Downtown Ottawa, Parliament Hill, and the ByWard Market are walkable and connected by the O-Train, so a rental car isn’t necessary for a trip that stays in the city core.
Ottawa’s Core Is More Compact Than Most Capitals
Unlike some capital cities, Ottawa’s main sights sit close enough together that many visitors comfortably skip a rental car entirely, relying on walking and the O-Train instead.
When a Car Helps
Gatineau Park, just across the river in Quebec, offers hiking and some of the region’s best fall foliage a short drive from downtown, and is far easier to explore fully with your own car.
Compare rental rates above if Gatineau Park is part of your plans, or check flight and hotel options if you’re keeping things downtown.