Top reasons to visit Ottawa
- Historic Landmarks: Explore iconic sites like Parliament Hill and the National Gallery of Canada, showcasing Ottawa's rich history and culture.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy the scenic Rideau Canal, perfect for skating in winter and boating in summer, surrounded by beautiful parks.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Visit attractions like the Canadian Museum of Nature and the Canadian Children's Museum, ideal for all ages.
- Vibrant Downtown: Experience a lively atmosphere with shopping, dining, and local events in the heart of the city.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from modern hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, catering to every traveler's needs.
Find great hotels in Ottawa
Discover a diverse selection of accommodations in Ottawa, ranging from modern hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, you'll find pet-friendly options and LGBTQIA welcoming environments designed to make your stay enjoyable. With a variety of hotels in Ottawa, you're sure to find the perfect fit for your vacation needs, whether it’s a luxurious hotel experience or a cozy retreat in the heart of the city.
- The Business Inn: The Business Inn is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a comfortable and practical stay in the heart of Ottawa. With an impressive guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, this hotel caters primarily to business travelers. Its strategic location allows for easy access to various corporate hubs and attractions. The property features spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi and a kitchenette, ensuring guests have everything they need for a productive visit. The hotel also offers a complimentary breakfast to kickstart your day, making it a smart option for those on the go.
- Lord Elgin Hotel: This eco-certified 4-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10 and is perfect for adventurous families and environmentally conscious travelers. Nestled in a prime location, the Lord Elgin Hotel provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, including mountain biking, ziplining, and kayaking, all available nearby. The hotel features family-friendly amenities such as free cribs and breakfast options for children, ensuring your little ones are well taken care of. Guests can enjoy a blend of comfort and adventure, making it a great choice for those looking to explore Ottawa while enjoying quality family time.
- Fairmont Chateau Laurier: With a prestigious 4.5-star rating and a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, Fairmont Chateau Laurier presents a luxurious experience for both families and business travelers. This iconic hotel offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, featuring spacious rooms and family-friendly services, including highchairs and first aid kits. Its prime location allows guests to explore Ottawa's top attractions with ease. The hotel’s elegant dining options and stunning architecture create a memorable backdrop for your stay, making it a sophisticated choice for those looking to indulge in comfort and style during their visit.
Where to stay in Ottawa
Discover the vibrant charm of Ottawa, Canada’s capital, where city life meets natural beauty. Stroll through downtown Ottawa, home to iconic landmarks and friendly locals. Families can enjoy numerous attractions, while couples can find romantic spots along the Rideau Canal. For a perfect getaway, explore nearby neighborhoods that offer a mix of culture and outdoor activities. Whether you're on a budget or seeking a luxurious experience, Ottawa has something for everyone.
- Stittsville: Nestled in proximity to Ottawa, Stittsville is a vibrant neighborhood that offers a blend of urban convenience and suburban charm. With traveler numbers peaking in March to April and December, it caters to a variety of visitors seeking city-themed, family-friendly, and business experiences. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local malls and centers, while the area is dotted with attractions like a sports facility stadium, a historic civic government building, and a nature reserve for those looking to connect with the outdoors. Stittsville’s welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for families and professionals alike.
- Manotick: Located just south of Ottawa, Manotick is a picturesque village that enchants visitors with its scenic landscapes and quaint charm. Peak visitor numbers occur from July to September, drawing families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The village is known for its shopping areas and vibrant local markets, while highlights include a serene lake, historic sites, and lush urban parks perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics. Manotick’s inviting community vibe and beautiful natural surroundings provide a delightful escape for tourists looking to enjoy both culture and nature.
- West End: Situated around Ottawa, the West End is a dynamic area that attracts travelers year-round, particularly from July to September. This neighborhood appeals to families and business visitors alike, offering a mix of city-themed experiences. Popular venues include shopping centers and an arena entertainment facility, making it a hub of activity. Notable landmarks in the West End include sports facilities and nature spots, ideal for those who appreciate both recreational activities and urban living. The West End’s vibrant atmosphere ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Things to do near Ottawa
Shopping
In Ottawa, visit the Rideau Centre for a variety of brand-name stores and local boutiques. For unique souvenirs, explore the ByWard Market, where you’ll find artisanal products and crafts from local vendors. Both locations offer a vibrant shopping atmosphere to enhance your experience.
Recreation
In Ottawa, the Holtz Spa offers a serene escape with a variety of rejuvenating treatments, including massages and facials. Nearby, the Nordik Spa-Nature in Chelsea invites visitors to relax in thermal baths and saunas, surrounded by lush nature, providing a tranquil atmosphere for unwinding and reconnecting with oneself.
Adventure
Lafleche Aerial Park offers an exhilarating zipline and ropes course experience, located 26km from Ottawa. Immerse yourself in the thrill of soaring through the trees and navigating challenging obstacles while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
Nightlife
Experience Ottawa's vibrant nightlife at the lively ByWard Market, where you can find trendy bars like The Bourbon Room for live music and cocktails. For a more laid-back vibe, check out the historic Heart & Crown pub, perfect for enjoying local brews and Irish fare.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ottawa
Ottawa is a budget-friendly destination with plenty of free attractions, such as the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, and the Parliament Building. To save on transportation, consider using the bus or light rail, which are more economical than taxis. The best times to visit are March and December to January when hotel prices drop, with Monday being the cheapest stay. Use Expedia to find affordable accommodations by sorting prices and exploring package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities for additional savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ottawa are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ottawa is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Ottawa is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and tailor your search to your needs. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Ottawa hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Ottawa
Ottawa is an ideal destination for city-themed, family, and outdoor vacations. Visitors can explore popular attractions such as urban parks, historic civic government buildings, and history museums, catering to those seeking cultural experiences and outdoor activities. Don't miss the chance to visit downtown Ottawa, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy various local points of interest.
- Diefenbunker: Explore this fascinating Cold War-era underground bunker, which served as Canada's emergency government headquarters. With guided tours, visitors can delve into its unique history, view authentic artifacts, and experience the intriguing atmosphere of a bygone era.
- Saunders Farm: Enjoy a delightful day at this family-run farm, known for its friendly staff and engaging excursions. Whether you're picking fresh produce or participating in seasonal activities, the trendy vibes and welcoming environment make it a charming spot for all ages.
- Dominion Arboretum: Stroll through this beautiful collection of trees and plants, designed for outdoor enjoyment. The serene pathways and lush landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for family outings, offering a peaceful escape from urban life.
Best time to go to Ottawa
The best time to visit Ottawa can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Ottawa falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Ottawa falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Ottawa
Flying into Ottawa offers several options, with the primary airport being Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW), situated 11km from downtown Ottawa. Notable hotels nearby include the 5-star Fairmont Chateau Laurier Gold Experience and the 4.5-star Fairmont Chateau Laurier, both just 11km away. For travelers considering alternative airports, Montreal's Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) is located 153km away, with nearby luxury hotels such as Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile and Four Seasons Hotel Montreal. Additionally, Watertown International Airport (ART) is available 161km from Ottawa, with options like Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites and Comfort Inn & Suites located 6km from the airport.