Uncover Nature-Located Retreats, Fancy Escapes, and Budget-Friendly Places to Stay in Ottawa!
When I was younger, I found booking hostels to save a few bucks more appealing than opting for a private room. An obvious advantage was meeting a lot of fellow travelers, some of whom I’m still friends with even now!
However, now that I’m a bit more seasoned with more money than I had when I was a broke, freshly out-of-college adventurer, I’m starting to lean toward luxury accommodations.
I’ve swapped my shared dorm bunk for a king-size bed and a buffet spread so enticing that I’m actually setting an alarm just to wake up for breakfast.
That said, there is no right or wrong when choosing the perfect place to stay. You can mix and match, settle into one style forever, or enjoy a bit of everything—it’s all up to you!
Whatever you’re after, I’m confident there’s a home away from home waiting for you in Ottawa. That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive list of accommodations.
Whether you’re hunting for budget-friendly hideaways, nature-immersed escapes, or downright indulgent retreats, I’ve got something for every taste and budget.
Luxurious Experiences for Discerning Travelers
Ottawa Marriott Hotel
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Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yowmc-ottawa-marriott-hote
Address: 100 Kent St
Contact details: +1 613-238-1122
Pricing: $$
Known worldwide for its exceptional customer service, the Ottawa Marriott Hotel is the ideal home in the city for those who want to be pampered amidst luxurious amenities.
From the moment you step into the sparkling lobby, with its sophisticated furnishings, you’ll be tempted to book a stay immediately.
And of course, their rooms are no different, as you’ll be welcomed by plush beddings and deluxe touches that will make you feel like you’re indulging in an opulent escape.
Plus, the hotel’s prime location places you near top attractions in the heart of the city.
Fairmont Château Laurier
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Website: https://www.fairmont.com/laurier-ottawa/
Address: 1 Rideau St
Contact details: +1 613-241-1414
Pricing: $$$
Fairmont Château Laurier is Ottawa’s very own dreamy escape that is often considered the city’s castle. One look at its Gothic Revival exterior is enough to take your breath away!
Its facade paints Ottawa with an elegant allure, making it one of the best architectural designs one can enjoy in the capital.
Fortunately, you can feel like royalty for a day (or two, or three!) if you book an accommodation. You’ll get to live out your Bridgerton fantasy with its sophisticated furnishings and afternoon tea opportunities!
Lord Elgin Hotel
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Website: https://lordelginhotel.ca/
Address: 100 Elgin St
Contact details: +1 613-235-3333
Pricing: $$
Lord Elgin Hotel is an enticing favorite well-known for its classic charm that never seems to lose its sparkle. Its rooms echo this fact, offering a blend of timeless elegance and modern comfort to ensure a stay that’s both luxurious and memorable.
Situated in Downtown Ottawa, its premier location is another exciting factor to consider, especially if you want popular destinations just within walking distance from your stay.
The Westin Ottawa
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Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yowwi-the-westin-ottawa/
Address: 11 Colonel By Dr
Contact details: +1 613-560-7000
Pricing: $$$
The Westin Ottawa towers over the city center with its refined contemporary charm, calling out to those with a penchant for sleek and stylish accommodation.
Complete with convenient amenities and thoughtful touches like an indoor heated saltwater pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center, it’s the ideal urban retreat for anyone who wants to unwind in style.
Some of its rooms welcome gorgeous views of Parliament Hill—a lovely addition to its already impressive set of features.
And if that’s not alluring enough, you can even see Rideau Canal, Ottawa’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, through some of its expansive windows.
Budget Stays for Thrifty Explorers
Ottawa Backpackers Inn
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Website: https://ottawahostel.com/
Address: 203 York St
Contact details: +1 613-241-3402
Pricing: $
Ottawa Backpackers Inn is a simple, no-fuss hostel, much like your own home away from home.
Not only will you snag an affordable cozy accommodation, but you’ll also effortlessly make new friends during your stay.
