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Canberra travel blog — the fullest canberra travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers.

No hustle or bustle, not full of cars and tall buildings, Canberra is surprisingly peaceful and charming. Visitors can take a yacht on the lake, walk in the woods or take a horseback riding in a poetic valley. In addition, you can also explore Canberra’s most famous tourist attractions such as the War Memorial, National Carillon Bell Tower or immerse yourself in the Floriade Flower Festival. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect trip to Canberra for the first-time? Let’s check out our Canberra travel blog (Canberra blog) with the fullest Canberra travel guide (Canberra guide, Canberra tourist guide) from how to get, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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Canberra is the capital of Australia, this is a new city, built through an architectural design competition and it is also referred to as the “Australia’s Bush Capital”. This is also the only Australian city located deep in inland, and is completely new planning in the style of a garden city. Canberra does not owns skyscrapers (the highest is 15-storey), instead houses are surrounded by natural trees. The dense green areas in the city so that Canberra is always the first choice for those who love nature, airy and fresh environment.

Canberra travel guide: Overview of Canberra

Canberra is located in the Southeast of New South Wales, 280km to the southwest of Sydney and 660km to the northeast of Melbourne with an area of ​​2,358 km2 and population of 460,000 (2020). Canberra does not belong to any state. The city architecture style is garden house combined with nature. Therefore, Canberra is known as “the bush capital”.

Read more: The fullest Sydney city guide blog for a great trip to Sydney for the first-timers.

Evidence suggests that the Canberra area was inhabited by 21,000 years ago. In the past, the indigenous Australians settled here seasonally. Then Europeans began to settle down in Australia. Canberra became the capital in 1908. This is an agreement between the two largest cities in Australia, Sydney and Melbourne . The name Canberra means “meeting place” in the old Ngunnawal aboriginal language, which is the native Australian language.

In the early 20th century, when the Australian federal government intended to choose a site as the capital, the cities of Sydney and Melbourne were considered the two brightest candidates because at that time, Sydney was a densely populated city and the most developed while Melbourne is considered the oldest city. To resolve this conflict, the federal government decided to build an entirely new city, located between Sydney and Melbourne as the capital of Australia.

Canberra travel blog: When to visit?

Canberra is characterized by a relatively dry continental climate with four distinct seasons.

Summer (December – February). The average temperature ranges from 12-27 degrees Celsius. In this season, it is warm during the day, sometimes quite hot and more pleasant during the night. In this season, Canberra holds the largest Floriade flower festival in Australia. And is the good season for you to visit other places in Canberra. Besides, there are many outdoor activities. Especially water sports are very popular. Such operations took place mainly on Lake Burley Griffin.

Canberra’s fall is from March to May. At this time trees will begin to change their colors. Nature’s greens will begin to gradually change into red, yellow and orange. The average temperature ranging from 7 to 20 degrees Celsius. During the day it will be warm and at night it will be colder.

In April there is a ceremony to honor those who have served Australia during the war. Or the Canberra Balloon Spectacular. An iconic Australian event. And this season is also the harvest season for the vineyards, so you can visit the wineries to have great experiences.

From June to August is winter . The weather is cold, with occasional sunshine, mild breezes and early mornings often foggy. In July’s winter nights, the temperature usually falls below 0 degrees Celsius, but it rarely snows. Canberra Region Truffle Festival is held in this season. Or the Fireside Festival, which is the capital’s annual celebration to welcoming winter. Or you can go to the Alps to watch the snow fall. Or experience another interesting skiing activities.

According to the Canberra travel experience of many visitors, you should come to Canberra in the spring or late summer and early autumn.

Canberra tourist guide: How to get?

Currently, the most popular means of transport to get to Canberra is still an airplane which saves you both time and money. There are many domestic and international airlines operating flights to Canberra from Vietnam such as Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar, Qantas, Virgin Australia, … Airfares, in particular, popular routes like Hanoi – Canberra ranging from about $863 or more for round-trip tickets, Saigon – Canberra from $650 or more.

How to get from Sydney to Canberra?

You can get to Canberra from Sydney by train in about 4 hours 10 minutes. There are 3 trips a day with fares near AU$ 46 / person.

How to buy a train ticket?

• Buy at the station: You can come about 45 minutes earlier than the train runs, buy tickets and check-in to get on the train.
• Buy at the NSW ticket office right at the central station.
• Buy tickets online at https://transportnsw.info/regional to avoid running out of tickets.

