Find hotels in Ottawa from £72

Top reasons to visit Ottawa

• Historic Attractions: Ottawa boasts iconic landmarks such as Parliament Hill and the National Gallery of Canada, showcasing the nation’s rich history and culture.
• Beautiful Parks: The city features lush urban parks and the scenic Rideau Canal, perfect for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities.
• Cultural Experiences: Visitors can immerse themselves in diverse cultural offerings, from museums to vibrant festivals throughout the year.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Ottawa offers numerous engaging attractions for families, ensuring fun for visitors of all ages.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: The city provides a wide range of accommodation, from contemporary hotels to charming bed and breakfasts.

Find great hotels in Ottawa

Whether you're seeking a contemporary hotel in the heart of Ottawa or a charming bed and breakfast for a more intimate experience, the city offers a diverse selection of accommodations. Many hotels cater to business travellers, while also providing pet-friendly options and welcoming environments for LGBTQIA guests. Explore the perfect hotel in Ottawa to make your stay truly memorable.

• The Business Inn: The Business Inn is a budget-friendly hotel boasting an impressive guest rating of 9.4, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking a comfortable and economical stay. Situated in the heart of Ottawa, this property caters primarily to business travellers, offering essential amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, a business centre, and a fitness room. Guests appreciate the spacious and well-appointed suites, which feature kitchenettes, making it ideal for extended stays. The convenient location near key business districts and attractions enhances its appeal for professionals on the go.
• Lord Elgin Hotel: A distinguished 4-star establishment, the Lord Elgin Hotel has earned a guest rating of 9.0, striking a perfect balance between family-friendly and eco-conscious hospitality. Located in the picturesque downtown area, this hotel is certified eco-friendly and offers numerous amenities tailored for families, including complimentary children's breakfasts and free cribs. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and relax in the beautiful gardens. With its prime location near cultural landmarks and green spaces, the Lord Elgin Hotel is ideal for those looking to explore Ottawa’s vibrant city life while prioritising sustainability.
• Fairmont Chateau Laurier: The Fairmont Chateau Laurier is a stunning 4.5-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.8, renowned for its historic charm and luxurious atmosphere. Nestled in Ottawa's shopping district, this elegant property is perfect for families and shopping enthusiasts alike. The hotel features child-friendly amenities, including highchairs and first aid kits, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests with young children. With its opulent rooms, exceptional dining options, and proximity to major shopping areas and attractions, the Fairmont Chateau Laurier promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Canada’s capital.

Where to stay in Ottawa

Ottawa, the vibrant capital of Canada, offers a delightful mix of urban charm and natural beauty. Stroll through the lively downtown, where friendly locals and enticing attractions await. Families can enjoy the lush parks and cultural sites, while couples might find romance along the picturesque Rideau Canal. Venture beyond the city to discover charming nearby towns, perfect for a weekend getaway. Ottawa promises a memorable experience filled with excitement and exploration for every traveller.

• Gatineau: Located just across the Ottawa River, Gatineau is a vibrant city that offers a delightful mix of urban and natural experiences. Known for its historic civic government buildings and beautiful nature reserves, it's a perfect destination for those seeking a romantic getaway or a family adventure. Popular activities include indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments and exploring educational venues. The city is particularly lively from July to September, making it an ideal time to visit if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture and events.
• Downtown Ottawa: As the bustling heart of the capital, Downtown Ottawa is teeming with excitement and activity. This neighbourhood is renowned for its iconic landmarks, including historic civic buildings and expansive shopping centres. Visitors will find a variety of family-friendly attractions and business-themed venues, making it a versatile destination for all types of travellers. The area sees peak visitor numbers in the summer months, allowing you to enjoy outdoor events and festivals, alongside the vibrant shopping scene and educational opportunities.
• Kanata: A dynamic borough located to the west of Ottawa, Kanata is known for its blend of modern amenities and family-oriented spaces. With bustling shopping centres and educational institutions, it caters to both locals and visitors. The area is particularly popular in the spring months of March and April, as well as during the summer. Kanata boasts impressive sports facilities and historic civic buildings, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore both contemporary and historical facets of the region.

Things to do in Ottawa

Ottawa is an excellent destination for city-themed, family, and outdoor vacations. Visitors can explore the city through immersive experiences, educational attractions, and vibrant shopping centres. With a range of activities to engage in, Ottawa promises a delightful getaway for tourists looking to discover its unique charm and offerings.

Shopping

In Ottawa, visit the Rideau Centre for a mix of high street brands and unique shops. For a more local feel, check out ByWard Market, where you'll discover artisanal goods and handmade souvenirs, perfect for gifts to take home.

Recreation

At Nepean Sailing Club, immerse yourself in a serene environment while enjoying sailing lessons or leisurely boat rides. The club’s luxurious ambiance offers a perfect retreat for relaxation, complemented by beautiful views of the water and surrounding nature, making it an ideal spot for unwinding and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Explore the Rideau Canal for a thrilling paddle in a kayak or canoe, surrounded by scenic views. In winter, the canal transforms into the world’s largest skating rink. For hiking, the Gatineau Park trails offer stunning vistas and invigorating walks through lush forests.

Nightlife

Ottawa's nightlife offers a vibrant atmosphere with venues like the lively ByWard Market, where you can find a mix of trendy bars and pubs. For live music, check out the National Arts Centre, or enjoy craft cocktails at the chic Fairmont Chateau Laurier.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ottawa

• 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 enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Ottawa with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Ottawa

Ottawa is an excellent destination for city-themed family vacations, offering a blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and historical attractions. You can explore urban parks, historic civic government buildings, and engaging museums. Whether you're wandering through downtown Ottawa or seeking family-friendly adventures, you'll find plenty to enjoy within and around this vibrant city.

• Parliament Hill: Discover the heart of Canada’s political life at Parliament Hill, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. Engage with the rich history and culture while exploring its iconic buildings, beautiful gardens, and the impressive Changing of the Guard ceremony.
• Saunders Farm: Experience the charm of rural life at Saunders Farm, where friendly locals welcome you to enjoy seasonal activities like pumpkin picking and hayrides. The farm's trendy atmosphere and engaging excursions make it a fantastic destination for families and friends alike.
• Bank Street Promenade: Stroll along Bank Street Promenade, a vibrant hub filled with trendy shops, eateries, and local businesses. The friendly vibe and lively atmosphere make it perfect for shopping, dining, and soaking up the local culture.

Best time to go to Ottawa

The best time to visit Ottawa can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Ottawa falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Ottawa falls in January, 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	Slightly Low	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 Ottawa

When visiting Ottawa, the primary airport to consider is Ottawa Macdonald-CARTier International Airport (YOW), situated 11.3km from the city centre. Nearby, you can find luxurious accommodations such as the Fairmont Chateau Laurier Gold Experience and the Fairmont Chateau Laurier, both rated 5 stars and conveniently located. For those considering alternatives, Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) is 152.9km away, with The Ritz-Carlton, Montréal and Four Seasons Hotel Montreal as excellent hotel options nearby. Additionally, Watertown International Airport (ART) is located 160.9km from Ottawa, with hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn Watertown/Thousand Islands offering proximity to this airport.