Where to Stay in Ottawa 🇨🇦: 8 Best Areas and Hotels

🏠 Best Hotels:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Fairmont Chateau Laurier Gold Experience
• ✨ 5-Star: Fairmont Chateau Laurier
• 🏨 4-Star: DoubleTree by Hilton Ottawa Downtown
• 🛏️ 3-Star: The Business Inn
• 💸 Cheap: Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel
• 🏢 Apartment: Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy Rideau Apartments Downtown
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Auberge des Arts Bed and Breakfast
• 🏩 For Couples: ByWard Blue Inn

Quick guide to the best places to stay: 📋

• 🏛️ For First Time Visitors: Downtown Ottawa
• 🍸 For Nightlife & Food: ByWard Market
• 💰 On a Budget: Centretown
• 🏒 For Events & Hockey: Kanata
• 🥢 For Foodies: Chinatown
• ✈️ For Convenience: Ottawa Airport Area
• ⛸️ For Winterlude & Outdoor Activities: Near Rideau Canal

1. Downtown Ottawa – Where to Stay in Ottawa for First Time Visitors

Location Benefits. Downtown Ottawa puts you within walking distance of Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery. I found myself exploring major attractions without needing public transport or expensive taxi rides.

Transportation Hub. The area connects perfectly to Ottawa’s bus system and VIA Rail station on Tremblay Road. Getting to Ottawa airport takes about 25 minutes by taxi, while the downtown core keeps you central for day trips to Gatineau.

Dining Scene. Sparks Street and Elgin Street offer everything from quick coffee shops to upscale restaurants. I particularly enjoyed the variety along Rideau Street, where you’ll find both local Canadian cuisine and international options within a few blocks.

Shopping Access. Rideau Centre mall sits right in the heart of downtown, perfect for both necessities and souvenirs. The ByWard Market is just a 5-minute walk away, offering local crafts and fresh produce that I couldn’t find elsewhere in the city.

Winter Activities. During Winterlude season, staying downtown means you’re steps away from ice sculptures and skating on the Rideau Canal. The Shaw Centre hosts many winter events, and you can easily walk to Confederation Park for outdoor festivities.

Practical Tips:

• Book accommodation early during Canada Day and Winterlude
• Most downtown hotels offer free wifi and business centers
• Street parking costs $3-5 CAD per hour, but many hotels include parking deals

Best Hotels in Downtown Ottawa

Luxury Hotels

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre – A modern luxury hotel in downtown Ottawa featuring an indoor pool, stylish rooms, and panoramic city views just steps from Parliament Hill.
• Homewood Suites By Hilton Ottawa Downtown – Spacious suites with full kitchens, complimentary breakfast, and an indoor pool, perfectly located for exploring Ottawa city centre.
• Sheraton Ottawa Hotel – This upscale property offers elegant rooms, a heated indoor pool, and an on-site restaurant in the heart of Ottawa’s business district.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy Rideau Apartments Downtown – Modern apartment-style suites with kitchenettes, ideal for longer stays, located close to the Rideau Centre and ByWard Market.
• Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown – Comfortable rooms, a fitness centre, and easy access to Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River.
• Arc The Hotel, Ottawa – A boutique hotel with chic rooms and a trendy restaurant, located within walking distance of the National Arts Centre.

Best Hostels

• Auberge des Arts Bed and Breakfast, Ottawa – Cozy B&B offering individually decorated rooms and a homemade breakfast, just a short stroll from the ByWard Market.
• Auberge de la Gare, Gatineau – Affordable accommodation with free parking and breakfast, conveniently located near downtown Ottawa and Gatineau Park.
• Duvernay Studios and Suites – Studio suites with kitchenettes and modern amenities, situated in Gatineau just across the river from Ottawa’s main attractions.

2. ByWard Market – Where to Stay in Ottawa for Nightlife & Food

Historic Market District. ByWard Market represents Ottawa’s oldest and most vibrant neighborhood, where cobblestone streets meet modern restaurants and bars. I’ve spent countless evenings here exploring the mix of local pubs and upscale dining spots.

