Best Time to Visit Ottawa
The best months to visit Ottawa are May, Aug, Sep. Here is the full monthly breakdown.
Photo: Alexander Popov / Unsplash
Best Months: May, Aug, Sep
These months offer the best balance of comfortable temperatures and low rainfall for visiting Ottawa. Expect highs of 19°C to 25°C to 22°C with relatively dry conditions.
Warmest Month
July
27°C high
Coldest Month
February
-12°C low
Driest Month
September
6 rain days
Wettest Month
April
17 rain days
Monthly Weather
January
High: -3°C / Low: -11°C
13 rain days
February
High: -2°C / Low: -12°C
13 rain days
March
High: 5°C / Low: -5°C
14 rain days
April
High: 12°C / Low: 1°C
17 rain days
May
High: 19°C / Low: 8°C
14 rain days
June
High: 24°C / Low: 14°C
16 rain days
July
High: 27°C / Low: 18°C
16 rain days
August
High: 25°C / Low: 16°C
13 rain days
September
High: 22°C / Low: 13°C
6 rain days
October
High: 15°C / Low: 7°C
10 rain days
November
High: 5°C / Low: -1°C
13 rain days
December
High: -2°C / Low: -9°C
17 rain days
Tourist Seasons in Ottawa
Peak Season
May, August, September
- +Best weather conditions
- +Most activities and events
- -Higher prices and larger crowds
- -Book accommodation well in advance
Shoulder Season
April, June, July, October
- +Good weather, fewer tourists
- +Better value for accommodation
- +More authentic local experiences
- ~Some attractions may have reduced hours
Off Season
January, February, March, November, December
- +Lowest prices of the year
- +No crowds at attractions
- -Weather may be less favourable
- -Some seasonal businesses may close
Month-by-Month Breakdown
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
January | -3°C | -11°C | 13 | Off Season |
February | -2°C | -12°C | 13 | Off Season |
March | 5°C | -5°C | 14 | Off Season |
April | 12°C | 1°C | 17 | Shoulder Season |
May★ | 19°C | 8°C | 14 | Peak Season |
June | 24°C | 14°C | 16 | Shoulder Season |
July | 27°C | 18°C | 16 | Shoulder Season |
August★ | 25°C | 16°C | 13 | Peak Season |
September★ | 22°C | 13°C | 6 | Peak Season |
October | 15°C | 7°C | 10 | Shoulder Season |
November | 5°C | -1°C | 13 | Off Season |
December | -2°C | -9°C | 17 | Off Season |
Season Timeline
Frequently Asked Questions
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Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Ottawa
Make the most of your trip by booking popular tours and activities in advance.
Ottawa Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Ottawa on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Ottawa Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Ottawa with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Ottawa: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Ottawa's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Ottawa: Scenic Excursion
Escape Ottawa for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Ottawa Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Ottawa's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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Top 3 Areas to Stay in Ottawa
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
ByWard Market
Ottawa's oldest and most vibrant neighborhood, known for its lively market, eclectic shops, and diverse eateries.
Our top picks in ByWard Market
Chic hotel with a rooftop terrace offering stunning city views and modern amenities.
Book NowStylish boutique hotel with a focus on art and design, located steps from the market.
Book NowServiced apartments offering a comfortable stay right in the heart of the action.
Book Now
Centretown
The bustling heart of Ottawa, offering a mix of government buildings, shops, restaurants, and residences.
Our top picks in Centretown
Westboro
A trendy, hip neighborhood known for its vibrant main street lined with independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
Our top picks in Westboro
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