Ottawa may be overshadowed by the major cities to its east and west, but Canada’s capital has grown from the small logging town it was in the 19th century. Downtown Ottawa hosts plenty of festivals, a growing culinary scene, and is packed to the brim with history, arts, and culture. No trip is complete without a visit to ByWard Market, the Houses of Parliament, and the Canada Aviation and Space Museum.
Ottawa is full of government employees and business travellers, and hotels are accordingly priced. Here are the best affordable or cheap hotels that will allow you to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavours that make Canada’s capital truly stand out.
Swiss Hotel
From CAD $159/ night
This family-owned and operated hotel in downtown Ottawa is located in a historical building from 1872. Guests are treated impeccable service and modern amenities, including cotton bathrobes, a 24-hour coffee & tea bar, and in-room Nespresso machines – the only hotel in downtown Ottawa to offer this feature. The hotel’s signature Swiss-style breakfast is sure to prepare you for even the most jam-packed day of sightseeing. The Mediterranean Garden Terrace offers relaxation and tranquility to help you unwind afterwards.
Albert at Bay Suite Hotel
From CAD $159/ night
With the largest suites in downtown Ottawa and plenty of on-site facilities, The Albert at Bay offers excellent value and convenience. The hotel features flexible meeting rooms, a fitness centre, and sauna. Rooms are equipped with pillow-top mattresses, luxurious linens, and a spacious living room, giving guests enough room to unwind. The central location means popular attractions like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the Canada War Museum are within walking distance.
Alt Hotel
From CAD $184/ night
Located in Ottawa’s Centretown neighbourhood, the 148-room Alt Hotel is a comfortable home away from home. This downtown hotel is conveniently located near shops, restaurants, and attractions such as the Currency Museum and the Rideau Locks. Guests love indulging in the hotel’s wine and champagne service, while the Altcetera Café and well-equipped fitness centre are also stand-out amenities.
ByWard Blue Inn
From CAD $111/ night
This charming inn sits on a quiet street in the historic ByWard Market district. The central location of ByWard Blue Inn makes it easy to explore the cafes, galleries, and restaurants the area has to offer. Ensuite bathrooms, private balconies with city views, and an infrared sauna offer a comfortable space to relax at the end of the day. While the rooms are equipped with kitchenettes, complimentary hot and continental breakfasts are served daily.
Lord Elgin Hotel
From CAD $170/ night
Guests are certain to enjoy a stay at the downtown hotel that once welcomed Sir Winston Churchill. The newly renovated rooms at the Lord Elgin feature elegant furnishings with high ceilings to provide spacious, comfortable space to wind down. The hotel features a fitness centre with hot tub and sauna, as well as a modern restaurant stocked with excellent Canadian and international wines.