Where to Stay in Ottawa
Canada
|Pop. 1.0M
|4 neighbourhoods covered
|Updated March 2026
Photo: Alexander Popov / Unsplash
Quick Answer: Best Area to Stay
For most visitors, Centretown is the best neighbourhood to stay in Ottawa. The bustling heart of Ottawa, offering a mix of government buildings, shops, restaurants, and residences. Ideal for first-timers, culture, foodies. Budget travellers can get by on CAD 120/day.
Areas to Avoid in Ottawa
Safety rated "safe". See which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Best Neighbourhoods at a Glance
| Neighbourhood | Vibe | Budget | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Centretown | The bustling heart of Ottawa, offering a mix of government buildings, shops, restaurants, and residences. | Mid-range | first-timers, culture | Generally safe during the day, but be aw... |
| ByWard Market | Ottawa's oldest and most vibrant neighborhood, known for its lively market, eclectic shops, and diverse eateries. | Mid-range | foodies, nightlife | Generally safe and busy during the day a... |
| The Glebe | A charming, upscale residential area with tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, and a relaxed, community feel. | Mid-range | couples, families | Very safe during the day and night, know... |
| Westboro | A trendy, hip neighborhood known for its vibrant main street lined with independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. | Mid-range | foodies, couples | Very safe day and night, a pleasant resi... |
Centretown
Mid-rangeThe bustling heart of Ottawa, offering a mix of government buildings, shops, restaurants, and residences.
Generally safe during the day, but be aware of your surroundings and avoid poorl...
ByWard Market
Mid-rangeOttawa's oldest and most vibrant neighborhood, known for its lively market, eclectic shops, and diverse eateries.
Generally safe and busy during the day and early evening, but can attract some r...
The Glebe
Mid-rangeA charming, upscale residential area with tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, and a relaxed, community feel.
Very safe during the day and night, known for its quiet and family-friendly envi...
Westboro
Mid-rangeA trendy, hip neighborhood known for its vibrant main street lined with independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
Very safe day and night, a pleasant residential and commercial area with a stron...
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Ottawa
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
ByWard Market
Ottawa's oldest and most vibrant neighborhood, known for its lively market, eclectic shops, and diverse eateries.
Our top picks in ByWard Market
Chic hotel with a rooftop terrace offering stunning city views and modern amenities.
Book NowStylish boutique hotel with a focus on art and design, located steps from the market.
Book NowServiced apartments offering a comfortable stay right in the heart of the action.
Book Now
Centretown
The bustling heart of Ottawa, offering a mix of government buildings, shops, restaurants, and residences.
Our top picks in Centretown
Westboro
A trendy, hip neighborhood known for its vibrant main street lined with independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
Our top picks in Westboro
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Things to Do in Ottawa
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
πΆWalking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
π½οΈFood Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
πDay Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
ποΈMuseum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
πHop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
β΅Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
π¨βπ³Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
πNight Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Ottawa at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Ottawa
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Rent a BIXI bike (Ottawa's bike-sharing system) to explore the extensive network of pathways along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River, especially enjoyable in warmer months.
Getting Around
Purchase an OC Transpo Presto card for easier fare payment and potential savings on multiple rides; it can be loaded online or at stations.
Watch Out For
Overpriced souvenirs in the Market area.
Solo Female Travel
Ottawa is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like being aware of your surroundings, avoiding dimly lit areas alone at night, and trusting your instincts are sufficient.
Hidden Gems in Ottawa
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Dominion Arboretum
FREEWander through diverse tree collections and open fields, a peaceful escape from the city bustle. It's a beautiful spot for a quiet stroll or a picnic, especially stunning in the fall.
The Black Sheep Inn
This legendary venue hosts incredible live music, often featuring local and independent artists in an intimate setting. It's a beloved spot for a night out with great atmosphere and a diverse crowd.
ByWard Market (lesser-known stalls)
While the main market is popular, explore the smaller side streets and alleys for artisan crafts, unique food vendors, and local produce. You'll find treasures here that many tourists overlook.
