Things to do in Ottawa

What to expect in Ottawa

The Things to Do catalogue in Ottawa is led by Museums and Tours, giving visitors a mix of low-cost cultural visits and higher-priced guided experiences — deciding whether you want quick museum stops or fuller guided days is the main choice. Demand peaks in August and July, while February is the quietest month, so expect attractions to be busiest in those summer months and much quieter in late winter. That spread means you can pack several museum visits into a short stay, while guided tours will feel more booked-up during the peak summer months.

How to choose what to book

A key decision is whether you prioritise budget museum visits or fuller guided tours — choose quick cultural visits or immersive tours depending on your trip style. Museums are the most affordable way in, with a typical price of AUD 24, while Tours offer the widest price range and go up to AUD 137 at the upper end, suiting travellers who want a fuller guided experience.

If you need to stretch a small budget across several activities, Museums fill gaps cheaply and consistently. Tours are where shopping around can matter less on the low end but give more premium options at the top, and mid-range choices vary most by itinerary and inclusions.

When travellers from Australia book

Most travellers book at the last minute, with bookings typically made 0 days ahead, though the earliest planners book about 14 days ahead. Plan a small booking cushion around the summer peak months of August and July when demand is highest.

How prices compare across categories

The table below shows how Ottawa's top activity categories line up on price so you can place a budget before choosing.

Typical price is the median paid on Klook; the usual range covers the middle half of bookings, so cheaper and pricier options exist outside it; prices are shown with their currency code. Based on Klook booking data, August 2025 – July 2026.