City Tours in Ottawa: 4 That Use a Whole Day Well

1.Bilingual Guided City Tour by Amphibious Bus

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 2,089 reviews · 1 hour · from $43Our pick

Ride from Sparks and Elgin Streets through Ottawa, across to Gatineau, and onto the Ottawa River in one amphibious vehicle. A live English and French guide, with names such as Wendy, Pierre, Sarah, and Alexis, provides history and humor during 40 minutes on land and 20 minutes afloat. The river entry is the family highlight.

“My Mom and I had a fabulous time! The tour was super funny and entertaining. Highly recommend!”

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2.Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour Pass

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 1,194 reviews · 1 day · from $33Best value

Explore Ottawa by open-top double-decker bus or trolley on a one or two-day pass. A bilingual guide, with guides such as Pierre and Christina praised for clear stories and humor, introduces Parliament, ByWard Market, museums, galleries, parks, and more. Ride the full 1.5-hour loop or hop off to explore at your own pace.

“loved the experience! definetely worth the money! beautiful views and a pleasant ride”

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3.Ottawa City Tour by Land and Water

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 598 reviews · 1 hour (approx.) · from $44

See Ottawa and Gatineau in about an hour aboard an amphibious vehicle that travels city streets before entering the Ottawa River. A bilingual guide points out Parliament, ByWard Market, the National Gallery, Gatineau Park, and more. Guides such as Gabrielle, Wendy, and Cameron have been praised for lively commentary and local history.

“My husband and I had a great time. We had a small group on our tour. The view was great . Tour guide Cameron was knowledgeable and drive Bruno was fantastic also.”

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4.2-Hour Ottawa Express City Bike Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 296 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $59Top rated

Ride through central Ottawa with a local guide such as Sparky, Mike, Allison, Denis, or Hans. Bikes, helmets, and water are included. The two-hour route links the War Memorial, Rideau Canal, ByWard Market, Rideau Hall, Rideau Falls, the National Gallery, Ottawa Locks, and Parliament Hill viewpoints in a small group of up to 12.

“Well organised trip Denis was great and so knowledgeable. Our weather wasn’t the best but it didn’t impact on the enjoyment of the small group cycle in a really interesting city. I would highly recommend this to anyone visiting Ottawa”

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