About Ottawa

Located on picturesque banks where the stunning Gatineua, Ottawa, and Rideau Rivers meet, Ottawa is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world. With a thriving and multicultural population of over 1.2 million, Ottawa is the fourth-largest urban area in all of Canada. But, don't let the word "urban" make you think only of skyscrapers and traffic jams. Although it is a globally-acclaimed center of technology and business, Ottawa is also a natural wonderland. With green spaces, parklands, miles and miles of walking paths, waterways, and historic architecture, Canada's capital welcomes over 7 million visitors per year.

Bordering the province of Québec, Ottawa offers a rich blend of French and English cultures that combine to create a decidedly cosmopolitan feeling. Known as the "Bright City," Ottawa is considered one of the world's safest and most attractive places to live. With unmatchable opportunities for education, work, family, and leisure, Ottawa's residents recognize just how luck they are and take pride in their quality of life.

Four distinct seasons offer an ever-changing landscape of colors, sights, and smells to entertain the senses. In concert with the natural events that mark each season, Ottawa celebrates its rich cultural heritage with numerous colorful and exciting festivals and events throughout the year.

A four-hour drive northeast of Toronto and only two hours west of Montreal, Ottawa is the perfect central location to take advantage of all that this amazing region offers, from museums and galleries, sightseeing, and other outdoor recreational activities.

With its culture, history, natural beauty, and so much more, Ottawa opens itself up to people everywhere as a modern-day treasure.