Car Rental University of Ottawa

These University of Ottawa insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 2, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around University of Ottawa

Renting a car around the University of Ottawa offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Parliament Hill and the National Arts Centre, both located less than 1 mile away. The convenience of a vehicle allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, making it ideal for travelers who want to experience the local culture without the constraints of public transportation.

Additionally, you can explore the nearby Canadian Museum of History, which is 1 mile from the university. This flexibility makes it a great choice for families or groups who appreciate having space for luggage and gear. Visitors seeking friendly interactions will find it easy to navigate through the vibrant streets of Ottawa and into the neighboring city of Gatineau, also just a mile away. Whether you’re interested in cultural experiences or simply wish to enjoy the sights around Downtown Ottawa, a rental car provides a convenient way to make the most of your trip.

Most popular car rentals near University of Ottawa

• Midsize: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for couples or families. The midsize option provides a balance of space and maneuverability, allowing you to navigate the streets around University of Ottawa comfortably while having enough room for luggage.
• Fullsize: This option accommodates 5 travelers with the flexibility to carry up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, which is ideal for families or groups traveling together. The fullsize car ensures ample space for passengers and their belongings, making it a practical option for those planning to explore the area around University of Ottawa with comfort.
• Compact: Perfect for up to 5 travelers with the ability to carry 3 medium suitcases, the compact car is great for solo travelers, couples, or small families. Its size makes it easier to park and navigate through busy areas near University of Ottawa, while still providing enough space for your essentials during your trip.

Top rated car suppliers near University of Ottawa

• Budget: Budget features 2 rental locations near the University of Ottawa, with the closest being only 1 mile away. This supplier is popular among travelers, particularly for their Midsize SUV and Fullsize models, which are frequently booked. Budget is known for offering flexibility, making it a suitable choice for those looking to explore the area at their own pace.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out with 2 rental locations located less than 1 mile from the University of Ottawa. The company is favored for its Midsize and Compact SUV options, which are often chosen by travelers. Their close proximity to the university adds to the convenience, allowing you to easily manage your itinerary and luggage while enjoying your visit to Ottawa.
• Hertz: Hertz operates 1 rental location situated 2 miles away from the University of Ottawa. This supplier is recognized for its Midsize and Fullsize vehicle offerings, which cater to various travel needs. While slightly farther than the other options, Hertz provides a reliable choice for those looking to explore beyond the immediate vicinity of the university.

Where to stay near University of Ottawa

• Downtown Ottawa: Located less than 1 mile from the University of Ottawa, Downtown Ottawa offers a vibrant city-themed experience. This area features popular attractions such as Parliament Hill and the National Arts Centre, both suitable for cultural vacations. You'll find a variety of shopping centers and dining options, including wineries and vineyards, making it an ideal spot for both leisure and business travelers.
• Gatineau: Just 1 mile away from the University of Ottawa, Gatineau provides a charming blend of city life and romantic ambiance. This city is home to notable attractions like the Canadian Museum of History and Parliament Hill, perfect for culture enthusiasts. Gatineau also boasts an array of dining options that cater to diverse tastes, making it a great choice for families looking to explore the region.

10 tips to save on your car rental around University of Ottawa

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car to save money, Expedia's filters can help you discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and greater availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a nice balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—like SUVs or premium models—might not be available. Renters over 70 can also be affected by age restrictions. Always verify the age requirements before making your reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most economical. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra 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 around University of Ottawa

The best value period for renting a car around the University of Ottawa is March, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. April also offers decent value with low demand and slightly low prices. As spring turns into summer, June through August see a rise in prices and high demand, particularly in August, which is typically the most expensive month for rentals. July and August can be quite busy, making it less ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	15.3°F (-9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
February	17.2°F (-8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
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	Low	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	High	Average
July	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	35.4°F (1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	24.6°F (-4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average