Global Major Cities Guide

Understanding the coins and banknotes commonly used in Canada, including tips on carrying cash versus card payments.

Official Currency:
The official currency in Ottawa, as in the rest of Canada, is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). It is often symbolized as $ or C$ to distinguish it from other dollar currencies.
- Coins: Commonly used coins include:
  - 5 cents (nickel)
  - 10 cents (dime)
  - 25 cents (quarter)
  - $1 (loonie)
  - $2 (toonie)
- Banknotes: Canadian banknotes come in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. The $20 bill is the most commonly used for everyday transactions.
Currency Design:
Canadian coins and banknotes are distinct and colorful, with unique designs that make them easy to identify. Banknotes are made of polymer, making them durable and resistant to wear.

Where to Exchange Money:
- Banks: Major Canadian banks like RBC, TD, Scotiabank, and CIBC offer currency exchange services. Banks typically provide competitive rates but may charge a small fee for non-account holders.
- Currency Exchange Offices: Specialized currency exchange offices, such as those found in shopping malls or near tourist areas, are convenient but may have higher fees or less favorable rates.
- Airport: Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport has currency exchange kiosks, but rates are often less favorable than in the city.
- ATMs: Many ATMs in Ottawa allow you to withdraw Canadian dollars directly using your foreign debit or credit card. Be aware of potential foreign transaction fees and exchange rate markups.
Tips for Exchanging Money:
- Compare rates at different locations before exchanging large amounts.
- Avoid exchanging money at hotels, as their rates are often the least favorable.
- If you have a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, it may be more cost-effective to use it for purchases instead of exchanging large amounts of cash.

When Cash is Preferred:
- Small Businesses: Some small, independent businesses, food trucks, or market vendors (e.g., at the ByWard Market) may prefer cash, though many now accept cards.
- Tipping: Cash is often used for tipping in restaurants, bars, taxis, and for hotel staff.
- Public Transit: While Ottawa’s OC Transpo buses and the O-Train accept Presto cards and mobile payments, cash is still accepted for single-ride fares. Exact change is required.
- Street Performers and Charity Donations: If you want to tip street performers or donate to local charities, cash is the easiest option.
Typical Costs for Everyday Items:
- Coffee: $2.50–$5
- Fast food meal: $10–$15
- Sit-down restaurant meal: $20–$40 per person
- Public transit single fare: $3.75 (cash)
- Museum admission: $10–$20
- Taxi ride (5 km): $15–$20
Carrying Cash:
- It’s a good idea to carry a small amount of cash (e.g., $20–$50) for situations where cards are not accepted. However, Ottawa is largely a cashless-friendly city, and most places accept debit and credit cards.

Card Payments:
- Debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Ottawa, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
- Many businesses use tap-to-pay/contactless payment systems, making it quick and easy to pay with your card or smartphone.
Digital Wallets:
- Mobile payment options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are commonly accepted in Ottawa.
- These are especially convenient for small purchases or when you don’t want to carry cash.
ATMs:
- ATMs are widely available throughout Ottawa, including at banks, shopping centers, and convenience stores.
- Look for ATMs affiliated with major banks to avoid high withdrawal fees. Independent ATMs (e.g., in bars or small shops) often charge higher fees.

Restaurants:
- Tipping is customary in Ottawa, and the standard rate is 15–20% of the pre-tax bill. Some restaurants may automatically include a gratuity for larger groups (e.g., 6 or more people).
Bars:
- Tip $1–$2 per drink or 15–20% of the total bill.
Taxis and Rideshares:
- Tip 10–15% of the fare.
Hotels:
- Tip $2–$5 per bag for bellhops and $2–$5 per night for housekeeping.
Other Services:
- For hairdressers, spa services, or tour guides, tipping 10–20% is standard.

Budgeting for Your Stay:
- Ottawa is moderately priced compared to other Canadian cities like Toronto or Vancouver. Plan for daily expenses of around $100–$150 per person, including meals, transportation, and attractions.
Taxes:
- Be aware that prices displayed in stores and restaurants do not include taxes. In Ottawa, you’ll pay a 13% Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on most goods and services.
Receipts:
- Keep receipts for larger purchases, as some stores may allow tax refunds for non-residents (though this is less common in Canada than in some other countries).

Politeness:
- Canadians, including Ottawans, are known for their politeness. If you’re paying with cash, it’s customary to hand the money directly to the cashier rather than placing it on the counter.
Exact Change:
- If paying in cash, try to use exact change or smaller denominations, as some businesses may not accept large bills (e.g., $100 notes) for small purchases.
Rounding:
- Canada phased out the penny in 2013. Cash transactions are rounded to the nearest 5 cents. For example:
  - $1.02 rounds down to $1.00
  - $1.03 rounds up to $1.05

Cash: Useful for small purchases, tipping, and public transit, but not essential for most transactions.
Cards: Widely accepted and often preferred. Contactless payments are common.
Tipping: Expected in many service industries, with 15–20% being the norm.
Currency Exchange: Use banks or ATMs for the best rates, and avoid airport kiosks if possible.
Budget: Plan for taxes and tipping when estimating costs.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to handle cash, coins, and payments during your time in Ottawa. Enjoy your visit!

Ottawa