Food Scene Paradise. The area transforms from a bustling farmers market during the day to a culinary hotspot after dark. Street vendors sell everything from BeaverTails to artisanal coffee, while restaurants serve cuisine from around the world.

Market Operating Hours. The outdoor farmers market runs Thursday through Sunday from 6 AM to 6 PM, while indoor vendors operate daily until 9 PM. Weekend evenings bring street performers and extended restaurant patios.

Restaurant Highlights. Play Food & Wine offers contemporary Canadian cuisine with dishes priced at CAD $35-55 per person. The Shore Club specializes in seafood with exceptional ratings, while Social serves bistro fare in the very expensive price range. For casual dining, JOEY Rideau provides contemporary American dishes at moderate prices, typically CAD $25-35 per person.

Nightlife Options:

• Live music venues featuring local and touring acts
• Craft breweries with locally-made beer
• Dance clubs open until 2 AM
• Wine bars with extensive Canadian selections
• Sports bars showing hockey games

Shopping and Services. Over 600 businesses call the market area home, including 109 restaurants, 22 food retailers, and 48 fashion boutiques. The Rideau Centre shopping mall connects directly to the market area through underground walkways.

Best Hotels in ByWard Market

Luxury Hotels

• AC Hotel by Marriott Ottawa Downtown – A stylish new property in downtown Ottawa offering contemporary rooms, a modern fitness centre, and a rooftop lounge with city views.
• Andaz Ottawa Byward Market, By Hyatt – Located in the heart of ByWard Market, this upscale hotel features sleek design, a rooftop bar, and easy access to Ottawa’s best dining and nightlife.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• ByWard Blue Inn, Ottawa – A cozy inn with complimentary breakfast, located steps from the ByWard Market and Parliament Hill.
• Courtyard by Marriott Ottawa Downtown, Ottawa – This hotel offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a prime location in the lively ByWard Market district.
• Ottawa Backpackers Inn, Ottawa – A friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms, perfect for budget travelers looking to stay near downtown Ottawa.

3. Centretown – Where to Stay in Ottawa on a Budget

Residential Character. Centretown offers a genuine Ottawa experience away from tourist crowds, where tree-lined streets house local cafes and independent shops. I appreciate how this neighborhood feels like home rather than a tourist destination.

Budget-Friendly Advantages. Accommodation rates here run significantly lower than downtown while maintaining easy access to major attractions. The area attracts long-term visitors and government workers seeking affordable stays.

Local Dining Scene. Mazarine at Kent and Cooper serves contemporary fare, while Gong Fu Bao at Bank and Gilmour offers Asian fusion cuisine. The Gilmour at Bank and MacLaren provides upscale dining, and Greek Souvlaki Shack at Bank and Cooper delivers authentic Greek food at budget-friendly prices.

Coffee Culture. Independent coffee shops throughout Centretown offer reasonable prices, typically CAD $3-6 for specialty drinks. Grounded Kitchen operates locations on Carling Avenue and Gloucester Street, serving breakfast and lunch with extended hours Tuesday through Saturday.

Local Amenities Available:

1. Independent coffee shops with reasonable prices
2. Grocery stores for self-catering options
3. Public libraries with free internet access
4. Community centers offering local events
5. Bike rental shops for canal exploration

Street Parking Reality. Most residential streets offer free parking after 5:30 PM and weekends, unlike downtown’s expensive meters. Grocery shopping becomes much easier when you can park right outside your accommodation.

