Canada has Ottawa and Kingston. But on the Rideau Canal lies a town that has been called the prettiest village in Ontario. Merrickville is a small settlement of stone buildings, a canal that winds through the center, and a landscape of green hills and water. The history is deep. The pace is calm. Here is how to explore this hidden Canadian gem and save money with Trip.com. 1. The Canal at Dawn: Stone and Silence Merrickville's canal is the heart of the town, lined with stone buildings, old mills, and quiet streets. By 10 AM, the day-trippers arrive from Ottawa. Come at 6 AM instead. The light is soft. The stone glows. You will walk along the canal with only the sound of birds and the distant lap of water. It feels like stepping into a 19th-century canal town. Pro Tip: Download the Trip.com offline map for Merrickville. It shows you the quietest routes along the canal and the hidden viewpoints. The best photos are from the lockstation at sunrise, when the stone buildings reflect in the water. 2. The Blockhouse: A Piece of History The Merrickville Blockhouse is one of the finest examples of a defensive blockhouse in Canada, built in the 1830s to protect the canal. The building is now a museum, with exhibits on the canal's history and the town's past. The history is fascinating. The setting is beautiful. Come early. The blockhouse is quiet, and the light is soft. Money Hack: The blockhouse has a small entrance fee. Buy a combined ticket on Trip.com that includes the blockhouse and the Industrial Heritage Museum. You save about 20%. The ticket is valid for the whole day. 3. The Artisan Shops: A Creative Community Merrickville is known for its artisan shops, with potters, glassblowers, jewelers, and painters selling their work along the main street. The quality is exceptional. The atmosphere is welcoming. Come in the afternoon. The light is golden, and the shops are quiet. Budget Advice: The shops are free to browse. Skip the expensive guided tours. Walk from shop to shop and talk to the artisans. Check Trip.com for a "Merrickville Artisan Walk" that includes the best studios and the quietest times to visit. 4. Food That Tastes Like the Region Ontario country food is hearty and local. Try Butter Tarts — a Canadian classic, baked fresh in the local bakeries. Order Pickerel — the local fish, pan-fried with butter and lemon. And do not miss Apple Pie — made with local Ontario apples. Where to Eat: Skip the expensive restaurants on the main street. Walk into the side streets and find Café Merrickville or Restoran Rideau, where locals eat. The food is fresh, and the prices are fair. Check Trip.com for set menu deals — some places include a free dessert when you book through the app. Where to Stay? Book on Trip.com a guesthouse in the village. Look for something near the canal or the blockhouse. You will sleep in a stone room with a view of the water, the sound of birds at dawn, and the scent of pine. The evenings are quiet, and the stars are bright. Conclusion: Merrickville is not a place you rush through. It is a place you breathe in. It is a town of stone and canals, of artisans and quiet streets. It is a place where the past is preserved in every building. Canada is a country of many stories, and Merrickville is its artisan soul. Come and walk the canal at dawn. The Rideau is waiting. #trip_com #Canada #Merrickville #merrickvilletravel #CanadaHiddenGems #Ontario #RideauCanal #BudgetTravel #AmericasGuide #travelcanada #ArtisanVillage #Blockhouse #HiddenCanada #StoneTown #HistoricVillage

Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is a beautiful destination known for its history, impressive architecture, cultural attractions, and peaceful natural surroundings. Located in the province of Ontario along the Ottawa River, the city combines the character of a historic capital with the energy of a modern Canadian city. One of Ottawa’s most famous landmarks is Parliament Hill, home to Canada’s federal government. Its magnificent Gothic Revival buildings and the iconic Peace Tower create one of the most recognizable skylines in the country. Visitors can also explore the surrounding historic streets and enjoy spectacular views of the Ottawa River. Ottawa is also famous for its museums and cultural institutions. The Canadian Museum of History, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Canadian War Museum offer visitors opportunities to learn about Canada’s heritage, art, and history. The city’s cultural scene makes it an excellent destination for travelers interested in discovering the story of Canada. Nature is another important part of life in Ottawa. The Rideau Canal passes through the heart of the city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the warmer months, it is popular for walking, cycling, and boating. In winter, parts of the canal traditionally become one of the world’s most famous skating routes. Ottawa also offers beautiful parks, lively neighborhoods, restaurants, cafés, and festivals throughout the year. In spring, the city becomes especially colorful when thousands of tulips bloom during the Canadian Tulip Festival. With its elegant architecture, rich history, cultural attractions, and beautiful landscapes, Ottawa is a city that represents many of the qualities associated with Canada. Whether visitors come to explore Parliament Hill, discover its museums, enjoy the Rideau Canal, or simply experience the atmosphere of the capital, Ottawa offers a memorable Canadian experience.

