Exploring Ottawa on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: City Exploration

Ottawa, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wilf & Ada's

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Wilf & Ada's, a cozy diner known for its homemade comfort food.
Wilf & Ada's is located in downtown Ottawa, easily accessible by public transportation or a short walk from major hotels.
$10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore ByWard Market

Head to ByWard Market, a bustling market filled with local produce, artisanal goods, and unique shops. Take your time to wander around and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
ByWard Market is within walking distance from Wilf & Ada's, making it a convenient next stop.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Shawarma Palace

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Shawarma Palace, known for its delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.
Shawarma Palace is a short walk from ByWard Market, perfect for a quick and tasty meal.
$8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Parliament Hill

Spend the afternoon exploring Parliament Hill, where you can admire the stunning architecture and learn about Canadian history.
Parliament Hill is a short walk from ByWard Market, offering picturesque views of the city along the way.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at El Camino

Indulge in some delicious tacos at El Camino, a vibrant spot known for its tasty Mexican street food.
El Camino is located in the downtown area, easily accessible by public transportation or a short walk from Parliament Hill.
$15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

Ottawa, Canada

9:00AM

Breakfast at Art-Is-In Bakery

Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Art-Is-In Bakery, known for its artisanal bread and pastries.
Art-Is-In Bakery is a short drive from downtown Ottawa, offering a wide selection of freshly baked goods.
$12, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Gatineau Park

Head to Gatineau Park for a day of outdoor adventures. Hike along scenic trails, enjoy a picnic by the lake, or rent a bike to explore the stunning natural beauty.
Gatineau Park is a short drive from downtown Ottawa, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Free, 4 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at La Pataterie Hulloise

Grab a quick and tasty lunch at La Pataterie Hulloise, a local spot known for its delicious poutine and hearty comfort food.
La Pataterie Hulloise is located near Gatineau Park, perfect for a post-hike meal.
$10, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Rideau Canal

Take a leisurely stroll along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its scenic views and recreational activities.
Rideau Canal is easily accessible from Gatineau Park, offering a picturesque setting for a relaxing afternoon.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ahora Mexican Cuisine

End your day with a delicious dinner at Ahora Mexican Cuisine, a cozy restaurant serving authentic Mexican dishes.
Ahora Mexican Cuisine is located in downtown Ottawa, offering a convenient dining option after exploring the Rideau Canal.
$18, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Ottawa, Canada

8:30AM

Breakfast at Arlington Five

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Arlington Five, a charming cafe known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious coffee.
Arlington Five is located in the Glebe neighborhood, easily accessible by public transportation or a short drive from downtown Ottawa.
$8, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit National Gallery of Canada

Explore the National Gallery of Canada, home to a vast collection of Canadian and indigenous art. Spend time admiring the artworks and exhibitions.
The National Gallery of Canada is a short distance from Arlington Five, offering a cultural experience in the heart of Ottawa.
$12, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pure Kitchen

Enjoy a healthy and delicious lunch at Pure Kitchen, a vegetarian restaurant known for its fresh and flavorful plant-based dishes.
Pure Kitchen is located near the National Gallery of Canada, offering a variety of options for veggie lovers.
$15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Bytown Museum

Visit the Bytown Museum to learn about Ottawa's fascinating history, from its early days as a rough lumber town to becoming Canada's capital.
Bytown Museum is located near the National Gallery of Canada, providing insights into Ottawa's heritage.
$8, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Walk around Major's Hill Park

Take a leisurely stroll around Major's Hill Park, a peaceful green space offering panoramic views of the Ottawa River and Parliament Hill.
Major's Hill Park is within walking distance from Bytown Museum, perfect for a relaxing evening walk.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ahora Mexican Cuisine

End your day with another delicious meal at Ahora Mexican Cuisine, where you can savor more of their tasty Mexican dishes.
Ahora Mexican Cuisine is a short walk from Major's Hill Park, offering a convenient dining option in the evening.
$18, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature Exploration

Ottawa, Canada

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Scone Witch

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at The Scone Witch, a cozy cafe known for its freshly baked scones and hearty brunch options.
The Scone Witch is located in the downtown area, offering a cozy setting for a morning meal.
$10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Ottawa's Green Spaces