Best Hotels in Centretown

Luxury Hotels

• Lord Elgin Hotel, Ottawa – This iconic hotel offers elegant rooms, an indoor pool, and a prime location across from Confederation Park and the Rideau Canal.
• Ottawa Marriott Hotel, Ottawa – A modern high-rise with panoramic city views, indoor pool, and direct access to Sparks Street shopping and Parliament Hill.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy The O'Connor Apartments Downtown, Ottawa – Spacious, modern apartments with full kitchens, ideal for longer stays and just steps from Bank Street’s lively shops.
• Holiday Inn - Ottawa Dwtn - Parliament Hill by IHG, Ottawa – Comfortable rooms, a fitness centre, and easy access to Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River pathways.
• The Business Inn, Ottawa – Popular for its large suites with kitchenettes, free breakfast, and a central location close to Elgin Street nightlife.

Best Hostels

• LIV Extended Stay, Ottawa – Modern extended-stay suites with communal lounges and a rooftop terrace, perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
• Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy Arlo Apartments Downtown, Ottawa – Stylish serviced apartments with shared amenities, located near museums and Centretown’s best coffee shops.

4. Kanata – Where to Stay in Ottawa for Events & Hockey

Sports and Entertainment Hub. Kanata serves as Ottawa’s premier destination for major events, anchored by the Canadian Tire Centre where the Senators play hockey. I recommend this area specifically for visitors attending concerts or sporting events.

Suburban Convenience. The neighborhood offers a different pace from downtown Ottawa, with shopping centers, family restaurants, and ample parking. Business travelers often choose Kanata for its proximity to tech companies and conference facilities.

Dining Options. Moxies Kanata operates daily from 11 AM to 11 PM in the Centrum Shopping Centre, offering premium casual dining with free parking. The restaurant features a stunning outdoor patio and caters to corporate events and celebrations.

Shopping Complex. Kanata Entertainment Centrum spans over 300,000 square feet with more than 60 stores, restaurants, and services. Located just off Terry Fox Drive near Highway 417, the complex offers ample parking and family-style casual dining to romantic dinner options.

Event Venue Distances:

Pre-Game Dining Scene. Several sports bars and family restaurants cluster around the Canadian Tire Centre, offering game-day specials and shuttle services. Reservations become essential during playoff seasons.

Best Hotels in Kanata

Luxury Hotels

• Holiday Inn & Suites Ottawa Kanata by IHG, Ottawa – Modern hotel with spacious suites, an indoor pool, and a popular on-site restaurant, located close to Canadian Tire Centre and Kanata shopping.
• Wingate by Wyndham Kanata West Ottawa, Ottawa – Stylish property offering free breakfast, a fitness centre, and quick access to Kanata’s business and entertainment districts.
• GLō Best Western Kanata Ottawa West, Ottawa – Sleek, contemporary hotel with vibrant decor, comfortable rooms, and a convenient location near shopping, dining, and major highways.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kanata Ottawa West, Kanata – Budget-friendly choice featuring free breakfast, an indoor pool, and easy access to Kanata’s attractions and tech corridor.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Ottawa West, Ontario, Canada, Ottawa – Comfortable, affordable hotel with complimentary hot breakfast, fitness facilities, and a short drive to Canadian Tire Centre.

5. Chinatown – Where to Stay in Ottawa for Foodies

Culinary Diversity. Ottawa’s Chinatown concentrates authentic Asian restaurants, specialty grocery stores, and cultural centers within a compact area. I’ve discovered some of my favorite Vietnamese pho and Chinese dim sum spots here.

Cultural Immersion. The neighborhood celebrates various Asian festivals throughout the year, offering visitors genuine cultural experiences beyond typical tourist activities. Dragon boat races and lunar new year celebrations bring the community together.

Night Market Festival. The Ottawa Chinatown Night Market runs from May 30 to June 1, transforming Somerset Street with food vendors, performers, and local artisans. This annual event welcomes thousands of visitors to experience Asian culture through food, entertainment, and community connections.

Restaurant Recommendations. Phuket Royal serves authentic Thai cuisine and receives high recommendations from visitors. Local tips suggest visiting during weekends to experience the lively atmosphere and trying dim sum at local restaurants for an authentic experience.

