A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Ottawa for Attractions, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit La Paz or Ottawa?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Ottawa can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

La Paz

La Paz is a authentic, cultural, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See La Paz travel costs.

Ottawa

Ottawa is a friendly, welcoming, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Ottawa travel costs.

La Paz and Ottawa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in La Paz or Ottawa?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in La Paz than Ottawa. While Ottawa is larger than La Paz, La Paz has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Paz is more touristy than Ottawa and is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach. Ottawa is popular for its history, politics, and green space.

How is La Paz different from Ottawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ottawa and La Paz. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Ottawa?

La Paz
Ottawa

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both La Paz and Ottawa.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into La Paz. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Ottawa. As the country's capital, there are a large number of museums to explore. There are summer national museums in town which include the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of History, the Science and Technology Museum, the Aviation and Space Museum, the Agriculture and Food Museum, the Museum of Nature, and the War Museum.


Is the Food Better in La Paz or Ottawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz
Ottawa

La Paz is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

La Paz has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

Ottawa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The culinary scene highlights many Canadian classics like poutine and maple donuts (and, of course, the classic Tim Horton's), but you'll also find plenty of international options like shawarma.

Is La Paz or Ottawa Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Ottawa

La Paz is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Ottawa is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

Ottawa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's not the first place that comes to mind when you think about partying, but there are live music venues and a some great bars around town.

Is La Paz or Ottawa Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Ottawa

La Paz is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Ottawa is not a resort destination.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Ottawa is not a resort destination.


Is La Paz or Ottawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Ottawa

La Paz is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ottawa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Ottawa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Ottawa Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Ottawa

La Paz is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Ottawa is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in La Paz. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Ottawa is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Ottawa?

La Paz
Ottawa

La Paz is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Ottawa is a great destination for shopping. You'll find large malls, outlets, and shopping streets that are fun to browse. Some of the favorite shopping areas include ByWard Market, Sparks Street, and CF Rideau Centre.


Is La Paz or Ottawa Better for Families?

La Paz
Ottawa

La Paz is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in La Paz. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ottawa. As the country's capital, you'll find a number of museums that will keep a kid's attention. In particular, check out the aviation, science, and nature museums. If you have a car, you can head out to Calypso Water Park, which is fun as well.

Is La Paz or Ottawa Better for Couples?

La Paz
Ottawa

Both La Paz and Ottawa are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

La Paz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Ottawa is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with parks and green spaces where you can enjoy flowers or peaceful walks. Commissioners Park is particularly nice and known for its tulips during the spring season. Dow's Lake is a nice place for ice skating in the winter or kayaking in the summer. The city also offers a number of romantic restaurants and charming hotels.

Is La Paz or Ottawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Ottawa

La Paz is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Ottawa is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a surprising number of hostels around town.


Is La Paz or Ottawa Better for Students?

La Paz
Ottawa

Ottawa is a city with good options for students. However, La Paz is not popular with students.

Ottawa is a good city to visit for students. It appeals to international and Canadian students alike. It's known for its livability and diverse cultural scene.

La Paz is not popular with students.

Is La Paz or Ottawa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

La Paz
Ottawa

Both La Paz and Ottawa offer good public transit options.

La Paz has a few public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Ottawa has some public transit options. There is both a public bus and light rail system.

Is La Paz or Ottawa a more walkable city?

La Paz
Ottawa

La Paz is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

La Paz is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable.

Ottawa is somewhat walkable. Many of the urban neighborhoods are very walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Ottawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ottawa or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Ottawa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both La Paz and Ottawa. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in La Paz than in Ottawa. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 2-3 days is enough time in Ottawa.

Families should spend more time in La Paz than Ottawa. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in La Paz, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in La Paz than Ottawa. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in La Paz that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Ottawa if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Ottawa? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Ottawa 2-3

One day in La Paz or Ottawa?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of La Paz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Ottawa. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in La Paz or Ottawa?

La Paz is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Ottawa is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Ottawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Paz. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ottawa. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in La Paz or Ottawa?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic destination of La Paz. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the welcoming destination of Ottawa. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Ottawa or La Paz?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, while the average daily cost in Ottawa is $134. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for La Paz and Ottawa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Ottawa $18
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Ottawa $36
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Ottawa

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Ottawa? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in La Paz


Hotels in Ottawa


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: La Paz Hotel Prices and Ottawa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Ottawa $7.21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz hotels to La Paz International Airport (LAP) - Departure Private Transfer: $80
  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $159

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ottawa

Also for Ottawa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier Airport YOW: $40
  • Ottawa Airport YOW Private Transfer to Ottawa/University/Chelsea: $42
  • Private Arrival Transfer in Ottawa Airport : $51
  • Private Transfer from Ottawa Airport (YOW) to Ottawa City: $56
  • Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier Airport (YOW) to Ottawa - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $122
  • Ottawa Parc Omega Private Tour with Hotel Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Ottawa?

