Itinerary for 10 day trip to Ottawa

Ottawa is a vibrant city with plenty to offer beyond museums and religious sites. Here’s a fun and engaging 10-day itinerary that will let you explore the best of what Ottawa has to offer while keeping your constraints in mind. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival and

Morning: Arrive in Ottawa and check into your hotel. Take a moment to freshen up and get settled.
Afternoon: Head to , one of Ottawa’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Stroll through the market stalls, grab a coffee at a local café, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Evening: Treat yourself to dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area. Try some local cuisine at a bistro or grab a bite from a food stall.

Day 2: and

Morning: Rent a bike and ride along the scenic . It’s a beautiful way to see the city and enjoy the outdoors.
Afternoon: Visit . Take a guided tour of the grounds and enjoy the stunning architecture. Don’t forget to snap some photos!
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the canal. If you’re up for it, take a leisurely evening stroll along the water.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

Morning: Head to for some outdoor fun! Go hiking on one of the many trails, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try mountain biking.
Afternoon: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park. Afterward, take a dip in one of the lakes if the weather permits.
Evening: Return to Ottawa and unwind with a casual dinner at a local pub.

Day 4: Explore the Neighborhoods

Morning: Start your day in the . Enjoy breakfast at a cozy café and explore the unique shops.
Afternoon: Head to the trendy . Check out the boutiques and enjoy some time by the .
Evening: Have dinner in Westboro, perhaps at a farm-to-table restaurant, and enjoy the local flavors.

Day 5: Nature and Relaxation

Morning: Visit the . Walk through the beautiful gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Afternoon: Head to for some paddle boating or canoeing. It’s a great way to relax and enjoy the water.
Evening: Have a laid-back dinner at a lakeside restaurant, soaking in the sunset views.

Day 6: Day Trip to

Morning: Take a day trip to , about 1.5 hours from Ottawa. Enjoy the scenic drive!
Afternoon: Explore the charming village, go for a hike, or take a gondola ride for stunning views.
Evening: Have dinner in before heading back to Ottawa.

Day 7: Parks and Gardens

Morning: Visit the beautiful . Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the diverse plant life.
Afternoon: Head to the . It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or just to relax.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the downtown area, perhaps trying some international cuisine.

Day 8: Cultural Exploration

Morning: Explore the vibrant arts scene in Ottawa. Visit local galleries and art studios in the .
Afternoon: Check out the (not a museum, but a gallery!) and enjoy the local art scene.
Evening: Have dinner at a trendy restaurant in Hintonburg, followed by a night out at a local music venue or theater.

Day 9: Scenic Views and Relaxation

Morning: Take a scenic drive to the and visit the picturesque .
Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café with a view, then take a walk along the river.
Evening: Return to Ottawa for a relaxed dinner, perhaps at a rooftop restaurant to enjoy the city skyline.

Day 10: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café. Take some time to do any last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Afternoon: Depending on your departure time, you might want to visit the for some shopping or take a final stroll through the city.
Evening: Depart from Ottawa, taking with you wonderful memories of your trip!

And there you have it! A delightful 10-day itinerary that allows you to explore the beauty and charm of Ottawa while avoiding museums and religious sites. Enjoy your adventure! If you have any questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask!