Two of Ottawa’s biggest attractions are the bustling Byward Market in the thick of downtown Ottawa and the iconic, restored Parliament Hill government buildings. In addition, two of Canada’s best museums are here: the Canadian Museum of Civilisation and the National Art Gallery of Canada, while Gatineau Park across the river is perfect for recreation.

Byward Market 
Byward Market is Ottawa’s most touristy area featuring a large outdoor market of craft stalls and boutiques that give way to cafés, bistros and pubs at night. The area covers seven city blocks in both directions and is the ultimate in people watching in the Canadian capital, with street entertainers being a common sight. Phone: +1 613 562 3325; www.byward-market.com

Canadian Museum of Civilisation 
Canada’s most extensive museum features many fine exhibits covering a broad swathe of life in Canada, from dozens of genuine Native American totem poles and an Indian village to rare postage stamps at the Postal Museum and fun hands-on exhibits at the Children's Museum. In addition, there is also an Imax theatre onsite. Phone: +1 819 776 7000; www.civilization.ca

Canadian War Museum 
The Canadian War Museum details Canada's war machine and follows conflicts from the many famous French and British battles, through to the World Wars, the Korean War and NATO and UN goings on. If you plan on also seeing the Canadian Museum of Civilisation, a joint War Museum ticket provides cheaper entry to both, or you could head here Thursday evenings for free entry. Phone: +1 819 776 8600; www.warmuseum.ca

Gatineau Park 
Located across the river and to the north of the city into Quebec, Gatineau Park, many times larger than the city of the same name, is one for lovers of the outdoors and those who enjoy getting active, particularly cyclists. Apart from the superb biking trails are hiking opportunities, canoeing, rock climbing, roller blading, and skiing. The camping and picnicking in Gatineau Park is also good.

Parliament Hill
Located on Parliament Hill are Canada’s Parliament Buildings; reconstructed grand buildings in the Gothic revival style. Inside, the state rooms are ornate beyond words and can be seen on a tour, while outside is a cat sanctuary, the summer pavilion and the old bell. Check out the Parliament Hill Sound & Light Show on summer nights. Phone: +1 613 239 5000; www.parliamenthill.gc.ca

National Art Gallery of Canada
Canada’s National Art Gallery is well laid out with many different levels covering most genres and periods. Big works, traditional and contemporary, by the likes of Picasso, van Gogh, Monet, Warhol and Bacon, as well as many lesser Canadian works, are all featured. For visiting exhibitions, check out the ground floor. Phone: +1 613 990 1985; national.gallery.ca

Ottawa Museum pass: there are more museums in Ottawa than anywhere else in Canada and this useful pass, valid for seven days, provides access to the best of them.