Boats slip through the waters of the Rideau Canal, and scarlet-coated guards march toward Parliament Hill. This very modern and vibrant capital — a place where two distinct cultures live together — is also home to many national treasures. But its soul lies in the larger-than-life monuments, the great Canadian festivals, the natural surroundings, the heritage buildings and landscapes, the cosmopolitan culture, the sense of history. This is where you’ll discover what it means to be Canadian.
Clockwise from top: Rideau Canal with Parliament Hill on left and Fairmont Chateau Laurier on right. Christmas lights on the hill, Rideau Hall – home to the Governor General, Museum of Civilization in Gatineau Quebec, Tour Boats on the canal.