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Cheap Flights to Ottawa (YOW)
Find the best deals on flights to Ottawa, Canada's elegant capital — a city of Gothic parliament buildings, world-class museums, the Rideau Canal, and the remarkable ByWard Market. Compare fares from top airlines and book one-way or round-trip tickets to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW).
*All above fares are one way/round trip. Fares incl. all fuel surcharges, taxes & fees and our service fees. Displayed fares are subject to change and cannot be guaranteed at the time of booking. See all booking terms and conditions.
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Top Attractions in Ottawa
Parliament Hill
Canada's Gothic Revival parliament buildings crown a limestone bluff above the Ottawa River, with the Peace Tower offering panoramic city views. The Changing of the Guard ceremony on the front lawn is a summer highlight.
Tours: Free guided tours of Parliament buildings available when in session; book ahead online at parl.ca
Canadian Museum of History
Just across the river in Gatineau, this extraordinary museum designed by Douglas Cardinal features the world's largest collection of Canadian Indigenous objects, housed in one of the world's most beautiful museum buildings.
Getting There: A short walk across the Alexandra Bridge from Ottawa; open daily 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (late closing Thursday)
Rideau Canal
The 202-km Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ottawa's most beloved attraction — a scenic waterway for boat cruises in summer and the world's largest naturally frozen skating rink in winter.
Winter Skating: Canal typically freezes January–February; skate rentals available at multiple locations along the 7.8-km skating stretch
ByWard Market
Ottawa's oldest and most vibrant neighbourhood has been a market since 1826. The ByWard Market square is surrounded by restaurants, bars, boutiques, and the famous BeaverTails pastry stands.
BeaverTails: The original BeaverTails stand is at 69 George Street — a Canadian institution since 1978
National Gallery of Canada
Ottawa's stunning National Gallery, designed by Moshe Safdie with its iconic glass tower and spider sculpture by Louise Bourgeois, houses Canada's most important art collection spanning five centuries.
Hours: Open daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (8:00 PM on Thursdays); permanent collection free for youth; admission for adults
Flight Booking Tips for Ottawa
Porter Airlines for US East Coast Value
Porter Airlines offers a premium yet affordable experience between Ottawa and New York, Boston, and other US East Coast cities. Their cabin experience significantly exceeds what you'd expect at their price points.
Tulip Festival Means Higher Prices
The Ottawa Tulip Festival (early–mid May) is the world's largest, drawing enormous crowds. Book flights and hotels 3–4 months ahead for this period, or visit in late May when tulips fade but prices drop.
Compare Ottawa vs. Montreal
Montreal (YUL) is just 2 hours away and has a significantly wider range of international flights. For transatlantic or long-haul travel, flying from Montreal may offer better fares and more direct options.
Air Canada Discount Sale Alerts
Air Canada dominates Ottawa routes, so signing up for their Seat Sale alerts gives first access to promotional fares. Sales are frequent and can cut prices by 30–50% on domestic and transborder routes.
Things to Do in Ottawa
- ✓ Tour the Gothic Revival Parliament buildings on Parliament Hill
- ✓ Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony on the front lawn in summer
- ✓ Skate the world's largest naturally frozen rink on the Rideau Canal in winter
- ✓ Visit the extraordinary Canadian Museum of History across the river
- ✓ Explore the National Gallery of Canada and its Moshe Safdie glass tower
- ✓ Browse the historic ByWard Market for local produce and BeaverTails
- ✓ Visit the Canadian War Museum's powerful exhibits
- ✓ Walk or cycle the Ottawa River Pathway for parliament views
- ✓ Take a boat cruise on the Rideau Canal in summer
- ✓ Day-trip to Gatineau Park for hiking, cycling, and autumn foliage
- ✓ Visit the Royal Canadian Mint to see how Canada's coins are made
- ✓ Explore the vibrant Glebe neighbourhood for independent restaurants and shops
24/7 Post-Flight Booking Assistance
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which airport serves Ottawa?
Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) is located 10 km south of downtown. Taxis (about $35) and rideshares serve the city centre. No rapid transit currently connects the airport, but a future LRT extension is planned.
How do I get from Ottawa to Montreal?
VIA Rail trains run several times daily between Ottawa and Montreal in about 2 hours (CAD $35–90). Greyhound and Orléans Express buses also serve the route. By car it's about 200 km on Highway 417.
Do I need a visa to visit Canada?
Many nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA, CAD $7) to fly into Canada. US citizens need only a valid passport or NEXUS card. Check IRCC Canada's website for your specific nationality's requirements.
What is the best time to visit Ottawa?
May–September offers excellent weather for outdoor attractions and the Rideau Canal. The Tulip Festival (early May) and Canada Day (July 1) are major events. February's Winterlude festival celebrates winter with ice sculptures and canal skating.
Is Ottawa bilingual?
Ottawa is officially bilingual — English and French are both used in government and public services. The city itself is predominantly English-speaking, while neighbouring Gatineau (across the river) is predominantly French-speaking.
What currency is used in Ottawa?
Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost universally. US dollars are sometimes accepted at major tourist sites at unfavourable exchange rates — use CAD for daily transactions.