7 Best Ottawa Bike Tours In 2024

Are You Looking For The Best Ottawa Bike Tours In 2024? We’ve Got You Covered!

So what are the best Ottawa bike tours in 2024?

Discover the capital of Canada from a unique perspective with a fun biking tour!

In this blog post, we’ll explore the exhilarating world of cycling adventures in Ottawa, exploring the city’s rich history, iconic landmarks, and picturesque landscapes.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a leisure rider, Ottawa offers an array of bike tours tailored to suit every traveler’s interests and fitness level.

Join us as we pedal through the charming streets, scenic pathways, and vibrant neighborhoods of Ottawa, immersing ourselves in its cultural delights and natural beauty along the way.

I have visited Ottawa many time and I will share all of my tip and experiences with you.

My Top Picks: Best Ottawa Bike Tours

Ottawa Bike Tours – Guided Tours

Let’s jump into the list of the best Ottawa bike tours to check out on your next visit!

1. Ottawa: 2 or 3.5-Hour Sightseeing Bike Tour

🌟 RATING: 5/5 – 42 reviews | ⏱ TOUR LENGHT: 2 h or 3.5 h|
🚲 BOOK HERE

This is a small-group (max 12 people) bike tour with the option to choose between a 2 hr (8.5 miles/14 km) or 3.5 hr tour (12 miles/20 km).

The 3.5-hour bike tour includes a power bar snack.

It is a great tour for families who prefer a relaxed and secure tour as most of the routes the tour follows are designated bike paths and charming back roads.

The meeting and ending point is at 65 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5, Canada. Sparks Street is located downtown and it’s close to Parliament Hill.

The start times are at 10.00 am or 1.30 pm.

Pedal along the scenic Rideau Canal path, and admire landmarks like Parliament Hill & Buildings, the National Gallery of Canada and Byward Market.

“Maria and Gavin were amazing upon our arrival and our tour guide Hans was excellent (made our tour memorable) Hans engagement with the group and his history knowledge made the 3.5 hour tour an epic adventure. Very much recommended!!”

(Read More Reviews)

It is recommended to arrive at the meeting point 15-20 mins before your tour starts so that you can get your bike fitted and go over a safety briefing.

Bike rental, helmets, and water are provided, ensuring a seamless experience for all ages and abilities.

Children 5 and under can use a child trailer, a trail-a-bike or a children’s bike as well.

Also, electric bikes are available for an extra fee if you prefer those.

However, keep in mind that the minimum age for electric bikes is 16 years old in Ottawa.

👉 Book your Ottawa bike tour tickets: Ottawa: 2 or 3.5-Hour Sightseeing Bike Tour

2. Ottawa: Guided Bike Tour through Gatineau and Ottawa

🌟 RATING: 4.7/5 – 30 reviews | ⏱ TOUR LENGHT: 2 h |
🚲 BOOK HERE

Explore Canada’s capital on this guided 2-hour bike tour in a small group (up to 11 people).

To find the meeting place you will need to go from the front door of the Senate of Canada, opposite the Chateau Laurier (hotel) and then take the steps to your right down to the Rideau Canal.

The shop is at water level (East Arch Plaza Bridge), close to the National War Memorial.

The exact address is 2 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 8X5, Canada.

In addition, the tour ends at the same place it starts.

You will see the historic Rideau Canal, and journey south to Dow’s Lake, Hartwell Lockstation, Rideau Falls, the Arboretum, Central Experimental Farm, Ottawa River, and Chaudière Falls.

Along the way, the professional guide will provide engaging commentary on history, culture, and local stories.

“Excellent tour. We didn’t come at the best time on account of the weather in mid-April, and the three of us were the only people riding, but our guide and his son were a pleasure to talk with and listen to as they explained all of the landmarks and historical facts about Ottawa. It was a great tour of the city, friendly for beginners who knows how to shift gears and go up-and-down hills.”

Michael, United States (Read More Reviews)

The bike fleet features new Giant bikes that are lightweight and efficient.

Participants can opt for electric bikes for an additional $20 fee if needed but you will have to notify the bike company in advance.