Dining Price Ranges:

1. Street food and casual dining: CAD $8-15 per meal
2. Mid-range restaurants: CAD $18-28 per person
3. Upscale establishments: CAD $35-55 per person
4. Specialty groceries: CAD $12-25 for cooking supplies

Language Considerations. Many restaurant staff speak Mandarin, Cantonese, or Vietnamese as primary languages, though English menus are widely available. I’ve found pointing at dishes or using translation apps helpful for authentic ordering experiences.

6. Ottawa International Airport – Where to Stay in Ottawa for Convenience

Transit Hub Advantages. Airport area serves travelers with early morning flights or late arrivals, eliminating downtown commute stress. I’ve used this location when catching 6 AM flights to avoid rush hour traffic.

Business Traveler Focus. The area caters to corporate guests with meeting rooms, business centers, and express check-in services. This location works well for short Ottawa visits focused on meetings rather than sightseeing.

Airport Amenities. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ottawa Airport sits just one kilometer from the airport and 12 kilometers from downtown Ottawa. The property offers complimentary airport shuttles, parking, hot breakfasts, indoor pool, and fitness center.

Nearby Dining. CHOP Steakhouse & Bar at Hunt Club provides upscale dining with a 4.8 rating, while Moxies Hunt Club offers casual dining with a 4.7 rating. Both restaurants are within a five-minute drive, and many establishments offer delivery to area accommodations.

Transportation Options:

1. Complimentary shuttles every 15-30 minutes
2. Car rental agencies within walking distance
3. Taxi service to downtown (CAD $35-45)
4. Public transit connections to O-Train system
5. Highway access for driving to Montreal or Toronto

Airport Terminal Layout. Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport operates from one main terminal with domestic and international sections. Security wait times average 15-25 minutes during peak travel periods.

Best Hotels near Ottawa International Airport

Luxury Hotels

• Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Airport, Ottawa – Modern hotel just minutes from the airport, offering spacious rooms, an indoor pool, free airport shuttle, and an on-site restaurant for convenient dining.
• Hampton Inn by Hilton Ottawa Airport, Ottawa – Stylish airport hotel with free hot breakfast, an indoor pool, fitness centre, and quick access to Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Days Inn by Wyndham Ottawa Airport, Ottawa – Affordable hotel offering free airport shuttle, breakfast, and parking, with comfortable rooms and easy access to the airport and South Keys shopping.
• Sandman Signature Ottawa Airport Hotel, Ottawa – Contemporary hotel with an indoor pool, on-site restaurant, and modern amenities, perfect for travelers seeking value and style near the airport.

Best Hostels

• Mac B&B, Ottawa – Cozy bed and breakfast offering homely rooms and personalized service, ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful stay near the airport.
• Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel, Ottawa – Unique hostel experience in a historic jail building, providing dorms and private rooms with breakfast, close to both the airport and Ottawa’s downtown.

7. Bells Corners – Where to Stay in Ottawa for Local Experience

Suburban Authenticity. Bells Corners represents real Ottawa life, where families shop at local stores and children play in neighborhood parks. I value this area for its genuine community atmosphere away from tourist zones.

Local Business Support. Independent restaurants, family-owned shops, and community services create a small-town feel within Canada’s capital region. Visitors experience how Ottawa residents actually live and work.

Dining Scene. The Brew Table offers craft beers and casual dining in a cozy, rustic setting with live music and trivia nights. Zola’s Restaurant serves beloved Italian cuisine including pasta dishes, pizzas, and seafood, plus Sunday brunch and catering services. Thai Flame and other local favorites dot Robertson Road.

Shopping District. Robertson Road features local establishments including TATKA (Bangladeshi halal meat and grocery store), Lapointe Seafood and Sushi, and Dinardo’s Skis and Wheels Ski Shop. The massive Bayshore Shopping Centre sits nearby for additional shopping needs.

