Sitting on the banks of the river of the same name, Ottawa is the very underrated capital city of Canada. It’s a buzzing, cosmopolitan city home to one million people, some fine museums, a cool, creative nightlife scene and some tasty food!
You know what’s not the most fun thing to do in Ottawa? Figure out where to stay. Given the immense size of this city, it can be quite overwhelming to figure out where to stay. Go ahead and set your worries aside, because we here at the Broke Backpacker are here to save the day! We have created this list of the best Airbnbs in Ottawa just for you…
Let’s not waste any more time. We are sure that you are hungry to know more about the best of the best in Ottawa Airbnb accommodations. Let’s get to it!
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Ottawa
Chic Studio Close to Downtown
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Fully Equipped Kitchen
- > Excellent Location
Downtown Basement Studio
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Spacious
- > Free Parking
Condo in the Heart of Byward Market
- > $$$$
- > 5 Guests
- > Private BBQ & outdoor tanning area
- > Private Gym & Game Room
Private Room Next to Downtown
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Busy neighborhood but quiet home
- > Super kind and helpful host
Perfect Condo To Get Work Done
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Multiple places to work
- > Incredible location
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Ottawa
We won’t make you wait any longer – here are our absolute favorite Airbnbs in Ottawa. Once you figure out where you want to stay, head over to our insider Ottawa itinerary, to find out about the hidden gems and hotspots of the city!
Chic Studio Close to Downtown | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Ottawa
This one-bedroom and one-bathroom Ottawa apartment is the best value Airbnb in Ottawa. It is totally chic and exhibits great attention to detail. Both warm and cozy, this apartment is very close to the University of Ottawa, as well as the Downtown scene. You can step out of your door and be amongst the students, soaking up the vibe!
There are tons of restaurants, shops, and cafes close to this Ottawa apartment. Make sure to note that even though it is a basement unit, there is a window where sunlight streams through in the daytime. Given the price and location, it’s hard to find a cheaper short term rental in Ottawa to stay that still has this level of privacy and cute chic vibes!
Downtown Basement Studio | Best Budget Airbnb in Ottawa
You might not have the best views, but you’ll be located in the heart of the city if you’re staying at this Airbnb. The basement studio has a floor window, so you won’t be sitting in the dark all day. It’s fully equipped with your own kitchen, a comfy bed and there’s also free parking on-premises. It’s one of the most affordable homes in Ottawa, so it’s perfect for money-conscious backpackers or solo travellers. There’s also a little table which is ideal for doing some work on your laptop.
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View on Osprey View on REICondo in the Heart of Byward Market | Over-the-Top Luxury Airbnb in Ottawa
This two-bedroom luxurious condo is right in the heart of Byward Market. It is a stunning condo that is within walking distance of all the main tourist attractions. Inside this modern Ottawa Airbnb, you will find a personal and private gym area, as well as a game room complete with a billiards table and foosball table. Outside on the balcony, there is a private BBQ and outdoor tanning area, just for you and your friends!
Keep in mind that all the aforementioned amenities are completely private and inside the condo itself! Inside this Ottawa apartment, there truly is all the bells and whistles that goes above and beyond! Our favorite part of this rental is the views of the parliament building right from your balcony and the floor to ceiling windows.
Private Room Next to Downtown | Perfect Ottawa Airbnb for Solo Travelers
This Private Room in a shared house is the perfect spot for solo travellers that want to explore the city like a local. You’ll have a super bright and spacious room to yourself, while the rest of the house is shared with the host. Guests are welcome to use the fully equipped kitchen and to help themselves with complimentary coffee and tea. Moreover, guests are invited to relax in the living room and terrace — treating this Ottawa Airbnb like a home away from home. Lastly, it’s worth noting that this is a very spacious apartment, with plenty of room to breathe, and is also full of character.
Perfect Condo To Get Work Done | Perfect Short-Term Airbnb in Ottawa for Digital Nomads
Having a comfy space to work is rare in most Airbnbs. Not at this one though! This stunning condo couldn’t be any better for Digital Nomads. You’ll be located a bit further from the centre of the city, but still within walking distance to all attractions. The condo is brand new and offers a great working desk right by the window. If you need a break, just go for a walk around the river or chill on your comfy sofa while watching your favorite series on the Flat Screen TV. The unit comes with free parking, and guests get access to the building’s amenities, such as a gym and a rooftop patio.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Ottawa
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Ottawa!