You can choose to get comfy in one of the dorms shared with four to ten people, either mixed or just fellow female travelers. Alternatively, if you don’t mind splurging a bit for the sake of privacy, you can opt for a private room.
While the Ottawa Backpackers Inn is nothing fancy, they still manage to provide convenient facilities to make everyone’s stay pleasant, including free WiFi, free tea and coffee (milk too!), secure lockers, luggage storage, and more.
The Century House Bed and Breakfast
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Website: https://www.thecenturyhousebnbottawa.com/
Address: 62 Stewart St
Contact details: +1 613-853-0102
Pricing: $
The Century House is a charming stay with a stylish brown brick facade that exudes a classic elegance. The rooms, though simple, are cozy enough to make you feel right at home.
Believe it or not, former guests find the breakfast extremely delightful. Every day features a different set of freshly prepared dishes, making it a tasty adventure worth waking up for.
Aside from the affordable pricing, everyone’s favorite part about this B&B is its remarkable location. Located on the fringe of Lowertown, it’s easy to explore the renowned destinations of Ottawa during your stay.
For example, the National Arts Centre is just a 12-minute walk — you definitely won’t break a sweat!
However, when it’s hot out, taking a cab might be a better idea. Alternatively, knowing how to take the OC Transpo like a pro will make Ottawa even more accessible!
Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel
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Website: https://saintlo.ca/en/hostels/ottawa-jail/
Address: 75 Nicholas St
Contact details: +1 613-235-2595
Pricing: $
Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel is exactly what it sounds like. For the duration of your stay, you’ll be sleeping in what used to be an actual cell block.
Now I know what you’re thinking: “What the heck?”.
Arguably, this accommodation isn’t for everyone. However, those with a taste for adventure will likely find this experience quite intriguing.
You have the option to stay in an actual cell but instead of a creaky old mattress, there’s plush bedding that won’t require you to count sheep at night.
On the other hand, you can stay in a room with bunk beds, a private one with private bathrooms, and other unique options.
Adventurous Campsites for Nature Lovers
Wesley Clover Parks Campground
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Website: https://www.wesleycloverparks.com/campground
Address: 411 Corkstown Rd
Contact details: +1 613-828-6632
Pricing: $
If you don’t mind exchanging the convenience of urban life for a tranquil slice of nature and a chance to unwind, Wesley Clover Parks Campground is an enticing choice.
Actually, Downtown Ottawa isn’t even that far away! It’s just a quick 20-minute drive.
Folks can choose to stay in the campground’s cabin for a touch of glamping, set up a tent, or even park an RV.
And since you’re already at Wesley Clover Parks, you might as well check out the cool stuff around. In its charming grounds, you can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities, including cross-country skiing, hiking, horse riding, and more.
Sleepy Cedars Family Camping
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Website: https://www.sleepycedarsfamilycamping.ca/
Address: 1893 Manotick Station Rd, Greely
Contact details: +1 613-821-0756
Pricing: $
Sleepy Cedars Family Camping is the perfect retreat for seasonal or daily camping adventures. The sites come equipped with picnic tables and fire pits—ideal for roasting marshmallows and making memories.
They also have spotless washroom facilities so you don’t have to do your “business” in a bush. I mean, that’s basically a recipe for disaster in horror movies!
Everything is geared towards making your camping trip as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible.
And don’t worry about leaving your furry friends behind for this escapade; pets are welcome, but limit it to two per family as per their rules.
Camp Hither Hills
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Website: https://camphitherhills.com/
Address: 5227 Bank St
Contact details: +1 613-822-0509
Pricing: $
Nestled in a picturesque setting away from the hustle and bustle, Camp Hither Hills is a standout choice for campers seeking both the comfort of nature’s serenity and the convenience of glamping-style amenities packed with modern facilities.
One of the highlights of staying here is its spacious 30/50 amp sites, each equipped with lovely patios perfect for RVs of all sizes.
For those keen on exploring, Camp Hither Hills offers easy access to a variety of local tourist attractions. You’re never far from exciting activities and points of interest, making it a fantastic base for discovering the surrounding area.