Popular places to visit
Parliament Hill
Spend a day enjoying the lively debates, artworks, library and Gothic Revival architecture of Canada’s political heart.
Rideau Canal
This engineering and scenic marvel fills with pleasure craft in summer and transforms into the world’s longest naturally frozen skating rink in winter.
Byward Market Square
Fresh local produce, artisanal handicrafts and historic courtyards are some of the many features of Ottawa’s oldest and busiest market.
Carleton University
Enjoy the collegiate vibe at Carleton University during your stay in Ottawa. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
National Arts Centre
You can get tickets for a performance at National Arts Centre on your trip to Ottawa. Experience the acclaimed art scene or attend a sporting event in this walkable area.
Canadian Museum of History
Traverse 20,000 years of Canadian history in just one day at Ottawa’s treasure house of culture.
Things to do
Ottawa: Canadian Museum of Nature Admission
Secrets of the Château Laurier Hotel Tour
Canadian War Museum Admission
Ottawa: National Gallery of Canada Admission
Rockcliffe Ottawa: Exploration Game and Tour
A Self Guided Audio Tour of Ottawa's Hidden History
Vanier Hotel Deals
Lord Elgin Hotel
Didn't have breakfast at hotel, but Bridgehead is a 10 minute walk away and they have great coffee, etc. Lovely hotel, very good location.
Reviewed on Jan 13, 2026
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Bed was unconformable and noisy !!
Reviewed on Jan 12, 2026
The Business Inn
Accomodations were clean and comfortable.
Reviewed on Jan 16, 2026
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG
Room was clean, breakfast was not as good as last time.
Reviewed on Jan 10, 2026
ANDAZ OTTAWA BYWARD MARKET, BY HYATT
Great room, very clean and beautiful. The staff was very nice and helpful. Great weekend trip!
Reviewed on Jan 12, 2026
Welcominns Hotel Ottawa
Quiet and always welcoming
Reviewed on Jan 13, 2026
Other neighborhoods around Vanier
Sandy Hill
Shopping and restaurants are highlights of Sandy Hill. Make a stop by Rideau Centre or Rideau Mall while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at uOttawa Station to get around town.
Downtown Ottawa
Central to Ottawa's financial district and government buildings, this area boasts a vibrant restaurant district on Elgin Street and shopping on Bank Street. Explore heritage sites like Château Laurier and Sparks Street's pedestrian mall.
ByWard Market
This downtown Ottawa's lively retail and entertainment district boasts a dense concentration of eateries, bars, and nightclubs, as well as an open-air market for fresh produce and flowers during warmer months. Cobblestone courtyards, historic buildings, and street entertainment add to the charm.
Golden Triangle
Golden Triangle is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Elgin Street and Ottawa City Hall while you're in town.
Centretown
Known for its ample dining options and fascinating museums, there's plenty to explore in Centretown. You can visit top attractions like Elgin Street and Canadian Museum of Nature, and jump on the metro at Parliament Station or Lyon Station to see more of the city.
Hull
As the central business district and oldest neighborhood in Gatineau, this area boasts a cultural hub with the Canadian Museum of History and Casino du Lac-Leamy. Enjoy the transformed downtown, featuring restaurants, cafés, and stores.
