WHERE TO STAY IN OTTAWA, CANADA

On the map, which shows the most convenient area to stay in Ottawa, you can see a selection of some of the best located hotels.

If you are interested in where to stay in Ottawa, you may also be interested in where to stay in Toronto, where to stay in Montreal, where to stay in Quebec City and where to stay in Vancouver.

Downtown, the best area to stay in Ottawa

First time / Sightseeing / With Family

Downtown Ottawa is the perfect place to stay for those who want the most the city has to offer, right at their doorstep. In Centretown, at the heart of the city’s downtown area, you will find the iconic Ottawa attractions: Parliament, National Gallery, ByWard Market, Rideau Canal, and Confederation Park.

But you will also find the smaller hidden gems like charming mom and pop bookshops, old-timey diners, cozy pubs, ecclectic flower shops, and more contemporary arts and gift shops. High-end restaurants abound along with casual cafes and eateries. The area is very pedestrian-friendly, with many of the main attractions located within walking distance of each other.

There are also plenty of transportation options available, including the city's efficient bus and light rail systems, as well as bike rental services and taxi cabs. Whether you're interested in sightseeing, shopping, or simply soaking up the energy of a vibrant city, downtown Ottawa has something for everyone.

Hotels in Downtown Ottawa

Other areas to stay in Ottawa

Centretown

Walk Around / Sightseeing / Without a Car

Centretown is a vibrant and charming neighborhood to visit in Ottawa. It offers so many attactions and commerces for visitors to enjoy. The most notable of these attractions is Parliament Hill, which is the seat of Canada's government and home to some of the country's most significant historical and cultural landmarks.

Aside from Parliament Hill, Centretown has a gorgeous canal, waterfront trails, luscious parks, and many streets filled with colourful restaurants and shops to discover. Centretown is also home to the Canada War Museum, which chronicles the country's military history, and the Chateau Laurier, a grand historic hotel that has been a landmark in the city for over a century.

In addition, Centretown is a pedestrian-friendly and compact neighborhood, with most of the main attractions within walking distance of each other. For those who prefer not to walk, there are also numerous transport options available, including bus, boat, bicycle, and taxi, making it easy to explore the area and beyond. You can even try communal electric scooters these days!

Hotels in Centretown

Kanata

With a Car / On a Budget

Located in the west end of Ottawa, Kanata is a vibrant and growing community that is the perfect place to stay for those who prefer a suburban atmosphere. Known for its tech industry, the neighborhood offers easy access to some of the city's top attractions such as the Canadian Tire Centre, home of the NHL's Ottawa Senators, and the Bell Sensplex, a multi-sport complex with indoor and outdoor facilities.

Kanata is also home to the Kanata Centrum, a large shopping center with numerous stores, restaurants, and a movie theater. For those interested in the outdoors, there are plenty of parks and green spaces to explore, including the popular Walter Baker Park, which offers biking trails, picnic areas, and a splash pad for children.

Transportation options in Kanata include bus service, taxis, and a park-and-ride lot for those looking to explore other parts of Ottawa. With its suburban charm and convenient access to entertainment and amenities, Kanata is a great option for those seeking a quieter stay in Ottawa.

Hotels in Kanata

Byward Market area

Walk Around / Sightseeing / Without a Car

The Byward Market is a popular tourist area since it offers the chance to see so much of Ottawa’s rich cultural tapestry. The Byward Market represents both the local farmers market, which is one of the oldest in Canada, as well as the commerce square neighborhood it is located in.

All the staples of Canadian cuisine can be purchased in the market including maple syrup and BeaverTails, a sweet, doughy pastry that comes with a variety of toppings such as whipped cream, banana, Oreos, cinnamon sugar, and chocolate.

This snack is particularly delicious in wintertime after a skate on the Rideau Canal. The main activity centers around the Sussex Street area where you can browse arts and crafts stalls and colorful food stands, while in the side streets quirky boutique shops and fashion abound.

Hotels in Byward Market

Nepean

With a Car / On a Budget

Located southwest of Ottawa, Nepean is another suburban area with a mix of residential and commercial spaces. While it may not be as centrally located as some other neighborhoods in the city, Nepean has its own charm and appeal as a place to stay. It also has less of a sprawling feel than Kanata.

One of the main draws of Nepean is its access to natural areas and outdoor activities. The nearby Greenbelt offers miles of trails for hiking and biking, while the Rideau River provides opportunities for fishing and boating. There are also several parks and recreational facilities in the area, including the Nepean Sportsplex which features multiple ice rinks, swimming pools, and fitness facilities.

Nepean is also a great spot for shopping when you visit Ottawa. This neighborhood has plenty of options to choose from. You will find large shopping complexes like Bayshore Shopping Centre and Merivale Mall, as well as independent shops and restaurants. The area also has a growing craft brewery scene, with several local breweries offering tastings and tours.

Hotels in Nepean