Ottawa isn’t just about Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal. Its surrounding regions and nearby cities offer a wealth of full-day tour options that turn a quick visit into a memorable experience. Whether you’re a wine lover, a history enthusiast, or just in search of a smooth escape from city sights, Ottawa’s full-day tours deliver.
For example, the Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour offers a relaxed way to sample local vintages and ciders, all while learning about the region’s history—and avoiding the hassle of driving yourself. We appreciate tours like this that combine tasting, learning, and convenience, making for a well-rounded day.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best full-day tours in Ottawa—from scenic wine tastings and private city explorations to adventures across the river in Montreal. Each offers something unique, ensuring you find a perfect fit whether you want a laid-back day or an in-depth tour.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best full-day tours in Ottawa includes a variety of experiences:
– A wine and cider tasting day trip in Pontiac, a small region known for its quality beverages see details here
– A private full-day tour from Montreal that covers Ottawa’s highlights in style, with personalized service more info here
– An extended Montreal city tour from Ottawa, including a cruise on the St. Lawrence River and a visit to Old Montreal details here
Now, let’s dig into each one to see what makes them stand out.
1. Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour – Day Trip From Ottawa & Gatineau
At number one, this tour takes you into Canada’s Pontiac region, a quiet corner of Ontario—famous for its small wineries and cideries. What sets this tour apart is its focus on local craftsmanship, with tastings paired with snacks, plus visits to a family-run winery and a vintage car museum.
The tour includes stops at Domaine de Pontiac Village, Little Red Wagon Winery, and Cidrerie Coronation Hall Cider Mills, each offering a different experience.
This tour is praised for its small-group atmosphere and the chance to meet producers face-to-face. The round-trip transfers from Ottawa or Gatineau make it easy—no need to worry about driving after sampling wine and cider.
The tastings are generous, with five wines at Little Red Wagon and a variety of ciders, plus homemade apple pie or crumble. It also includes a tasty lunch, which is a real plus considering the full day of tasting.
Good for: wine and cider lovers, travelers who prefer guided experiences, those wanting a relaxing day without driving.
Bottom Line: A delightful way to explore a lesser-known region with high-quality products and friendly local hosts—great value at $133.06 per person, especially with all tastings, lunch, and transfers included.
2. From Montreal: Private Ottawa Full Day Tour
Taking second place is the Private Ottawa Full Day Tour from Montreal, perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience. For about $287 per person, this 10-hour journey covers the city’s highlights in a comfortable, private setting. The tour includes iconic sights like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery of Canada.
What makes this tour stand out is its tailored approach—your guide can focus on your interests, making the experience more intimate and informative. The private transfer service ensures you’re relaxed and never rushed.
During the day, your guide shares insights into Ottawa’s political, cultural, and architectural history, bringing the city’s stories to life. Since it’s private, it’s ideal for travelers who value flexibility and a deeper connection to the places they visit.
Good for: those with a tight schedule, travelers seeking a personalized experience, groups or couples wanting privacy.
Bottom Line: While pricier, this tour offers an intimate, flexible way to explore Ottawa’s core sights with the comfort of private transportation. It suits history buffs and anyone wanting a more custom experience.
3. Full-Day Montreal City Tour from Ottawa and optional city cruise
Finally, for those wanting to extend their reach beyond Ottawa, this full-day Montreal city tour is a solid pick. Starting with Mount Royal Lookout, you’ll get sweeping views of Montreal, then visit Saint Joseph’s Oratory, and see the Olympic Stadium—a striking example of the city’s Olympic legacy.
In the afternoon, you’ll explore Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal), wandering historic streets full of shops, cafes, and centuries-old buildings.
What truly sets this tour apart is its combination of land and water experiences—the optional cruise on the St. Lawrence River** offers a different perspective on Montreal’s skyline and port activity. The tour normally runs 10 to 11 hours and includes several well-known sights, making it a comprehensive day out.
With reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides and a well-organized itinerary, it’s a good fit for travelers eager to see Montreal’s highlights in one day. The tour’s drawback is that it can feel quite packed, especially if you opt for the cruise, leaving limited time to explore each location fully.
Good for: those with a long day, travelers interested in both history and scenic views, cruise enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A cost-effective way to experience Montreal’s top sights from Ottawa, with the added bonus of a river cruise. Ideal for those who want a mix of sightseeing and relaxation.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, budget, and time. If you’re into local beverages and a quiet rural setting, the Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour is perfect. For a personalized, flexible city experience, the private Montreal tour offers a tailored approach.
And if you want a comprehensive day that includes Montreal’s highlights and a river cruise, the full-day Montreal tour is your best bet.
Think about your travel style: do you prefer guided, group experiences or private tours? Are you comfortable with a longer day of sightseeing or do you want something more relaxed? For tours like the Pontiac tasting tour, booking early ensures you get a seat, especially in peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s full-day tours give you a chance to explore beyond the city’s core in a way that fits your interests. For wine and cider aficionados, the Pontiac adventure offers a delicious mix of tasting and regional history. For those who want a more tailored experience, the private Montreal tour provides a relaxed, private day.
And if you’re keen to see Montreal’s landmarks without the hassle of planning, the full-day guided tour from Ottawa checks all boxes—plus a cruise for extra fun.
No matter which you choose, early booking is recommended, especially during busy travel seasons. Each of these tours offers a taste of something special—so pick the one that matches your curiosity and enjoy your full day out in Ottawa and beyond.