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- 5 BEST Neighborhoods in Ottawa [December 2024!]
5 BEST Neighborhoods in Ottawa [December 2024!]
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Ottawa often tends to be overlooked at the profit of its two big neighbours, Toronto and Montreal. Still, the Canadian capital has a lot to offer.
From lush green parks to a great river shoreline, the city is full of nature. Visitors will enjoy a green stroll in the summer and a skiing or ice skating session over the frozen canal during the winter time.
However, knowing which area to stay in when coming to Ottawa can be a headache. But no need to worry!
This is the reason why our team of travel experts has put together this comprehensive guide on where to stay in Ottawa.
Whether you are a first time visitor, a party lover or a parent with small kids, there is an area fitted right for you. After reading this article, you will be the ultimate expert on where to stay in Ottawa, and choosing a hotel for your next trip will be the easiest thing in the world!
Table of Contents
- Where To Stay In Ottawa
- Ottawa’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods To Stay In
- Neighbourhood #1 - Sparks Street
- (Where to stay in Ottawa your first time)
- Things to see and do in Sparks Street
- Where To Stay In Sparks Street
- Neighbourhood #2 - The Glebe
- (Where to stay in Ottawa on a budget)
- Things to see and do in the Glebe
- Where To Stay In The Glebe
- Neighbourhood #3 - ByWard Market
- (Best area to stay in Ottawa for nightlife)
- Things to see and do in ByWard Market
- Where To Stay In ByWard Market
- Neighbourhood #4 - Westboro Village
- (Coolest place to stay in Ottawa)
- Things to see and do in Westboro Village
- Where To Stay In Westboro Village
- Neighbourhood #5 - Downtown Rideau
- (Best neighbourhood in Ottawa for families)
- Things to see and do in Downtown Rideau
- Where To Stay In Downtown Rideau
- Our Final Thoughts On Where To Stay in Ottawa
Quick Tips – Where to stay in Ottawa
At A Glance: Where To Stay In Ottawa
Where To Stay In Ottawa
Are you looking for a hotel specifically? We have got you covered! These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Ottawa.
| WHERE TO STAY IN OTTAWA | |||
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BEST Air BnBBEST Air BnBMark’s Air BnB |
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Book on Air BnB → |
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BEST Budget HotelBEST Budget Hotel Rideau Inn Ottawa |
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BEST Mid-RangeBEST Mid-RangeAlt Hotel Ottawa |
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Book on Booking.com → |
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BEST Luxury HotelBEST Luxury HotelAndaz Ottawa ByWard Market |
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Book on Booking.com → |
Best Air BnB in Ottawa – Mark’s Air BnB
Mark’s Air BnB is the best Air BnB in Ottawa
Set right at the heart of downtown Ottawa, this luxurious Air BnB condo offers easy and instant access to a bunch of Ottawa attractions and landmarks, including Rideau Center, Lansdowne Park, and the Parliament. Plus, it’s just around 15 minutes from Ottawa Airport by car.
Convenient location aside, the condo also offers a plethora of amenities, including Wi-Fi access, a fitness center, a pool, and a sauna. And did we mention that it has a free parking space and a kitchen?
Best Budget Hotel in Ottawa – Rideau Inn Ottawa
Rideau Inn Ottawa is the best budget hotel in Ottawa
Rideau Inn is located in downtown Ottawa and offers great affordable accommodation in Canada’s capital. The comfortable rooms include air conditioning, a flat screen TV and a seating area.
Some rooms at the Rideau have a private bathroom and others have a shared bathroom. The hotel has a real family feel and the staff are helpful and friendly.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Ottawa – Alt Hotel Ottawa
Alt Hotel Ottawa is the best mid-range hotel in Ottawa
Alt Hotel Ottawa is a great option for where to stay in Ottawa. It is located close to the Federal Parliament buildings in the centre of the city and offers comfortable rooms fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom and a free WiFi connection.