We traveled on weekdays so it was very deserted, the train had less than 30 passengers and they went down to different stations. Canberra is the last station so you don’t have to worry if you don’t know which station to get off. When checking in on the train, you can choose to check-in baggage or bring it to the carriage with a separate luggage area (but in my opinion, you should bring your luggage to avoid getting lost and when you get off, you do not have to wait for your luggage).

Canberra guide: Public transportation in Canberra

In Canberra you can travel by bus to getting around the city which is very convenient, economical, most of the buses run until midnight, so you don’t worry about time if you want to go out late in the center. Every 10 minutes there will be a bus with a fare of AU$ 9.4 / ticket, which can be used all day from the time of purchase until 11.59pm. This ticket can be used for either light rail train or tram. At the bus center in Woden, there will always be staff to help find the right bus: the bus route, schedule… Also, the drivers here are extremely friendly every time we get in and out of the bus, they are all greeted and thankful.

Besides bus, you can also choose other means to get around Canberra such as taxis, subway, especially hot air balloon if you want a panoramic view of Canberra from above.

Canberra travel blog: What to do and where to go?

Australian national botanic gardens.

We went to the Australian National Botanic Gardens by bus number 23, go straight from Woden, and get off at the stop near The Australian National University or ask the driver before you getting on the bus, then walk another 2km to come. There are a lot of bus trips here from the CBD so those stay in the CBD will have more convenience in getting to the attractions. This place is free to enter, but if you self-driving here, the parking fee is about AU$ 4 / hour. This botanical garden is very interesting because there are thousands of strange plants that we have never seen before, it took us nearly a day to visit.

Address: Clunies Ross St, Acton ACT 2601, Australia Hours: 8:30AM–5PM

Gungahlin, Australian Capital Territory

On the return, we took bus number 6 to get back to the CBD and took the light rail to Gungahlin (this is because while sitting for rest in the botanical garden and being recommended by the Australian couple). Except for the beautiful scenery on the way, Gungahlin is nothing special. It’s like a miniature town and quite as quiet as the towns in New Zealand.

We came in Canberra a bit early, so the cherry blossoms didn’t bloom in time. But on this trip to Australia, this is one of the places where we want to come back to visit and rest when we have a chance, and unfortunately I only stayed in Canberra for a day before leaving for Melbourne .

Read more: The fullest Melbourne city guide for a budget trip to Melbourne for the first-timers.

Lake Burley Griffin

As one of the famous sights in the capital Canberra that tourists cannot ignore when traveling to Australia, Burley Griffin artificial lake is famous for its modern beauty. This is a place to relax for many people in the capital after a busy working day. The lake water is very clear and clean, the air is fresh, creating a very comfortable feeling. Tourists and city dwellers can walk and cycle along the riverside road; picnic at the waterfront, fishing, sailing or river rowing.

Length: 11 km Area: 6.64 km² Average depth: 4 m (13 ft) Max. depth: 18 m (59 ft)

National Library of Australia

Possessing a huge knowledge base with more than 10 million books, the National Library of Australia is known as the knowledge symbol of the Kangaroo country. The library’s collection includes Asian literary works and materials, rare books and manuscripts, and numerous photographs, maps, paintings, music and videos. If you are a book lover, do not miss this famous tourist place. Take a walk through the archives, choose for yourself an attractive work and sit back in the reading room to enjoy.

Address: Parkes Pl W, Canberra ACT 2600, Australia Hours: 9AM–5PM Founded: March 23, 1961

National Portrait Gallery

Images are tools to keep the most realistic memories. At the National Portrait Gallery, traditional and modern paintings, collage statues, portraits of famous people, have influences such as reviving a glorious historical period of Australia. Hidden behind each picture are interesting stories that cannot be discovered all in one day or two. The National Portrait Gallery has more than 450 permanent exhibits housed in a modern wooden and stone building that is always filled with warm sunlight. The architecture of the building is an interesting blend of the surrounding natural environment and the interior exhibition area.

Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia Hours: 10AM–5PM Founded: May 1998

National Gallery of Australia

Creativity and inspiration, that’s what visitors feel when coming to the National Gallery of Australia. Possessing a collection of more than 160,000 rich artworks from ancient to modern, collected from all over the world, this is definitely an interesting destination for those who love culture and art. National Gallery of Australia is located on the Acton Peninsula, about two kilometers (1.5 miles) to the southwest of Canberra’s central business district. The museum is open every day, except Christmas Day.

Address: Parkes Pl E, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia Hours: 10AM–5PM Founded: 1967

National Carillon

This is a must-visit place and the most famous bell tower in Canberra. When you come here, you will admire 55 bronze bells on the tower, next to the place to enjoy music, moreover you can see the whole poetic capital of Canberra. Especially when the night falls and the city lights up, seeing the city from above is really interesting, isn’t it?

