About

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 a 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.

Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel Policy and Conditions:

Cancellation policy: 24h before arrival. In case of a late cancellation or No Show, you will be charged the first night of your stay.

Check in from 15:00 to 00:00 .
Check out from 00:00 to 11:00 .

Please note that reservations must be made with a valid credit card in the name of the traveler making the reservation and who will be staying at the hostel. We only accept credit cards or debit card payment at front desk.

Taxes not included
- The mandatory provincial and federal taxes (13%) will be applied at check-in.
- 6% Municipal Accommodation Tax
- Please note that you must be at least 18 years old to stay here and have valid government issued photo ID.
- This property may pre-authorise your card before arrival.

General:
24 hours reception.
No curfew.

House Rules

Check In

15:00 - 24:00

Check Out

until 11:00

  • Taxes Not Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free Breakfast
  • Free City Maps
  • Free WiFi
  • Free Internet Access
  • Free City Tour
  • Free Luggage Storage
  • Bicycle Parking
  • Luggage Storage
View all facilities

Reviews

9.1Superb(652)
  • Value for Money
    9.0
  • Security
    9.3
  • Atmosphere
    8.5
  • Cleanliness
    9.2
  • Staff
    9.4
  • Location
    9.5
  • Facilities
    8.9
Summary of traveller reviews

Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel offers a unique stay in a historic former prison. Guests praise its excellent central location, friendly staff, and clean facilities. The free jail tour is a highlight. Some find the rooms small and note noise can be an issue due to the building's structure.

Stayed in Jul 2026
10
K
Kathleen
Female, 41+, Canada
Appreciate the breakfast.
Stayed in Jul 2026
2.0
F
Frederico
Male, 41+, USA
I’m giving a bad review only because of the “show the credit card” policy they impose on check in. Come on guys. It’s 2026. Some people generate temporary one-use only cards exactly to do stuff like online bookings. And the concept is that after a card was used, it simply disappears forever. Because it is attached to a real physical card. But only once.
Stayed in Jul 2026
8.0
R
Rana
Male, 41+, Pakistan
Good location breakfast good
View all reviews

Location

75 Nicholas Street, Ottawa, Canada
1.3km from city centre