The Alt Hotel also offers a fitness centre as well as an on-site café.
Best Luxury Hotel in Ottawa – Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market
Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market is the best luxury hotel in Ottawa
The Andaz Ottawa is the best luxury hotel in Ottawa and a great choice for where to stay in ByWard Market. Rooms are spacious and feature a private bathroom, air conditioning and a flat-screen TV.
The hotel serves a tasty buffet breakfast every morning and offers a fully equipped fitness centre.
Ottawa’s Neighbourhood Guide
Ottawa’s Neighbourhood Guide
Ottawa is a culturally diverse city with 80+ neighbourhoods, so you’ll need the help of this ultimate guide to find the right spot for YOU!
Ottawa is the federal capital of Canada. It is a very diverse city, and home to more than eighty different neighbourhoods within its borders. Neighbourhoods located in the heart of town are much smaller than residential ones.
The most popular areas in Ottawa surround the centre of town, and border the beautiful Ottawa River.
Visitors usually stick to what is dubbed as Centretown, which is quite a compact area easily toured by foot or using public transport. Several distinct neighbourhoods can be identified within that area.
ByWard Market is a tourist’s favourite, boasting restaurants, local shops and a vibrant nightlife. The actual market is also very popular with locals. By the Rideau Canal, theatres and museums are legion. During the summer, festivals are held in this area.
Hotel Jules Insider Tip
Pedestrians will love the car-free Sparks Street, where they will be able to find shops, restaurants, and street artists looking to entertain the crowd. Popular festivals such as the Capital Ribfest are also held there.
Outside of the centre’s borders, the Glebe offers an independent vibe filled with independent shops and restaurants. There, visitors will find relaxing parks, historic architecture and markets selling local products.
Ethnic communities are well represented in the centre of the city, with a bustling Little Italy and a lively Chinatown. Local specialities and a blend of Canada and its immigrants are a feast for the soul there.
Ottawa’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods To Stay In
With so many different atmospheres vibing in the city, visitors can get confused when it comes to deciding where to stay in Ottawa. Don’t worry, we have done the groundwork for you.
Neighbourhood #1 - Sparks Street
Neighbourhood #1 - Sparks Street
(Where to stay in Ottawa your first time)
Sparks Street is our pick for where to stay in Ottawa your first time (photo credits: Wikipedia)
Sparks Street is our top pick for where to stay in Ottawa your first time.
Sparks Street is located in the heart of Ottawa and brands itself as North America’s first pedestrian street. You will see no cars running here, and yet the area is one of the most vibrant parts of Ottawa.
International brands and independent shop owners are lined up at Sparks Street, providing a great experience for shopping lovers.
The nearby Parliament Hill will let visitors admire the beautiful neo-Gothic architecture of the Canadian Parliament. Guided tours of the buildings are available.
Sparks Street is also home to many popular festivals over the year, such as Ottawa Ribfest, where 13 of the best rib makers from North America come to showcase their best meat and sauce.
Come and see who gets the Champion Belt at RibFest for the best ribs of the year! And let’s not forget the very Canadian Poutinefest and indulge into the best fries of your life during the month of April.
Street artists are very popular on Sparks Street, and live statues even have their own annual event there.
In a nutshell, Sparks Street is the perfect place to get the first glimpse of Ottawa while staying in the heart of the city.
Things to see and do in Sparks Street
- Shop til you drop at one of the numerous outlets of the street
- Pay your respects to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial
- Learn about the history and politics of Canada at Parliament Hill
- Get on a bike tour of the city
Where To Stay In Sparks Street
Best Air BnB in Sparks Street – Joel’s Air BnB
Joel’s Air BnB is the best Air BnB in Sparks Street
Get an authentic taste of Ottawa’s downtown life by staying at this 15th floor Air BnB property. Here, you can immerse yourself in the city’s local life as you discover the area’s diversity of restaurants, pubs and retail shops. What’s more, guests of this property will get access to a room for games, a hot tub, a private terrace, and a gym. And, the Air BnB accommodation also includes wireless internet access and daily breakfast.
