Ottawa’s city tours deliver practical ways to see Canada’s capital efficiently. The standout choice is the Amphibious Land and Water Tour – a clever two-in-one experience that shows the city from both street and river perspectives. Another smart option, the Hop-On Hop-Off tour, works well for independent travelers who appreciate flexibility and multiple language options.
I’m especially fond of the City Exploration Game tour, which makes sightseeing fun and interactive – perfect for families or anyone who enjoys solving puzzles while learning about local history. The Self-Guided Walking Tour is my personal favorite for budget travelers who prefer setting their own pace.
Let’s look at the top recommended tours…
Key Points
- The Ottawa City Tour by Land and Water offers a unique amphibious experience to explore major landmarks in an hour-long tour.
- The Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour Pass provides a comprehensive, flexible, and multilingual sightseeing option for visitors.
- The City Exploration Game and Tour combines a self-guided scavenger hunt with guided elements for a deeply immersive experience.
- The Ottawa City Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour allows travelers to uncover the city’s hidden gems and history at their own pace.
- Ottawa tours offer a range of features, including intimate group sizes, interactive elements, and accessibility through bilingual and multilingual options.
Ottawa City Tour by Land and Water
For those looking to experience Ottawa from both land and water, the “Ottawa City Tour by Land and Water” offers a unique sightseeing opportunity. This 1-hour tour aboard an amphibious vehicle, known as an amphibus, takes visitors on a journey to explore the city’s major landmarks, including Parliament Hill, Notre Dame Basilica, and the National War Memorial Monument.
The tour has earned a solid 4.0/5 rating based on 488 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, with many praising the knowledgeable and engaging bilingual guides. Priced at $33.01 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 24 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
The highlight of the tour is the transition from land to water, providing a unique perspective of Ottawa and the neighboring city of Gatineau.
With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, the “Ottawa City Tour by Land and Water” is a convenient and recommended option for first-time visitors, families, and those seeking a memorable way to explore the nation’s capital.
Read our full review: Ottawa City Tour by Land and Water Review
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Ottawa: Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour Pass
The “Ottawa: Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour Pass” allows visitors to explore the nation’s capital at their own pace. Priced from $32.29 per person, the pass offers 1 or 2 days of validity and features a bilingual guided tour in English and French.
Audio guides are available in several languages, including Chinese, German, and Spanish, catering to a diverse audience.
The tour covers major sites like the Canadian Parliament, Byward Market, museums, and parks, allowing passengers to hop on and off as desired. Travelers can enjoy the views from the open-top double-decker bus or trolley, with the full round-trip duration taking approximately 1.5 hours.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on 944 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and entertaining value. While some travelers noted a lack of activity at certain stops, the tour’s organization is highly rated, with strong scores for guide quality, transportation, and service.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour Pass Review
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Ottawa: City Exploration Game and Tour
Offering a unique blend of exploration and interactive engagement, the “Ottawa: City Exploration Game and Tour” empowers visitors to discover the capital’s rich history and captivating landmarks at their own pace.
This self-guided adventure combines the thrill of a scavenger hunt with the educational value of a guided tour, allowing participants to explore the city’s hidden gems and uncover fascinating stories along the way.
With a 4.9 out of 5 customer rating, this immersive experience is a must-try for travelers seeking a deeper connection to Ottawa’s cultural heritage.
Lasting approximately 2.5 hours, the tour can be completed at the visitor’s leisure, making it an ideal activity for those seeking a flexible and engaging way to experience the city.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a fun and interactive way to explore, the “Ottawa: City Exploration Game and Tour” offers a unique and rewarding adventure.
Read our full review: Ottawa: City Exploration Game and Tour Review
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Ottawa City Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour
Designed to captivate curious explorers, the Ottawa City Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour empowers visitors to uncover the capital’s hidden gems and unravel its fascinating history at their own pace.
This immersive experience allows you to discover the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems through a series of clues and challenges.
The self-guided tour covers a range of themes, from culture and history to nature and architecture. Participants can explore the secrets of the Château Laurier, explore the ByWard Market’s culinary delights, and even venture into the city’s haunted past on a spooky night walking tour.
The scavenger hunt can be completed in 2.5 hours, providing a well-rounded introduction to Ottawa’s top attractions.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local eager to rediscover your city, the Ottawa City Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour offers a unique and engaging way to explore the nation’s capital at your own pace.
Read our full review: Ottawa City Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for Ottawa City Tours?
Most city tours in Ottawa don’t have a strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. Casual attire is generally acceptable, though some tours may recommend dressier options for special events or activities.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Activities?
Most city tours don’t have age restrictions, but some activities may have minimum age requirements. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure the tour is suitable for all participants.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tours?
Most city tour companies don’t allow pets on their tours, as they can be disruptive and pose safety risks. However, some may make exceptions for service animals. It’s best to check with the specific tour operator before booking if you plan to bring a pet.
Are the Tours Wheelchair and Stroller Accessible?
Many city tour operators offer wheelchair and stroller-friendly options, allowing visitors with mobility needs to participate. It’s best to check with the specific tour company about their accessibility accommodations before booking.
Do the Tours Offer Multilingual Options for Non-English Speakers?
Many city tours offer multilingual options for non-English speakers, with guides available in popular languages like French, Spanish, and Mandarin. Travelers should inquire about these options when booking to ensure their needs are accommodated.
The Sum Up
Ottawa offers a variety of engaging city tours to suit different interests and preferences. Whether it’s a comprehensive land and water tour, a hop-on hop-off sightseeing pass, a self-guided adventure, or a scavenger hunt, visitors can explore the city’s landmarks, history, and cultural attractions at their own pace. These tours provide a convenient and enjoyable way to discover the best of what Ottawa has to offer.