Gatineau Park (Pink Lake Trail)
FREEHike the easy boardwalk trail around Pink Lake, a unique alkaline lake with vibrant turquoise waters. The panoramic views from the lookout are breathtaking and offer a different perspective than the city itself.
The War Museum (specific exhibits)
Beyond the main displays, seek out the more niche exhibits that delve into specific Canadian military history, offering a deeper and often more personal understanding. The architecture of the building itself is also noteworthy.
Bridgehead Coffee (various locations)
This local coffee chain offers delicious ethically sourced coffee and tasty baked goods in a cozy atmosphere. It's where locals go to relax, work, or catch up with friends, providing a true taste of Ottawa's cafe culture.
Things to Do in Ottawa
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
πΆWalking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
π½οΈFood Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
πDay Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
ποΈMuseum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
πHop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
β΅Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
π¨βπ³Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
πNight Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top-rated Ottawa tours and activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided walking tours, food experiences, and day trips. Reserve now, pay later; free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
What It Costs in Ottawa
Daily budget per person in CAD
π‘56% cheaper than New York
CAD 120/day
CAD 250/day
CAD 600/day
Where to Stay in Ottawa
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Parliament Hill15 min
- ByWard Market20 min
- National Gallery of Canada25 min
Pros
- +Central location with easy access to major attractions
- +Abundant dining and entertainment options
- +Good public transport links
Cons
- -Can be crowded and noisy
- -Accommodation can be pricier
Top stays in Centretown
The Metcalfe Hotel
$$$Stylish boutique hotel with a prime downtown location and excellent service.
Les Suites Hotel
$$Spacious suites with kitchenettes, ideal for longer stays or families.
Lord Elgin Hotel
$$Historic hotel offering classic charm and a convenient location across from Confederation Park.
SOHO Residences Ottawa
$$Modern serviced apartments offering a home-away-from-home experience.
Best for
Walk to
- Parliament Hill10 min
- National Gallery of Canada5 min
- Royal Canadian Mint15 min
Pros
- +Incredible concentration of restaurants, bars, and shops
- +Charming historic atmosphere
- +Very walkable to key cultural sites
Cons
- -Can be extremely crowded, especially on weekends
- -Noise levels can be high due to nightlife
Top stays in ByWard Market
Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market
$$$Chic hotel with a rooftop terrace offering stunning city views and modern amenities.
Arc The Hotel Ottawa
$$$Stylish boutique hotel with a focus on art and design, located steps from the market.
ByWard Hilltop Suites
$$Serviced apartments offering a comfortable stay right in the heart of the action.
Best for
Walk to
- Lansdowne Park10 min
- Rideau Canal (walk/skate)15 min
- Carleton University20 min
Pros
- +Pleasant atmosphere with local shops and cafes
- +Close to Lansdowne Park for events and recreation
- +Good for leisurely strolls
Cons
- -Further from the main downtown attractions
- -Fewer hotel options, more B&Bs and rentals
Best for
Walk to
- Westboro Beach20 min
- Ottawa River Pathway15 min
- Dominion Station (LRT)10 min
Pros
- +Excellent selection of independent shops and dining
- +Relaxed, local feel away from the downtown core
- +Access to the Ottawa River pathways for recreation
Cons
- -Requires transit or a longer commute to reach downtown attractions
- -Limited traditional hotel options
Areas to be cautious
- Areas immediately surrounding the main Ottawa Bus Station (100-150 Slater Street): Can feel less safe at night due to transient populations and can be noisy and grimy.
Insider tip: Rent a BIXI bike (Ottawa's bike-sharing system) to explore the extensive network of pathways along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River, especially enjoyable in warmer months.
Where to Stay in Ottawa
Compare hotel deals across the best neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Stay in Centretown
The bustling heart of Ottawa, offering a mix of government buildings, shops, restaurants, and residences.
Stay in ByWard Market
Ottawa's oldest and most vibrant neighborhood, known for its lively market, eclectic shops, and diverse eateries.
Stay in The Glebe
A charming, upscale residential area with tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, and a relaxed, community feel.
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Places to Stay in Ottawa
Be the first to list your property in Ottawa. Reach thousands of travellers looking for accommodation, with no commissions.
