What months should I avoid visiting Ottawa?

Avoid visiting Ottawa in January due to unfavourable weather conditions.

Is Ottawa worth visiting in monsoon?

Ottawa during monsoon has lower prices and fewer tourists. However, outdoor activities may be limited. Check the month-by-month guide for specific conditions.

🇨🇦 Canada Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit Ottawa (2026)

Quick Answer

The best time to visit Ottawa is June, September, February. May-September is Ottawa's warm season, with the Rideau Canal open for boating. Winter (December-February) is cold with heavy snow, but this is when Ottawa comes into its own — the frozen canal skating rink and Winterlude festival (February) are genuinely worth the cold. Fall brings strong foliage in Gatineau Park.

Best Months

May - Oct, Feb

Daily Budget

CAD 100-260/day

Currency

CAD

Language

English, French

Ottawa Weather by Month

Jan

Avoid

Very cold, snowy

Canal usually frozen and skateable, but bitterly cold

-6°C/-15°C

Feb

Good

Very cold, snowy

Winterlude festival — the Rideau Canal skating rink at its best

-3°C/-13°C

Mar

Okay

Cold, thawing

Canal skating season typically ends mid-month

4°C/-6°C

Apr

Good

Cool, changeable

Snow mostly gone, Gatineau Park trails reopening

11°C/1°C

May

Best

Mild, pleasant

Canadian Tulip Festival — millions of tulips around the canal

18°C/7°C

Jun

Best

Warm, pleasant

Rideau Canal boating season, comfortable sightseeing weather

23°C/13°C

Jul

Good

Warm, humid

Canada Day (July 1) on Parliament Hill is a major event

26°C/16°C

Aug

Good

Warm summer

Still warm, good weather for Gatineau Park hiking

25°C/15°C

Sep

Best

Mild, comfortable

Comfortable weather, thinner crowds than summer

20°C/11°C

Oct

Best

Cool, crisp

Peak fall foliage in Gatineau Park

13°C/5°C

Nov

Okay

Cold, greyer

Museum season begins as outdoor options narrow

6°C/0°C

Dec

Good

Cold, snowy, festive

Christmas Lights Across Canada display on Parliament Hill

-2°C/-9°C

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ottawa good for a honeymoon?

Ottawa is an excellent honeymoon destination. The best time for couples is May - Oct, Feb when the weather is ideal. Expect to budget around CAD 100-260/day per day for a comfortable stay.

Can I visit Ottawa on a budget?

Yes, Ottawa can be visited on a budget. Average daily costs are CAD 100-260/day. Budget travellers can find affordable accommodation and food while still experiencing the best the city has to offer.

How many days should I spend in Ottawa?

We recommend 3-5 days in Ottawa to see the main attractions. A week gives you time to explore at a relaxed pace and discover hidden gems beyond the tourist trail.

Full Travel Guide

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