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Budget-Friendly 2-Day Itinerary in Ottawa

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Day 1: Explore Downtown

Ottawa, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The SconeWitch

Start your day at The SconeWitch, known for their delicious fresh scones and cozy atmosphere.
Walk to the cafe located at 2020 Wellington St W.
CAD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Parliament Hill

Witness the grandeur of the Parliament buildings and learn about Canada's political history on a free guided tour.
Take Bus 7 from Wellington to Parliament.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Major's Hill Park

Head to Major's Hill Park for a scenic walk with breathtaking views of the Rideau Canal.
Walk from Parliament Hill, approximately 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at ByWard Market

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at any of the many food stalls at ByWard Market; consider a BeaverTail pastry as a sweet treat.
Walk to ByWard Market, about 10 minutes.
CAD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the National Gallery of Canada

Explore world-renowned art collections for free on Thursdays from 5 PM onwards, but take advantage of this time for a quick self-guided tour.
Take a 15-minute walk to 380 Sussex Dr.
CAD20 (if entrance before 5 PM), 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore the ByWard Market area

Spend some time browsing through local shops and markets for inexpensive souvenirs.
Stay in ByWard Market.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Fish Market

Enjoy a budget seafood dinner with daily specials that provide delicious options without breaking the bank.
Walk back to the restaurant in ByWard Market.
CAD20, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Night Walk along the Rideau Canal

End your day with a lovely evening walk along the illuminated Rideau Canal, which creates a magical atmosphere during winter.
Walk to the canal from ByWard Market, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Discoveries

Ottawa, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Ministry of Coffee

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast and locally roasted coffee to kickstart your day.
Just a 10-minute walk from your accommodation.
CAD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Canadian Museum of History

Cross over the Alexandra Bridge for stunning views as you explore Canada's rich history through exhibits at this museum.
Take Bus 18 or walk across the bridge, which takes about 25 minutes.
CAD15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Canadian Museum of History Café

Enjoy a budget meal with a view at the on-site café, featuring delicious local fare.
Located inside the museum.
CAD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Canadian War Museum

Head to the Canadian War Museum to explore historical military artifacts with a focus on Canada’s military history.
Take Bus 86 from the museum.
CAD15, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Lansdowne Park

Take a short bus ride to Lansdowne Park where you can relax and enjoy the ambiance as you explore its shops.
Take Bus 10 from the War Museum.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Dinner at Kettleman's Bagel Co.

Grab a delicious bagel sandwich for a relaxed, budget-friendly dinner.
Short walk within the Lansdowne Park vicinity.
CAD10, 1 hour

6:00PM

Stargazing at the Ottawa Observatory

Wrap up your trip with an evening of stargazing at the Ottawa Observatory if the skies are clear, offering free public viewing.
Take Bus 1 from Lansdowne Park.
Free, 1.5 hours
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