List Your PropertySafety in Ottawa
SafeSolo Female Travel
Ottawa is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like being aware of your surroundings, avoiding dimly lit areas alone at night, and trusting your instincts are sufficient.
At Night
Most downtown areas like Centretown and ByWard Market are well-lit and populated, making them safe for evening strolls. Exercise caution in quieter residential streets or near the bus station after dark.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced souvenirs in the Market area.
- 2Distraction thefts (pickpocketing) in crowded tourist areas.
Compare hotel deals in Ottawa
See today's prices across hundreds of hotels. Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can lock in a great rate risk-free.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Travel Insurance for Ottawa
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Stay Connected in Canada
Skip expensive roaming. Get an eSIM for Canada and have data the moment you land.
Get an eSIMGetting Around Ottawa
Transport, connectivity, and costs
βοΈ
Airport to City
OC Transpo Route 97 bus (approx. 50-60 min, $3.75 CAD for single fare, requires STO transfer if coming from Gatineau). Taxi/Uber (approx. 30-40 min, $50-60 CAD).
π«
Day Pass
Approximately $11.00 CAD for a day pass.
Single: Approximately $3.75 CAD for a single fare (valid for 90 minutes with transfers).
πΆ
Walkability
Good TransitUber, Lyft
πΆ
WiFi
Good50-100 Mbps
Public Transport
OC Transpo (buses and the O-Train light rail). Key LRT lines are the Confederation Line (east-west) and the Trillium Line (north-south, currently undergoing upgrades).
Ride-share
Uber and Lyft operate in Ottawa. Typical cost for a short downtown ride is $10-15 CAD.
Transport Tip
Purchase an OC Transpo Presto card for easier fare payment and potential savings on multiple rides; it can be loaded online or at stations.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many cafes (Starbucks, Tim Hortons), public libraries, and some public spaces offer free Wi-Fi.
Coworking
Spaces like Coworkr Ottawa, Regus, and Creative Hub Ottawa are available, with day passes typically ranging from $30-50 CAD.
Rent a Car in Ottawa
Compare prices from top rental companies. Free cancellation on most bookings.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: May, Aug, Sep
Plan Your Perfect Ottawa Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.
Hotels & Accommodation in Ottawa
Browse and compare hotels, apartments, and hostels on the interactive map below.
Powered by Stay22. We may earn a commission from bookings made through this map.
Ready to book in Ottawa?
Compare prices across thousands of hotels on Expedia. Bundle with flights for extra savings.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Found your hotel in Ottawa?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage PrivΓ©. Most people save 14-23%.
Compare hotel deals in Ottawa
Search thousands of hotels on Expedia. Bundle with flights for extra savings.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Who Is Ottawa Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-Time Visitors
Offers proximity to Parliament Hill, museums, and a variety of dining and accommodation options.
Foodies
Boasts an incredible density of restaurants, pubs, and market stalls catering to diverse culinary tastes.
Couples Seeking a Relaxed Vibe
Provides a charming, walkable atmosphere with boutique shopping and cafes away from the downtown hustle.
Budget Backpackers
Offers more hostel options and central access, but requires careful selection of accommodation and awareness of surroundings at night.
Culture Enthusiasts
Close proximity to the National Gallery of Canada and easy access to other downtown cultural institutions.
Digital Nomads
Offers a hip, local atmosphere with good cafes, independent shops, and access to coworking spaces.
About Ottawa
Ottawa ( , ; Canadian French: [ΙtawΙ]) is the capital city of Canada. It is located in the southern portion of the province of Ontario, at the confluence of the Ottawa River and the Rideau River. Ottawa borders Gatineau, Quebec, and forms the core of the OttawaβGatineau census metropolitan area (CMA) and the National Capital Region (NCR).
Frequently Asked Questions About Ottawa
Is Ottawa safe for tourists?
What is the average hotel price in Ottawa?
What area should I stay in Ottawa?
When is the best time to visit Ottawa?
How do I get around Ottawa?
Get the Full Ottawa Guide
Neighbourhood picks, hidden gems, and deals for Ottawa straight to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Ottawa Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel
