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If you're planning a holiday to Canada, make sure you include Ottawa on your itinerary. The nation's capital city, it is home to a wide array of spectacular attractions, including striking architecture and bustling markets. Here, you can discover a slice of Canada's rich culture, as well as experience the characteristic warm welcome for which the nation is so famous. An exceptionally beautiful city, Ottawa is situated in the province of Ontario. Its residents enjoy a fantastic quality of life and the fact that services are conducted in an array of different languages all serve to make the city a particularly enjoyable one for travellers to explore. So, if you're planning a Canada holiday, just what should you make sure you see? Perhaps the city's most famous attraction, Parliament Hill is not to be missed. Home to the striking Parliament Buildings, it holds the promise of offering a glimpse at an important piece of Canadian culture, as well as being a fascinating architectural achievement. The seat of Canada's political power, it also plays host to Ottawa's tallest structure, the Peace Tower, in addition to many copper-topped towers. A visit inside is also well worth it, as you'll be greeted with a richly decorated library, in addition to fine examples of hand-carved limestone. Those eager to see more of Ottawa's fine architecture should make sure they visit some of its museums. In addition to housing truly fascinating artefacts, many of them boast incredible designs that make the structures themselves as intriguing as their exhibits. The National Gallery of Canada is just one of these buildings. A wonderful, modern design, it is made of glass, pink granite and metal, with stunning glass spires that make its appearance all the more magical. It is not only its exterior that impresses, however. Take a trip inside to see amazing, high-ceiling galleries and charming interior courtyards. Of course, the contents of the attraction are similarly dazzling. The country's biggest art gallery, it is also home to the largest collection of Inuit and Canadian artwork to be found anywhere on Earth. Offering a wholly different - but no less exciting - architectural experience is the Canadian Museum of Civilisation. Unlike the modern materials used at the National Gallery of Canada, this museum is an impressive stone structure with a beautiful, smooth, ripple-effect exterior. Its design avoids sharps corners, which is said to be because Aboriginal beliefs dictate evil spirits can conceal themselves in them. Inside, you'll be able to learn all about the nation's rich history. Another essential place to visit during Canada holidays here is the Rideau Canal, which dates back to 1832. Originally opened to help defend against aggression from America, the canal is still in use today. If you visit Ottawa during the summer, you can cruise down it and see the city from another perspective, while on winter trips you can observe it transformed into the longest ice rink in the world. Plus, because it has many of its original structures in place, it is also an excellent way to explore the city's history a little further. Head to the Byward Market, meanwhile, to get a bit more actively involved in the local culture. Situated at the meeting point of Byward Street and George Street, the market sells a huge array of exciting wares. As you browse the numerous stalls, you're likely to come across fresh fruits, produce from local farms, cheeses, wines, seafood and even souvenirs. While you're exploring, make sure you sample a deep-fried sweet pastry known as a beavertail. This delicious snack is named for its shape, and is a great way to give your taste buds a treat as you shop. With so much to see and do, Ottawa is a wonderful place to visit on any holiday to Canada, whether you're planning a gap year adventure or simply a relaxing getaway. Offering the nation's customary warm welcome, it allows you to experience an authentic slice of Canadian culture, as well as to see some of its most modern and politically important sites. Great restaurants, an abundance of fascinating museums and some beautiful buildings are among the city's most famous attractions - so make sure you dedicate plenty of time to getting to know this attractive and diverse metropolis. If you're planning a holiday to Canada, discover the attractions of Ottawa with Bon Voyage. We offer Canada holidays to suit a range of travellers, so book your Canada holiday with us today.
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