With its stunning mix of historic architecture, vibrant canal-side scenery, and rich cultural institutions, the Canadian capital offers a uniquely charming urban experience.With its stunning mix of historic architecture, vibrant canal-side scenery, and rich cultural institutions, the Canadian capital offers a uniquely charming urban experience. We’ve handpicked the best hotels in Ottawa, based on expert recommendations and thousands of genuine guest reviews. All of our recommended hotels have a review rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.
Best cheap hotel in Ottawa: Hampton by Hilton Hotel
Best luxury hotel in Ottawa: Château Laurier Fairmont Hotel
Best hostel in Ottawa: HI Ottawa Jail Hostel
Sort list by price, rating or by value for money.
The Fairmont Château Laurier is a true landmark in Ottawa, often referred to as "the third chamber of Parliament" due to its proximity to government buildings and the many politicians who have frequented its halls. Opened in 1912, the hotel was commissioned by Grand Trunk Railway president Charles Melville Hays. Tragically, Hays perished on the Titanic just weeks before the hotel’s grand opening.
New York Times + 2 more“Château Laurier, now run by the Fairmont group, has for more than a century offered luxury accommodations in the heart of the city, just next door to Parliament and the Rideau Canal. Soaring turrets, Tiffany windows and grand ballrooms reflect its heritage as one of Canada’s grand railway hotels.”
Shortlisted in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Ottawa.
The Westin Ottawa is a go-to spot for travelers looking for a comfortable stay right in the heart of Canada’s capital. Built in 1983, this hotel has long been a landmark in the downtown core, offering a mix of modern convenience and accessibility. It’s particularly well-regarded for its wellness-focused amenities, including their signature Heavenly Bed and a refreshing indoor saltwater pool that’s perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
Fodors + 1 more“Attached to the Rideau Centre shopping mall and convention center, this 24-story hotel is in the heart of the city. All guest rooms have plush carpeting and elegant furniture. Signature “Heavenly Beds” are topped with fluffy white duvets.”
Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market, which opened in 2016, holds the title of the first Andaz-branded property in Canada. Built on the former site of the historic Union of Canada building, this 16-storey hotel was designed by NEUF architect(e)s to make a bold statement. Its striking aluminum and glass facade intentionally contrasts with the surrounding red-brick historic neighbourhood, signaling a modern, tech-forward approach that swaps traditional check-in desks for a more relaxed, guest-focused arrival experience.
Telegraph“Canada’s first Andaz hotel opened in late 2016, fittingly in the nation’s capital, glamming up what was once a nondescript office building. With subtle, landscape-inspired artistic gestures, sparkling cuisine and warm hospitality, every inch of its 16 floors highlights the essence of Canadiana.”
Le Germain Hotel Ottawa is a sophisticated urban retreat that perfectly captures the boutique spirit of the family-owned Germain group. Opened as part of a major redevelopment of the city's "Cour des Arts," the hotel is unique for its seamless architectural connection to the Ottawa Art Gallery. This integration allows guests direct access to the museum, making it a dream destination for culture lovers.
Telegraph“This Le Germain property impresses from top to bottom. Sleek, well-planned spaces delight the senses, lovely staff members ensure guests want for nothing at all, and the locavore restaurant Norca – helmed by chef Dominique Dufour – is arguably one of the best in Ottawa.”
The Hilton Lac-Leamy is a stunning lakeside resort located in Gatineau, Quebec, just across the river from downtown Ottawa. Since opening in 2001, it has established itself as a premier destination, famously connected to the Casino du Lac-Leamy, a large theatre, and a conference centre. The property is widely celebrated for its sophisticated design and has consistently maintained a high standard of luxury.
Fodors“Three multicolor glass sculptures, composed of individual pieces representing sea creatures, add a whimsical touch to the brown-tone lobby. The quirky works of art amid the conservative decor reflect the hotel’s dual appeal.”
