"The staff was friendly and great, rooms were super clean, great spread for breakfast and lots of room, centrally located. I will definately stay here again"
"The staff was friendly and great, rooms were super clean, great spread for breakfast and lots of room, centrally located. I will definately stay here again"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Big rooms, comfy bed and breakfast had limited choices but it was fine. Excellent location with a 10 min walk to train station to take you into centre. Also easy access to highway if driving.
Big rooms, comfy bed and breakfast had limited choices but it was fine. Excellent location with a 10 min walk to train station to take you into centre. Also easy access to highway if driving.
Dawn
Reviewed September 12, 2026Reviewed September 12, 2026
Absolutely loved going to jail! Really bizzare experience and unforgettable. Cells were authentic and quite small but thankfully the beds were comfortable. Shared communal facilities were fine with enclosed shower cubicles so I didn’t have to worry about dropping the soap. Breakfast was really good.
The only minor niggle was that noise really carries so if someone is spending the night talking loudly on their phone you are privy to their conversations throughout the night. But can’t blame the...
Absolutely loved going to jail! Really bizzare experience and unforgettable. Cells were authentic and quite small but thankfully the beds were comfortable. Shared communal facilities were fine with enclosed shower cubicles so I didn’t have to worry about dropping the soap. Breakfast was really good.
The only minor niggle was that noise really carries so if someone is spending the night talking loudly on their phone you are privy to their conversations throughout the night. But can’t blame the...
We had a short break in Ottawa. The accommodation was ideally located next to the rail link service to the city.
The room was spacious and comfortable.
We had a short break in Ottawa. The accommodation was ideally located next to the rail link service to the city.
The room was spacious and comfortable.
The ladies at reception are very friendly, and one of them (I don’t know her name, but she said her daughter works at the hotel too) gave me some ideas of what’s nice to visit. I had some lovely chats with her.
The room is very clean and comfortable. The breakfast is amazing. The hotel is in a quiet neighbourhood with a good choice of (take-away) restaurants and a very big supermarket nearby. Ottawa is only 20 minutes by bus away, or you can walk there in under an hour.
Highly recommended...
The ladies at reception are very friendly, and one of them (I don’t know her name, but she said her daughter works at the hotel too) gave me some ideas of what’s nice to visit. I had some lovely chats with her.
The room is very clean and comfortable. The breakfast is amazing. The hotel is in a quiet neighbourhood with a good choice of (take-away) restaurants and a very big supermarket nearby. Ottawa is only 20 minutes by bus away, or you can walk there in under an hour.
Highly recommended...
Downtown Ottawa is a paradise of affordable activities and sights that cater perfectly to budget-conscious travellers seeking quality experiences. Start your day at the iconic Parliament Hill, where you can marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture and, best of all, enjoy free daily tours and the captivating Changing of the Guard ceremony in summer. Just a short stroll away, the ByWard Market beckons with its vibrant atmosphere, offering an array of local vendors and artisan shops; be sure to sample the famous BeaverTails pastry for a delightful and inexpensive treat. For art enthusiasts, the National Gallery of Canada provides free admission on Thursdays, allowing you to explore its impressive collection of Canadian and Indigenous art without spending a penny. If your family enjoys nature, the picturesque Rideau Canal provides a scenic backdrop for a leisurely walk or bike ride, and in winter, it's transformed into the world's largest skating rink—perfect for a family outing at minimal cost. After a day of exploration, retreat to the welcoming comfort of budget-friendly hotels in the area, many of which feature family-friendly amenities like complimentary breakfast and spacious rooms, all while being just steps away from these attractions. With attentive guest service and a focus on quality, you can rest assured that your stay in Downtown Ottawa will be both enjoyable and value-packed.
Find the best cheap hotels in Downtown Ottawa
For those seeking affordable stays in Downtown Ottawa without compromising on comfort, these hotels offer great value and essential amenities to enhance your trip.
Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Byward Blue Inn is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers, offering a superb traveler review rating of 9.4. This charming inn provides complimentary continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi, ensuring travelers start their day right without any extra cost. Its location in the historical district adds a cultural touch to your stay, making it both convenient and enriching.
