The Best Hotels to Book in Ottawa

The charming, European-inspired Swiss Hotel is a peaceful haven in bustling downtown Ottawa. With 22 cosy rooms and an adults-only policy, the hotel is ideal for couples looking for quiet central accommodation. Rooms are simple with rainfall showers and in-room Nespresso machines for your morning brew. Upgrade to the Spa Suite if soaking in a giant bathtub sounds appealing. The hotel’s European theme continues with its Swiss-style breakfast buffet, enjoyed by the fireplace in winter or on the terrace come summer.

With an unbeatable location and historic character, the Lord Elgin is often described as an iconic hotel in Ottawa. Steps away from Confederation Park, the current building was constructed back in the 1940s, using local Niagara limestone specially chosen by then Prime Minister Mackenzie King. Although it retains many of its original features, the hotel is now furnished in a luxurious modern fashion, with subtle hints towards its traditional art deco heritage.

A popular place to stay in Ottawa that really does feel like a home away from home, Les Suites offers extremely spacious one- and two-bedroom suites for short breaks and extended stays. Inside, you’ll find full kitchens and laundry facilities, plus pets are welcome to join you. Head to the fifth floor and start your day with a few laps of the pool – or workout in the onsite fitness center. In-room spa treatments are among the perks here – including Swedish massages and manicure/pedicures.

One of the most upmarket choices in the city, ARC The Hotel is large and boutique-style, just a few blocks from Parliament Hill. The 112 guest rooms are all inspired by an ‘urban luxury’ theme, with decadent touches including huge Roman style bathtubs. The award-winning hotel restaurant, the ARC Lounge, is also a welcome addition, whether you’re looking for a quick evening drink or a romantic meal for two.

Offering a cut above your typical bed and breakfast experience, the King Edward has all the amenities you would expect from a hotel, in a relaxed, homely setting. Set in an impressive Victorian home, two spacious rooms are all decorated in an elegant style in keeping with the property’s period character. Owner Richard is an attentive host and, as well as serving a delicious home-cooked breakfast, is happy to provide guests with plenty of personal recommendations for things to do in the local area.

Just outside Ottawa, in the city’s Kanata area, is the Brookstreet Hotel. Golfers flock here due to the 18-hole championship golf course and nine-hole short course. Those looking for Ottawa hotels with suites need look no further, rooms range from simple doubles to more spacious deluxe suites with a balcony. Those with allergies will be pleased to hear that Brookstreet go above-and-beyond to offer hypoallergenic rooms – with custom bedding alongside nut- and pet-free assurance. Take advantage of the two saltwater pools and live jazz nights at the lounge.

If you want the ultimate in comfortable stays, opt for a suite at Cartier Place, one of Ottawa’s best luxury hotels. This gorgeous upmarket hotel offers the largest suite style rooms you’ll find in the city, available with either one- or two-bedrooms. Each one includes a kitchen as well as laundry facilities, perfect for extended stays, plus it is pet friendly. Highlights include an indoor pool, sauna and steam room alongside a fitness centre and outdoor playground for kids. The hotel itself enjoys a great central location in downtown Ottawa, making it perfect for exploring many of the nearby tourist attractions.

For a more budget-friendly option right in the centre of the action, the ByWard Blue Inn is a great choice. Located at the heart of Ottawa’s bustling ByWard Market, this place is perfect for exploring the food market plus local boutiques, bars and restaurants that dominate the area. Rooms are comfortably decorated and feature helpful modern amenities like private kitchenettes, as well as specially commissioned artwork by the artist B.F. Wallace.

The lofty cement ceilings and wood accents in the 115 rooms here exhibit a sleek industrial vibe. Each one is equipped with luxurious touches, like goose down duvets and feather pillows for restful nights. Explore Ottawa in a chauffeured Lexus, a service offered by the hotel. Dine at their onsite restaurant, Norca, where dishes like halibut and braised lamb shank are crafted with local ingredients.

The Fairmont Château Laurier in Ottawa’s city center honours Sir Wilfrid Laurier, Canada’s seventh prime minister, and has been welcoming guests since 1912. Borrow an iPad from the front desk and learn the history of the hotel by taking a half-hour, self-guided tour. The five-star hotel in Ottawa boasts 429 rooms, all which embody an old-world charm, with castle-like turrets and marble bathrooms, plus there’s an 18m (59ft) pool to unwind in at the end of the day.

This Ottawa boutique hotel accommodation is situated in Old Town Kemptville, 30 minutes by car from Ottawa. The seven upscale suites that occupy this historic building from 1847 feature exposed beams and stone walls for a modern flair. Though rooms come equipped with heated bathroom floors and electric fireplaces, book yourself in for one of the jacuzzi suites for ultimate relaxation.

Just three blocks from Parliament Hill in downtown Ottawa is the Metcalfe Hotel, a three-star modern boutique. Its lobby embodies an industrial-chic vibe – dark wood bookcases mounted on the wall complement the Edison style bulbs that hang from the ceiling. At The Rox, the hotel’s onsite restaurant, expect items like charcuterie boards, chicken burgers, and onion soup.