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
During your trip to Ottawa, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Byward Market Square. Discover the great live music in this walkable area or seek out the local tours.
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.
National Gallery of Canada
You can spend time browsing the exhibits at National Gallery of Canada during your trip to Ottawa. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Rideau Mall
During your visit to Ottawa, you can do some window-shopping at Rideau Mall. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
National War Memorial
Learn about the local history of Ottawa when you spend time at National War Memorial. Experience the acclaimed art galleries or attend a sporting event in this walkable area.
Top hotels in Downtown Ottawa
Lord Elgin Hotel
Room was nice. Beds were good.
Reviewed on 15 Jan 2026
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
There is nothing like a first class hotel, and the Fairmount Chateau Laurier is one! Start to finish, top to bottom. Thanks to each and every member of the staff!
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
ANDAZ OTTAWA BYWARD MARKET, BY HYATT
Clean rooms, friendly staff. This was my second time booking this hotel. I really appreciate the space in each room and the ease of the setup and design
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Cartier Place Suite Hotel
The property was clean and affordable. The pool and hot tub were excellent. The hotel restaurant had a happy hour from 3-6 and we took advantage of that perk. We weren't expecting a kitchen and separate bedroom in the room so that was a very pleasant surprise. We will be back!!
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
Byward Blue Inn
Yes
Reviewed on 14 Jan 2026
The Westin Ottawa
There was renovation going on so at times it was noisy. We were given a 10 dollar breakfast coupon I believe to compensate? The view was spectacular and it was nice shopping in the Rideau Centre.
Reviewed on 12 Jan 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.
Golden Triangle
Golden Triangle is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Elgin Street and Ottawa City Hall while in the area.
Centretown
Known for its abundant dining options and interesting museums, there's plenty to explore in Centretown. Top attractions like Elgin Street and Canadian Museum of Nature 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.
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 Canadian Children's Museum.
