Areas to Avoid in Ottawa
Canada
|🛡️ SafeHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Ottawa. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.
Last updated: March 2026
Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Ottawa is generally Safe
1 area to be aware of · Best areas to stay: Centretown, ByWard Market, The Glebe
Travel Insurance for Ottawa
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Ottawa are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
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.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Centretown
The bustling heart of Ottawa, offering a mix of government buildings, shops, restaurants, and residences.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Ottawa
Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.
Ottawa Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Ottawa on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Ottawa Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Ottawa with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Ottawa: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Ottawa's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Ottawa: Scenic Excursion
Escape Ottawa for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Ottawa Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Ottawa's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Stay Safe, Explore Confidently
Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Ottawa
Stay in a safe neighbourhood
Compare hotels in Ottawa on Expedia
Book a guided tour
Explore Ottawa safely with a local guide
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Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood
These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers
Centretown
The 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 poorly lit side streets at night, especially near the bus station.
ByWard Market
Ottawa'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 rowdier crowds and panhandlers late at night.
General Safety Tips for Ottawa
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.
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.
Emergency Number
911
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Ottawa
- 1Overpriced souvenirs in the Market area.
- 2Distraction thefts (pickpocketing) in crowded tourist areas.
Travel Insurance for Ottawa
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
Centretown
The 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 poorly lit side streets at night, especially near the bus station.
ByWard Market
Ottawa'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 rowdier crowds and panhandlers late at night.
The Glebe
A 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 environment.
Westboro
A 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 strong community presence.
Safety 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.
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