Solo Female Travel in Ottawa

Ottawa, the bustling capital city of Canada, is situated in the eastern part of Southern Ontario near the city of Montréal and the U.S. border. This vibrant city is renowned for its stately government buildings, especially the gorgeous Gothic structures on Parliament Hill. Ottawa boasts a rich cultural scene with numerous world-class museums and galleries, such as the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of History. The city is famous for its annual Tulip Festival in May, where millions of tulips bloom throughout the city, and the Rideau Canal, which in the wintertime, becomes the world's largest naturally frozen skating rink. This cosmopolitan city seamlessly blends the charm of an old-world city with the vibrant energy of a modern-day metropolis.

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Travel index

Safety:Very safe

Ottawa's capital, is generally considered highly safe for solo female travelers. As a country known for its peace and friendliness, Canada has low crime rates. This includes Ottawa, where safety standards are relentlessly maintained. The people are generally respectful and open-minded which contributes to a sense of security. Public transportation is dependable at most hours and the city is geared towards pedestrian movement, making it easy to navigate. Nonetheless, like any other city, it is always recommended to remain cautious, especially during night hours. But overall, Ottawa offers a comforting and secure environment for solo female travelers.

Transport:Very easy

The city is quite user-friendly with well-indicated signboards and helpful residents. It boasts an efficient public transportation network that includes buses and light rail transit, which makes it easy to navigate around. The city center and most attractions are also within walkable distance. However, bike rentals are another great way to see the city. English and French are widely spoken making communication effortless.

Things to do:Interesting

Ottawa, the capital of Canada, offers a blend of cultural, historical, and nature activities. It holds numerous iconic structures like the Rideau Canal - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can kayak or skate depending on the season. The Parliament Hill and stunning buildings make for great photographs. There are various museums, such as the National Gallery of Canada and Canadian Museum of History that house international exhibitions and indigenous artifacts. Visit the age-old Byward Market for some unique shopping and dining opportunities. Furthermore, you can explore Gatineau Park just outside the city for days packed with biking, camping, and hiking.

Food:Excellent

Ottawa presents an exceptionally rich and diverse food scene. From street food to fine dining, the city offers dishes that cater to all profiles of food lovers. You will find a wonderful mixture of traditional Canadian cuisine and a wide range of international fare like Asian, Italian, Greek and more. Fresh seafood from the east coast and locally sourced ingredients are common sightings in many menus. Ottawa is also famous for its farmer's markets where you can taste local produce. Vegan or vegetarian, don't worry, the choices are aplenty.

Budget:Moderate

Ottawa offers a middle-of-the-road experience when it comes to traveling on a budget. Some activities and attractions, like visiting Parliament Hill, are free, and the city has plenty of affordable dining options. However, the cost of accommodation can be quite high especially if you're planning to stay in the city center. Therefore, it is moderately budget-friendly for travelers.

Is Ottawa worth visiting?

Local tips

Very cute, clean, cozy city. Safe for women at night, be careful in Byward Market at night though (very busy, a lot of people). Beautiful spot to check out is Chelsea, Quebec and Wakefield - cute shops, by the river, really good food. Check out Le Hibou in Wakefield, their black bean burger and goat cheese is so delicious. Taxis are safe, Uber works great. Avoid Vanier Ottawa area (unsafe). Good Ottawa neighbourhoods: Westboro and the Glebe. Check out Gatineau Park, very good hiking trails.

Posted: January 7, 2024
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Meet locals in Ottawa

Meet local women in Ottawa who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Hannah

Hannah

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Hello! Looking to make new friends while travelling whether it’s meeting locals abroad or planning trips with others. Especially interested in budget travel, LGBTQ+ friendly travel, and unique experiences. Also happy to show anyone around Ottawa!

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Chelsea

Chelsea

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Hi, My name is Chelsea, I am an adventure-seeking person who loves meeting new people and learning about new cultures. I'd love to meet like-minded people through this app. Talk soon! 🇨🇦

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Stay with locals in Ottawa

Stay with local women in Ottawa who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Hannah

Hannah

Ottawa

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello! Looking to make new friends while travelling whether it’s meeting locals abroad or planning trips with others. Especially interested in budget travel, LGBTQ+ friendly travel, and unique experiences. Also happy to show anyone around Ottawa!

Speaking

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Chelsea

Chelsea

Ottawa

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi, My name is Chelsea, I am an adventure-seeking person who loves meeting new people and learning about new cultures. I'd love to meet like-minded people through this app. Talk soon! 🇨🇦

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Jade

Jade

Ottawa

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi! My name is Jade and I am going to be traveling the UK/Europe for 6 months with my best friend starting in February. We love arts and culture, night life, nature, and exploring new places 💜

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Oluwaseyi

Oluwaseyi

Ottawa

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Ah! Always a chore introducing myself but I spend most of my time conducting some cool social science research which intersects with public health. I like to travel when I’m not doing that and would usually find a football team, hot yoga studio, martial arts class or swimming pool when I’m in a new city. I also enjoy hiking and going to the beach.

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Haguer

Haguer

Ottawa

Can host for:

7 days

About me

I am an HR professional and mom. I was born and raised in Cairo, Egypt and immigrated to Ottawa, Canada in 2014. I like Yoga, reading and cinema and started and loving hiking. I speak Arabic, French and English.

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Cat

Cat

Ottawa

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi, I'm Cat and I'm interested in animals, art, books, backpacking, camping, diving, education, health, hiking, nature, photography, rafting, sightseeing and swimming

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Olivia

Olivia

Ottawa

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Hey!, My name is Olivia and I'm interested in boozing, events & social, food & cuisine, nightlife, sunbathing, swimming and surfing

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