Best Budget Hotel in Sparks Street – HI Ottawa Jail Hostel
HI Ottawa Jail Hostel is the best budget hotel in Sparks Street
HI Ottawa Jail Hostel is located just on the other side of the Rideau Canal from Sparks Street. This unique hotel is housed in an old prison and has kept rooms in the style of prison cells.
The private rooms at the HI Ottawa Jail Hotel feature a comfortable bed, heating and a free WiFi connection. A good breakfast is included with the room.
Not yet booked? Take a look at our favorite hotels in Vancouver!
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Ottawa – Radisson Hotel Ottawa Parliament Hill
Radisson Hotel Ottawa Parliament Hill is the best mid-range hotel in Sparks Street
The Radisson Hotel Parliament Hill is located a couple steps away from Sparks Street.
The comfortable rooms at the Radisson Hotel Parliament Hill all feature a private bathroom with a bathtub, air conditioning, a flat screen TV and a tea and coffee maker. The hotel also offers a fitness centre and an in-house bar.
Best Luxury Hotel in Ottawa – Sheraton Ottawa Hotel
Sheraton Ottawa Hotel is the best luxury hotel in Sparks Street
The Sheraton Ottawa is one of the best choices you can make when it comes to where to stay in Sparks Street.
There is an indoor swimming pool, a restaurant serving grilled meats and a fitness centre at the Sheraton Ottawa. The comfortable rooms are fitted with air conditioning and a private bathroom.
Neighbourhood #2 - The Glebe
Neighbourhood #2 - The Glebe
(Where to stay in Ottawa on a budget)
The Glebe is our pick for where to stay in Ottawa on a budget
The Glebe is an up and coming neighbourhood located just outside the centre core of Ottawa. It is often qualified as the city’s best kept secret and is bustling with independently-owned shops and restaurants.
It is the perfect place to stay in if you love to find unique, one of a kind products you will not find anywhere else. In addition, dozens of small restaurants in the Glebe will let you sample some of the best food the city has to offer.
Craft beers, locally roasted coffee and tasty snacks will provide the perfect pit stop after a long day out wandering around Glebe.
During the summer, the popular Escapade music festival gets the beats going and will swoop you in for a rave. If you are more of a sports fan, TD Place is home to the Ottawa Redblacks in football and the Ottawa Fury in soccer.
Finally, as the Glebe neighbourhood borders the Rideau Canal, visitors will enjoy a stroll or a bike ride along the water.
Things to see and do in the Glebe
- Cheer on Canadian football at TD Place
- Visit the farmers’ market and sample a selection of local products
- Taste the city at one of the area’s independent restaurants
- Find the perfect gift in independently-owned shops
- Sip on the finest coffee in one of the Glebe’s trendy coffee shops
Where To Stay In The Glebe
Best Air BnB in The Glebe – Jennifer’s Air BnB
Jennifer’s Air BnB is the best Air BnB in The Glebe
There’s no Air BnB in the Glebe quite like Jennifer’s apartment. Perfect for short term rentals, this private apartment is complete with a living room, bathroom recently-renovated kitchen, and a bedroom.
You’ll also love the country atmosphere inside as well as the building’s brick facade. The Whole Foods Market is less than a couple of blocks away, too, meaning you can stock up on fresh and healthy food during your stay here.
Best Budget Hotel in the Glebe – Angela’s Bed and Breakfast Ottawa
Angela’s Bed and Breakfast Ottawa is the best budget hotel in the Glebe
Angela’s Bed and Breakfast is our top pick for where to stay in the Glebe on a budget. All rooms are spacious and include a hairdryer, a fan and heating. The bathroom is shared.