Address: Aspen Island, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia Opened: April 26, 1970 Height: 50 m Hours: 10AM–4PM

Mount Ainslie Lookout

To get all the magnificent capital Canberra in sight, the best way is to reach the top of Mount Ainslie. Here, you can see the panorama of famous attractions in Canberra such as Lake Burley Griffin, the Parliament House, … in the distance. You can drive directly to the Lookout point or more interestingly, using the walk / bike path behind the Australian War Memorial which is more than 2km long.

Address: 20 Mount Ainslie Dr, Australian Capital Territory 2609, Australia Hours: Open 24 hours

National Zoo & Aquarium

Just a 5-minute drive from the city center, the National Zoo and Aquarium is a favorite spot for many families and animal lovers alike when coming to Canberra. If the aquatic park is home to a wide range of marine life, from tiny reef inhabitants to giant sharks; At the national zoo, visitors can witness first-hand species of typical Australian animals as well as exotic species such as lions, tigers, leopards, bears …

Address: 999 Lady Denman Dr, Yarralumla ACT 2611, Australia Hours: 9:30AM–5PM

Parliamentary Triangle

Because it is the political center of the country, coming to Canberra you will live in the atmosphere with the true political color, the space is not too hustle and bustle. Parliamentary Triangle area helps you understand more about the capital’s famous artworks and other works such as the Parliament House on Capital Hill, not only that, you also have the opportunity to study the birth of the Australian political system. Aren’t these so useful for you?

The Parliament House

About 3 km from the center of Canberra, opened in 1988, the Australian Parliament House is one of the world’s famous modern architectures, built on a wide hill. The main building has a towering four-sided white steel tower, bunched together to lift a flag pole up to 81 meters high with the Australian flag fluttering.

Unlike political works in countries around the world, which show the power of politicians, the Australian Parliament building is designed in the spirit of openness, connecting the community to work together to solve problems, issues of the country, so the architecture of the building is quite liberal, demonstrating high democracy, becoming a symbol of Australia. This work of art is quite large, located below the top of a hillside, made from marble and many kinds of precious woods. Visiting the Australian Parliament building, visitors have the opportunity to admire many other works of art and see the rooms where heads of state work.

The parliament building is open to visitors on weekends and public holidays.

Address: Parliament Dr, Canberra ACT 2600, Australia Opened: May 9, 1988 Hours: 9AM–5PM Construction started: November 12, 1981

National Museum of Australia

Opened in 2001, the National Museum of Australia is a typical work of Australia. Built with unique architecture and rich collections, the building has won many awards in architectural design as well as tourism, and is one of the most popular attractions of Australia with millions of visitors each year.

Inside the museum is a showcase for collections of Aboriginal heritage, settlement from 1788 and the formation of the Australia, and more specifically the world’s largest collection of bark paintings along with Aboriginal stone tools … there are also numerous collections of culture, history as well as the development process of Australian history and people.

Address: Lawson Cres, Acton ACT 2601, Australia Hours: 9AM–5PM Architectural style: Deconstructivism Founded: 1980

Australian War Memorial

Not only is a place to pay homage to the contributions made by Australian soldiers during the war, the Australian War Memorial is also a museum that holds many artifacts showing military history. The monument is built on a wide, cake-shaped lawn in the north of Anzac Parade and the memorial is located in the center of the memorial building, surrounded by domes. The focal point of the memorial is the Hall of Memory, a towering chapel with a small stilt structure in the form of an octagon. Along the walls of the hallway were bronze cards engraved with the names of soldiers who died on duty. And the tradition of the people when visiting this place is to bring poppies and place them in the crevices to commemorate.

Address: Treloar Cres, Campbell ACT 2612, Australia Hours: 10AM–5PM Construction started: 1928

Questacon – National Science and Technology Centre

Questacon is Australia’s Science and Technology Center, established to showcase technology products in a wide range of fields, from water to electricity and lighting. Most of the exhibitions are directed to children, but not so the center does not lack of activities to attract adults. Here, visitors will surely have extremely interesting experiences when participating in interactive exhibitions such as launching hydrogen rockets, using a microscope and watching the staff illustrate some scientific principles, or experiment that describe the formation of a hurricane or experience a false earthquake.

Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia Opened: November 23, 1988 Hours: 9AM–5PM

Commonwealth Park

A famous park, which is chosen to hold the annual spring flower festival in Canberra from mid-September to mid-October every year with the aim of welcoming spring. The Floriade Flower Festival was first held in 1988 on the 75th anniversary of the founding of Canberra and it has become the largest flower festival in the southern hemisphere.

