (June to August) is around 25°C (77°F), while the winter months (December to February) can have temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F).

9. What are some museums to visit in Ottawa?

Ottawa is home to many excellent museums that showcase the city’s history and culture. Some of the best museums to visit include:

• Canadian Museum of History
• Canadian War Museum
• National Gallery of Canada
• Canadian Museum of Nature
• Canada Aviation and Space Museum
• Bytown Museum

10. What is the nightlife like in Ottawa?

Ottawa has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, pubs, and nightclubs to choose from. Some of the best areas for nightlife include ByWard Market and Elgin Street. Keep in mind that most bars and clubs have a dress code, so it’s a good idea to check beforehand.

Book Your Tour Now

Ottawa is a beautiful city with plenty to offer for tourists. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Ottawa has something for everyone. By following this FAQ, you will be well-prepared for your trip to the nation’s capital!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Ottawa

If you are planning a vacation to Canada but are not sure where to go, you should consider visiting its capital city, Ottawa. Ottawa is an attractive tourist destination due to its unique blend of history, art, culture, and natural beauty. In this post, we will explore some of the best things to do in Ottawa, including attractions, activities, and events.

1. Discover the Canadian Parliament Buildings

One of the highlights of a trip to Ottawa is visiting the Canadian Parliament Buildings. You can take a guided tour of the parliament buildings and learn about the history, traditions, and function of the Canadian Parliament. The tour includes visits to the Senate, House of Commons, and the stunning Library of Parliament.

2. Visit the National Gallery of Canada

The National Gallery of Canada houses one of the most extensive collections of Canadian and international art in the world. The gallery displays works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Picasso, and Warhol. Visitors can participate in guided tours and explore the gallery’s exhibitions on their own.

3. Explore the Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see attraction in Ottawa. It is a man-made waterway that runs through the center of the city and is lined with beautiful parks, trails, and historic buildings. You can take a leisurely walk, cycle, or paddle along the canal and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

4. Discover the Canadian Museum of History

The Canadian Museum of History is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ottawa. It tells the story of Canada’s rich history and heritage through interactive exhibitions, multimedia displays, and artifacts. Visitors can explore the museum’s collections, attend live performances, and participate in educational programs.

5. Visit the ByWard Market

The ByWard Market is a bustling area located in the heart of the city. It features over 600 vendors selling everything from fresh produce and flowers to handmade crafts and souvenirs. You can also find some of the best restaurants, cafes, and bars in Ottawa in the ByWard Market.

6. Attend the Winterlude Festival

If you are visiting Ottawa in February, do not miss the Winterlude Festival. It is one of the largest winter festivals in Canada and features a variety of outdoor activities, including ice skating, ice carving, and snow sculptures. You can also enjoy live music, food, and drink at the festival’s various venues.

7. Take a Tour of the Canadian War Museum

The Canadian War Museum is a top-rated museum that explores Canada’s military history and the role of its armed forces in various conflicts. Visitors can see exhibits, displays and interactive displays featuring various armed conflicts, veterans’ contributions, and the museum archives.

8. Go for a Nature Walk in Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park is a beautiful natural park located in the hills of Gatineau, just a short drive from Ottawa. The park offers some of the most spectacular nature trails in the area, with scenic views, lakes, and wildlife. You can also participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing depending on the season.

9. Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica

The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is a stunning neo-Gothic cathedral located in the heart of the city. The cathedral is one of the largest and most beautiful churches in North America, featuring intricate stained glass windows, a grand pipe organ, and other architectural marvels.

10. Experience Ottawa’s Festivals

Ottawa is a city of festivals, and there is always something happening in town. Whether you enjoy music, food, or cultural gatherings, there is a festival for everyone. Some of the most popular festivals in Ottawa include the Ottawa Bluesfest, the Ottawa International Jazz Festival, and the Ottawa International Animation Festival.

Book Your Tour Now

Ottawa is a charming city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in art, architecture, or outdoor activities, there is always something to do in Ottawa. We hope that this guide has given you some ideas about what to do and see in Ottawa, making your visit even more enjoyable.