The pace is leisurely and the path is mostly flat, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride.

Also, your tour includes bike fitting and adjustment of the bicycle and helmet.

There is an option for renting an e-bike, infant seats or two-seat tandems as well.

In addition, water, and safe baggage storage are available.

Keep in mind that the tour will not proceed if the weather is considered dangerous with advisory warnings.

👉 Book your tour here: Ottawa: Guided Bike Tour through Gatineau and Ottawa

3. Ottawa Highlights 3.5 Hour Bike Tour

🌟 RATING: 5/5 – 83 reviews | ⏱ TOUR LENGHT: 3 h 30 min |
🚲 BOOK HERE

Discover the beauty and history of Ottawa on this 3.5-hour bike tour within the city and its surroundings.

This tour showcases the city’s top landmarks and scenic spots.

Therefore, it is perfect for first-time visitors to Ottawa as the tour focuses on the highlights.

The address is 65 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5, Canada and it is where the tour starts and ends.

“We had a 3.5 hour cycle tour round Ottawa. Our guide David was excellent in looking after us and providing great knowledge of the city and its history. Thoroughly recommend.”

Barry_J (Read More Reviews)

It is centrally located and easy to get to.

Also, the tour starts at 9.30 am and the maximum number of people is 10.

Visit major attractions and must-see sites while pedalling along the natural pathways and waterways of Canada’s capital.

This bike tour includes the bicycle, helmet, water bottle, and snack included for a memorable experience.

Don’t forget to arrive earlier to set up your bike and helmet and to receive the safety briefing.

👉 Book your tour here: Ottawa Highlights 3.5 Hour Bike Tour

👉 Also, you can pre-book your Ottawa River cruise here Ottawa: Sightseeing River Cruise

4. Best of Ottawa Neighbourhoods & Nature Bike Tour

🌟 RATING: 5/5 – 31 reviews | ⏱ TOUR LENGHT: 3 h |
🚲 BOOK HERE

This bike tour is 3 hrs and it is a great option to discover the beauty and rich history of Ottawa and its surrounding areas.

The bike tour starts at 65 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5, Canada which is a cute pedestrian street located only a few steps away from Parliament Hill.

The tour begins and ends at the same place and the maximum is 10 people.

Explore the city’s lively neighborhoods, including Centretown, Fletcher Wildlife Garden and Hintonburg, and gain insights into local life along the way.

“Fantastic day!!! Deni our tour guide was the best. Great way to see parts of Ottawa and fun was had by all! Highly recommend this tour”

Guy_D (Read More Reviews)

Other places you will visit on this bike tours are Landsdowne Park, the Dominion Arboretum, Central Experimental Farm and so on.

As you journey through Ottawa’s major sites, relish the scenic natural pathways and waterways that define Canada’s capital city.

Also, this bike tour includes the bike, helmet, water bottle, and a power bar.

It is recommended to arrive a bit early so that they can do the bike fitting as well as the safety briefing.

👉 Book your tour here: Best of Ottawa Neighbourhoods & Nature Bike Tour

👉 You can also opt-in for a boat cruise: Ottawa Boat Cruise – Rideau Canal Cruise

5. Spring Tulip Festival Bike Tour (Available in mid-May only)

🌟 RATING: 4.5/5 – 19 reviews | ⏱ TOUR LENGHT: 3 h |
🚲 BOOK HERE

The Canadian Tulip Festival is a celebration of spring featuring over a million tulip displays planted throughout the city in May.

This tour allows a maximum of 12 people and lasts 3 hrs.

This is a family-friendly activity which is held in May and offers a slightly different experience each year.

The bike tour starts at 65 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5, Canada which is a cute pedestrian street located only a few steps away from Parliament Hill.

In addition, the tour starts at 10 am and ends at the same place.

You’ll ride through Commissioners Park, which is one of the best places to view the tulips during the festival in Ottawa. 

“This tour showed us amazing sites! It covers alot of places that could not be done by walking. Nora, our guide, was very accomodating and description of the sites were clear and interesting. She was also very sweet! Despite the rain, our was a beautiful tour!”