With an area of ​​over 34 hectares, the park has many lakes and streams, walking paths, cycling paths, and beautiful sculptures. The Commonwealth Park is a great area to organize important events, camping areas, well-equipped playgrounds …

Address: Commonwealth Ave, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia Hours: Open 24 hours

Canberra travel guide: Where to stay?

We arrived in Canberra around 11.30am, then got our luggage and went to the ticket counter to buy tickets for the trip to Melbourne for the next few days. After that, I was led by the ticket salesman to the taxi pick up place to get to the hotel, because I booked the hotel in Woden area more than 10km from CBD, with 2 large luggage so I took a taxi for convenience, of course, if you plan to stay in CBD, you can take public bus, or if stay in Woden, change bus to continue going, however going like that will have to spend much time. Taxi prices from Canberra station to Woden cost AU$ 28, which is the same as bus prices.

We stayed at Hotel Abode Woden ( Agoda.com , Booking.com ) , although it was a bit far from the center, but when we arrived, I was lucky to choose stay here because next to there was a huge shopping mall and also a bus stop. Especially in the Woden area, the two sides of the road are planted with a lot of cherry blossoms and moreover, the national administrative areas are concentrated nearby, so it can be said that this area is very safe, quiet at night, suitable for resting after a long day out. This hotel has the advantage of clean, beautiful view, comfortable, and has a full range of cooking and laundry facilities in the room.

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Avenue Hotel Canberra , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $99/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hyatt Hotel Canberra , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $173/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• East Hotel , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $103/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hotel Kurrajong Canberra , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $120/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

You can find more hotels in this city on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Canberra travel blog: What to eat?

Canberra’s cuisine always has a strange attraction for those who have come here. The fusion of unique tastes creates the indisputable charm of this Australian capital cuisine. Some unique dishes you can enjoy while traveling to Canberra are Pavlova cake, beetroot hamburger, seabass, and mashed bean soup…

Canberra has a peaceful countryside known for its wine. The countryside has up to 140 vineyards and 33 wineries. You will walk in rubber boots and learn about valuable grapes here. A meal on the farm allows you to sample folk delicacies such as cheese, bacon, homemade wine, pizza baked in a wood oven, … This countryside is located along Poachers Trail.

Canberra guide: Shopping

As for shopping, you can go to Bunda Street in Civic. It has the busiest shopping mall in Canberra.

In Canberra, large stores and international brands are second only to the bustling shopping areas of domestically produced goods. The city is characterized by the traditional markets, boutiques and boutiques of handicraft, food and wine from the surrounding countrysides. You can visit Canberra Centre (Address: 148 Bunda St, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia/Hours: 9AM–5:30PM) , where there are many things to choose from, from the cheapest things to the top brands in the world at expensive prices, serving to all class in social.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Canberra you can refer to

• Canberra Capital City Day Tour
• Canberra Day Tour from Sydney with Korean Guide
• Canberra Half Day Brewery Tour
• Canberra Brewery, Winery, and Distillery Half Day Tour
• Canberra City Full Day Private Sightseeing Car Charter from Sydney Hotels

Are you looking for more top things to do in Marina: Tours, activities, attractions and other things?  Let’s check it out here.

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Canberra itinerary: How to spend 2 days in Canberra

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Looking for a new place to explore in Australia and wondering if Canberra is worth a trip? That answer would be, yes! Spend 2 days in Canberra and experience the city’s highlights. As Australia’s capital city, it is brimming with political and historical significance. Yet Canberra is no yawn fest. With trendy cafes and a buzzing nightlife, you’re sure to have an interesting and fun stay.

With this Canberra itinerary, we’ll show you some of the best things you can fit into 2 days. Visit Australia’s Parliament and the impressive Australian War Memorial. Spend some time exploring the free museums. Have a night out on the town and follow it up with a big breakfast. Your 2 days will be jam packed but you’ll see the best of the city.

Planning your Canberra itinerary: How to get around

For this 2 day Canberra itinerary, we’d recommend using a car to get around the city. We’ve always driven our car down from Sydney and used this to get around everywhere. Driving in Canberra is not like other capital cities. It’s pretty cruisy and you’ll rarely encounter any bad traffic. Many places in this itinerary require a short drive in between, so it’s the easiest option to get around. If you’re flying in, why not rent a car?

Parking is plentiful in Canberra. We’ve found that during the week most carparks come at a cost. It’s generally inexpensive, around the $3 per hour mark. If you’re spending a weekend in Canberra, you’ll find some carparks are often free over this time.

