Downtown Ottawa Travel Guide
Ottawa
Visit Downtown Ottawa
Popular places to visit
Parliament Hill
Parliament Hill is just one of the places to see in Ottawa, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Attend a sporting event or visit the shops in this walkable area.
Byward Market Square
You can browse for souvenirs when you visit Byward Market Square, a favourite shopping spot in Ottawa. Discover the acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area or seek out the local tours.
Rogers Centre Ottawa
Learn about the events happening in Rogers Centre Ottawa during your trip to Ottawa. Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.
National Arts Centre
You can get tickets for a performance at National Arts Centre during your trip to Ottawa. Experience the acclaimed art galleries or attend a sporting event in this walkable area.
Rideau Centre
During your visit to Ottawa, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Rideau Centre. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
Parliament Building
After visiting Parliament Building, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Ottawa. Experience the acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
Top hotels in Downtown Ottawa
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
"All great! Loved our stay"
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
ANDAZ OTTAWA BYWARD MARKET, BY HYATT
"Overall great experience! The staff was very friendly. However the rooftop was closed because of an event and we found out that day and that’s why we booked the hotel so a little disappointed ☹️ Overall nice stay"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Les Suites Hotel Ottawa
"L’espace salon et cuisine étaient très bien"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Lord Elgin Hotel
"Great location and service"
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Cartier Place Suite Hotel
"Extremely welcoming staff and a real old-school hotel vibe. Room decor is dated in a mostly nostalgic way, but spacious and clean in a great location. Selfishly, would have a been great if pool opened before 8am."
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Metcalfe Hotel Ottawa by Gray Collection
"Hotel was perfect , beautiful decor, extremely comfortable beds and a lovely vibe! One of fav hotels we have stayed at and definitely will stay here anytime we come back to Ottawa. Highly recommend!"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Ottawa
ByWard Market
A noteworthy feature of ByWard Market is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Byward Market Square and Rideau Centre.
Sandy Hill
Shopping and restaurants are highlights of Sandy Hill. Make a stop by Rideau Centre or Rideau Mall while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at uOttawa Station to get around town.
Centretown
Known for its abundant dining options and interesting museums, there's plenty to explore in Centretown. Top attractions like Parliament Hill and Elgin Street are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Parliament Station or Lyon Station to see more of the city.
Hull
Hull is a destination visitors seek out for its interesting museums, casinos and stunning river views. You might want to check out attractions like Canadian Museum of History or Casino du Lac Leamy while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Old Ottawa East
During your stop in Old Ottawa East, check out the sporting events, and jump on the metro at Lees Station to see more of the surrounding area.
Downtown Gatineau
You'll enjoy the gardens and festivals in Downtown Gatineau. You might want to make time for a stop at Canadian Museum of History or Maison du velo.
