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Weather in Ottawa
Parliament Hill and Rideau Canal grandeur
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About Ottawa
Ottawa's Parliament Hill dominates, with Gothic Revival parliament buildings reflecting in the Rideau Canal, which freezes into the world's longest skating rink in winter. The canal connects downtown to the Gatineau Hills. Museums line the Rideau.
Best months to visit
July, August
Things to do in Ottawa
Tour the Parliament Buildings and grounds
Skate the Rideau Canal in winter—world's longest skating rink
Bike the Rideau Canal Pathway alongside the waterway
Visit world-class museums (Canadian History, Art, Nature)
Explore the ByWard Market for local food
Hike trails in the Gatineau Hills north of the city
Weather by month
Click any month for detailed weather information and travel tips.
January
-4C
Cold, with some rainy days.
February
-3C
Cold, with some rainy days.
March
2C
Cold, with some rainy days.
April
11C
Cool, with some rainy days.
May
19C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
June
23C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
Recommended
July
26C
Warm and pleasant, with some rainy days.
Recommended
August
25C
Warm and pleasant, with some rainy days.
September
21C
Mild and comfortable, with occasional showers.
October
14C
Cool, with some rainy days.
November
6C
Cold, with some rainy days.
December
0C
Cold, with some rainy days.
As Canada's capital, Ottawa centers on the Gothic Revival Parliament Hill, with free tours and a nightly summer light show projected onto its buildings. The Rideau Canal, a UNESCO site, turns into the world's largest skating rink in winter, while the ByWard Market neighbourhood anchors the city's dining and nightlife year-round.
Best areas to stay in Ottawa
Parliament Hill area
The political heart of the city, with government buildings, the Peace Tower and views over the Ottawa River.
ByWard Market
A historic market district packed with restaurants, bars, boutiques and a year-round farmers market.
The Glebe
A leafy residential neighbourhood near the canal with independent shops and cafes, popular for a relaxed walk.
Gatineau (across the river)
Technically in Quebec, an easy walk or bike ride from downtown, home to the Canadian Museum of History.
Getting to Ottawa
✈
Flights
Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) has connections across Canada and some US and international routes.
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From London
Around 4.5 hours by car or train from Toronto, 1.5-2 hours from Montreal.
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Getting around
Downtown, Parliament Hill, the canal and ByWard Market are walkable; the OC Transpo bus and light rail network covers the wider city.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Ottawa?
May brings the Canadian Tulip Festival, summer offers warm weather and the Parliament Hill light show, and winter turns the Rideau Canal into a massive skating rink.
Can you tour Parliament Hill?
Yes — free guided tours of the Centre Block and Peace Tower are available, though booking ahead is recommended in peak season.
What is the Rideau Canal Skateway?
Each winter, a 7.8km stretch of the Rideau Canal freezes and is maintained as a public skating rink, complete with food stalls along the way.
Is Ottawa walkable?
The downtown core, Parliament Hill, ByWard Market and the canal pathways are all within easy walking distance of each other.
What museums are worth visiting?
The Canadian Museum of History (across the river in Gatineau), the National Gallery of Canada, and the Canadian War Museum are all highlights.
Traveler reviews
★★★★★
Skated the Rideau Canal with a hot chocolate from one of the stalls — such a unique winter experience right in the capital.
Cara N. · February 2024
★★★★☆
Visited during the Tulip Festival and the whole city was bursting with colour. Parliament Hill tour was informative too.
Devon L. · May 2023
★★★★★
ByWard Market had great food and the evening light show on Parliament Hill was a nice free activity for the whole family.
Asha P. · July 2024
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