Family rooms at Angela’s accommodate up to four people and a free WiFi connection is provided.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in the Glebe – Glencree House B&B
Glencree House B&B is the best mid-range hotel in the Glebe
Glencree House offers comfortable rooms in the heart of the Glebe neighbourhood. The rooms are fitted with a private bathroom with a bathtub, air conditioning, a seating area, a flat screen TV and a garden view.
A full English breakfast is served to Glencree House guests every morning. A free WiFi connection is available in the property.
Best Luxury Hotel in the Glebe – Best Western Plus Ottawa Downtown Suites
Best Western Plus Ottawa Downtown Suites is the best luxury hotel in the Glebe
This Best Western hotel is located just outside the neighbourhood of the Glebe, which is easily reachable after a short walk.
The Best Western rooms are spacious and fitted with a private bathroom, air conditioning, heating and a refrigerator. A good continental breakfast is served in the morning.
Neighbourhood #3 - ByWard Market
Neighbourhood #3 - ByWard Market
(Best area to stay in Ottawa for nightlife)
ByWard Market is our pick for best area to stay in Ottawa for nightlife
ByWard Market is one of the most popular places to stay in Ottawa. It is centrally located, just across the Rideau Canal from the Parliament Hill and Sparks Street.
ByWard Market is a historic place as it used to be one of Canada’s first and largest public markets. Today, the market is actually dozens of outdoors vendors flocking to the area and stay there between around 9 a.m and 5 p.m, depending on the weather.
One of the must-tries in the outdoor market in the famous Beavertail, a Canadian whole-wheat pastry that has been stretched to take the shape of an actual beavertail. Any toppings can be added on top, from the traditional maple syrup to chocolate and peanut butter!
Hundreds of little shops, restaurants and café have also settled in the neighbourhood, creating a vibrant atmosphere where something is always going on!
The area is also very popular with night owls, as many bars and clubs have opened up in the ByWard Market neighbourhood.
On weekends, the party usually goes on until the wee hours of the night. It can get very crowded quickly, so if you are coming with a car, it is highly recommended to leave it at your hotel!
Things to see and do in ByWard Market
- Shop around at the year-round outdoor market
- Try Canadian culinary specialities in one of the numerous restaurants
- Dance the night away in some of Ottawa’s best clubs
- Enjoy a beer in a local brewery
- Grab a Beavertail from a shack
Where To Stay In ByWard Market
Best Air BnB in ByWard Market – Michael’s Air BnB
Michael’s Air BnB is the best Air BnB in ByWard Market
Traveling with a couple of party-loving buddies? Then, book a stay at this hip and inexpensive Air BnB apartment! Suitable for 3 guests, this Ottawa Air BnB has a bedroom, a bathroom, and an extra sofa bed.
Of course, this apartment puts you right at the heart of the biggest parties in Ottawa. From the iconic Chateau Lafayette to avant-garde bars, the apartment is within walking distance to a multitude of renowned bars.
Best Budget Hotel in ByWard Market – ByWard Blue Inn
ByWard Blue Inn is the best budget hotel in ByWard Market
ByWard Blue Inn is our top choice for where to stay in ByWard Market on a budget. The rooms feature a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat screen TV and a tea and coffee maker.
The in-house café at ByWard Blue Inn serves a tasty breakfast in the morning, as well as an afternoon tea.
MUST READ – Heading to Toronto next? Check out our post about some of the most fun day trips from Toronto, Canada!
Best Mid-Range Hotel in ByWard Market – Swiss Hotel Ottawa
Swiss Hotel Ottawa is the best mid-range hotel in ByWard Market
The Swiss Hotel Ottawa is an adult-only hotel located less than minutes walk away from ByWard Market and its outdoor vendors.
The modernly decorated rooms are fitted with a hardwood floor and feature a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat screen TV and a coffee maker.
Best Luxury Hotel in ByWard Market – Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Fairmont Chateau Laurier is the best luxury hotel in ByWard Market
Are you dreaming of living the castle life in Ottawa? Look no further! Fairmont Chateau Laurier is located in a stunning castle and features an indoor swimming pool, fine dining options and cocktail bars.
