I feel safe here Fun to visit the parliament and all the museums Public transportation takes you everywhere and is reliable Food is good and service is excellent The tap water is really good no aftertaste
Posted: January 1, 2025Experienced: January, 2025Based on 26 local experiences
Based on 26 local experiences
Camille
It’s usually pretty safe, walking alone at night is still okay I’ve always done it. There’s a lot of homeless around Rideau but as long as you don’t engage or look like you know where you’re going they won’t bother you. Usually they just ask for food.
Posted: December 22, 2025Yannie
Very chill city, people are calm and nice, there are homeless people around certain pockets but they usually mind their own business, just have to get used to seeing them on the streets and don’t actively interact with them
Posted: November 18, 2025Ottawa is still relatively safe, but in recent years there’s been an increase in homelessness, especially downtown. Most areas are fine for walking during the day, but at night it’s better to stay in well-lit, busier streets and be aware of your surroundings
Posted: August 14, 2025Maya
In general it is a very safe city especially compared to other places. There are of course certain areas that I wouldn't recommend after dark but if you are in a group or out during the day, it is a very safe place to travel.
Posted: May 14, 2025I live in the downtown area on the more sketchy side. Walking at night you should be vigilant as always but I never feel threatened. I have had men approach me to hit on me but it’s never been menacing or anything I haven’t encountered in other cities.
Posted: April 21, 2025The safety map shows areas in Ottawa where women have reported feeling unsafe.
Rosemary
Ottawa
3 days
I’m an arts enthusiast with a deep love for theater, a dedicated foodie, and an avid cook who finds joy in creating delicious meals. Friendly and open-minded, I thrive on exploring new experiences and ideas. I cherish time spent on the beach and enjoy hiking in nature. Above all, I nurture connections that enrich both myself and others, believing in the power of relationships to make us fundamentally better people.
Giulia
Ottawa
7 days
Hello! My name is Giulia, I am a French exchange student for a year in Ottawa, at Carleton University. I am taking advantage of this year abroad to travel and meet new people with whom I can have a good time over a good meal, discovering the city or exploring nature 💃. I also really like arts and crafts so if you are up for a painting, crochet or pottery workshop, let's be friends! 😘