Ottawa is Canada's capital, a city of government buildings, national museums and monuments, set where the Ottawa River meets the Rideau River. The Rideau Canal runs through the middle of it, and the core is compact enough that where you base yourself shapes how much of the city you see on foot.
For a visitor, the useful split is between the downtown area around the canal and Elgin Street, the ByWard Market district to the east, and the quieter western side of downtown. This guide covers those areas, what kind of traveller each suits, and the practical points that come up when booking.
Best areas to stay in Ottawa
1. Downtown Rideau
This is the central area around the Rideau Canal and Rideau Street, within walking distance of Parliament Hill, the ByWard Market and the Rideau Centre. It suits first-time visitors who want the sights, the canal and the market all reachable without a car, and it has the widest mix of accommodation, from budget rooms to large hotels.
It is also the most convenient base if you are arriving without a vehicle, since the main downtown streets and the market are close together. Expect city noise on the busier streets, and note that some budget options here have limited check-in hours.
2. ByWard Market
The ByWard Market is the district east of the canal, known for its market block, restaurants and evening activity. It suits travellers who want to be in the middle of things and within walking distance of downtown, and it has a range of places from hostels to boutique hotels.
Because it is a busy market and nightlife area, it is livelier and noisier than the western side of downtown. It remains walkable to Parliament Hill and the canal, so you can base here and still see the main sights on foot.
3. Downtown (Elgin Street and the west side)
Downtown covers the area around Elgin Street and the streets west of the canal, including the quieter western side. It suits visitors who want to be central but away from the market crowds, and it has a concentration of larger hotels and suite-style accommodation.
Elgin Street sits across from the National Arts Centre and is close to Parliament Hill, so it works well for a sightseeing base. The western side of downtown is described as quieter, which may suit you if you prefer less street noise at night.
4. East of Downtown Rideau
The area just east of Downtown Rideau, including streets such as Goulburn Avenue, is a residential-feeling alternative close to the centre. It suits travellers who want a quieter stay while remaining near downtown, and the accommodation here tends to be smaller guest-house style places.
Parking can be limited in this area, so ask ahead if you are driving. It is still close enough to the centre to reach the main sights easily.
5. Near the train station and Highway 417
The area off Highway 417 near the train station is further from the sights but convenient for arrivals by train or by road. It suits travellers passing through or those who prefer to drive into the centre, and the accommodation is larger-format with parking and on-site facilities.
This is not a walking base for the main sights, so plan on driving or using transit if you stay here.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: hostels with dorm beds or private rooms, some with shared bathrooms and kitchen facilities; university housing offered as guest rooms in the summer months; expect simpler rooms and fewer amenities.
- Mid-range: bed-and-breakfast style guest houses, small inns and standard hotel rooms, often with breakfast, free WiFi and sometimes parking; suite-style places with small kitchens also fall in this range.
- Splurge: large full-service hotels and boutique properties, some with pools, fitness centres, restaurants and views of Parliament Hill or the canal; expect higher rates and charges for extras such as parking or WiFi.
Best area for a first visit
Downtown Rideau is the best base for a first visit. It puts you within walking distance of Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal and the ByWard Market, and it has the broadest choice of accommodation across all price levels. If you would rather be in the middle of the market and evening activity, the ByWard Market is the alternative.
Frequently asked questions
Which area is best if I want to walk to the main sights?
Downtown Rideau and the ByWard Market are both within walking distance of Parliament Hill, the canal and the market. Elgin Street downtown is also close to Parliament Hill and the National Arts Centre.
Where should I stay if I want somewhere quieter?
The western side of downtown is described as quieter, and the area east of Downtown Rideau has a more residential feel while remaining close to the centre.
Can I stay near the train station?
Yes, there is accommodation off Highway 417 near the train station. It is convenient for arrivals but further from the main sights, so you would need to drive or use transit to reach the centre.
Is there budget accommodation in the centre?
Yes, there are hostels in the downtown and ByWard Market area offering dorm beds and private rooms, and university housing is available as guest rooms from May to August.
Compare live prices for these areas with the booking tools on this page before you decide.