The Ultimate Guide to the Best Areas to Stay in Ottawa
Ottawa, Canada’s picturesque capital, offers a mix of historic charm, vibrant urban life, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting for politics, culture, or outdoor adventures, choosing the right neighborhood is key to an unforgettable trip.
This in-depth guide explores Ottawa’s best areas to stay, tailored to different travel styles—luxury seekers, budget travelers, families, nightlife lovers, and culture enthusiasts.
1. ByWard Market & Downtown: Best for First-Time Visitors & Nightlife
Why Stay Here?
- Central location near major attractions
- Lively dining & nightlife (bars, clubs, patios)
- Iconic ByWard Market (farmers’ market, boutiques, cafés)
- Walking distance to Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery
Top Hotels & Accommodations
- Luxury: Fairmont Château Laurier (historic elegance)
- Mid-Range: Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market (trendy, great location)
- Budget: Ottawa Backpackers Inn (social, affordable)
Best For:
✔ First-time visitors
✔ Foodies & nightlife lovers
✔ Those who want to be in the heart of the action
Drawbacks:
✖ Can be noisy at night
✖ Parking is expensive
2. Centretown & Elgin Street: Best for Culture & Urban Living
Why Stay Here?
- Ottawa’s trendiest district with chic cafés and bistros
- Elgin Street—great for dining and entertainment
- Close to museums (Canadian War Museum, National Arts Centre)
- More local vibe than tourist-heavy ByWard Market
Top Hotels & Accommodations
- Luxury: The Metcalfe Hotel (boutique luxury)
- Mid-Range: Arc The Hotel (modern, central)
- Budget: Barefoot Hostel (cozy, budget-friendly)
Best For:
✔ Young professionals & culture seekers
✔ Food and café lovers
✔ Those who prefer a mix of local and tourist attractions
Drawbacks:
✖ Fewer major tourist sites directly in the area
✖ Can be pricey during peak seasons
3. The Glebe: Best for Families & Relaxed Stays
Why Stay Here?
- Quaint, residential feel with tree-lined streets
- Lansdowne Park (farmers’ market, sports, shopping)
- Great for families (parks, kid-friendly restaurants)
- Close to the Rideau Canal for cycling & walks
Top Hotels & Accommodations
- Boutique: The Glebe Guest House (charming B&B)
- Mid-Range: Alt Hotel Ottawa (modern, near Lansdowne)
Best For:
✔ Families & long-term stays
✔ Those who prefer a quieter, local vibe
✔ Outdoor lovers (cycling, jogging along the canal)
Drawbacks:
✖ Not as many big hotel chains
✖ Slightly farther from downtown nightlife
4. Westboro: Best for Trendy Shops & Outdoor Enthusiasts
Why Stay Here?
- Ottawa’s hippest neighborhood (boutiques, organic cafés)
- Close to the Ottawa River pathways (hiking, biking, kayaking)
- Great brunch spots & independent shops
- Less touristy, more upscale local vibe
Top Hotels & Accommodations
- Luxury: The Westboro Inn (boutique luxury)
- Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Ottawa West
Best For:
✔ Trendy travelers & millennials
✔ Fitness & outdoor lovers
✔ Those who prefer a stylish, local experience
Drawbacks:
✖ Further from downtown (15-20 min drive)
✖ Limited budget accommodations
5. Gatineau (Hull): Best for Budget Travelers & Nature Lovers
Why Stay Here?
- Just across the river in Quebec (lower hotel prices!)
- Close to Gatineau Park (hiking, fall foliage, skiing)
- Great for casino lovers (Casino du Lac-Leamy)
- Unique French-Canadian culture & cuisine
Top Hotels & Accommodations
- Luxury: Hilton Lac-Leamy (spa & casino)
- Budget: Comfort Inn Gatineau
Best For:
✔ Budget-conscious travelers
✔ Nature & outdoor adventure seekers
✔ Those who want a mix of city and nature
Drawbacks:
✖ Requires crossing bridges to reach Ottawa’s core
✖ Less convenient for downtown sightseeing
6. Sandy Hill: Best for Students & Budget Stays
Why Stay Here?
- Home to University of Ottawa (student-friendly vibe)
- Affordable accommodations (guesthouses, hostels)
- Close to Rideau Street & downtown
- Quiet, residential feel
Top Hotels & Accommodations
- Budget: University of Ottawa Residences (summer stays)
- Guesthouses: Various B&Bs available
Best For:
✔ Students & backpackers
✔ Budget travelers
✔ Longer-term stays
Drawbacks:
✖ Fewer tourist attractions directly in the area
✖ Limited luxury options
Final Verdict: Which Area is Best for You?
| Travel Style | Best Neighborhood |
|---|---|
| First-time visitors | ByWard Market / Downtown |
| Luxury travelers | Downtown (Fairmont) / Westboro |
| Budget travelers | Gatineau (Hull) / Sandy Hill |
| Families | The Glebe |
| Nightlife & dining | ByWard Market / Elgin Street |
| Nature lovers | Westboro / Gatineau |
| Culture & museums | Centretown |
Pro Tips:
- Summer & festivals? Stay near ByWard Market.
- Winter visit? Choose downtown for easy access to Winterlude.
- Love the outdoors? Westboro or Gatineau are ideal.
Conclusion
Ottawa’s diverse neighborhoods offer something for every traveler. Whether you want the buzz of downtown, the charm of The Glebe, or the affordability of Gatineau, this guide ensures you pick the perfect base for your Ottawa adventure.