Located in the heart of Kanata’s technology park, the Brookstreet Hotel has been a cornerstone of Ottawa’s luxury scene since opening in 2003. Unlike many downtown city hotels, this 18-story property offers a resort-style retreat, blending modern sophistication with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Fodors“The area’s only resort hotel, this 18-story tower in Silicon Valley is about a 20-minute drive from Ottawa. Guest rooms have modern furnishings in gray and raspberry and nice touches like coffeemakers and tea kettles.”
The Albert at Bay Suite Hotel is a well-regarded fixture in downtown Ottawa, prized for offering some of the most spacious accommodations in the city. Unlike standard hotel rooms, every unit here is a suite, making it a particularly popular choice for families, business travelers, or anyone looking for the comfort of a home-away-from-home, complete with full kitchens and separate living areas.
Fodors“One- and two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens make this 12-story hotel a favorite with those in town for an extended time. The hotel is so popular with families that it offers a children’s program in July and August. Most suites have balconies.”
Alt Hotel Ottawa Downtown, which opened in 2016, is a standout in the city’s business district for its blend of simplicity and modern efficiency. Part of the Canadian Groupe Germain Hotels, the property was built from the ground up with a focus on sustainable, urban-conscious hospitality. It holds a 4-out-of-5 key rating for its eco-friendly features, including geothermal heating and cooling systems that significantly reduce its environmental footprint.
New York Times“ALT Ottawa, opened this year with 148 rooms is an affordable, minimalist chic offering in the downtown business district, a few blocks from Parliament Hill. Unfinished concrete and high ceilings lend a stylish, industrial vibe to rooms.”
Shortlisted in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Ottawa, Canada.
The Lord Elgin Hotel has been a pillar of Ottawa’s hospitality scene since it opened in 1941. Designed by the prestigious architectural firm Ross & Macdonald—the same minds behind the iconic Château Laurier—it was built in the French Château style. Prime Minister Mackenzie King personally influenced the project, insisting on a stone exterior to ensure the hotel complemented the grandeur of the nearby Parliament Buildings.
Lonely Planet“In one of Ottawa’s finest locations, the stately Lord Elgin was built in 1941 in a similar, but less grandiose style to Toronto’s Fairmont Royal York. The 346 spacious, bright rooms are comfortably furnished with modern amenities including large flatscreen TVs.”
The Swiss Hotel in downtown Ottawa is a hidden gem tucked away in a beautifully restored limestone building that dates back to 1862. Owned and operated by Sabina and Josef Sauter since 1985, this small, adults-only boutique property is one of the few truly independent hotels left in the city. It offers a rare, intimate atmosphere that feels like a quiet European retreat right in the heart of Canada’s capital.
Lonely Planet“Owner Sabina’s Swiss heritage is reflected in everything from the luxuriant buffet breakfast ($15) to the rooms’ design-savvy stencil decor. The 22 stylish rooms all have appliances such as espresso machines and iPads.”
Recommended by:
New York Times, Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Telegraph
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Telegraph
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Telegraph
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Fodors
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Fodors
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Fodors
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New York Times
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Lonely Planet
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Lonely Planet
Ottawa, deriving its name from the river Ottawa, is the capital of Canada. This capital city has several tourist attractions. Ottawa is most popular for Victorian buildings and structures. There are many museums in this city as well.
Island Park
This is an absolutely mesmerising locality in the city of Ottawa. Full of residential spots and lush greenery, it is a place anyone would love to reside in. Island Park is full of trails for long brisk walks and bike rides. The families living here are educated and well to do.
Stittsville
This is a family-centric neighbourhood, and is full of people belonging to diverse cultures. It is a vibrant and full-of-life locality. There are plenty of avenues for outdoor recreation.
Orleans Village
Orleans Village - Chateauneuf is placed on the east end of the city of Ottawa. This locality is diverse in terms of ethnicity. There are some amazing eateries and cafes, which are pretty affordable. Tattoo studios, churches, golf courses, the area of Orleans Village has it all.