The castle’s rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the staff give world-class service.
Neighbourhood #4 - Westboro Village
Neighbourhood #4 - Westboro Village
(Coolest place to stay in Ottawa)
Westboro Village is our pick for coolest place to stay in Ottawa
Westboro Village is a trendy Ottawa neighbourhood and the coolest place to stay in Ottawa. Located in the Western part of the city, it is located away from the centre of town and offers a much different feel.
It has always been a very diverse neighbourhood and has undergone significant urban rejuvenation since the 1990s.
While it is now mostly residential and a favourite of families, Westboro is also full of small restaurants, independent shops and boasts lots of green areas.
Visitors will love walking or cycling on the river shoreline, and getting a real Ottawa feel in the streets from which tourist are mostly absent. During the winter, those activities turn into snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
While walking around, admire the murals painted by local artists and stop at one the neighbourhood’s iconic restaurants.
Every year in August, the one of a kind dining experience Westboro offers is celebrated with the Fuse Street Festival.
There is a price to pay for this newly found fame, however, as the prices around Westboro have hiked up quite significantly in the past few years.
Things to see and do in Westboro Village
- Take a walk or cycle along the river
- Mingle with locals in one of the trendy restaurants
- Cosy up in a local coffee shop
- Explore the city in a different way with an Urban Quest
Where To Stay In Westboro Village
Best Air BnB in Westboro Village – Rob’s studio
Rob’s studio is the best Air BnB in Westboro Village
Inviting, warm, and cozy, this Ottawa Air BnB will, no doubt, give you a relaxing and fantastic stay in the hip and chic Westboro Village. It comes with a kitchen as well as cable television, Netflix access, and Wi-Fi connection to help you relax after a day of nonstop sightseeing in Ottawa.
As for its location, the studio is literally steps away from an array of stores, coffee shops, and premier restaurants.
Best Budget Hotel in Westboro Village – Travelodge by Wyndham Ottawa West
Travelodge by Wyndham Ottawa West is the best budget hotel in Westboro Village
Located on the southern end of Westboro, the Travelodge Ottawa West is the best choice for where to stay in Westboro on a budget.
All rooms at the Travelodge by Wyndham Ottawa West feature air conditioning and a private bathroom, as well as a tea and coffee maker. A water park is available on site at an extra cost.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Westboro Village – Best Western Plus Ottawa City Centre
Best Western Plus Ottawa City Centre is the best mid-range hotel in Westboro Village
The Best Western Plus Ottawa City Centre is an eco-friendly hotel offering spacious rooms featuring a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a city view.
The hotel also features an outdoor swimming pool and a free WiFi connection for all guests.
Best Luxury Hotel in Westboro Village – Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Gatineau-Ottawa
Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Gatineau-Ottawa is the best luxury hotel in Westboro Village
The Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Gatineau Ottawa is located in Gatineau, just across the river from Westboro Village. The neighbourhood is easily accessible via a bridge.
The hotel offers luxurious amenities such as an 18-hole golf course, a spa centre, an indoor saltwater swimming pool and a restaurant.
Neighbourhood #5 - Downtown Rideau
Neighbourhood #5 - Downtown Rideau
(Best neighbourhood in Ottawa for families)
Downtown Rideau is our pick for best neighbourhood in Ottawa for families (photo credits: Ottawa Tourism)
As its name suggests, the neighbourhood of Downtown Rideau is located right in the heart of the city, along the Rideau Canal. It is squeezed between the lively areas of ByWard Market and Sparks Street, being just East of the Parliament Hill.
The Downtown Rideau neighbourhood is hustling and bustling all year round and is a great place for families to stay in Ottawa.
