Ottawa Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Ottawa

Renting a car in and around Ottawa provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Parliament Hill, the National Arts Centre, and the Canadian Museum of History—all located within the downtown area. This convenience extends beyond the city, allowing you to discover nearby destinations like Gatineau, where you can enjoy the same cultural landmarks, and Kanata, featuring outdoor activities at Pinhey's Point and the Kevin Haime Golf Centre. For families, managing luggage becomes hassle-free, enabling you to transport everything you need without the stress of public transportation. Whether you seek cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, a rental car facilitates easy travel between Ottawa's neighbourhoods and attractions, making it an ideal choice for all types of travellers. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of having your own vehicle as you explore the diverse offerings of Ottawa and its vicinity.

Most popular car rentals in Ottawa

• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is a highly popular choice among travellers in Ottawa, accommodating up to 5 passengers along with 3 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking for a comfortable and versatile ride. With its spacious interior and fuel efficiency, a Compact SUV allows you to navigate the city and explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize vehicle is a great option for those travelling in groups or with families, comfortably seating up to 5 travellers and providing ample space for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for longer trips where extra luggage capacity is essential. With its spaciousness and reliability, the Fullsize car ensures your travel experience in and around Ottawa is pleasant and hassle-free.
• Midsize SUV: Offering a balance of comfort and space, the Midsize SUV accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for 3 large suitcases. This makes it suitable for families, couples, or small groups who require a bit more room for their luggage while still enjoying a comfortable ride. The Midsize SUV is perfect for exploring Ottawa and its vicinity, providing the versatility needed for both urban and rural adventures.

Top rated car suppliers in Ottawa

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is known for its friendly service and efficient operations, making it a popular choice among travellers in Ottawa. With one rental location in the area, Alamo maintains a strong reputation for clean vehicles and short wait times. The most booked cars include Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs AWD, providing a comfortable option for exploring the city and its surroundings. With an overall rating of 7 out of 10, Alamo offers a reliable and customer-friendly rental experience.
• Enterprise: With over 15 rental locations in Ottawa, Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service and extensive vehicle selection. Travellers appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the smooth rental process. The most popular vehicles include Premium SUVs and Midsize SUVs, catering to various travel needs. With an overall rating of 7 out of 10, Enterprise provides a convenient and trustworthy choice for your car rental needs in the Ottawa area.
• Budget: Budget offers a wide variety of rental options with 10 locations throughout Ottawa, making it easy for travellers to find a convenient pickup spot. Known for competitive pricing, Budget provides excellent choices like Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, ideal for those looking for space and comfort. With a solid reputation in the community, Budget is a great option for visitors wanting to navigate Ottawa and explore the nearby attractions.

Where to stay in Ottawa

• Downtown Ottawa: Experience the vibrant city life in Downtown Ottawa, an ideal location for family, business, and culture-themed experiences. This area is conveniently close to notable attractions such as Parliament Hill, the Canadian Museum of History, and the National Arts Centre, all within a short distance. Alongside these landmarks, you'll find ample shopping options and a variety of dining choices, including local wineries and bars, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration.
• Gatineau: Just across the river, Gatineau offers a charming blend of romantic and family-friendly experiences. This city is home to the renowned Canadian Museum of History and provides easy access to Parliament Hill and the National Arts Centre. Visitors can indulge in local dining options and rejuvenate with spa treatments or body therapies. For those interested in nature, the area's proximity to nature reserves adds an outdoor dimension to your stay.
• Kanata: Situated in the outskirts of Ottawa, Kanata is an excellent choice for families and business travellers alike. The area boasts a range of attractions, including the Canadian War Museum and Pinhey's Point - Horaceville, both offering cultural insights. Kanata is also home to numerous shopping centres and dining options, including local wineries. This borough combines convenience with a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great base for your Ottawa adventures.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Ottawa

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, filters on Expedia can assist you in locating the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often allows you to lock in lower prices and ensures better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—could be unavailable. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable, but ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may be worth the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help prevent unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of any unforeseen incidents during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Ottawa

The best value period to rent a car in Ottawa is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. January also offers a quieter experience with similar demand, making it a good option for budget-conscious travellers. March, while slightly busier, still maintains low pricing and average demand. The summer months, particularly June through August, see prices and demand rise, with August being the most expensive month for rentals in the area. September and October then return to average pricing and demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	15.3°F (-9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	17.2°F (-8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	27.9°F (-2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	35.4°F (1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
December	24.6°F (-4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average