Louise B (Read More Reviews)

Discover the colorful beauty of the tulips and uncover hidden gems and the city’s history on a captivating bike tour.

On this tour, you will also explore the Tulip site at Dow’s Lake.

Also, you will visit iconic landmarks like the Rideau Canal, Canadian War Museum and Little Italy.

You should arrive 15-20 minutes before your tour starts for a bike fitting and safety briefing.

This bike tour includes the bike, helmet and a knowledgeable guide.

Immerse yourself in this annual Canadian Tulip Festival which is available with morning or afternoon departure times.

👉 Book your tour here: Ottawa Spring Tulip Festival Bike Tour

🎥  Here is a video from our visit: Tulip Festival, Ottawa 2015. This is a small part of it, it is pretty big.

Ottawa Bike Tours – Self-Guided

If you prefer to do a self-guided bike tour and to have the freedom to visit whatever you want and spend as long as you want at different attractions, check out this section.

6. Ottawa: 4-Hour Bike Rental

🌟 RATING: 4.5/5 – 4 reviews | ⏱ TOUR LENGHT: 4 h |
🚲 BOOK HERE

This is a 4-hour bike rental and a self-guided bike tour.

Experience Ottawa’s main historical and national sites from a unique perspective on two wheels.

Some of them are Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada etc.

To find the meeting place you will need to go from the front door of the Senate of Canada, opposite the Chateau Laurier (hotel) and then take the steps to your right down to the Rideau Canal.

The shop is at water level (East Arch Plaza Bridge), close to the National War Memorial.

The address for the rental shop is 2 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 8X5, Canada.

“We had a great day riding. The staff were friendly and very helpful in route suggestions.”

Monique, Canada (Read More Reviews)

Each bicycle is carefully selected and adjusted according to your size and planned route.

The rental shop offers new Giant bicycles, available in various models and sizes.

Also, they provide a helmet, lock, map and route assistance & safety information.

Unfortunately, there are no overnight and multi-day rental options or an e-bike upgrade.

Keep in mind that a credit card is required for security purposes even though the cycling event is pre-paid.

This is a private tour which means that only your group will participate in it.

👉 Book your tour here: Ottawa: 4-Hour Bike Rental

🦄 If you are looking to check out Toronto as well, here are some helpful blog posts:
12 Best Toronto Hotels By CN Tower
Complete Guide To Visiting Casa Loma, Toronto (From A Local)

7. 4 or 8-Hour Bike Rental with Self-Guided Tour

🌟 RATING: 4.7/5 – 23 reviews | ⏱ TOUR LENGHT: 4 h or 8h |
🚲 BOOK HERE

Choose between 4-hour or 8-hour (the entire day) bike rental and embark on an enjoyable journey through the Ottawa-Gatineau region on a self-guided tour.

Craft your own itinerary with a self-guided tour of the city exploring Ottawa and Gatineau like a local.

Pick up your bike at 65 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5, Canada anytime between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

This option is perfect for those interested in making stops to visit museums and restaurants or ones who like to take a lot of pictures.

Keep in mind that if you are planning a full-day excursion, consider arriving early, as all bikes must be returned by 6:00 PM.

“We booked the day before, and collected our bikes, were issued two locks and three helmets and given some suggestions and a map. I would recommend this excursion if you wish to explore the city.”

(Read More Reviews)

Also, the staff can assist you in crafting an itinerary based on your preferences and desired duration of exploration.

As well as help you with the bike fitting and any other questions you may have.

Each rental includes a regular or electric bicycle (depending on your selection), along with a helmet, lock, and customized map for a seamless biking experience.

In addition, remember that valid ID and credit card are required upon pick up.

The minimum age to ride electric bikes is 16 years old in Ottawa.

Child and youth bikes are available for children aged 7 and older. While children aged 6 and under can use either a child trailer or a trail-a-bike with an adult on a regular bicycle.

Keep in mind that child trailers or trail-a-bikes are not permitted with electric bicycles.

