If you’ve got a layover in Ottawa, don’t let it go to waste sitting at YOW. The city, in Canada, is within easy reach — roughly 70 minutes by O-Train (Line 2 Link). Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at YOW:
First, verify that you can enter Canada — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the O-Train (Line 2 Link) takes about 70 minutes into Ottawa, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — CAD is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| O-Train (Line 2 Link) | ~70 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~90 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the O-Train (Line 2 Link) is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What to Budget for Your Ottawa Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Ottawa might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$19 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$39 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Ottawa, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Bag Storage Near YOW
Luggage storage options at YOW can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Ottawa for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
What’s Worth Seeing in Ottawa
For a layover visit to Ottawa, we’d suggest Parliament Hill and ByWard Market. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Ottawa. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside YOW, you can spend time at Aspire Lounge by Swissport or try Hudson News & Gifts. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near YOW
- In the city: Shawarma Palace and Bytown Poutine & Burger are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Ottawa.
- At the airport: Tim Hortons and Archie’s Bar & Grill will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Sleep & Lounge Options at YOW
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at YOW.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and YOW is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Ottawa and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Ottawa genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.