$22 Car Rental Ottawa

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Ottawa

Renting a car in Ottawa offers a great way to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions like Parliament Hill, the National Arts Centre, and the Canadian Museum of History, all conveniently located in Downtown Ottawa. This flexibility allows you to manage your luggage effortlessly while enjoying the freedom to create your own travel itinerary. Families will find the convenience of a rental car beneficial, as it simplifies trips to various outdoor locations and cultural sites without the hassle of public transportation. Beyond the city, a rental car makes it easy to venture to nearby areas like Gatineau, which features the same cultural landmarks, or Kanata, known for its recreational options such as Pinhey's Point - Horaceville and the Canadian War Museum. Having your own vehicle ensures that you can explore these destinations without time constraints, making your visit to Ottawa enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in Ottawa

• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is a popular choice for travelers in Ottawa, accommodating up to 5 people with room for 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small families, offering a balance of comfort and maneuverability. With a Compact SUV, you can navigate the city with ease while enjoying the freedom to explore surrounding areas at your own pace.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is designed for those traveling with larger groups or families. It comfortably fits up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for families or groups looking for ample space for both passengers and luggage, ensuring that everyone can travel together without feeling cramped. Enjoy the flexibility of exploring Ottawa and beyond with this roomy vehicle.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a versatile vehicle suitable for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers and offering space for 3 large suitcases. This option combines the comfort of an SUV with the practicality needed for a road trip, allowing you to carry your belongings easily while providing a comfortable ride. It's a great choice for those looking to experience all that Ottawa has to offer while enjoying a spacious interior.

Top rated car suppliers in Ottawa

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is an excellent choice for those seeking a straightforward rental experience in Ottawa. With one conveniently located rental location, Alamo specializes in Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, making it easy to find the right vehicle for your needs. Travelers appreciate Alamo for its quick pickup process and friendly staff, ensuring a smooth start to your journey. The well-maintained vehicles and hassle-free returns further enhance the overall experience. Alamo is a reliable option for your Ottawa adventure.
• Enterprise: With over 15 rental locations throughout Ottawa, Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service and flexible rental options. Travelers often commend the helpful staff and efficient check-in process, which makes securing your vehicle a breeze. Enterprise offers a range of Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, catering to various travel needs. Whether you're exploring the city or heading out on a road trip, Enterprise provides a dependable and customer-friendly experience, ensuring your rental journey is enjoyable.
• Budget: Budget offers a solid selection of vehicles with 10 rental locations in Ottawa, making it a convenient choice for travelers. Known for its competitive pricing, Budget specializes in Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, providing options that suit various group sizes and preferences. Customers appreciate Budget's efficient service and easy booking process, allowing for a hassle-free rental experience. With its focus on value and convenience, Budget is a great option for anyone looking to explore Ottawa and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Ottawa

• Downtown Ottawa: This vibrant neighborhood is ideal for travelers seeking a city-themed experience, whether for family or business. Downtown Ottawa is home to significant landmarks such as Parliament Hill, the Canadian Museum of History, and the National Arts Centre, all of which enhance the cultural vacation experience. The area features shopping centers and a variety of dining options, including wineries and vineyards, making it a convenient base for exploration.
• Gatineau: Located just across the river from Ottawa, Gatineau offers a romantic and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy attractions like the Canadian Museum of History and Parliament Hill, both rich in cultural significance. The city also boasts wellness venues such as spas and fine dining restaurants, providing a relaxing retreat after sightseeing. Gatineau's close proximity to nature reserves adds to its appeal for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors.
• Kanata: This borough caters to families and business travelers alike, with access to shopping mall centers and educational institutions. Key attractions in Kanata include Pinhey's Point - Horaceville, a historic house, and the Canadian War Museum, which offers a deep dive into military history. The area features various dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a practical and enjoyable location for visitors exploring the Ottawa region.

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 features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to book your car well in advance of your trip. By reserving early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced option, combining cost-effectiveness, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This could also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most favorable option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just be sure to return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worth the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unforeseen expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Ottawa

The best value period to rent a car in and around Ottawa is March, when prices are at their lowest and demand is moderately low. February also offers slightly low prices and low demand, making it a quiet option. Following March, April tends to have similar characteristics with slight price increases. However, August becomes the most expensive month with high demand, while June and July also see slightly high prices and moderately high demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	15.3°F (-9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
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	Slightly Low
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

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Ottawa

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Ottawa into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Ottawa and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Ottawa

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Ottawa. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Ottawa

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $22.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals