About The Port Of Ottawa
Set on the banks of the Ottawa River, Canada's capital blends stately architecture with a compact, walkable downtown. Parliament Hill, with its distinctive copper-roofed Gothic Revival buildings, anchors the city center, while nearby landmarks include the Royal Canadian Mint and the official residences of the Governor General and Prime Minister. The Canadian Museum of History, just across the river in Gatineau, offers an easy excursion into the country's cultural past.
Many visits to Ottawa follow an approach along the Thousand Islands, where the St. Lawrence River widens around countless granite islets before travelers continue overland to the capital. Guided city tours typically cover the government district and its historic monuments, with time allowed to explore museums and riverside promenades at a relaxed pace. The city's low skyline and green spaces make orientation simple for those arriving on a limited schedule.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Ottawa.
Tour Parliament Hill
Walk the grounds of the copper-roofed Gothic Revival buildings that anchor downtown, then peek inside if a guided tour slot is available. It's the natural starting point for orienting the whole city center on foot.
Visit the Canadian Museum of History
Cross the river to Gatineau for exhibits spanning Indigenous heritage to modern Canada, housed in a striking curved building overlooking Parliament Hill. Allow at least an hour to see the highlights.
Stroll the ByWard Market district
Wander this historic market quarter near the government core for local food stalls, boutique shops, and a livelier street-level feel than the formal monuments nearby.
Last Minute Cruise Deals From Ottawa
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 7, 2027 | Princess | Caribbean Princess | 15 | $5,274 | ||
| Sep 12, 2027 | Princess | Caribbean Princess | 16 | $5,554 | ||
| Sep 28, 2027 | Princess | Caribbean Princess | 15 | $5,304 | ||
| Oct 3, 2027 | Princess | Caribbean Princess | 16 | $5,024 | ||
| Oct 19, 2027 | Princess | Caribbean Princess | 15 | $5,234 | ||
| Oct 24, 2027 | Princess | Caribbean Princess | 18 | $5,249 |
Cruise Lines That Call Here
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