Wellington West and Hintonburg
The locality of Wellington West and Hintonburg is pretty hipster in its lifestyle. Local pubs, breweries, art galleries adorn the streets of this area. It is a place where the artistic community resides.
Glebe
Glebe is a part of downtown Ottawa. 20th-century homes and shops are a common sight while taking a stroll down the streets of Glebe. This area has a historic touch to it. It is an impeccably charming community neighbourhood which is sure to keep you craving to spend more time here.
Also check out our guide about the best areas to stay in Ottawa.
For a 3-star hotel you have to pay around $120 per night and for a 4-star hotel you would be looking at $150 per night. If you're after a luxury 5-star Ottawa hotel then you can expect to pay around $220 per night.
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in Ottawa, then try Hampton by Hilton Hotel. It's an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It's in a good location, it's been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Make sure you read our list of the best cheap hotels in Ottawa.
Looking for a good and affordable private room or cozy dorm in Ottawa? Check out HI Ottawa Jail Hostel. The hostel has been highly rated by backpackers. Also check out our list of best hostels in Ottawa.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in Ottawa, then go for Château Laurier Fairmont Hotel. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Ottawa, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
The Lord Elgin Hotel is probably the best hotel in the Parliament Hill area in Ottawa. It has excellent customer review ratings.
2-Hour Ottawa Express City Bike Tour. See Rideau Hall, cycle the Rideau Canal path, plus see the War Memorial, Byward Market and more. Stop along the way to learn more about certain locations and get local tips from your guide. Price: $36.
Ottawa: Sightseeing River Cruise. See Ottawa's famous landmarks and enjoy entertaining commentary in both English and French on a must-do sightseeing river cruise. Learn fun facts from your bilingual and knowledgable guide, and choose whether to begin your cruise in Ottawa or Gatineau. Price: $25.
Ottawa Private Tour with a Local. Explore Ottawa with a passionate local who will show you all the hidden gems of the city and help you experience the city like a real local. Price: $27.
More things to do in Ottawa
Ottawa, the capital of Canada, sits gracefully at the confluence of the Ottawa, Rideau, and Gatineau rivers, serving as a symbolic heart for a vast and diverse nation. Its history began long before the arrival of European settlers, as the region was originally inhabited by the Algonquin Anishinabe people, who utilized the waterways for trade and travel. In the mid-19th century, the site was transformed from a bustling timber town called Bytown into a permanent capital, a strategic compromise chosen by Queen Victoria to resolve the intense rivalry between Montreal, Toronto, Kingston, and Quebec City.
Today, the city stands as the epicenter of Canadian democracy and cultural identity. It is a place where monumental architecture, such as the neo-Gothic Parliament Buildings on Parliament Hill, harmonizes with vast green spaces and the serene Rideau Canal. Far more than just a bureaucratic center, modern Ottawa is a vibrant hub of bilingualism, science, and technology. It reflects the national commitment to inclusivity and reconciliation, hosting countless national museums, cultural festivals, and the solemn National War Memorial, all while maintaining the intimate, manageable feel of a community-focused city.
Beyond the familiar landmarks, Ottawa holds fascinating secrets for the curious observer. For instance, the city was once famously known as the “oldest city in North America” to adopt the use of electricity for street lighting in 1885, putting it ahead of many larger global counterparts. Furthermore, beneath the busy streets lies a series of high-security bunkers, most notably the Diefenbunker, built during the height of the Cold War to house the Canadian government in the event of a nuclear emergency. Additionally, the city’s iconic tulip festival, held every spring, is not merely a floral display but a profound act of international gratitude, commemorating the Dutch Royal Family’s refuge in Ottawa during the Second World War. These layered stories define Ottawa as a resilient, evolving, and deeply significant Canadian landmark.
We recommend that you read our guide about where to stay in Ottawa. It provides an excellent overview of the most popular areas, highlighting the main attractions and hotel recommendations for each area.
If you like our list of hostels, B&Bs and hotels in Ottawa, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Montreal or the best hotels in Vancouver.