Downtown Gatineau Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Downtown Gatineau
Popular places to visit
Canadian Museum of History
Up to 20,000 years of history is showcased in this impressive institution dedicated to life in Canada. It also has a Children’s Museum and IMAX theatre.
Jacques Cartier Park
After visiting Jacques Cartier Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Gatineau. Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.
Parliament Hill
Spend a day enjoying the lively debates, artworks, library and Gothic Revival architecture of Canada’s political heart.
Byward Market Square
Fresh local produce, artisanal handicrafts and historic courtyards are some of the many features of Ottawa’s oldest and busiest market.
Carleton University
Explore the campus of Carleton University as part of your travels around Ottawa. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Rideau Canal
This engineering and scenic marvel fills with pleasure craft in summer and transforms into the world’s longest naturally frozen skating rink in winter.
Activities
Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise
Ottawa: Canadian Museum of Nature Admission
Secrets of the Château Laurier Hotel Tour
Ottawa: Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour Pass
Our pick of the best Downtown Gatineau Hotel Deals
Hôtel Chateauneuf Gatineau—Ottawa
Reviewed on 1 Oct 2025
Best Western Plus Gatineau-Ottawa Downtown
Reviewed on 3 Oct 2025
Four Points By Sheraton Gatineau-Ottawa
Reviewed on 29 Sept 2025
Les Suites Victoria, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Reviewed on 3 Oct 2025
Duvernay Studios and Suites
Reviewed on 4 Oct 2025
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Reviewed on 30 Sept 2025
Check Downtown Gatineau hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Gatineau
Hull
Hull is a destination visitors seek out for its interesting museums, casinos and stunning river views. You might want to check out attractions like Canadian Museum of History or Casino du Lac Leamy while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
ByWard Market
A noteworthy feature of ByWard Market is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Byward Market Square and Rideau Centre.
Downtown Ottawa
Known for its fascinating museums and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Ottawa. Check out top attractions like Rideau Centre and Byward Market Square, and jump on the metro at Rideau Station or Parliament Station to see more of the city.
Centretown
Known for its abundant dining options and interesting museums, there's plenty to explore in Centretown. Top attractions like Elgin Street and Canadian Museum of Nature are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Parliament Station or Lyon Station to see more of the city.
Sandy Hill
Shopping and restaurants are highlights of Sandy Hill. Make a stop by Rideau Centre or Rideau Canal while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at uOttawa Station to get around town.
Old Ottawa East
While in Old Ottawa East, you'll enjoy the sporting events. Catch the metro at Lees Station to see top sights like Rideau Canal while you're in the area.