If you don’t have a car, it’s possible to use public transport to get around the city. It will require a lot more planning though, and you might not be able to visit everything on the itinerary with the extra time needed. You can use this journey planner for your trip.

Our Passion For Travel contains affiliate links which may provide a commission. Our reviews and commentary remain independent and commission comes at no cost to you. Income derived help us create more content to help travellers like you make the most of your travel experiences. Read more here .

Planning your Canberra itinerary: Where to stay

One of the best things about Canberra is the huge array of accommodation options on offer. Being the capital city, and in “normal times” the host to many international visitors, there’s some amazing hotels in this city.

Canberra is not a huge city, so you don’t really need to be too concerned on the location of the hotel. This is particularly true if you’re driving, as everything is just a short trip away. If you are planning a night out in Braddon (more on that later), you might consider something a little closer to this location if you’d prefer to walk.

On our last weekend trip to Canberra we stayed at the Deco Hotel in Braddon . We were blown away by the quality of this hotel for the reasonable price paid. It’s an upmarket hotel that also offers one and two bedroom apartments. Our one bedroom was like a home away from home. The bed was super comfortable and it came with a little kitchenette (not that we cooked!). A super large couch was our favourite, perched in front of a massive TV. We commented that this would have been a great place to spend some of lockdown in. We’d highly recommend this hotel for your 2 days in Canberra.

Live in Sydney and need some weekend trip inspo? Check out our post on our favourite weekend trips from Sydney .

2 days in Canberra itinerary: Day 1

Day 1 at a glance: Experience Parliament House || Visit some of Australia’s best museums || Walk around Lake Burley Griffin || Enjoy a night out in Braddon

Day 1 – Morning

You’re in Australia’s capital, so why not kick off your 2 days in Canberra with a visit to Australia’s Parliament.

If you’re heading to Canberra from Sydney you’ll probably arrive mid-morning, so we won’t pack in too much for this section of the itinerary. 

Parliament House is where the Australian Federal Government meets. It’s a fairly new building, having opened in 1988. Prior to that, Federal Parliament meetings were held in what is now known as “Old Parliament House”.

Parliament House is an expansive building, containing nearly 5,000 rooms. Generally many of the sections of Parliament are open to the public. However, at the time of writing it is necessary to pre-book a free tour of Parliament House. This 30 minute guided tour allows for the control of visitor numbers into the building.

On the 30 minute tour you’ll see the key highlights of Parliament. This includes the grand Marble Foyer, the Members Hall and some parts of the art collection. Make sure you book your tickets in advance , so you don’t miss out.

If you haven’t secured a ticket, it’s still worth a quick visit to Parliament to view the building from the outside. There’s a great view down to Old Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial too.

Day 1 – Lunch

After your visit to Parliament, you’re likely in need of some food. You can make a short drive to nearby Manuka to grab some lunch. This area is one of the most trendy spots in Canberra, and is also very popular with the politicians given the proximity to Parliament.

There are lots of different restaurants and cafes in Manuka. If you’re after an all day breakfast, you could try a spot like Urban Pantry or Patissez Café. Or munch down on some Thai, sushi or Italian. You’ll be spoiled for choice in the streets around this area.

Day 1 – Afternoon

With a full belly, now is the time to go explore a few museums. Canberra is home to many world-class museums that are completely free for you to explore. If it’s your first time in Canberra, I would recommend just choosing a few. You can always leave some more for your next visit.

Heading back towards Parliament, but closer to Lake Burley Griffin, is the home of some of Canberra’s best attractions. Here you have the National Gallery of Australia, the National Portrait Gallery, the High Court of Australia and Questacon.

The National Gallery is free and well worth a visit during your 2 days in Canberra. This is the national art museum and houses one of the largest art collections in the world. There are lots of exhibits, split into Australian and International. You’ll need to check out the National Gallery website to see what exhibits will be showing during your visit. We were lucky enough to see the Yayoi Kasuma exhibit, the “Infinity Room”. This is quite an instagrammable favourite, a yellow room adorned in black dots and mirrors. It’s a bit trippy but well worth a look if it’s open. The National Gallery is free, although some exhibits may have an entry fee. Make sure you check ahead as you may also need to order a timed ticket for entry .

Heading next door, is the National Portrait Gallery . Here you’ll find some excellent paintings and photos of prominent Australians. The Prime exhibit explores our Prime Ministers in oil and pictures including Bob Hawke, Julia Gillard and John Howard. You’ll also find an impressive Mabo portrait and sport stars like Glenn McGrath. Book ahead for free and timed entry.