Ottawa is Canada’s capital city, offering a mix of national landmarks, beautiful green spaces and fascinating history. Budget travellers can enjoy free museums, scenic walks and local experiences while discovering the city’s culture without spending heavily. Free Museums & Cultural Spots National Gallery of Canada – Free Outdoor Areas This famous museum is home to an impressive collection of Canadian and international art. While general admission may apply for some exhibitions, the building’s exterior, nearby public spaces and surrounding area are worth exploring. Budget tip: Check current free admission opportunities before visiting. Canadian Museum of History – Public Areas Located across the river in Gatineau, this museum explores Canada’s heritage through fascinating exhibits and architecture. Admission details vary, so check current access information. Budget tip: Combine the visit with a walk along the Ottawa River and enjoy the views of Parliament Hill. Parliament Hill Grounds One of Ottawa’s most iconic attractions, Parliament Hill offers impressive Gothic Revival architecture, gardens and public spaces. Visitors can walk around the grounds for free and enjoy views over the Ottawa River. Budget tip: Visit early morning or during sunset for excellent photos. ByWard Market This historic market district combines food stalls, shops, street performers and colourful city life. Exploring the area costs nothing and offers a great introduction to Ottawa’s atmosphere. Budget tip: Browse the stalls and choose affordable snacks instead of full restaurant meals. Cheap Must-Do Experiences Walk the Rideau Canal The UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal is one of Ottawa’s best free attractions. Walking beside the water provides beautiful scenery in every season, from summer paths to winter landscapes. Explore Major’s Hill Park This green space near Parliament Hill offers fantastic views, walking paths and a peaceful place to relax. Pack a picnic and enjoy one of the city’s best-value outdoor experiences. Visit the Canadian War Memorial Area The memorial and surrounding streets provide a meaningful cultural stop where visitors can learn about Canada’s history while exploring the downtown area on foot. Local Food Try: 🍜 BeaverTails, a famous Canadian pastry stretched flat and topped with sweet flavours like cinnamon sugar. 🍜 Poutine, a Quebec favourite made with fries, cheese curds and gravy, is a classic comfort food worth trying. Ottawa shows that history, culture and beautiful scenery can all be enjoyed on a budget-friendly city break. #travelersvoice #Ottawa #Canada #BudgetTravel #TravelCanada #RideauCanal #CanadianCulture #AffordableTravel #LocalFood #TravelMore

Hey everyone! I've put together the perfect 4-day Canada itinerary for friends! Enjoy a stress-free trip with no shopping stops, visiting famous Eastern Canadian cities like Quebec City and the Thousand Islands. Experience a "Goblin" filming location tour, enjoy door-to-door transfer service, and book 2 weeks in advance for a free upgrade to a lake-view room. You'll be staying at 5-star Fairmont hotels—save this post! . Check out this super practical travel guide below ↓ . Canada is located north of the US and was once a British and French colony. People love calling it the "Maple Leaf Country" 🍁. It offers both the grandeur of the Rockies 🏔️ and a diverse, inclusive, and relaxed atmosphere. . 🗺️ Itinerary: This route is packed, allowing you to unlock many hidden gems in Eastern Canada within a limited time~ Day 1: Kingston City Hall > Engine 1095 > Kingston Penitentiary > Thousand Islands, Canada > Old Montreal > Old Port of Montreal Visit classic landmarks in the historic capital of Kingston, take a boat tour of the Thousand Islands, and enjoy a night tour of the romantic Old Port of Montreal. Day 2–3: Observatoire de la Capitale > Old Quebec > Lower Town > Petit Champlain Street > Monument Samuel De Champlain > Place d'Armes > Montmorency Falls > Mont-Tremblant Resort Unlock "Goblin" filming locations, explore, eat, and play in Old Quebec, and visit stunning waterfalls and resorts. Day 4: Parliament of Canada > National War Memorial > Peace Tower > Ottawa River > Canadian Museum of History > Canadian War Museum Visit Ottawa's political and cultural landmarks for an immersive look at Canadian history and war memories. Stay at 5-star Fairmont hotels throughout the trip, including the Fairmont 5-star hotel at Mont-Tremblant. Book 2 weeks in advance for a free upgrade to a lake-view room at the Quebec resort! . Must-read travel tips: 1. 🥘 Food recommendations: Try maple syrup products and Canadian smoked meat. Local restaurants serve generous portions. 2. 🍂 September in Canada is cool in the mornings and evenings, so bring a light jacket. A short-sleeved shirt with a jacket is perfect for the daytime. 3. 🧾 You need to apply for a Canadian visa in advance. It is recommended to plan your application time early. 4. 🛍️ Souvenirs like ice wine and maple syrup can be purchased at regular supermarkets, where prices are transparent and reasonable. . Click the product card below to enjoy thoughtful door-to-door transfer service and start your relaxing journey~