Popular places to visit
Parliament Hill
Spend a day enjoying the lively debates, artworks, library and Gothic Revival architecture of Canada’s political heart.
Byward Market Square
Fresh local produce, artisanal handicrafts and historic courtyards are some of the many features of Ottawa’s oldest and busiest market.
Carleton University
Explore the campus of Carleton University as part of your travels around Ottawa. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Rideau Canal
This engineering and scenic marvel fills with pleasure craft in summer and transforms into the world’s longest naturally frozen skating rink in winter.
Canadian Museum of History
Traverse 20,000 years of Canadian history in just one day at Ottawa’s treasure house of culture.
National Arts Centre
You can get tickets for a performance at National Arts Centre during your trip to Ottawa. Experience the acclaimed art galleries or attend a sporting event in this walkable area.
Things to do
Ottawa: Canadian Museum of Nature Admission
Ottawa City Tour by Land and Water
Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise
Ottawa: Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour Pass
Secrets of the Château Laurier Hotel Tour
Top hotels in Vanier
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Reviewed on 9 Oct 2025
Hôtel Chateauneuf Gatineau—Ottawa
Reviewed on 10 Oct 2025
Les Suites Hotel Ottawa
Reviewed on 10 Oct 2025
The Business Inn
Reviewed on 8 Oct 2025
Lord Elgin Hotel
Reviewed on 9 Oct 2025
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG
Reviewed on 6 Oct 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Vanier
Sandy Hill
Shopping and restaurants are highlights of Sandy Hill. Make a stop by Rideau Centre or Rideau Canal while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at uOttawa Station to get around town.
Downtown Ottawa
Known for its fascinating museums and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Ottawa. Check out top attractions like Rideau Centre and Byward Market Square, and jump on the metro at Rideau Station or Parliament Station to see more of the city.
ByWard Market
A noteworthy feature of ByWard Market is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Byward Market Square and Rideau Centre.
Old Ottawa East
While in Old Ottawa East, you'll enjoy the sporting events. Catch the metro at Lees Station to see top sights like Rideau Canal while you're in the area.
Centretown
Known for its abundant dining options and interesting museums, there's plenty to explore in Centretown. Top attractions like Elgin Street and Canadian Museum of Nature are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Parliament Station or Lyon Station to see more of the city.
Industrial Park
If you're spending time in Industrial Park, check out sights like Canada Science and Technology Museum or St. Laurent Centre and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Cyrville Station or St-Laurent Station.
