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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Ottawa
Ottawa
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Ottawa
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Ottawa
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Ottawa
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Ottawa?
Ottawa, the capital of Canada, offers a blend of historical sites, cultural attractions, and beautiful natural landscapes. While the city has public transportation, renting a car provides the freedom to explore at your own pace and reach destinations that are not easily accessible by bus or train.
Explore Beyond the City Centre. A rental car allows you to easily visit attractions outside Ottawa, such as Gatineau Park, the charming town of Perth, or the scenic Rideau Canal.
Convenience and Comfort. Especially if you're travelling with family or carrying luggage, a car provides comfort and convenience. You can avoid the hassle of public transport schedules and crowded buses or trains.
Flexibility to Create Your Own Itinerary. With a rental car, you have the flexibility to visit attractions whenever you want and stay as long as you like. You are not bound by tour schedules or public transport timetables.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Ottawa
Before renting a car in Ottawa, ensure you meet the age requirements, have a valid driver's license, and understand the rental agreement. Be aware of insurance options, security deposits, and fuel policies to avoid surprises.
Area
2,790 square kilometres (1,077 square miles)
Population
Approximately 1 million residents
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (EST/EDT)
Ideal for
Exploring national parks
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsThe minimum age to rent a car in Ottawa is typically 21 years old, but some companies may have higher age requirements or charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license from your country of residence is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or French.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental companies offer various insurance options, including collision damage waiver (CDW) and liability coverage. A security deposit is usually required and held on your credit card until the car is returned.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies can vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others imposing limits. Fuel policies often require you to return the car with the same amount of fuel as when you picked it up.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options like GPS navigation, child seats, or additional drivers.
Car Rental Prices in Ottawa – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £16 / $20 / €19
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9
Executive:
from £25 / $31 / €30
7 Seater:
from £28 / $35 / €34
Automatic:
from £16 / $20 / €19
SUV:
from £8 / $10 / €10
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often come with discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Ottawa?
Booking a car in Ottawa involves a few key steps to ensure a smooth rental experience. Compare prices, select the right vehicle, understand the rental terms, book early, and remember to bring all necessary documents when you pick up your car.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various car rental companies in Ottawa.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and features.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review the rental agreement carefully, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and any other required documents when you pick up your rental car.
General Information About Ottawa
Ottawa is known for its historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and beautiful parks. Renting a car can be a great way to explore the city and its surrounding areas. However, it's important to be aware of local traffic regulations and parking options.
As the capital of Canada, Ottawa is a vibrant city with a rich history and diverse cultural scene. While Ottawa has a reliable public transportation system, a car rental allows you to explore the wider region at your own pace. Ottawa experiences moderate traffic congestion during peak hours, so plan accordingly. Familiarise yourself with local traffic laws and parking regulations to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Parliament Hill
Home to Canada's Parliament and a National Historic Site.
Canadian War Museum
A world-renowned museum showcasing Canada's military history.
National Gallery of Canada
One of Canada's premier art galleries, featuring an extensive collection of Canadian and international art.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several parking garages are available downtown, offering hourly and daily rates.
On-Street Parking
Metered on-street parking is available in many areas, but it can be limited during peak hours.
Park & Ride
Park & Ride lots are located throughout the city, allowing you to park your car and take public transit to your destination.
Gas Stations in Ottawa
Major Brands Available
Gas stations from major brands like Petro-Canada, Shell, and Esso are widely available throughout Ottawa.
Refuelling Tips
Gas prices can vary, so compare prices at different stations. Credit and debit cards are commonly accepted at gas pumps.
Accessibility
Gas stations are generally easy to access from major roads and highways.
Useful Tips for Visiting Ottawa
Plan for Traffic
Traffic can be heavy during rush hours, so plan your trips accordingly.
Use GPS Navigation
A GPS navigation system can help you find your way around the city and avoid traffic congestion.
Check Weather Conditions
Ottawa experiences a range of weather conditions, so check the forecast before you travel.
Be Aware of Local Laws
Familiarise yourself with local traffic laws and regulations to avoid fines or penalties.
Key Transportation Hubs in Ottawa
Major Bus Stations
Ottawa Central Station
Serves as the main hub for intercity bus services, connecting Ottawa with various destinations across Canada.
Railway Stations
Ottawa Train Station
Located east of downtown, provides VIA Rail services to major cities like Toronto and Montreal.
Airports
Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport (YOW)
Located approximately 10 kilometres (6 miles) south of downtown Ottawa, serving both domestic and international flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Ottawa?
Renting a car in Ottawa is a straightforward process. You'll need to meet a few key requirements before you can drive away.
You'll need a valid driver's license from your country or province of residence. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or French.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
A valid credit card in the renter's name is required for the security deposit. Some companies may accept debit cards, but restrictions may apply.
A passport or other form of government-issued identification may be required.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Ottawa as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Chill vibe, eh?
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 13.01.2025
Ottawa was gorgeous! Getting around with a rental car made everything so easy. Highly recommend.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 18.09.2024
Heard great things about Ottawa, and they were true! So easy to get around, and the city is stunning.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 07.05.2025
Summer in Ottawa was fantastic! Having a car made sightseeing a breeze. Highly recommend a visit.
Olivia Garcia
Reviewed: 16.10.2024
Pretty chill place
Ava Brown
Reviewed: 14.01.2025
Exploring Ottawa by car was a dream! The city's charm and beauty were easily accessible, and I loved the ease of getting around. Highly recommend!
Evelyn Reed
Reviewed: 30.06.2025
Ottawa exceeded my expectations! My quick business trip was made so much easier by having a car. The city is beautiful and efficient.
Katherine Lee
Reviewed: 09.06.2025
Pretty chill city, eh?
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 29.10.2024
Ottawa lived up to the hype! Exploring with a car was so convenient. Beautiful city, friendly people, and amazing sights.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 22.07.2025