When visiting Ottawa, the best areas to stay are in the downtown core, including neighborhoods like ByWard Market, Centretown, and Sandy Hill, which offer a mix of convenience, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
Best Areas to Stay
For each of the top areas, here's a breakdown of what to expect:
ByWard Market (Ottawa)
Best For: backpackers, nightlife enthusiasts
Vibe: ByWard Market is a vibrant and lively neighborhood with a variety of bars, restaurants, and shops, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a dynamic atmosphere. The area is also close to many of Ottawa's main attractions, including the Rideau Canal and Parliament Hill.
Price Range: $120-250/night
Pros: close proximity to main attractions, variety of dining and entertainment options, vibrant atmosphere.
Cons: can be noisy at night, limited parking options.
Centretown (Ottawa)
Best For: luxury travelers, business travelers
Vibe: Centretown is a upscale neighborhood with a mix of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and office buildings, making it a great spot for those looking for a more refined experience. The area is also close to many of Ottawa's main attractions, including the Canadian War Museum and the Supreme Court of Canada.
Price Range: $200-400/night
Pros: upscale amenities, close proximity to main attractions, convenient access to public transportation.
Cons: can be expensive, limited budget-friendly options.
Sandy Hill (Ottawa)
Best For: families, long-term travelers
Vibe: Sandy Hill is a charming and historic neighborhood with a mix of Victorian homes, embassies, and diplomatic residences, making it a great spot for those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. The area is also close to many of Ottawa's main attractions, including the University of Ottawa and the Rideau River.
Price Range: $150-300/night
Pros: charming atmosphere, close proximity to main attractions, variety of dining options.
Cons: can be quiet at night, limited entertainment options.
Kanata (Ottawa)
Best For: families, outdoor enthusiasts
Vibe: Kanata is a suburban neighborhood with a mix of residential areas, parks, and outdoor recreational facilities, making it a great spot for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. The area is also close to many of Ottawa's main attractions, including the Canadian Tire Centre and the Kanata Lakes.
Price Range: $100-250/night
Pros: affordable prices, variety of outdoor recreational options, close proximity to main attractions.
Cons: can be far from downtown, limited public transportation options.
Westboro (Ottawa)
Best For: families, long-term travelers
Vibe: Westboro is a charming and upscale neighborhood with a mix of boutique shops, restaurants, and outdoor recreational facilities, making it a great spot for those looking for a more refined experience. The area is also close to many of Ottawa's main attractions, including the Ottawa River and the Westboro Beach.
Price Range: $150-350/night
Pros: upscale amenities, close proximity to main attractions, variety of dining options.
Cons: can be expensive, limited budget-friendly options.
Glebe (Ottawa)
Best For: families, outdoor enthusiasts
Vibe: Glebe is a charming and historic neighborhood with a mix of boutique shops, restaurants, and outdoor recreational facilities, making it a great spot for those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. The area is also close to many of Ottawa's main attractions, including the Lansdowne Park and the Rideau Canal.
Price Range: $120-280/night
Pros: charming atmosphere, close proximity to main attractions, variety of dining options.
Cons: can be quiet at night, limited entertainment options.
Accommodation Types
| Type | Price Range (USD/night) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostels | $30-60 | Budget/Social | Shared rooms and communal facilities, great for meeting other travelers |
| Guesthouses | $80-150 | Mid-range/Local | Family-run establishments with a homey atmosphere, often with breakfast included |
| Hotels | $120-250 | Comfort/Business | Standard hotel amenities, convenient for business travelers and those looking for a comfortable stay |
| Boutique Hotels | $180-350 | Experience | Unique, high-end hotels with luxurious amenities and personalized service |
| Resorts | $200-400 | Relaxation | Full-service resorts with amenities like spas, pools, and fitness centers, ideal for those looking to unwind |
| Apartments/Airbnb | $100-250 | Long stays/Families | Fully furnished apartments with kitchen facilities, great for longer stays or families |
Booking Tips
- Book in advance, especially during peak season (June to August) to ensure availability and the best rates.
- Use online booking platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, or Hotels.com to compare prices and find deals.
- Consider staying in a hostel or guesthouse for a more affordable and social experience.
- Look for hotels or resorts that offer packages or discounts, especially for longer stays.
- Be flexible with your travel dates, as prices can vary depending on the day of the week and time of year.
- Read reviews and check the hotel's website for any additional fees or charges.
- Negotiate the price, especially if you're booking directly with a hotel or guesthouse.
Safety & Location Tips
- Ottawa is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings, especially at night.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like ByWard Market or downtown.
- Use public transportation or walk/bike whenever possible, as traffic in Ottawa can be heavy.
- Avoid walking alone in dimly lit or isolated areas, especially at night.
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in tourist areas or crowded public spaces.
- Consider staying in a neighborhood with a high police presence, like downtown or Centretown, for added security.