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Canada/Things to Do in Ottawa, solo trip

Parliament Hill (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is Parliament Hill?

90%Solo-Friendly
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What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can move freely through free guided tours, explore statues and river views, and handle security lines easily; washrooms and paths are accessible, making the Hill almost ideal.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 38,832 reviews)
PARLIAMENT HILL | OTTAWA|
14 min
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PARLIAMENT HILL | OTTAWA|
1.6K views • 1 year ago
The Senate tour | The Parliament Hill | Ottawa | Canada - Rafiq Ahmed
4 min
Start from:
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The Senate tour | The Parliament Hill | Ottawa | Canada - Rafiq Ahmed
1.7K views • 2 years ago

Positives:

  • Rich historical insight: Guided tours include expert commentary on Canada’s political and architectural heritage
  • Self-paced exploration: The free brochure lets you wander key monuments at your own speed

Challenges:

  • Summer crowds: Peak-season visitors can make popular spots and ceremonies feel busy
  • Security wait times: Budget an extra 15–20 minutes for bag checks before tours
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🏖️ Explore Parliament Hill with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Parliament Hill. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Parliament Hill?

  • A neo-Gothic architectural complex dominating Ottawa’s skyline as the seat of Canada’s federal parliament
  • Composed of three main buildings—Centre Block, East Block and West Block—anchored by the soaring Peace Tower
  • Symbolic heart of Canadian democracy, featuring heritage chambers, gothic spires and the century-old Centennial Flame

What is so special about Parliament Hill for solo trip?

  1. Free guided tours unlock access to Senate and Commons chambers
  2. Self-guided map covers Peace Tower, Centennial Flame and statues
  3. Iconic ceremonies and evening light shows add dynamic experiences
  4. Central location offers easy transit access and photography spots
  5. Compact layout makes a quick solo visit both rich and manageable

Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours

Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for a guided tour and a self-guided stroll without rushing

(View Parliament Hill on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in Parliament Hill

Guided tour of Parliament Buildings:

Explore the Senate, House of Commons and heritage rooms inside Centre, West and (summer) East Block

Tip: Reserve your spot online and arrive 10 minutes early for security screening

Self-guided Discover the Hill walk:

Follow the free brochure to visit the Peace Tower, Centennial Flame and historical statues on the grounds

Tip: Pick up the brochure at the Visitor Welcome Centre or download it before arrival

Changing of the Guard ceremony:

Watch the Ceremonial Guard parade on the East Lawn with pipers, drums and precision drill

Tip: Arrive by 9:45 am in summer for the full parade; bring water and sun protection

Northern Lights Sound & Light Show:

See Canada’s history come alive with projection mapping and music on Centre Block’s façade

Tip: Bring a blanket or portable chair and arrive 15 minutes early for best viewing

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Parliament Hill

  1. Book tours online: Reserve your guided tour slot in advance to secure your preferred time
  2. Visit off-peak: Go early morning or late afternoon to enjoy quieter grounds and shorter lines
🏖️ Tour Parliament Hill like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Parliament Hill. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Parliament Hill

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Amara Ranze

Amara Ranze

Oct 2025

I was stunned in admiration of the Parliament buildings . Beautiful view 😍. I visited over the weekend so I had no access into the building just the surroundings and it’s free access. Just walk around take pictures and videos and admire the structures and seeing the busyness of downtown at night was beautiful as a tourist.

Mike Howard

Mike Howard

Sep 2025

Took tour which was informative and well produced. The guide gave a good overview of basics of Canadian government which I lacked being from the states. Would of been nice to see in actual buildings they use but understood the massive retrofit of parliament prevented that

Parag Molla

Parag Molla

Aug 2025

One of the must-see places in Canada. Visiting Parliament Hill was an unforgettable experience. The architecture of the Parliament Buildings is absolutely breathtaking, with their Gothic Revival style standing tall as a symbol of Canada’s history and democracy. Walking through the grounds, you can feel the importance and pride this place holds for the country. The location along the Ottawa River m...

Mohamed Thaufeeq

Mohamed Thaufeeq

Aug 2025

Parliament Hill is a must see when you are in Ottawa. The buildings are beautiful and the architecture is impressive up close. Walking around the grounds is peaceful and you really get a sense of history. It is especially nice in the summer with the views of the river. The only downside is it can get very busy with tourists, but it is still worth the visit. A great spot to take pictures and enjoy ...

Simarjeet Singh

Simarjeet Singh

Jul 2025

I had such a wonderful time walking around the grounds and just taking everything in. The views are stunning, especially with the river in the background and the Peace Tower standing tall above the buildings. It’s one of those places that feels both grand and welcoming at the same time. What surprised me most was how much history is packed into the place. I expected politics, of course it’s the ce...

When is the best time to visit Parliament Hill (Ottawa, Canada)?

In summer, plan for daily guard ceremonies (late June–August) and evening light shows (Thu–Mon); in winter, wear traction cleats on icy paths

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Ottawa on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Guided tour of Parliament BuildingsCAD 0
Self-guided Discover the Hill walkCAD 0
Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour (optional)CAD 40
Total EstimatedCAD 40

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Parliament Hill

Address: Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A9, Canada

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Parliament Hill (Ottawa)?

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About Parliament Hill

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 613-992-4793

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