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Top reasons to visit Ottawa

• Vibrant Downtown: Experience a lively urban atmosphere filled with friendly locals, shopping, and dining options.
• Cultural Richness: Explore renowned museums and historic sites that showcase Canada’s capital heritage.
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy picturesque parks and recreational activities that highlight the natural beauty of the region.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of stays, from modern hotels to charming bed and breakfasts.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Engage in numerous activities and events perfect for all ages in the city.

Find great hotels in Ottawa

Ottawa offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, from modern hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, catering to every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly stay, a business-friendly environment, or an LGBTQIA welcoming atmosphere, the city has you covered. With notable choices like the Hilton Ottawa and downtown hotels, along with convenient options near the airport, you're sure to find the perfect base for exploring Canada’s vibrant capital.

• The Business Inn: A perfect choice for business travellers, The Business Inn combines functionality with comfort in the heart of Ottawa. This hotel is tailored for those seeking a business-themed escape, featuring a 24-hour business centre and convenient access to a business district. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms equipped with essential amenities for productivity, making it an ideal base for work-related trips while still enjoying the attractions of the city.
• Lord Elgin Hotel: This 4-star gem caters to families and eco-conscious travellers alike, offering a unique blend of comfort and sustainability. The Lord Elgin Hotel is eco-certified and provides a welcoming atmosphere for children, complete with free cribs and family-friendly amenities. Business travellers will find multiple meeting rooms and a 24-hour business centre at their disposal. Located near some of Ottawa's most iconic sites, this hotel ensures a memorable stay for all ages.
• Fairmont Chateau Laurier: An iconic hotel with a rich history, the Fairmont Chateau Laurier is perfect for eco-friendly, LGBTQIA welcoming travellers seeking a luxurious experience. This 4.5-star property boasts multiple meeting rooms, a well-equipped business centre, and conference spaces, making it ideal for both leisure and business. Guests can revel in the stunning architecture and opulent interiors while enjoying a central location that allows easy access to Ottawa's cultural treasures.

Where to stay in Ottawa

Ottawa offers a vibrant urban experience perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore the lively downtown, where friendly locals and stunning city views await. Venture into nearby neighbourhoods for a romantic getaway or a budget-friendly adventure. Whether you’re indulging in the rich culture or enjoying the picturesque landscapes, Ottawa and its surroundings promise unforgettable memories for every type of traveller.

• Ottawa: As the capital city of Canada, Ottawa boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture. Nestled along the Ottawa River, this vibrant city offers a splendid mix of urban attractions and green spaces. Visitors can enjoy a plethora of activities, from exploring the iconic Parliament Hill to indulging in retail therapy at local shopping centres. The city is particularly lively from April to June and July, making it a great time to experience festivals and outdoor events. Notable landmarks include historic civic government buildings and sports stadiums, ideal for both family outings and business visits.
• Gatineau: Just a short hop across the river from Ottawa, Gatineau is a charming city that seamlessly blends city life with nature. Known for its beautiful parks and stunning landscapes, it is an excellent destination for romantic getaways and family adventures. The city’s visitor numbers peak during June to August, offering an array of outdoor activities and cultural events. Key attractions include historic civic buildings and sports facilities, alongside relaxing spa experiences and wellness treatments, making it perfect for those seeking both excitement and relaxation.
• Downtown Ottawa: The bustling heart of the capital, Downtown Ottawa is where urban energy and cultural richness converge. This lively neighbourhood is home to a variety of educational institutions, shopping centres, and entertainment venues, making it an ideal spot for families and business travellers alike. The vibrant atmosphere peaks from June to August, inviting visitors to explore historic sites, including significant civic buildings and sports stadiums. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll along the Rideau Canal or diving into the local dining scene, Downtown Ottawa offers a memorable urban experience.

Things to do in and around Ottawa

Ottawa offers a vibrant mix of city-themed, family-friendly, and outdoor activities. You can explore the bustling downtown, enjoy a variety of restaurants, and indulge in shopping at popular malls and centres. Don’t miss the chance to engage in recreational activities that showcase the city's charm and cultural richness, making for a memorable holiday experience.

Shopping

In Ottawa, visit Byward Market Square for a vibrant public market atmosphere, Rideau Centre for an exciting shopping mall experience with entertainment options, and Sparks Street for a charming shopping area filled with family-friendly vibes. Each location offers unique gifts and souvenirs to take home.

Recreation

Experience the lively atmosphere at Canadian Tire Centre, where you can catch thrilling sports events. For ultimate relaxation, unwind at Kōena Spa with rejuvenating treatments. For outdoor fun, Millennium Sports Park offers scenic walking trails and recreational activities to enhance your wellness journey in Ottawa.

Adventure

At Calypso Water Park, experience thrilling waterslides and wave pools, perfect for family fun and adventure in the summer. For winter sports enthusiasts, Meech Ski Lift and Skyline Ski Lift, both located 14.5km from Ottawa, offer excellent skiing opportunities amidst beautiful snowy landscapes.

Nightlife

In Ottawa, Centrepointe Theatre offers a cultural experience with romantic vibes, perfect for family outings. For adventure seekers, Cosmic Adventures is buzzing with fun arcade games. If you're in the mood for a film, Landmark Cinemas Orléans provides a charming setting for a movie date night.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ottawa

To save money on your trip to Ottawa, consider visiting during the cheaper months of March or December to January, and aim to book your stay on a Monday for the best rates. Enjoy free attractions like the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, and the Parliament Building. For transport, utilise the bus or light rail instead of taxis. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly accommodation and consider package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. Look for eco-certified options for sustainable stays at lower costs.

• 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 gives you the flexibility to choose your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be shown sustainable and eco-friendly accommodation options that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your hotel stay in Ottawa with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Ottawa

Ottawa is a fantastic destination for city-themed, family, and outdoor vacations, offering a mix of urban parks, historic civic buildings, and modern universities. Visitors can enjoy cultural experiences at local museums, explore the Ottawa City Hall, and take in the sights of Canada’s capital. Don't miss the Ottawa Convention Centre for events and activities, making it a great spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

• Parliament Hill: Experience the heart of Canada’s democracy at Parliament Hill, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. Explore the impressive grounds, witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and take guided tours to learn about Canadian political history and culture.
• University of Ottawa: As one of Canada’s oldest universities, the University of Ottawa offers a rich cultural experience. Wander through its historic campus, admire the architecture, and engage with vibrant student life, contributing to a diverse and lively atmosphere.
• Carleton University: Located near the Rideau River, Carleton University features modern architecture and a lively urban campus. Enjoy its beautiful green spaces, cutting-edge facilities, and a dynamic student community that reflects the vibrancy of city life.

Best time to go to Ottawa

The best time to visit Ottawa is dependant 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	Average	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	Slightly High	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	Average	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	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Ottawa

Flying into Ottawa offers convenient options with major airports nearby. Ottawa's Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) is situated 11.3km from the city centre, with excellent accommodations like the 5-star Fairmont Chateau Laurier Gold Experience and the 4.5-star Fairmont Chateau Laurier, both 11.3km away. The 4.5-star Hilton Lac-Leamy is located 14.5km from YOW. Alternatively, Massena International Airport (MSS) is 86.9km away, with nearby options such as the Blue Spruce Motel and Super 8 by Wyndham, both 3.2km from MSS. Ogdensburg International Airport (OGS) is 53.2km distant, featuring the 3-star Sherman Inn just 1.4km away, making access to these airports and hotels seamless for visitors.