Neighborhood Features:

Recreation Facilities. Westcliffe Park features sports fields, playgrounds, tennis courts, splash pad, and hosts outdoor movie nights and summer festivals. The Bells Corners Community Centre offers gymnasium, fitness classes, and rental spaces for events. Nearby Nepean Sportsplex provides swimming pools, ice rinks, and sports leagues.

Best Hotels in Bells Corners

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hyatt Place Ottawa West, Ottawa – Comfortable hotel with spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool, and fitness center. Easy access to shopping, dining, and Canadian Tire Centre.
• Comfort Inn West, Ottawa – Affordable accommodations with free breakfast, parking, and Wi-Fi. Convenient location for exploring Kanata and Ottawa West, with pet-friendly rooms available.

Best Hostels

• Rideau Heights Inn, Ottawa – Quiet, budget-friendly inn with free parking and continental breakfast, set in a peaceful area with easy access to Kanata and Ottawa.
• Pearl Properties Ottawa, Ottawa – Simple, affordable accommodations with essential amenities, ideal for travelers seeking value and proximity to Kanata’s main attractions.

8. Near Rideau Canal – Where to Stay in Ottawa for Winterlude & Outdoor Activities

Seasonal Activities Hub. The Rideau Canal transforms into the world’s largest skating rink during winter, while summer brings cycling, walking, and boat tours. I consider this area essential for visitors seeking outdoor experiences.

Festival Central. Winterlude festivities concentrate along the canal, featuring ice sculptures, outdoor concerts, and winter sports demonstrations. Summer festivals and Canada Day celebrations also center on this waterway.

Winter Skating Details. The Rideau Canal Skateway operates from roughly January to late February or March, covering 7.8 kilometers (4.8 miles) of skating surface. The world’s largest skating rink offers free access, with skate rentals available for CAD $12-18 at various locations.

Summer Boat Tours. Ottawa Boat Cruise | EKEAU Tours operates North America’s largest 100% electric passenger vessel with glass sides for spectacular canal views. Tours run 1.5 hours from 10 AM to 6:30 PM, priced at CAD $25-45 per adult, with combo packages including city tours, restaurants, and bicycle rentals.

Activity Pricing Guide:

• Canal skating (winter): Free access, skate rental CAD $12-18
• Boat tours (summer): CAD $25-45 per adult
• Bike rentals: CAD $35-55 per day
• Walking tours: CAD $15-25 per person

Canal Maintenance Schedule. Winter skating typically opens in January and closes in early March, depending on ice thickness. Summer boat lock operations run from May through October with scheduled maintenance closures.

Best Hotels near Rideau Canal

Luxury Hotels Near Parliament Hill & Rideau Canal

• Fairmont Chateau Laurier, Ottawa – Ottawa’s most iconic hotel, this historic château offers elegant rooms, a grand lobby, and sweeping views of Parliament and the Rideau Canal. Guests praise its unbeatable location, classic architecture, saltwater pool, and attentive staff, though some rooms show signs of age and there are occasional service delays. Expect premium amenities, a choice of three restaurants (Wilfrid’s, Zoe’s, La Terrasse), and a unique blend of history and luxury in the heart of the city.
• Le Germain Hotel Ottawa, Ottawa – A modern boutique hotel steps from ByWard Market and the Rideau Centre, Le Germain is known for its sleek design, exceptional cleanliness, and friendly, attentive staff. Rooms feature Nespresso machines, goose-down duvets, and minimalist décor, while the Norca restaurant serves locally inspired cuisine. Guests highlight the personalized service and comfort, though parking is extra and the area can be busy at night.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Four Points by Sheraton Hotel & Conference Centre Gatineau-Ottawa, Gatineau – Just across the river from Parliament Hill and steps from the Canadian Museum of History, this hotel offers modern, spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a well-equipped fitness center. Guests appreciate the friendly staff, comfortable beds, and walkable location, though breakfast is not always included and parking is extra. The on-site L’Ardoise Restaurant & Lounge is a convenient option for meals.
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG, Ottawa – A reliable choice for value-focused travelers, this hotel provides free breakfast, clean and modern rooms, and easy access to the ByWard Market and Rideau Centre. The staff is welcoming, and guests appreciate the included amenities and central location.
• Cartier Place Suite Hotel, Ottawa – Popular with families and longer-stay guests, Cartier Place offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, a pool, and a location close to Elgin Street’s restaurants and shops. The extra space and home-like comforts make it a smart pick for extended visits.

