Fairmont Château Laurier
An iconic, castle-like hotel in Ottawa, blending historic grandeur with modern luxury. A true landmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Festive speakeasy vibes
Fairmont Château Laurier
Best Time
Festive speakeasy vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic, castle-like hotel in Ottawa, blending historic grandeur with modern luxury. A true landmark.
"Guests rave about the historic charm and prime location, calling it a fairytale castle."
🚗 Valet Parking Strategy
Valet can be slow. Consider nearby lots or pre-arranging your car retrieval. :car:
☕ Breakfast Views
Enjoy breakfast with a view of Parliament Hill for a memorable start to your day. :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Lobby
Step into a fairytale with this stunning, historic lobby. A true architectural marvel.
Afternoon Tea at Zoe's
Indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea experience, a delightful treat for any visitor.
Christmas Speakeasy (Seasonal)
Experience a magical, festive pop-up bar with holiday cocktails and decor.
Parliament Hill Views
Enjoy breathtaking views of Parliament Hill from select rooms and common areas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Valet Parking Woes
Room Size & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Valet Parking Strategy
Valet can be slow. Consider nearby lots or pre-arranging your car retrieval. +1 :car:
☕ Breakfast Views
Enjoy breakfast with a view of Parliament Hill for a memorable start to your day.
🏰 Fairytale Stay
Embrace the castle-like atmosphere for a truly magical and romantic getaway.
💧 Room Water Pressure
Be aware that some historic rooms may have low water pressure in the shower. :shower:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Valet Parking Strategy
Valet can be slow. Consider nearby lots or pre-arranging your car retrieval. +1 :car:
☕ Breakfast Views
Enjoy breakfast with a view of Parliament Hill for a memorable start to your day.
🏰 Fairytale Stay
Embrace the castle-like atmosphere for a truly magical and romantic getaway.
💧 Room Water Pressure
Be aware that some historic rooms may have low water pressure in the shower. :shower:
📸 Photo Opportunities
The hotel is incredibly photogenic, especially the lobby and seasonal decor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests praise the Fairmont Chateau Laurier's unbeatable location and historic grandeur, often describing it as a fairytale castle. However, recurring issues with valet parking, small rooms, and inconsistent service detract from the luxury experience for some. While the lobby and Gold Level amenities receive high marks, the value for money can be questionable for certain guests. +2
"You lost us when we arrived at 815pm and told valet is full. Have never stayed at a hotel where valet is full. No one helped us with luggage. Took 30 minutes to park and get back to hotel. Room 366 - room is small and bathroom is tiny. No water pressure in shower. Morning breakfast in gold level excellent. Hotel - great location. We get with an old hotel there is only so much you can do with rooms / bathrooms. But the poor service in valet and check in should be an easy win. Housekeeping excellent. Service within Gold excellent.Shouldn’t have to hike across the city the next morning to get valet - and even then had to wait 15 minutes to see if valet was now available."
CapsFam
"First time staying at this location and will likely be the last. Service was good and everyone was friendly. Location is nice but parking is an issue. The value for the cost is 0/5 ⭐️
The room was musty, no mini fridge, no bathroom fan and the ice machine on our floor was out of service for two days.
I’m sure there are many other nicer hotels for half the cost."
Irene Dickson
"I stayed at the Château Laurier while in Ottawa for a Rolex appointment inside their jewlery store in the hotel, and at first I was very impressed. The property is beautiful, and during my stay I spent thousands of dollars, including meals at their restaurant. In 2 days Unfortunately, the way I was treated afterwards completely ruined my opinion.
Because my credit card was being replaced we did a balance transfer to a travel visa, I had a small $80 balance remaining. I explained this clearly, reassured them I would pay as soon as my new card arrived, and even offered alternative methods like debit payment, e-transfer or a certified cheque. Despite this, I received repeated and pressing messages with shifting “expiry dates” to settle the account.
For a guest who traveled for a luxury appointment in their hotel and spent generously during my stay, being treated with suspicion and essentially harassed over such a small balance was extremely disappointing. Instead of being met with trust and understanding, I was made to feel like I was trying to avoid payment, which couldn’t be further from the truth.
It’s sad, because I had looked forward to staying here again for future visits to Ottawa. But after this experience, I won’t be returning. A hotel of this reputation should know how to treat loyal guests with respect, not suspicion."
Marcel David
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fairmont Chateau Laurier is centrally located in downtown Ottawa. It's easily accessible by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops nearby. If driving, be prepared for potential valet parking challenges. +1
There's a U-shaped driveway in front of the hotel that can be used for quick drop-offs and pick-ups.
Yes, valet parking is available, but it can be limited and expensive ($60/night mentioned in reviews). Some guests have opted for nearby paid parking lots due to valet capacity issues. +1
No, the hotel does not offer an airport shuttle service. You'll need to arrange separate transportation from the airport.
