Canada's capital blends parliamentary grandeur with vibrant markets, frozen winters and cosmopolitan cultural institutions.
You know that friend who shows up to the party in a tailored blazer but crushes beers like everyone else? That's Ottawa. Canada's capital doesn't scream for attention like Montreal or Toronto, but it delivers hard on a group trip: world-class museums you'll actually want to Instagram, a market district that feeds you properly, and winter activities that justify the flight. The city works at any group size—whether you're rolling four deep or coordinating twelve people. Everything's walkable or a quick Uber, the Canadian dollar stretches further than you think, and there's enough mix of culture and nightlife that your history nerd and your party animal both stay happy. Ottawa MacDonald-Cartier International Airport sits 20 minutes south of downtown. Split an Uber XL or two to your accommodation—way easier than figuring out the 97 bus with luggage and a crew. If you're coming from Toronto or Montreal, consider VIA Rail instead. The train drops you at Ottawa Station, and the ride's…