Capital city in Ontario, Canada
Getting around Ottawa
How to get around Ottawa
The O-Train light rail and OC Transpo buses cover the core; downtown and ByWard Market are walkable. Bikes and canal paths work well in summer.
Ways to get around Ottawa
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| O-Train and OC Transpo buses | About C$4 per ride | Tap Visa, Mastercard or Presto; transfers within 2 hours |
| VIA Rail | C$40–120 | To Montreal in 2 hours, Toronto in 4.5 hours |
Ride-hailing apps in Ottawa
A 5 km ride costs about C$12–20 ($8.4–14.0).
- Taxis (Blueline, Capital) take cards and are easy at the airport and downtown; Uber is usually cheaper.
Arriving in Ottawa
Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International (YOW)
Line 2 O-Train via South Keys then Line 1 or bus about C$4, 40 min; Uber about C$25–35, 20 min.
Driving and onward travel
- Driving: on the right. Foreign licences are valid for visits (limits vary by province); carry an IDP if yours isn't in English or French.
- Onward travel in Canada: Distances are huge, so fly between regions. VIA Rail links Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto; intercity buses are limited outside Ontario and Quebec. Rent a car for parks.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Ottawa?
Yes. Apps that work here: Uber, Lyft.
What's the best way to get around Ottawa?
The O-Train light rail and OC Transpo buses cover the core; downtown and ByWard Market are walkable. Bikes and canal paths work well in summer.
How do I get from the airport to Ottawa?
Line 2 O-Train via South Keys then Line 1 or bus about C$4, 40 min; Uber about C$25–35, 20 min.
Is Ottawa walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Ottawa
Going to Ottawa solo?
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Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.