Across the way is the High Court of Australia . Having studied law at university I confess that I am a little bit of a legal nerd and so may be biased. But I believe a visit here is well worth it. You can enter for free, admire the architecture and learn a little at the same time. The Australian Constitution Centre which will give you an impromptu lesson in the constitution of Australia. Quite a topical area at the moment when Australians ask, why is it that states control their own borders and won’t open up to the rest of the country? However we were disappointed at the lack of references to the iconic movie, The Castle, which clearly put the Court on the map for most Australians!

You can visit both the Appellant and Constitutional Court. They sit about 2 weeks out of every month. Check ahead for opening times and to see if there is anything sitting during your visit.

Next up is the National Science and and Technology Centre. Or more better known as Questacon . If you’re travelling with kids, you might want to skip all the museums above and just visit here. With a host of interactive exhibits related to science and technology, it’s a great place for kids to learn and have some fun too. Check ahead for opening times and entry prices for the different exhibits.

All 4 of the above attractions are effectively in the same complex in Parkes Place. You can park at one of the parking bays (we chose the National Gallery first) and then just walk between them all. When we visited, parking was ticketed during the week, but free on weekends.

If you’re after some fresh air before dinner, consider a walk along Lake Burley Griffin . The centre of Canberra, this artificial lake has 40km of shoreline. It’s a popular spot for locals to enjoy a daily walk. Or you can even get out for some water sports, including kayaking and sailing.

Day 1 – Dinner/Evening

For an evening out in Canberra, head out to Lonsdale Street in Braddon. Just moments from the city centre, this buzzing district is filled with trendy restaurants and hip cafes. It’s super popular, so if you’re spending a weekend in Canberra, make sure you book ahead. We made that mistake on our last trip, and found it really difficult to get a table anywhere. There are lots of well-rated restaurants along Lonsdale Street. If you’re in the mood for Thai, try the well-rated Zaab. Or if you want something more casual, there’s spots like Mookie Burger and Milky Lane. If you’re driving in, there are parking bays nearby. They tend to fill early, so perhaps consider taking a taxi. That way you can enjoy some drinks too.

If you’re after something a little less hectic with a more local feel, head up to nearby Dickson. Along Wooley Street you’ll find Canberra’s Chinatown. You won’t just find Chinese food here though, there’s a good range of Asian restaurants including Japanese and Thai too. We’ve enjoyed a simple dinner at Two Sisters Lao and Thai Cuisine, which is situated along the main street.

Canberra is a great half way stop between Sydney and the stunning Sapphire Coast. Check out our post on the top things to do on the Sapphire Coast for some more trip inspo.

2 days in Canberra itinerary: Day 2

Day 2 at a glance: Enjoy breakfast on the Kingston Foreshore || Visit the Australian War Memorial || See the Canberra Centre || Hike or drive up Mount Ainslie

Start off your second day in Canberra right with a hearty breakfast. If you’d like to explore a different area, head to the Kingston Foreshore . This waterside hub is home to a number of highly rated cafes, and is a very popular spot to visit. We haven’t had a chance to try all the cafes, but can recommend the Local Press Wholefoods café .  The food served up here has been processed as little as possible, free from additives and preservatives and tastes great!

Your next destination sees you head to the Australian War Memorial, a must do during your 2 days in Canberra.

The Australian War Memorial is the national memorial for the armed forces. It was built in 1941 and houses a shrine, a museum and a section full of war records. Depending on your interest, you might just choose a visit to the shrine. Or if you’re interested in learning a lot more about the role of Australia in world wars, consider allocating a few hours to visit the museum.

The War Memorial has a beautiful exterior and dome. Inside, poppies adorn the Roll of Honour.  At the back of the shrine is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This area is covered in beautiful stained glass paintings and mosaics of the armed forces.

Heading inside you can visit the Anzac Hall and the First and Second World War Galleries. The Anzac Hall is like the interior of an aircraft hangar. You’ll find a range of aircraft, tanks, and a small submarine on display here.

The First and Second World War Galleries display a first rate history of Australia’s involvement in the wars. A highlight is one of the original landing boats from Anzac Day 1915. The boat is still in ridiculously good condition, having been found on the beach after the war concluded. The model re-enactments are eerily true to life for figurines. The colour scheme and anguish on the faces all feels far too real. We spent a good 2 hours wandering through the museum here. To this day it has been one of the most memorable and eye-opening museum experiences we’ve visited.

