Which hotels offer the best views of the Rideau Canal?

The Fairmont Château Laurier and The Westin Ottawa offer some of the most iconic, unobstructed views of the Rideau Canal and Parliament Hill.

Are these hotels convenient for Winterlude skating?

Yes, properties like the Sheraton Ottawa, Lord Elgin, and The Westin are located directly adjacent or just steps away from the canal access points, making them perfect for Winterlude.

Is staying in ByWard Market noisy?

While ByWard Market is lively, luxury hotels like the Andaz Ottawa use high-quality soundproofing to ensure a quiet rest while keeping you close to the best dining and nightlife.

Ottawa · Collection

Canal-Side Living: Front Row to the Rideau in Ottawa

Last updated: July 23, 20268 hotels

Ottawa's defining feature is undoubtedly the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site that snakes through the heart of the capital. Staying along this historic waterway offers more than just scenic views; it places you at the epicenter of Canadian culture. Our curated collection focuses on properties that serve as your front-row seat to the action, whether it is the vibrant summer boat traffic or the world's largest skating rink in winter. From the fairytale turrets of the Fairmont Château Laurier in the downtown core to the contemporary chic of Andaz Ottawa in the bustling ByWard Market, these hotels define luxury. Experience the seamless blend of political history in Centretown and the natural beauty of the canal right at your doorstep.

View of the Fairmont Château Laurier's turrets rising above the frozen Rideau Canal locks.

1 Rideau St. Ottawa Canada K1N 8S7

8.3Excellent

5-star hotel

FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAURIER OTTAWA

Perched like a limestone sentinel above the Rideau Canal, the Fairmont Château Laurier serves as Ottawa’s unofficial radiator of political heat. The lobby, a cavern of crystal chandeliers and marble, hums with the whispers of power brokers—and the clacking of tourists' heels. But let’s cut through the nostalgia: while the 'castle' silhouette is iconic, the standard rooms can feel like time capsules from a less luxurious era—often drafty and tired. The real power play is the **Fairmont Gold** floor. Recently minted with a **Michelin Key (2025)**, this 'hotel within a hotel' delivers the polish the rest of the property chases, complete with a private lounge offering the city's best breakfast views. Downstairs, the **1929 Art Deco saltwater pool** remains a triumph of pink marble and brass, a chic spot to wash off the Senate debates. For sustenance, skip the predictable banquet halls and head to **Zoe’s**. Order *The Statesman*—a cocktail as smoky and brooding as the politicians who drink it. The service, led by an award-winning concierge team, navigates the chaos with military precision. **Verdict:** A historic heavyweight that demands you upgrade to Gold to avoid the dust of history.

Why Choose Ottawa for Canal-Side Living: Front Row to the Rideau?

Ottawa offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor recreation that is rare among G7 capitals. Choosing a hotel along the Rideau Canal is not merely about securing a room with a view; it is about immersing yourself in the lifestyle of the city. The hotels listed, such as the Westin Ottawa and the Sheraton Ottawa Hotel, provide direct access to the canal's pathways, perfect for morning jogs or evening strolls. The historical significance of the area, anchored by Parliament Hill, adds a layer of prestige to your stay. In winter, the canal transforms into the Skateway, allowing guests at nearby properties like the Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre to literally skate from their hotel to museums and galleries.

Top Areas to Stay

Downtown & Centretown: This is the heart of the action. Hotels like the Ottawa Marriott Hotel and Arc The Hotel Ottawa place you within walking distance of the business district and major government buildings. It is ideal for those who want a mix of luxury and convenience.
ByWard Market: For a more energetic vibe, the market area is home to the Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market. This neighborhood is famous for its culinary scene, nightlife, and boutique shopping, all while being just steps from the canal's edge.
Confederation Square: Dominated by the Fairmont Château Laurier, this area offers the most iconic views of the locks and the Ottawa River, serving as the bridge between the commercial center and the historic market.

What to Expect

Guests choosing canal-side living in Ottawa can expect world-class amenities and service. Properties like the DoubleTree by Hilton Ottawa Downtown offer warm welcomes and comfortable suites, while luxury icons provide high-end concierge services to arrange private tours or parliamentary visits. Expect breathtaking views of the Gothic Revival architecture of Parliament, especially at sunset. Whether you are visiting for the Tulip Festival in spring or Winterlude in February, these front-row properties ensure you are never far from the festivities.

Frequently asked questions

Which hotels offer the best views of the Rideau Canal?: The Fairmont Château Laurier and The Westin Ottawa offer some of the most iconic, unobstructed views of the Rideau Canal and Parliament Hill.
Are these hotels convenient for Winterlude skating?: Yes, properties like the Sheraton Ottawa, Lord Elgin, and The Westin are located directly adjacent or just steps away from the canal access points, making them perfect for Winterlude.
Is staying in ByWard Market noisy?: While ByWard Market is lively, luxury hotels like the Andaz Ottawa use high-quality soundproofing to ensure a quiet rest while keeping you close to the best dining and nightlife.

Collection

All themes in Ottawa