Other amenities: Guests can enjoy a terrace for relaxation, a kitchenette for self-catering needs, and daily housekeeping to keep their space fresh. Each room comes equipped with essential toiletries and an electric kettle. For those seeking outdoor activities, nearby options for skiing and hiking are available, while self-parking and room service add to the convenience of your stay.
Neighborhood: Downtown Ottawa
Nearby attractions: Byward Market Square - 0.4 km, Rideau Centre - 0.5 km, Embassy of the United States - 0.6 km
Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy Rideau Apartments is an ideal pick for budget travellers seeking a home-like experience downtown. With an impressive guest review rating of 9.2, the hotel provides free internet and toiletries, ensuring essential comforts are taken care of while guests enjoy their stay.
Other amenities: This hotel offers a fully equipped kitchen in each apartment, enabling guests to prepare their own meals, alongside facilities like a 24-hour fitness centre and an arcade game room for entertainment. The option for early check-in and late check-out adds flexibility to travel plans, while premium bedding ensures restful nights. Guests will appreciate the convenience of an electric kettle and dishwasher in every room.
Neighborhood: Downtown Ottawa
Nearby attractions: Elgin Street - 0.1 km, Ottawa City Hall - 0.3 km, National Arts Centre - 0.4 km
Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Cartier Place Suite Hotel is a wonderful option for budget travellers, receiving a respectable review rating of 8.4. This hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi and essential toiletries, making it both affordable and convenient. Guests can enjoy amenities like an indoor pool and hot tub, providing a perfect way to unwind after a busy day in Ottawa.
Other amenities: The hotel features a kitchenette in each suite, complete with an oven, stovetop, and microwave for easy meal preparation. Guests can also take advantage of self-parking and early check-in options. The garden area offers a lovely outdoor space, and cribs are available free of charge for families travelling with infants.
Neighborhood: Downtown Ottawa
Nearby attractions: Rideau Canal - 0.4 km, Elgin Street - 0 km, Ottawa City Hall - 0.8 km
Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For adventurous budget travellers, the Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel offers a unique experience with a traveler review rating of 8.4. This affordable hostel provides travelers with complimentary Wi-Fi and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for meeting fellow travellers. Its budget-friendly pricing makes it accessible for those looking to explore Ottawa without overspending.
Other amenities: The hostel features a shared kitchen for travelers to prepare their own meals, a terrace for socialising, and daily housekeeping services. Additional conveniences include self-parking and access to a garden area, ideal for relaxing outdoors. The hotel also offers rollaway extra beds, catering to larger groups or families.
Neighborhood: Downtown Ottawa
Nearby attractions: Rideau Canal - 0.2 km, Elgin Street - 0.6 km, University of Ottawa - 0.4 km
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Downtown Ottawa like for travellers on a budget?
Downtown Ottawa offers a variety of cheap accommodation options and things to do, making it a great choice for a budget-friendly getaway. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions such as Rideau Centre, Byward Market Square and National War Memorial.
What's the best place to stay on a budget in Downtown Ottawa?
Based on reviews, Lord Elgin Hotel is a popular hotel for our travellers who want a more economical choice, and features free Wi-Fi and a health club. Other choices to stay on the cheap include reStays Ottawa and Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel.
How many budget hotels should I expect to find in Downtown Ottawa?
Expedia has 6 hotels in Downtown Ottawa that are ideal if you are watching your pennies.
What is there to see and do in Downtown Ottawa?
Downtown Ottawa attracts visitors with its top museums and major shopping area, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the top local attractions that interest you most, such as Canadian Tire Centre, and then look for sights and activities that cost little or nothing at all. Check out the local culture at National Arts Centre and National Gallery of Canada, or visit other spots like Bytown Museum.
How can I get to Downtown Ottawa and get around on a budget?
Looking at these ways to get around Downtown Ottawa is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The nearest airport is 7.3 mi (11.7 km) away from the centre in Ottawa International Airport (YOW). You can walk to nearby metro stations including Rideau Station, Parliament Station and Lyon Station.