I am planning a 5 day trip to Montreal. But there is one thing that I cannot decide and that is whether it is worth splitting the time between Montreal and also Ottawa. If I decide to do this, how much time would you recommend for Ottawa? What sights would you recommend?
I am looking to go in Mid September.
Thanks for any help!
In general, I would say yes it is worth splitting your time and visiting both Ottawa and Montreal, they are only a couple of hours drive apart.
Montreal has more Quebecois culture, if that's important to you. But Ottawa has national museums: art, nature, history, war, and aviation.
It's worth it to spend a day in Ottawa. It's nice to wander the Byward market area. The National Gallery is fantastic; I've never been to any of the other museums. Another option is Quebec City, which is worth a trip if you want to be in a beautiful and historic town. I'd give Montreal at least three full days.
Thank you all for your help, I realise I wasn't very specific. I was just looking for any ideas.
I'd say it's worthwhile to split the time between Ottawa and Montréal: spend 2 days in one and 3 in the other. Exactly how you divide the time between them will depend on what you're most interested in: Montréal has a picturesque old town, a good historic museum (Pointe-a-Calliere), a good small zoo (the Biodome) and large botanical garden at Olympic Park, the Parc du Mont-Royale for hiking and views, and good dining and nightlife. Ottawa has the Parliament buildings, several excellent Museums (Canadian History Museum, Canadian War Museum, National Gallery), and a lot of good cycling trails along the rivers and canals, as well as Gatineau Park (a great place for hiking, if you have a car to access it). You do need at least 2 days to see the main sights in Ottawa. Montréal is, in my view, more a place you go for ambience, nightlife, food, festivals, etc. than for specific sightseeing; the old town and Mont Royale are the only real 'must sees'.
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