For wedding events, consider arriving slightly early to navigate parking or drop-off procedures. The U-shaped driveway is ideal for quick stops. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need tickets to enter the public areas of the Fairmont Chateau Laurier, such as the lobby or bar. Entry is free for all to admire the architecture and ambiance.
The hotel itself is open 24/7 for guests. However, specific amenities like restaurants, bars, and the seasonal speakeasy have their own operating hours. The Elf's Pub speakeasy, for example, is open Wed-Sun from 5pm-11pm during the holiday season.
Room rates vary significantly based on the season, room type, and availability. Reviews suggest it can be pricey, with some guests feeling the value for cost is low. +1
Absolutely! You can visit the hotel to dine at its restaurants, have a drink at the bar, enjoy afternoon tea, or simply explore the magnificent lobby and common areas. +1
Yes, the hotel often hosts seasonal events. During the holidays, a Christmas-themed speakeasy called Elf's Pub is a popular attraction. +2
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the stunning historic lobby, the elegant bar, and if available, the seasonal Elf's Pub. Many guests also enjoy the indoor saltwater pool and the gym.
The hotel has undergone recent renovations, blending modern amenities with its historic charm. However, some rooms retain their smaller, older layouts.
Amenities can vary. Some rooms may not have mini-fridges, and water pressure in showers can be an issue in older rooms. +1
Yes, the Fairmont Chateau Laurier features a nice indoor saltwater pool and a well-equipped gym for guests.
There are local legends and discussions about the hotel being haunted, adding a layer of intrigue for some visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hotel offers several dining options, including Zoe's for afternoon tea, a bar, and other restaurants. Be aware that dining can be quite expensive.
Afternoon tea at Zoe's is a popular and luxurious experience, often highlighted by visitors for its quality and ambiance.
Dining within the hotel is generally considered expensive. For more budget-friendly options, exploring the surrounding Ottawa area is recommended.
The hotel's chefs can accommodate dietary restrictions, as demonstrated by Chef David preparing sugar-free options for a wedding tasting.
Breakfast, especially in the Gold Level, is often described as excellent. Regular breakfast options are also available.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand lobby, the exterior architecture, and any seasonal decorations (like the Christmas speakeasy) are prime photo locations. Rooms with Parliament Hill views also offer great shots.
Yes, the lobby is a public space and is highly encouraged for photos due to its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Absolutely! The hotel's iconic castle-like exterior, especially when framed by the Ottawa River or Parliament Hill, makes for beautiful exterior shots.
The hotel lends itself well to architectural, interior, portrait, and lifestyle photography, capturing its grandeur and elegance.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, it's always best to be mindful of other guests and avoid intrusive photography, especially in private dining or event spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a room with a view of Parliament Hill for added excitement. The indoor saltwater pool is a definite plus for keeping kids entertained. For dining, while the hotel's restaurants are upscale, exploring nearby casual eateries might be more practical for younger palates. Be mindful of the valet parking situation, as it can add stress to family arrivals and departures.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1Opt for a room with a Parliament Hill view for stunning evening vistas. Indulge in a sophisticated afternoon tea at Zoe's or enjoy a cocktail at the hotel bar. The castle-like atmosphere truly enhances the feeling of a special, romantic retreat.
+1✈️ Day-Trippers & Sightseers
Pop in to admire the breathtaking lobby, grab a coffee or a drink at the bar, or even treat yourself to afternoon tea. It's a fantastic way to experience a piece of Ottawa's history and architectural splendor without needing a full overnight stay.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The hotel's limestone facade and distinctive turrets evoke a sense of old-world grandeur, making it feel like a castle. Over the decades, it has hosted countless dignitaries, celebrities, and travelers, cementing its status as a symbol of luxury and history in Canada's capital. Its proximity to Parliament Hill further enhances its historical significance.
Recent multi-million dollar renovations have updated many of its rooms and amenities, ensuring a blend of modern comfort with its timeless design. This careful balance allows guests to experience the hotel's rich past while enjoying contemporary luxury.
Experiencing Fairmont Gold
Guests on Fairmont Gold can expect enhanced amenities and a more intimate atmosphere. The lounge typically provides complimentary breakfast, evening hors d'oeuvres, and a selection of beverages, making it a great place to relax and unwind. Reviews often highlight the excellent service and quality of food and drinks available on this level.
While it comes at a higher price point, Fairmont Gold is often recommended for those seeking a special occasion stay or a more refined travel experience. It offers a distinct advantage in terms of service and exclusivity compared to standard rooms.
+1Seasonal Delights: Elf's Pub
Inside Elf's Pub, you'll find hundreds of ornaments, festive decorations, and a cozy, whimsical atmosphere perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. The menu features a variety of creative and festive cocktails, making it an ideal spot for a unique evening out.
It's important to note that Elf's Pub is a seasonal offering, typically running from late November through early January. Its popularity means it can get busy, so arriving earlier in the evening is often recommended.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit