Downtown Ottawa is a visitor friendly area with most important sights and attractions located within walking distance or a short ride of each other.
The main points of interest include Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, Sparks Street Mall, Rideau Shopping Centre and several other shopping centers and museums.
On the eastern bank of the Rideau Canal, across from Ottawa downtown area are the University of Ottawa, Sandy Hill 'embassy row' and the famous Byward Market with its many special shops, restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
Hotels in downtown Ottawa give visitors the opportunity to enjoy the city, or get to their business destinations without the need of a car.