Lots of fun activities are available in Downtown Rideau, such as walking or cycling in the park or taking a cruise alongside the canal to learn how canal locks work. The Rideau Canal locks are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
During the winter, as the water freezes, the Rideau Canal turns into the largest ice skating rink in the world. Come have fun for a few hours and come mingle with locals who go to work…skating!
Arts lovers will appreciate Downtown Rideau as it is home to the National Arts Centre, where concerts, ballets, musicals and other artistic shows are performed almost every day.
If you are more into painting than drama, the Ottawa Art Gallery displays the work of some of the best Canadian artists and is free of charge.
Things to see and do in Downtown Rideau
- Learn about Ottawa’s history at the Bytown Museum
- Take a canal cruise and explore the UNESCO listed canal locks
- In the winter, ice skate on the frozen canal
- Go watch a ballet or a musical at the National Arts Centre
- Shop til you drop in CF Rideau Centre
Heading to Toronto too? Save some money with our budget guide to Toronto’s best hotels!
Where To Stay In Downtown Rideau
Best Air BnB in Downtown Rideau – Diane’s Air BnB
Diane’s Air BnB is the best Air BnB in Downtown Rideau
No list of the best places to stay in Ottawa is complete without the inclusion of this classy and extraordinary Air BnB. With its elegant granite counters, eye-catching wallpaper, and inspiring artworks, this place indeed has an irresistible style and a sophisticated feel. Nestled in a new building, this property is steps away from celebrated pubs, cafes, restaurants, and attractions like Windsor Park.
Best Budget Hotel in Downtown Rideau – Capital Hill Hotel and Suites
Capital Hill Hotel and Suites is the best budget hotel in Downtown Rideau
All the rooms at the Capital Hill Hotel and Suites feature a private bathroom, air conditioning, heating and a flat screen TV with satellite channels.
The hotel is located really close to the Parliament Hill and is the perfect base to explore the centre of Ottawa.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Downtown Rideau – Novotel Ottawa
Novotel Ottawa is the best mid-range hotel in Downtown Rideau
Not sure where to stay in Downtown Rideau? Novotel Ottawa is a great choice!
Novotel Ottawa’s spacious rooms can accommodate up to 4 adults, and children under the age of 16 cans stay for free in their parents’ room. All bedrooms are fitted with a private bathroom, air conditioning and heating.
Best Luxury Hotel in Downtown Rideau – Lord Elgin Hotel
Lord Elgin Hotel is the best luxury hotel in Downtown Rideau
Lord Elgin Hotel is the best luxury hotel in the Downtown Rideau neighbourhood of Ottawa. The hotel features a 24-hour fitness centre, a lap swimming pool and a gift shop.
The rooms at the Lord Elgin are spacious, comfortable, and offer a private bathroom, heating and air conditioning.
Our Final Thoughts On Where To Stay in Ottawa
Ottawa is a compact yet diverse city that has absolutely no reason to envy its bigger sisters Montreal and Toronto.
Each neighbourhood offers a lively and friendly vibe and offers a lot of activities, from fine dining to craft shopping, from ice skating on a canal to dancing the night away in a trendy Canadian club.
ByWard Market probably remains our favourite area, with its unique outdoor market. And, we must admit, we cannot resist a sweet Beavertail! In this neighbourhood, the Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market is our top hotel choice, offering luxurious comfortable rooms and an overall super comfortable experience.
Our travel experts have compiled their favourite hotels in Ottawa and also the best things to do in Ottawa – check them out!
Have we missed one of your favourite spots or activities in Ottawa? Let us know in the comments and we will add it to the list right away!
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About the Author Emma Johnson
Emma Johnson lives to travel! Born in Washington D.C., Emma is a hotel connoisseur and a staff writer at Hotel Jules. An army brat, Emma got the travel bug early and has never been able to stop. Now, she has proudly visited 70+ countries and plans to visit every country in the world! Passionate about her ukelele (obviously) and her family, Emma eventually wants to retire in Thailand and write a book about all of her travel experiences.