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Best Time to Visit Ottawa

When to visit Ottawa, Canada: the best months, shoulder seasons and what weather to expect, based on its temperate climate.

May to September
Best time
April–May and September–October
Shoulder season
temperate
Climate

Ottawa has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The warmer half of the year (May to September) brings the longest days and the most settled weather — the most popular time to visit.

Late spring and early autumn (April–May and September–October) are excellent shoulder periods: pleasant conditions with thinner crowds than peak summer. Winters are cold and quieter.

Frequently asked questions

The best time to visit Ottawa is generally May to September, given its temperate climate. Ottawa has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The warmer half of the year (May to September) brings the longest days and the most settled weather — the most popular time to visit.

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