Practical and well-organized guided tours make Ottawa’s rich history and culture easily accessible. The standout experience is the Parliament Hill tour, which takes you inside Canada’s stunning Gothic Revival government buildings. We love the cycling tours along the Rideau Canal – they’re intimate, informative, and show off the city’s best views. The hop-on hop-off bus tours work well for first-timers, offering commentary in multiple languages and stops at major attractions.
For history buffs, don’t miss tours of the grand Château Laurier – it’s like stepping into a French castle. Private walking tours with local guides offer the most flexibility and personal attention.
Check out our recommended tours below to find your perfect Ottawa experience.
Key Points
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The Château Laurier Guided Tour offers an immersive 75-minute experience exploring the hotel’s concealed passageways, grand ballrooms, and exclusive areas.
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The Guided Bike Tour Through Gatineau and Ottawa provides a 2.5-hour eco-friendly, active sightseeing alternative with scenic views and a 5-star rating.
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The Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour Pass allows visitors to explore Ottawa’s key attractions, including the Canadian Parliament and Byward Market, with bilingual live guides.
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The Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide offers a personalized experience highlighting iconic sights and hidden gems in a range of languages.
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The tours in Ottawa cater to diverse preferences, offer accessibility features, and receive positive reviews for knowledgeable guides and unique experiences.
Ottawa: Secrets of the Château Laurier – Guided Hotel Tour
The Château Laurier, a historic Ottawa landmark, serves as the backdrop for an immersive 75-minute guided tour that unlocks the secrets of this iconic hotel. Priced at Kč 534 per person, the tour provides English-language exploration of the hotel’s concealed passageways, grand ballrooms, and exclusive areas.
Led by expert guides, guests marvel at the lobby’s high ceilings and marble floors before venturing into typically reserved spaces. Throughout the experience, travelers learn about the hotel’s notable guests and rich history.
The tour structure begins at the concierge desk, progressing through the grand lobby and historic corridors before culminating in the Renaissance-style ballrooms. Wheelchair accessibility and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offer convenience and flexibility.
While some guests note parking challenges, reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and overall value. For those seeking an insider’s glimpse into one of Ottawa’s architectural gems, the Château Laurier tour delivers an engaging and immersive experience.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Secrets of the Château Laurier – Guided Hotel Tour Review
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Ottawa: Guided Bike Tour Through Gatineau and Ottawa
Exploring Ottawa and the neighboring Gatineau region by bicycle offers travelers a unique perspective on the city’s diverse landscapes and landmarks.
The Ottawa: Guided Bike Tour Through Gatineau and Ottawa is a popular 2.5-hour excursion that takes riders across the provincial border into Québec. Rated 5 stars by 50 reviewers, the tour provides an immersive experience for visitors to discover the area’s natural beauty and historical sites.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the bike tour winds through the scenic Gatineau Park, showcasing panoramic views of the Ottawa River and the city skyline. Participants can also explore the cobblestone streets and historical buildings of the Byward Market neighborhood.
With prices starting from $34.55, the tour is an affordable and active way to experience Ottawa’s top attractions. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or simply seeking a fun way to sightsee, the Ottawa: Guided Bike Tour offers an engaging and eco-friendly alternative to traditional bus tours.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Guided Bike Tour Through Gatineau and Ottawa Review
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Ottawa: Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour Pass
A popular option for exploring Ottawa’s top attractions is the Ottawa: Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour Pass. Priced at $31.22 per person, this pass is valid for 1-2 days and offers the flexibility to hop on and off the tour at your convenience.
The tour includes an open-top double-decker bus or trolley, providing fantastic views of the Canadian capital. Bilingual live tour guides offer commentary in English and French, while audio guides are available in multiple languages.
The tour highlights key attractions such as the Canadian Parliament, Byward Market, museums, and galleries. Passengers can stay on for the complete 1.5-hour round-trip or hop off to explore the city’s dining and shopping opportunities.
According to customer reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.4/5, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable experiences. The tour may be conducted by a double-decker bus, depending on weather or circumstances, and the meeting point may vary based on the option booked.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour Pass Review
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Ottawa: Private Custom Tour With a Local Guide
Although the Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour provides a convenient way to explore Ottawa’s top attractions, travelers seeking a more personalized experience may consider the Ottawa: Private Custom Tour With a Local Guide.
Priced from €38.00 per person, this tour offers various duration options ranging from 2 to 8 hours, allowing visitors to customize the itinerary to their preferences. Guided in English, French, or Spanish, the tours provide an insider’s perspective of the city, highlighting both iconic sights and hidden gems.
Customers appreciate the knowledgeable local guides who offer valuable insights into Ottawa’s culture and history. While local transportation isn’t included, as the tours are primarily walking, the service includes hotel pickup and wheelchair accessibility.
Though the overall rating is 3.7 out of 5 based on 7 reviews, positive feedback emphasizes the informative and personalized nature of the experiences.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Private Custom Tour With a Local Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Ottawa offers a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history and scenic landscapes. From the grandeur of the Château Laurier to the biking trails of Gatineau Park, these tours provide an engaging and informative way to experience the best of what Ottawa has to offer. Whether you prefer a hop-on hop-off city tour or a customized private excursion, there’s a guided tour to suit every traveler’s needs.