Where to stay in Ottawa
Vacation house with a pool or hot tub in Ottawa
Pet friendly vacation homes in Ottawa
Where Is Ottawa, Canada?
Lying on the South Bank of Ottawa River in the eastern portion of southern Ontario, stands Canada’s capital city of Ottawa. With a population of over one million, Ottawa is — despite its capital city status — the fourth largest city in Canada. However, don’t forget the integral importance of this incredible city! The city, formerly known as Bytown, is proud to present its status of having the highest standard of living amongst Canadian cities and possesses an unsurpassed record of low unemployment. Hop across the river to visit the neighboring city of Gatineau, or if you wish to explore the surrounding National Capital Region, possible locales of interest include Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette, Clarence-Rockland or Russell.
What Is Ottawa, Canada Known For?
Standing proud and strong as Canada’s capital city, Ottawa has much to boast about. Founded in 1826 as Bytown, Ottawa has evolved into a political powerhouse and a hub for education. The city itself is home to numerous higher educational institutes and boasts the most educated population amongst other Canadian cities. However, an emphasis on intellect is not all that this city is about. With the National Arts Centre, the National Gallery, and numerous national museums, Ottawa is also proud to present its love and admiration for arts and culture. Ottawa is arguably one of the best cities to live, visit, and ultimately thrive.
Popular Attractions in Ottawa
- Canadian War Museum: Lest we forget, a trip to the Canadian War Museum ought not to be missed. This inspiring building, in more ways than one, pays respectful tribute to the serving and fallen members of the Canadian Armed Forces. This national museum covers and explores a comprehensive story of Canada’s extensive military history, from the very first records of war-related death from centuries ago to the country’s involvement in the world’s most recent conflicts. Of course, there are exhibitions on some of the most devastating wars in history including World War I, World War II, and The Cold War. The museum is home to the Military History Research Center, rotating galleries, exhibitions, and a collection of 500,000 artefacts including uniforms, medals, weapons and more.
- ByWard Market: A bustling mecca of hip farmers’ market stalls and indie food stores, ByWard Market is a farmers’ market like no other! Splashed in color with vibrant street art and charming stores filled with homemade crafts and clothes, there is something unique to be found in every corner of ByWard Market. If you don’t fancy splashing the cash on something that can’t be found elsewhere during the day, the nightlife is equally as fascinating with rustic taverns, pubs, and trendy gay bars.
- Parliament Hill: Stand on Parliament Hill where some of the most important political decisions in Canada have been made. Colloquially known as “The Hill,” Parliament Hill is the home to the Canadian Parliament. Attracting three million visitors every year, locals and tourists alike flock to The Hill to soak in the history, political importance, and stunning Gothic architectural details that are of national symbolic importance. Several monuments and statues are erected in tribute to numerous important figures in Canadian history. Whether you are interested in politics, history, or just want to take in the aesthetically pleasing sights, a trip to Parliament Hill is an absolute must.
Popular Destinations Near Ottawa
- Merrickville: Under one hour drive away, Merrickville is a tiny little town that feels like it’s from a storybook. With idyllic scenery of the Rideau River, lush greenery, charming independent shops, and several locations for photo opportunities, Merrickville is the perfect day trip away from the hustle and bustle of the city of Ottawa.
- Wakefield: Deemed as one of the most famous day trips from Ottawa, Wakefield is proud to present scenery and beauty like no other. Located in Quebec, a day trip to Wakefield includes a wonderful and scenic drive through Gatineau Park to get to the town. With views of placid water, rolling green hills, and the feeling of a fresh, calming breeze, Wakefield is an unmissable place to see in all its wonder, regardless of what time of year you go. If you happen to go during the warm summer days, remember to bring your swimsuit so you can frolic in the water by the bridge.
Best Neighborhoods in Ottawa
- Centretown: Vibrant, safe, and far from boring, Ottawa is a diverse multicultural city that celebrates diversity and is made up of several eclectic neighborhoods, one of which is Centretown. Literally within the center of town, Centretown is a unique mix of commercial and residential, that caters to both family-friendly visitors, as well as the young and upwardly mobile. Home to numerous landmarks and host to a plethora of history, there is plenty to do in Centretown, with quick and easy access to the Rideau Canal and walking distance from the ByWard Market. Whatever you’re looking for, Centretown has got it.
- Old Ottawa South and The Glebe: Despite being a mainly residential neighborhood, the prosperous aesthetic of Old Ottawa South and The Glebe provides an interesting tourist opportunity. With colonial-era buildings, lush parks, gardens, and tree-lined streets, this charming residential quarter looks less like someone’s neighborhood, and more a film set from the 1950s. With chic cafés, brunch spots, organic food shops, and easy access to the Canal, Old Ottawa South and The Glebe seems to be more like a bizarrely fascinating cross between Los Angeles and Paris.
Home-types in Ottawa
Ottawa has a variety of property types for you to consider when booking a trip. Here are the most popular property types in Ottawa:
- Hotel: 159 vacation rentals
- House: 112 vacation rentals
- Bed and Breakfast: 18 vacation rentals
Popular rental amenities
Price trends in Ottawa
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