👉 Book your tour here: Ottawa: 4 or 8-Hour Bike Rental with Self-Guided Tour

FAQs

Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to doing a biking tour in Ottawa, Canada.

Is Ottawa bike-friendly?

Ottawa is considered a relatively bike-friendly city with an extensive network of pathways, bike lanes, and designated routes that make it convenient and safe for cyclists to explore the city.

The city’s natural beauty and waterfront locations, including the Rideau Canal and the Ottawa River, offer scenic and enjoyable routes for biking.

Additionally, Ottawa hosts various cycling events and initiatives, such as bike tours and rentals, to promote cycling as a mode of transportation and recreation.

👉 Also, you can opt-in for an Ottawa Boat Cruise – Rideau Canal Cruise

Is cycling safe in Ottawa?

Cycling in Ottawa can be safe and enjoyable, especially with the city’s extensive network of dedicated bike lanes, pathways, and trails.

Ottawa has made significant efforts to improve cycling infrastructure, including separated bike lanes and designated cycling routes, which enhance safety for cyclists.

However, like any city, cyclists should remain vigilant and follow basic safety guidelines:

Use Bike Lanes and Paths: Whenever possible, use designated bike lanes, pathways, and trails that are separated from vehicular traffic.

Obey Traffic Laws: Cyclists must follow traffic laws, including traffic signals and signs. Always yield to pedestrians and use hand signals for turning.

Stay Visible: Use lights and reflective gear, especially during low-light conditions or nighttime riding, to increase visibility to motorists and pedestrians.

Wear a Helmet: It’s important to wear a properly fitted helmet to protect against head injuries in case of accidents.

Be Aware of Surroundings: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Watch out for parked cars, opening doors, and other potential hazards.

By following these tips and using common sense, cycling in Ottawa can be a safe and enjoyable way to explore the city and its surroundings.

Is Ottawa hilly or flat?

Ottawa is a relatively flat city, especially in the downtown core and along the major pathways and bike routes.

The terrain is mostly gentle and manageable for cyclists, with gradual inclines and declines in certain areas.

However, Ottawa does have some hilly sections, particularly in the more suburban or outlying areas.

For example, neighborhoods located further away from the downtown core, such as the eastern side of Ottawa which is covered with rolling hills or Gatineau across the river.

While Ottawa is not entirely flat, cyclists of varying abilities can still navigate the city comfortably.

Especially sticking to the well-established bike paths and routes within the core areas.

The city’s infrastructure and pathways are designed to accommodate cyclists of all skill levels, making it accessible for recreational biking and commuting alike.

If you are doing an Ottawa biking tour, you will not find it difficult to bike along the paths for sure.

👉 Also, you can pre-book an Ottawa River cruise here Ottawa: Sightseeing River Cruise

Are there bike lanes in Ottawa?

Ottawa offers an extensive network of dedicated bike lanes and multi-use pathways but keep in mind that they are not available everywhere.

Ottawa’s bike lanes, marked routes, and multi-use pathways allow bikers to explore the city’s scenic landscapes along the Rideau Canal, Ottawa River, and other natural areas.

🦄 If you are in Ontario and are looking to see some other epic things, check out these blog posts: 
7 Things To Do In Niagara Falls If It’s Your First Visit
Is Niagara Falls Worth Visiting? Things To Do & Reasons To Visit
Is Tap Water Safe To Drink At The Hotels In Niagara Falls, Canada?
10 Niagara Falls Hotels That Overlook The Falls (Canadian Side)

Conclusion: 7 Best Ottawa Bike Tours

In conclusion, Ottawa bike tours offer an exciting and immersive way to experience the beauty and history of Canada’s capital city.

Whether exploring the vibrant neighborhoods, major attractions, or natural pathways along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River, these tours cater to tourists and locals alike.

With knowledgeable guides, well-planned routes, and inclusive amenities like bicycles, helmets, water bottles, and snacks, participants can enjoy a safe and enriching journey through Ottawa’s diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks.

Whether it’s a leisurely ride through tulip-filled parks in spring or an informative tour of historical sites, Ottawa bike tours provide a memorable and active way to discover the city’s highlights.