Spend the morning exploring Ottawa's green spaces such as Central Experimental Farm or Arboretum, perfect for a peaceful nature walk or picnic.
Central Experimental Farm and Arboretum are a short drive or bus ride from downtown Ottawa, providing a serene escape into nature.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yangtze Dining Lounge

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Yangtze Dining Lounge, a local favorite known for its affordable Chinese cuisine and lunch specials.
Yangtze Dining Lounge is located near Central Experimental Farm, offering a convenient dining option after exploring the green spaces.
$10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Canadian Museum of Nature

Explore the Canadian Museum of Nature, featuring fascinating exhibits on natural history, biodiversity, and geological wonders.
The Canadian Museum of Nature is a short distance from Yangtze Dining Lounge, offering a fun and educational experience.
$15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Elgin Street Diner

End your day with a hearty dinner at Elgin Street Diner, a local institution known for its classic diner fare and comfort food.
Elgin Street Diner is located in downtown Ottawa, perfect for a satisfying meal after exploring the Canadian Museum of Nature.
$20, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Local Delights

Ottawa, Canada

9:00AM

Breakfast at Edgar

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Edgar, a cozy cafe known for its creative dishes and locally sourced ingredients.
Edgar is located in Gatineau, just a short drive from downtown Ottawa, offering a unique dining experience.
$15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Dows Lake

Head to Dows Lake for a leisurely stroll along the water, rent a paddleboat, or relax by the lake while enjoying the scenic views.
Dows Lake is a short drive from Gatineau, offering a tranquil setting for a morning walk or outdoor activities.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pho Thu Do

Enjoy a flavorful lunch at Pho Thu Do, a popular spot for authentic Vietnamese cuisine and delicious pho bowls.
Pho Thu Do is located near Dows Lake, perfect for a satisfying meal after a morning of exploration.
$12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Canadian War Museum

Explore the Canadian War Museum, showcasing Canada's military history through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories.
The Canadian War Museum is a short distance from Pho Thu Do, offering a poignant and informative experience.
$15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Elgin Street Diner

End your day with another delicious meal at Elgin Street Diner, where you can enjoy more of their classic comfort food dishes.
Elgin Street Diner is a short drive from the Canadian War Museum, providing a convenient dining option in the evening.
$20, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Historical Highlights

Ottawa, Canada

8:30AM

Breakfast at Art House Cafe

Start your day with a cozy breakfast at Art House Cafe, a charming spot known for its artsy decor and delicious coffee.
Art House Cafe is located in the heart of Ottawa, offering a unique dining experience in a creative setting.
$10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Royal Canadian Mint

Visit the Royal Canadian Mint to learn about the history of Canadian currency and see how coins are made. Take a guided tour for an insightful experience.
The Royal Canadian Mint is a short drive from Art House Cafe, offering a fascinating glimpse into Canada's monetary heritage.
$12, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Green Papaya

Enjoy a flavorful lunch at Green Papaya, a popular restaurant serving delicious Thai cuisine and refreshing bubble tea.
Green Papaya is located near the Royal Canadian Mint, offering a variety of authentic Thai dishes for a satisfying meal.
$15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Canadian Museum of History

Cross the river to Gatineau and explore the Canadian Museum of History, home to exhibitions on Canadian heritage, culture, and indigenous history.
The Canadian Museum of History is a short drive from Green Papaya, offering a rich cultural experience across the river.
$20, 2 hours

4:00PM

Walk around Jacques Cartier Park

Take a leisurely walk around Jacques Cartier Park, a scenic green space with stunning views of the Ottawa River and Parliament Hill.
Jacques Cartier Park is within walking distance from the Canadian Museum of History, perfect for a relaxing evening stroll.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Manx Pub

End your day with a hearty dinner at The Manx Pub, a cozy spot known for its pub fare, craft beers, and relaxed atmosphere.
The Manx Pub is located in downtown Ottawa, offering a laid-back dining experience to unwind after a day of exploration.
$18, 1.5 hours
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