Where to Stay in Ottawa
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Centretown (with caution)
Offers more hostel options and central access, but requires careful selection of accommodation and awareness of surroundings at night.
See full Ottawa neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Ottawa
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Centretown
The bustling heart of Ottawa, offering a mix of government buildings, shops, restaurants, and residences.
Our top picks in Centretown
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.
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The Glebe
A charming, upscale residential area with tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, and a relaxed, community feel.
Our top picks in The Glebe
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Centretown | Mid-range | The bustling heart of Ottawa, offering a mix of government buildings, shops, restaurants, and residences. | first-timersculture |
ByWard Market | Mid-range | Ottawa's oldest and most vibrant neighborhood, known for its lively market, eclectic shops, and diverse eateries. | foodiesnightlife |
The Glebe | Mid-range | A charming, upscale residential area with tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, and a relaxed, community feel. | couplesfamilies |
Westboro | Mid-range | A trendy, hip neighborhood known for its vibrant main street lined with independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. | foodiescouples |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Ottawa
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Ottawa
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Ottawa. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Ottawa
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Ottawa
Centretown
Mid-rangeThe bustling heart of Ottawa, offering a mix of government buildings, shops, restaurants, and residences.
- +Central location with easy access to major attractions
- +Abundant dining and entertainment options
- +Good public transport links
- -Can be crowded and noisy
- -Accommodation can be pricier
ByWard Market
Mid-rangeOttawa's oldest and most vibrant neighborhood, known for its lively market, eclectic shops, and diverse eateries.
- +Incredible concentration of restaurants, bars, and shops
- +Charming historic atmosphere
- +Very walkable to key cultural sites
- -Can be extremely crowded, especially on weekends
- -Noise levels can be high due to nightlife
The Glebe
Mid-rangeA charming, upscale residential area with tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, and a relaxed, community feel.
- +Pleasant atmosphere with local shops and cafes
- +Close to Lansdowne Park for events and recreation
- +Good for leisurely strolls
- -Further from the main downtown attractions
- -Fewer hotel options, more B&Bs and rentals
Westboro
Mid-rangeA trendy, hip neighborhood known for its vibrant main street lined with independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
- +Excellent selection of independent shops and dining
- +Relaxed, local feel away from the downtown core
- +Access to the Ottawa River pathways for recreation
- -Requires transit or a longer commute to reach downtown attractions
- -Limited traditional hotel options
Daily Budget (Budget)
CAD 120/day
Hidden Gems in Ottawa
Lesser-known spots the locals love
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.
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.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Ottawa
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
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.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Ottawa
Backpackers in Ottawa: FAQ
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