Entry is free to the shrine and museum. However, whilst usually you’re able to just walk in when you choose, at the time of writing you’ll need to obtain a timed entry ticket. There are different options based on what you’d like to visit and how long you’ve got to spend at the War Memorial. Make sure you check the War Memorial website in advance and decide on what you’d like to see.

If you’ve spent a few hours at the War Memorial, by now you’re probably famished. If you want a quick bite, there are a couple of decent cafés on the grounds of the memorial.

However, if you’d like to try something different, head nearby to the Canberra Centre . This large mall in the centre of the city has a huge array of restaurants. Don’t confine yourself just to the shopping mall though, explore the outer streets too. Some of the most buzzing restaurants when we visited included Kinn Thai and Koko Black.

For your last afternoon in Canberra, I’ll suggest a few different options. There’s just so much to do here and it’s hard to pack into 2 days!

Firstly, if you’re after some retail therapy, spend some time exploring the Canberra Centre . As Canberra’s premier shopping mall, you’re likely to be impressed at the array of stores on offer here.

If you’d like to get out into nature, head to the National Arboretum . This is a huge 250 hectare site filled with walking tracks, rare trees and fantastic views. If you’re a fan of the bonsai tree, make sure you stop here to explore the large collection.

Really want to get the heart pumping? Consider the trek up to Mount Ainslie , arguably the best lookout in Canberra. If you still want the view without the walk, don’t fear. It’s also possible to drive up to the lookout too. Check the official website in advance to view the different options for the walk.

Finally, if you’re not all “museumed” out yet, consider heading to the National Museum of Australia . A great option if you’re travelling with kids, there are a range of exhibits on display here. Check the website in advance to see what’s on.

If you’re just spending 2 days in Canberra, you’re likely to be heading back home in the evening. We hope you had an enjoyable trip to the nation’s capital!

If you’ve still got a night to spare, consider a visit to see the Nishi building in the New Acton precinct. The Nishi building is a world-class design featuring the best in sustainable practices. It’s also a funky building to look at. There are a few restaurants in the area where you can dine, and also head to the Palace Electric Cinemas afterwards for a movie night. A fun way to end your 2 days in Canberra!

This concludes our Canberra itinerary. As you can see, there’s so much to experience in this city. We’d love to hear about your trip in the comments below. Is there anything else you’d add to this 2 day itinerary?

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Couple of Steps

Travel & Lifestyle Blog

Canberra travel guide: The best things to do and see

Australia is regarded as one of the best vacation spots in the world, but its capital city may not be on most travellers itinerary. Canberra sure is lesser known as compared to Sydney and Melbourne, but this charming capital city is beautiful in its own way. The city doesn’t just offer museums and memorials but a great diversity of attractions and experiences, all within a few minutes drive.

The Australian Capital Territory in the southeastern part of the country is home to many political institutions including the Parliament House. Immerse yourself in the history and culture, discovering landmarks, shops, food, and wine along the way. The easy-going city does provide an enticing Australian experience. We liked Canberra because it is less touristy and wallet-friendly as there is a lot of free stuff to do. A trip to Canberra wouldn’t be complete without ticking off these top 17 things to do and see.

Getting to Canberra

Canberra is less than 120 minutes by flight from any of the east coast metropolis like Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. Daily domestic flights are also available from other Australian cities every day along with numerous international flights each week. International arrivals can opt for a metered taxi or catch a bus to the city centre.

If travelling from Sydney, there are several ways to get to Canberra. You can board a direct rail service from the city, departing from the central station. The trip takes a little over four hours and reservations can be made on the  NSW Trainlink website . You can opt to travel by road as well as there are multiple bus services like Murrays Coaches, Greyhound Australia and Road Jet from all major cities in Australia. Check out their websites for routes and timetables.

Our preferred way to get around is a road trip and if you are anything like us, driving to Canberra is a breeze. Just about 3 hours’ drive from Sydney, there is plenty of scenic drives with opportunities to stop over at multiple country towns along the way like Berrima and Goulburn.

Canberra Travel Guidebook

Start your day with Hot Air Ballooning Parliament House Tour Visit The Australian War Memorial Visit Pink Lake, Canberra’s latest tourist magnet Get your Insta-worthy snap @ Ovolo Nishi Check out the National Gallery of Australia Drop by at the National Museum of Australia Explore the Tocumwal Lane Street Art Visit Cockington Green Gardens Head to National Portrait Gallery Stroll or ride a bike around Lake Burley Griffith Visit the Bonsai At National Arboretum Take in the views from Mount Ainslie Stop by at the National Library of Australia Explore your curiosity at Questacon Experience the panoramic views of Canberra from Telstra tower Explore Mount Stromlo Observatory

Start your day with Hot Air Ballooning

We understand that waking up at 4 AM while on a vacation is not something we would like to do but this activity is worth every second of your lost sleep. Watching a sunrise is special in so many ways but doing that while soaring high above clouds is a very surreal moment. You get to see the first rays of the sun slowly light up the horizon and unfold the beautiful city and its unique design beneath you.