Prices for flights to both Ottawa and La Paz change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    La Paz $60
    Ottawa $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Paz.

  • 3 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $77
  • 3 hrs SEAFOOD Tour in La Paz: $103

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ottawa

For Ottawa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Ottawa Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $76
  • Oh Canada Eh!? Dinner Musical : $77
  • Taste of the ByWard Market Food Tour: $104
  • Evening Taste of the ByWard Market Food Tour: $104
  • Guided ByWard Market Food Tour: $107
  • A Taste of Canada Food Tour: $108
  • Taste of Canada Food Tour with Guide: $112

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $11
    Ottawa $40

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • 1 Day Espiritu Santo Island Wonders, Sea Lions and Paddleboard Adventure : $249
  • 3 Hours La Paz Whale Shark First Class Snorkeling Tour: $167
  • Adventure to Espiritu Santo Island: Snorkel with Sea Lions and Beach: $127
  • Birding La Paz Mexico 4hrs.Tour : $160
  • Birding Tour in La Paz Mexico: $177
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $95
  • Cultural and Culinary Tour of El Triunfo, Baja California Sur: $250
  • Desert Off Road Adventure Tour in La Paz: $261
  • Desert and Dunes ATV Adventure in La Paz BCS Mexico: $195
  • Espíritu Santo and Balandra Beach Combo Tour: Sea Lion Snorkeling: $250
  • Espiritu Santo Island Day Tour: $170
  • Espiritu Santo Island Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $145

Tours and Activities in Ottawa

For Ottawa, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ottawa City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based : $5.00
  • Rockcliffe Exploration Game and Tour: $7.16
  • Street Art Exploration Game and Self-Guided Tour in Ottawa: $7.16
  • Ottawa Downtown Historic Smartphone Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Ottawa Mystery Quest: Self-Guided Detective Adventure: $8.36
  • A Self Guided Audio Tour of Ottawa's Hidden History: $8.99
  • Ottawa Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $9.61
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ottawa by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Ottawa Valleyview Little Animal Farm Tour: $10
  • Ottawa's Original Historical Highlights Public Walking Tour: $18
  • Ottawa : Historic Tour of the Ottawa Jail Hostel: $18
  • Aqua Taxi Hop-on and Hop-Off Tour: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $11
    Ottawa $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Ottawa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Ottawa:

  • Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Chelsea: Guided tour of the Square Distillery: $25


When comparing the travel costs between La Paz and Ottawa, we can see that Ottawa is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is La Paz Expensive? and Is Ottawa Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Ottawa?

Ottawa has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of La Paz. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Ottawa, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit La Paz or Ottawa?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit La Paz or Ottawa in the Summer?

Both Ottawa and La Paz during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to La Paz for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ottawa in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, La Paz is a little warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Paz in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Ottawa averages at about 21°C (71°F).

In Ottawa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the summer, La Paz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ottawa. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 268 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Ottawa. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Ottawa receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Ottawa 21°C (71°F)

Should I visit La Paz or Ottawa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Ottawa. Many visitors come to La Paz in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ottawa for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, La Paz is generally much warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Ottawa fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 116 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Ottawa. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Ottawa receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Ottawa 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit La Paz or Ottawa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Ottawa. Most visitors come to La Paz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Ottawa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ottawa can be very cold. La Paz is much warmer than Ottawa in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Ottawa fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the winter, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Ottawa. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 93 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Ottawa. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Ottawa receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Ottawa -10°C (14°F)

Should I visit La Paz or Ottawa in the Spring?

Both Ottawa and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to La Paz because of the beaches.

In the spring, La Paz is much warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Ottawa averages at about 6°C (44°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Ottawa. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Ottawa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Ottawa 6°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Ottawa and La Paz

La Paz Ottawa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) -10°C (14°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) -9°C (16°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) -2°C (28°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 13°C (56°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 19°C (65°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 21°C (71°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 20°C (68°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 2°C (36°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) -7°C (20°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)