Ottawa, the vibrant capital of Canada, is a city rich in history and culture, offering visitors a delightful blend of museums, stunning architecture, and picturesque parks. From the iconic Parliament Hill to the lively ByWard Market, Ottawa captivates travelers with its diverse culinary scene and thriving nightlife, making it an ideal destination for both exploration and relaxation.
For those who prioritize fitness during their travels, selecting a hotel that caters to your wellness needs can enhance your experience significantly. With options featuring state-of-the-art gyms and relaxing pools, this guide will help you discover the best places to stay, nearby neighborhoods, top attractions, and helpful travel tips to make the most of your Ottawa adventure.
| Category | Recommended accommodation |
|---|---|
| 5 star / luxury |
Fairmont Chateau Laurier |
| 4 star hotels |
Le Germain Hotel Ottawa reStays Ottawa Lord Elgin Hotel |
Luxury, Accommodations, Parking, Gites, Pet-friendly, 4-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Accessible hotels
Superb
507 reviews
Luxury, Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Romantic, Boutique, Gites, Pet-friendly, 5-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Very Good
1815 reviews
Luxury, Cheap, Accommodations, Parking, Gites, 4-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Family, Self-catering
Superb
475 reviews
Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Romantic, Gites, 4-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Hot tubs, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Very Good
1725 reviews
Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Romantic, Boutique, Gites, Pet-friendly, 4-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Jacuzzis, Places to stay, Accessible hotels
Fabulous
549 reviews
Rideau Canal Boat Tour: Experience a scenic boat tour along the historic Rideau Canal in Ottawa, Canada. Enjoy views of the city while learning about its history and landmarks.
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ByWard Market Food Tasting: Explore local flavors at ByWard Market, where visitors can indulge in food tastings from various vendors. Sample fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods.
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Guided Walking Tour of Parliament Hill: Join a guided walking tour of Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada, to discover Canada's political heart and explore its stunning architecture.
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Parliament Hill: This iconic site is home to Canada's federal government buildings. Visitor Tip: Attend the Changing of the Guard ceremony in the summer for a unique experience.
National Gallery of Canada: Discover Canadian and international art collections at this renowned gallery. Visitors can view works by famous artists, including the Group of Seven.
Canadian Museum of History: Explore Canada's rich heritage through engaging exhibits and artifacts. It's located across the river from Ottawa, offering fantastic views of the city.
The Core Tip: Ottawa is a major city with a reliable public transit system, including buses and light rail. Visitors often find it convenient to use transit for exploring key areas.
The Pro Move: To avoid traffic congestion, consider using OC Transpo's bus or light rail services during peak hours, and explore neighborhoods like ByWard Market on foot.
The Core Tip: The summer months are typically the busiest travel season, coinciding with festivals and outdoor events that draw larger crowds to attractions like Parliament Hill.
The Pro Move: Early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays are ideal for visiting popular places such as the National Gallery of Canada to minimize wait times.
The Core Tip: Ottawa is known for its walkability, especially in areas like the Downtown core and the Rideau Canal. Most attractions are easily accessible on foot.
The Pro Move: Stick to well-lit streets and populated areas when walking at night, particularly around the ByWard Market area, for added safety.
The Core Tip: Most hotels, restaurants, and attractions in Ottawa accept credit cards, making transactions straightforward for visitors.
The Pro Move: While cash is less commonly needed, carrying small bills may be beneficial for local markets or small vendors who might prefer cash payments.
The Core Tip: From Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport, travelers can easily access rideshare services and taxis, which have designated pickup areas outside the terminal.
The Pro Move: For first-time visitors, downloading a rideshare app before arriving ensures a smoother experience when requesting transportation from the airport.