Artisanal breweries in walking distance, a canal that runs through downtown and authentic, historic sites. Ottawa is laid-back, genuine and welcoming.
Welcome to Saintlo Ottawa Jail hostel
You don’t need to commit a crime to go to prison. Just book your room in a real cell block. Although we’ve added comfort, we haven’t touched the most distinctive elements, like the stone walls and iron doors in cells that are over 150 years old.
Every morning, we serve you free breakfast. We also organize tons of activities, including the prison tour. Our youth hostel is just steps from the Parliament Buildings, the Byward Market and the Rideau Canal. You may have already heard of us. We were previously called HI Ottawa Jail.
Rooms and beds
Shared rooms
8 beds
Bed in a room with eight beds with air conditioning and ceiling fan. Includes linen, towels, individual lockers and access to electric outlets.
6 beds
Single bed in a room with six beds with air conditioning and ceiling fan. Includes linen, towels, individual lockers and access to electric outlets. Choose between a co-ed or women-only room.
4 beds
Single bed in a room with four beds with air conditioning and ceiling fan. Includes linen, towels, individual lockers and access to electric outlets. Choose between a co-ed or women-only room.
Private rooms
with more room
Double bed in a cell with free Wi-Fi. Includes linen, towels and access to electric outlets.
for two
Two beds in one cell equipped with a desk. Includes linen, towels and access to electric outlets.
for two with private bathroom
A deluxe double cell with air conditioning and ceiling fan. Includes linen, towels and access to electric outlets. Crib available on request.
We welcome you
from
15:
00
We say bye
before
11:
00
Our no-extra-charge extras
- Picnic Area
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Bike rental nearby
We have room (in prison) for your group
Welcome to our completely original hostel: a historic prison that’s over 150 years old. We’ve made the place a lot cozier, but we haven’t touched the stone walls or iron doors. With its practical communal areas and its many rooms, our youth hostel is just perfect for groups of ten or more people. We also offer free historical tours of the prison. How does that sound? Get in touch with our group manager.
Spend more time enjoying your trip than organizing it.
Free and affordable activities in the hood

Discover the immense talent of our artists
Just a few minutes from our hostel, the Ottawa Art Gallery proudly exhibits artists from the region. You’ll find exhibitions and workshops where you can learn cool observational drawing techniques. If you adore art and immersive experiences, you’ll love it. And the best thing about it is entry is always free.

Relax on the hill
The Tavern on the Hill is worth the detour. In fact, it’s just a few steps away. Surrounded by waterfalls, sip on a delicious fresh beer. The perfect way to end the day.