Modern 1-BR Apartment in Top Location | Best Airbnb in Ottawa for Nightlife
This studio apartment in Ottawa is one bedroom and one-bathroom rental. There is a sofa bed for those who are traveling with a party of three. Speaking of party, this Ottawa Airbnb puts you right where the party is at! Byward Market! This area is known for having the best bars in Ottawa, all of which are crammed in a few city blocks. We love the abundance of bars from the zany and quirky Avant-Garde Bar to the lively Scottish Highlander Pub to the legendary Chateau Lafayette (The Laff).
When staying at this Ottawa Airbnb expect to take advantage of the incredible scene in Byward Market. You can pre-load in your apartment, hit the bars and then walk home!
Sweet Home Away From Home Apt. | Best Short Term Rental for Couples
This Ottawa apartment rental is a dream come true! It is a one-bedroom and one-bathroom Airbnb in Ottawa that is perfect for a romantic getaway. This short-term rental is close to a bevy of restaurants, parks, shopping centers, and bars, near Lower Town Ottawa. Situated on a quiet street, this safe neighborhood puts you at only a 10-minute walk to downtown. Guests will have access to everything in the apartment, including a fully-equipped kitchen stocked with coffee, tea, and snacks for their guests to help themselves too.
There is also free parking and high-speed internet. Given the vibes and the unique charm of this rental, you and your significant other will feel right at home in this short term rental in Ottawa.
Cute Home away from Home | Best Homestay in Ottawa
This cute homestay will make you feel like you’re at home from the second you step through the door. The lovely renovated heritage home is located in the quiet residential area of the Byward Market, in walking distance to outdoor vendors, museums, the Rideau Canal and the Parliament Buildings. You’ll have a cozy room to yourself, but all common areas are shared with the hosts. Speaking of, they are known to be incredibly kind and helpful, so if you need any recommendations or advice on what to do, just reach out to them – they’ll take good care of you!
Artsy Room in Lowertown | Runner-Up Homestay in Ottawa
This Lowertown Ottawa Airbnb rental is for a private room in a house, a one-bedroom with a shared bathroom. It’s a bright, clean room, filled with lots of artistic touches. From the funky accent pillows to the Aztec shawl tacked to the wall as decor to the golden “om” sign adorning the bed frame.
This artsy Ottawa homestay puts you close to all the best things, and everything is quite walkable. There is actually a 24-hour convenience store right on the corner of the street, should you forget any necessities. Also, the main bus line passes directly by this short term rental, and there are many bike packs should you wish to explore Ottawa on wheels! Additionally, you will not only have access to just your bedroom and bathroom, but you are also able to use the kitchen, front porch, back porch, dining room, and living room which happily functions as both the movie theatre and the yoga room!
Deluxe High-Rise Condo w/ City View | Amazing Luxury Airbnb in Ottawa
This luxurious two-bedroom and two-bathroom Ottawa apartment is located in the very center of Ottawa. It’s a modern apartment with the most bright, crisp, and clean kitchen. The art that adorns the walls exhibits incredible taste and adds a layer of polish to this elegant Ottawa Airbnb. The entire apartment is immaculate.
There is a grocery store and a wine shop very close by, which makes errand running as easy as pie! The city view from the living room balcony is unparalleled. Guests will have access to the gym, sauna, indoor swimming pool, and a sunbathing outdoor terrace. This modern short term rental in Ottawa will make you feel so pampered, you might never way to leave (but please do. The terms of our partnership don’t allow us to condone Air B n B squatting).
Spectacular & Spacious Historic Apt. | Best Airbnb in Ottawa for Families
This three-bedroom and one-bathroom apartment is perfect for your family’s next trip. Located next to Byward Market, this historic Ottawa apartment sits on a quiet street with plentiful off-street parking. Both large and bright, this apartment is also kindly equipped with Netflix preprogrammed on the TV and milk in the fridge!
This short term rental is very near the Notre-Dame Basilica, and you can enjoy hearing the bells toll. For those travelling with young ones, the host has thoughtfully provided a crib, high chair, and Pack n’ play travel crib for guest usage. Stair gates are also available, which is an excellent safety feature. Check-in has been made easy with a door code, so check-in is truly a breeze! It’s definitely one of the best Airbnbs to stay in Ottawa with the family in tow!
Modern Downtown Penthouse | Best Airbnb in Ottawa for a Group of Friends
Ever wanted to feel like an executive and live in a Penthouse? Well, now you can.
This gorgeous penthouse short term rental in Ottawa is right in the heart of downtown. It’s a two-bedroom and one bathroom rental that has a third sofa bed available in the living room. And yes, oh yes, this Airbnb in Ottawa is a penthouse suite— right on the top floor of a huge building! Inside you will find a 55′ 4K Smart TV preprogrammed with Netflix, fast 75mb/s wifi, and Egyptian cotton bedding.
You and your friends/mistress will feel like kings and queens in this incredible penthouse suite! There is also one free underground parking space for those who are traveling with cars.
Modern Sunshine in Glebe Studio | Best Airbnb in The Glebe
This is our top entire place to stay in Glebe, complete with one bedroom and one bathroom. This short-term rental was recently renovated and has a brand-spanking-new kitchen, bathroom, and living room. Located in one of the hippest areas, you’ll love the quirky neighborhood and easy walking distance to lots of hidden gems and cool attractions. There are two bedrooms. meaning you can even bring some friends along. It’s not the cheapest of all Airbnbs, but you definitely get quite a bit of value for your money.
Massive 2-Floor Apartment | Another Great Apartment in The Glebe
If you’re travelling with a group of friends or your family, you’ll love this spacious apartment. The three bedrooms sleep up to 6 people at a time. There’s a great living room to socialize and watch TV, while everyone still has enough space to enjoy some privacy if they need some time alone. The neighborhood couldn’t be any better – you’re a short 2-minute walk from Lansdowne Park & TD Place in the heart of the hip and historic Glebe. If you’re travelling in your car, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s a free parking spot included in the rental as well.
Comfy Studio Apt. Downtown | Top Value Airbnb in Gatineau/Downtown Ottawa
This studio Ottawa apartment located in the heart of Downtown Ottawa also called Gatineau. It is close to all the capital’s most popular tourist sites. It is a one-bedroom and one bathroom apartment, however, there is a spacious sofa bed available which means hosting four guests is a breeze. Expect abundant sunshine to flow throughout this Ottawa apartment through all the windows. The roof-top patio is a dream with dazzling south-facing views of the city below. It is also worth mentioning that there is a record player for those who love the sound of record tunes. Swoon and croon on, my friends!
Airbnb Experiences
Do you fancy a day trip to go with that nice little apartment?!
Airbnb Experiences is a feature offered by Airbnb that allows hosts to offer unique, curated activities to guests – or to anyone who’s interested in, even if they’re not staying at an Airbnb property. These experiences can range from cooking classes and guided tours to art workshops, outdoor adventures, and more.
Airbnb Experiences was created to offer travellers a deeper connection with a destination by offering truly unique experiences, all led by locals who are both knowledgeable and passionate about their city.
Some personal highlights of my Airbnb Experiences include a tapas bar-crawl in Granada, a Samurai workshop in Kyoto, and a graffiti spotting bike ride around Bogota.
FAQ about Airbnbs in Ottawa
Here’s what people usually ask us when they look for vacation homes in Ottawa.
What To Pack For Ottawa
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Ottawa Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Ottawa Airbnbs
As the capital city of Canada, Ottawa packs a punch! It’s full of incredible things to do and see, and is also charmingly underrated. That means that these Airbnbs in Ottawa don’t cost a pretty penny. Stay in comfort and ease, as well as in luxury and style, in our top 15 rentals in Ottawa.
Whether you choose a homestay or a penthouse apartment in Ottawa, either way you’re sure to love the charm and the low prices. If you have stayed at a killer Ottawa Airbnb let us know in the comments below— we’d love to hear from you!
If you are heading off to Ottawa, you might want to consider travel insurance. While you’re likely not skydiving or swimming with sharks in Ottawa, anything can happen. Get covered and stay covered with World Nomads Travel Insurance
- Check out our Backpacking Canada guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Ottawa guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers use our budget backpacking guide.
- Make sure you visit the most beautiful places in Canada too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of Canada.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip around Canada.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