Best Hostels & Budget Suites

• Motel Ritz, Gatineau – A budget-friendly motel just across the river from Ottawa, Motel Ritz offers basic, clean rooms and free parking. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want to save on accommodation while staying close to the city’s main attractions.
• 1-Bedroom Cozy Suite #23 by Amazing Property Rentals, Gatineau – This self-catering suite features a fully equipped kitchen, making it ideal for longer stays or travelers who prefer to prepare their own meals. Located in Gatineau, it’s a short drive or walk to Ottawa’s downtown.
• Cozy Suite No 11 by Amazing Property Rentals, Gatineau – Another affordable suite option in Gatineau, offering comfort, privacy, and excellent value for budget-conscious visitors.

FAQ

What are the best hotels in Ottawa downtown?

Downtown Ottawa offers excellent accommodation options including Alt Hotel Ottawa, Le Germain Hotel Ottawa, and Andaz Ottawa ByWard. These properties provide easy access to Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, and major attractions in the heart of Ottawa.

Which Ottawa neighborhoods are best for families?

Kanata, Ottawa West, and Ottawa East are among the best neighborhoods for families. These areas offer spacious suites, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to attractions while maintaining a quieter atmosphere than downtown.

Where can I find cheap hotels in Ottawa?

Budget-friendly options include Days Inn by Wyndham Ottawa, Travelodge by Wyndham Ottawa East, and Ottawa Jail Hostel for unique accommodation. These properties offer comfortable stays without breaking the budget while still providing access to things to do in Ottawa.

What are the best luxury hotels in Ottawa?

The Westin Ottawa, Marriott Ottawa City Centre, and Le Germain Hotel Ottawa represent the finest luxury hotel options in the capital of Canada. These 4-star hotels offer premium amenities, exceptional service, and prime locations in the heart of downtown Ottawa.

Which hotels offer the best Ottawa River views?

Properties along the Ottawa River like Andaz Ottawa ByWard and select rooms at Marriott Ottawa provide stunning views of the Ottawa River. These locations offer scenic vistas while keeping you close to major attractions and the National Historic Site of Canada.

Where should I stay near Ottawa airport?

Sandman Signature Ottawa Airport Hotel and Suites by Hilton Ottawa Airport are top choices near Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport. Both properties offer complimentary shuttle services and convenient access for travelers with early flights or late arrivals.

What are the best boutique hotels in Ottawa?

Alt Hotel Ottawa and Le Germain Hotel Ottawa stand out as premier boutique hotel options in the city. These properties combine unique design, personalized service, and prime locations to create memorable stays in Canada’s capital.

Which areas offer the best suites in Ottawa?

Homewood Suites by Hilton Ottawa, Suites by Hilton Ottawa Kanata, and Residence Inn by Marriott Ottawa offer spacious suite accommodations. These properties provide extended-stay amenities and extra space for families or business travelers seeking comfort.

Where can I stay near Rideau Canal?

Hotels along the Rideau Canal include properties in downtown Ottawa and ByWard Market that offer easy walking access to this National Historic Site of Canada. Staying near the canal puts you close to skating in winter and boat tours in summer.

What makes ByWard Market hotels special?

ByWard Market hotels like Andaz Ottawa ByWard place you in Ottawa’s most vibrant neighborhood with immediate access to restaurants, nightlife, and cultural attractions. This popular neighbourhood in Ottawa offers an authentic local experience steps from your hotel room.