Major's Hill Park, view of Parliament, fall

Familiarization (FAM) tours

Ottawa Tourism’s familiarization (FAM) tours are an enjoyable and effective way for travel professionals to experience Ottawa first-hand and learn about its potential as a travel destination for both group and FIT clients. Our dedicated team works to ensure each FAM tour perfectly meets your needs, whether the tour is self-directed, assisted, or a full-service FAM fully coordinated by Ottawa Tourism.

Over the course of the pandemic, our team has developed the Virtually Ottawa FAM series to allow travel professionals to continue to experience and explore Ottawa in a safe way. You will find this series under the “Virtual FAMs” section below.

Virtual FAMs

Planning a new tour to Ottawa but can’t get here right now? We have created a new way for you to explore Canada’s capital – virtually. Enjoy a live guided tour of iconic museums or experience outdoor activities as if you were there. To scroll through the available Virtually Ottawa FAMs, go to the top right-hand corner of the video below and click on the “Playlist” button to see all the available Virtual FAM Tours. Click any (and all) to watch and get ready to explore Ottawa like never before!

Self-directed FAM

Experience Ottawa sites on your own and at your own pace by using Ottawa Tourism’s Client Inspiration Passport. Our Client Inspiration Passport provides visiting Travel Trade and Media professionals the opportunity to create their own familiarization tour of Ottawa – and visit the city on their own schedule. It provides free admission for you and one guest to many of the attractions, tours and outdoor activities that make Ottawa an attractive all-year destination, as well as providing a taste in many Travel Trade restaurants. Proof of professional designation required.

Assisted FAM

Planning new itineraries or orienting new staff? Want to invite your key clients to get familiar with your popular Ottawa tours? Ottawa Tourism staff will connect you with members and partners to create a FAM as a stand-alone or add-on visit.

Request a FAM or a Client Inspiration Passport

Please submit the client profile form to request a FAM and/or Client Inspiration Passport.

If you have any questions or have an immediate requirement please contact Ottawa Tourism’s Travel Trade team.

Stay up to date

Stay up to date on upcoming events and ideas to plan your next trip to Ottawa with friends, family or on your own by signing up for the Ottawa Tourism Newsletter.