Downtown Ottawa Hotels, Ottawa

Top reasons to visit Downtown Ottawa

• Historic Landmarks: Visit iconic sites like Parliament Hill, showcasing Canada's political heart and stunning architecture.
• Scenic Rideau Canal: Enjoy leisurely strolls or boat rides along the picturesque Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Vibrant Arts Scene: Explore local galleries and live music events, immersing yourself in the city's artistic culture.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Discover a range of activities suitable for all ages, making it perfect for family outings.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from modern hotels to charming B&Bs, catering to all preferences and budgets.

Where to stay near Downtown Ottawa

Downtown Ottawa offers a vibrant mix of urban elegance and friendly vibes, making it a perfect spot for a memorable holiday. Explore the heart of Ottawa, where shopping opportunities abound and family-friendly attractions await. Whether you’re wandering through the bustling Ottawa City Centre or enjoying the romantic atmosphere of nearby neighbourhoods, this area caters to all types of travellers. Experience the charm and warmth of this capital city, where every corner invites you to explore.

• Ottawa: As the capital city of Canada, Ottawa boasts a vibrant metropolitan atmosphere with a rich blend of history and modernity. Located at the geographical heart of the country, Downtown Ottawa offers easy access to numerous attractions, including historic government buildings and contemporary educational institutions. The peak travel season from July to September draws visitors eager to enjoy outdoor activities, shopping centres, and cultural experiences. With its extensive sports facilities and engaging urban spaces, Ottawa is a city that caters to families and adventure seekers alike.
• Gatineau: Just a mile from Downtown Ottawa, Gatineau is a charming city that complements its bustling neighbour with a more relaxed vibe. Known for its romantic and family-friendly experiences, Gatineau offers visitors a chance to unwind in its serene nature reserves and rejuvenating spas. The city attracts tourists year-round, though the summer months see the highest influx of visitors. With notable landmarks such as historic civic buildings and sports venues, Gatineau provides a unique blend of culture and leisure, perfect for those looking to explore beyond the urban landscape.
• ByWard Market: A mere 322m from Downtown Ottawa, ByWard Market is a lively neighbourhood renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings. This area is a hub for city-themed experiences, making it ideal for families and business travellers alike. The bustling public market features fresh produce, artisanal products, and local cuisine, while the nearby historic buildings and nature reserves enhance its charm. Peak visitor numbers from June to August highlight the area's appeal, making ByWard Market a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Ottawa's culture.

Things to do near Downtown Ottawa

Shopping

In Downtown Ottawa, visit the Rideau Centre for a variety of shops, including popular brands and local boutiques. For unique souvenirs, explore the ByWard Market, where you'll find artisanal crafts, local foods, and diverse gifts that reflect the city's charm and culture.

Recreation

Discover the Holtz Spa for rejuvenating treatments and a serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Stroll along the Rideau Canal, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride while soaking in the scenic views and vibrant city life of Downtown Ottawa.

Adventure

At Lafleche Aerial Park, located 25.7km from Downtown Ottawa, immerse yourself in an exhilarating zipline and ropes course experience. Navigate through treetops while enjoying stunning views and the thrill of outdoor adventure in a vibrant natural setting.

Nightlife

Downtown Ottawa's nightlife buzzes with energy, featuring trendy spots like The Bourbon Room for live music and the lively atmosphere at Pub 101. For a more laid-back vibe, enjoy a craft beer at the Clocktower Brew Pub, where local brews and friendly chatter abound.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Ottawa

To save money during your visit to Downtown Ottawa, consider travelling in the off-peak months of March and December to January, when accommodation prices are lower. Stay on a Monday for the best rates, as Saturdays tend to be the most expensive. Use Expedia to compare prices for hotels, flights, and activities, and look for package deals that combine these for extra savings. Don’t miss free attractions like parks and museums, and opt for walking to explore the city without transport costs.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown 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 around Downtown Ottawa is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown Ottawa is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re looking for. To find the most affordable rates and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Downtown Ottawa hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Ottawa

Downtown Ottawa is perfect for city, family, and business-themed holidays, offering a blend of historic civic buildings, urban parks, and arts centres. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy outdoor experiences suitable for all ages. Notable sights include the iconic Parliament Hill and the serene Rideau Canal. Whether you're exploring the vibrant arts scene or relaxing in a park, Downtown Ottawa has something for everyone to enjoy.

• Parliament Hill: Discover the iconic centre of Canadian democracy, featuring stunning Gothic architecture and beautiful gardens. Join a guided tour to learn about the country's political history and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony during summer months.
• Canadian Museum of History: Located just 1.6km from downtown, this museum offers a deep dive into Canada's rich history and culture. Explore fascinating exhibitions, including Indigenous art and artifacts, while enjoying panoramic views of the Ottawa River and Parliament Hill.
• Bank Street Promenade: Stroll along this vibrant street, where you'll find trendy shops, cafes, and local eateries. The friendly atmosphere and lively vibe make it a great spot to relax and immerse yourself in Ottawa's urban culture.

Best time to go to Downtown Ottawa

The best time to visit Downtown Ottawa is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	15.3°F (-9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	17.2°F (-8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	27.9°F (-2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
May	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	35.4°F (1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	24.6°F (-4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown Ottawa

Flying into Downtown Ottawa is convenient, with the primary airport being Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW), located 11.3km away. Excellent hotel options nearby include the Fairmont Chateau Laurier Gold Experience and the Fairmont Chateau Laurier, both rated 5 and 4.5 stars respectively. For those considering alternatives, Ogdensburg International Airport (OGS) and Massena International Airport (MSS) are also viable, located 52 and 85.3km away respectively, with hotels such as the Sherman Inn and Blue Spruce Motel within easy reach. Transportation services are readily available from these hotels to the airports, ensuring a smooth journey for visitors.