Car Rental Ottawa

Car rental in Ottawa is an ideal way to discover the best of this expansive city, taking in its wealth of attractions, or getting onto the open road to see the wider sights of Ontario.

As you drive through the city, you’ll pass an eclectic mixture of architecture, and there are ample paid and free parking options if you are looking to explore certain districts and the centre on foot. Navigating the well-signed road network is fairly straightforward.

Bear in mind, the city lies on two rivers and a canal, which divide it into two main parts. Bridges, therefore, are required to carry and manage the city’s traffic.

While driving in urban areas of Ontario, expect the speed limit to generally sit at around 50km/h. However, be aware of ‘gateway’ speed limit zones signposted at various entrance points around Ottawa’s residential areas, where 40km/h has been deemed a more appropriate speed.

Some major highways have a maximum speed limit of 100km/h, but many other rural and country highways have a speed limit of 80km/h or 90km/h – always check the signs for the route that you are on. You'll most likely find yourself using highway 417 in Ottawa, which is the main route through the city.

If you’re thinking of heading out of Ottawa, around 15 minutes’ drive to the north across the Ottawa River you’ll come to the dynamic city of Gatineau in neighbouring Quebec. Five bridges connect the two cities, and although they are in two separate provinces, together they form the National Capital Region. Spend a day at Gatineau Park and watch the world go by.

With its spectacular sights and proud local culture, Ottawa has a great deal to offer.

There are world-class museums and galleries, as well as attractions ideal for enthusiasts of food and outdoor adventures alike. Make the most of your time in Canada’s energetic capital with your rental car.

Dine and shop in style

Ottawa is a flourishing foodie community, with Michelin star eateries, passionate chefs and local traditional cafes and restaurants all making their presence felt in the city.

How better to experience everything this diverse culinary scene has to offer than taking a delicious culinary tour? Various providers offer the chance for you to tantalize your taste buds in restaurants, farmers’ markets and food shops.

Whether you want to sample fine dining, or simply enjoy some authentic fried Beavertails, you’ll find plenty of delicious gastronomy here.

The ByWard Market is the heart and soul of Ottawa, located in the centre of the city, and its vibrancy is not to be missed. By day, this area is a thriving shopping district full of boutiques and a historic farmers’ market. By night, it’s a buzzing spot for nightlife with a variety of restaurants and bars.

This area has a welcoming, neighbourhood vibe. Whether you’re looking to sample the local cuisine, get your hands on some fresh produce or upgrade your wardrobe, ByWard Market is not to be missed.

Spectacle on the Hill

Parliament Hill is the most visited attraction in Ottawa, but it is well deserving of that popularity. This is the prime location for famous national celebrations, and the beautiful front lawn is where the Changing of the Guard takes place daily.

Depending on the time of year you are visiting, you could experience a number of occasions. During the summer, the Canada Day fireworks display is a wonder to behold, as is the Northern Lights Sound and Light show which happens nightly. In winter, the Christmas Lights Across Canada sees thousands of twinkling bulbs illuminate the hill.

Canals and culture

The Rideau Canal weaves gently through downtown Ottawa, before stretching 202 kilometres all the way to Kingston in southern Ontario.

Park up and soak in the beauty of your breathtaking surroundings with a walk, run or bike ride along the banks. Or, in the winter, you could experience the canal differently by pulling on some ice skates and gliding along the Rideau Canal Skateway.

However you choose to enjoy this UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s certainly not to be missed when visiting the city.

Ottawa also has the privilege of playing host to many nationally important cultural sites. Plan a full day of history, art and exploration, taking in the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian War Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum and the Rideau Hall.

With all this to see and do, and much more awaiting when you arrive, experience all the city has to offer with car rental in Ottawa.