The hot air balloon experience will give you a whole new perspective of peace and tranquillity. The ride is about an hour but give yourself 3 hours for the entire process of lift-off and landing. After touch down some operators do have the option of breakfast with a glass of sparkling wine to celebrate a breathtaking start to your day.

Parliament House Tour

Parliament house is the first image that comes to mind when you hear the word Canberra. The new parliament house is a unique and impressive architectural masterpiece and is also a good starting point for your trip. It Replaces the regal Old Parliament House since it opened in 1988 and the grand old building which was home to Australian democracy now serves as a Museum of the same.

Regardless of your interest in politics, both these majestic building and national icons are a must-visit. The interiors of the new building are elaborate and feature plenty of portraits of past political and social figures on the walls. It also has a rooftop lookout that provides some great panoramic views of the city and beyond.

The Parliament is open for the public all year round except on Christmas day. There are free self and guided tours of New Parliament House at three different sessions throughout the day. Snapping a picture of yourself or your family with this building in the backdrop is the most quintessential thing to do for any visitor. Don’t forget to pack your camera gear.

Visit The Australian War Memorial

We aspire to be travellers, not just visitors because there is more to travel than pretty pictures. Visiting the Australian War Memorial will help you gain a better understanding of the country. The immaculately built dome structure celebrates the achievements of the brave Australians who have fought in conflicts since the 1860s.

It is an insightful experience getting to learn about the triumphs and tribulations of soldiers as well as their selfless sacrifices to provide us with a peaceful life. The Australian War Memorial is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with free guided tours lasting 20, 60, or 90 minutes. It houses several galleries, displays, and artefacts that both commemorate and educate. If you enjoy history as much as we do, plan on spending at least half a day here.

Visit Pink Lake, Canberra’s latest tourist magnet

Yes, you read that right, a pink lake in Canberra. We guess Western Australia isn’t the only place to see pink lakes. The lake dubbed as Canberra’s “millennial pink” pond is on Eardley Street in Bruce. The pink dusty hue is due to the pink water plants, a native fern species called Azolla Pinnata. The fact that it is pink typically indicates good water quality.

This pond is a perfect spot for a unique social media post. You can see a lot of locals and visitors clicking away pictures on their mobiles and cameras. The place seems to be on the outskirts of town but is just 10 minutes drive from the city centre. There are a few good cafes in the area, as well as plenty of street parking. It’s not a lake or rather a pond, you would want to dive right into but it’s a good place to stop for your next Instagram post.

Get your Insta-worthy snap @ Ovolo Nishi

The entrance at Ovolo Nishi , based at the new cultural precinct of New Acton in Canberra is every social media influencer’s dream. It’s only a 5-minute drive from the Parliament House, making it ideal to stay here. The building’s exterior is as impressive as the inside. Only 3 floors make up the hotel with the cinema on the ground floor.

Ovolo Nishi’s entrance is a visual feast thanks to the meticulous attention to detail. You will want to explore each wall taking it all in. There are so many different textures throughout the hotel. Another reason to visit this area is the Nishi Gallery. A cultural space dedicated to the presentation of exhibitions that explore curiosities. The gallery is open from Wednesdays to Saturdays between 11 A.M and 6:30 P.M.

Check out the National Gallery of Australia

The National Gallery of Australia is one of the largest art museums in Australia that is home to more than 166,000 works of art. This gallery in Canberra is a world-class establishment dedicated to visual art. It is not to be missed whether you’re into art or not.

Opening its door in 1967, The gallery has hosted a series of excellent permanent exhibitions that is always worth the visit. That includes over 7500 works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. There is no entry fee except for special exhibitions. The gallery is open between 10 A.M and 5P.M except for Christmas Day.

Drop by at the National Museum of Australia

The National Museum of Australia is an exceptional architectural landmark. A great place to learn about the history, geography and culture of Australia. The museum shaped a bit like a jigsaw puzzle symbolises the coming together of stories.

If you enjoy art, you must visit this gallery and admission to the gallery, like most high-quality exhibitions like museums and attractions in Canberra is free. a world-class facility that focuses on indigenous history and culture, the nuanced history of European settlement, and the interaction of people and the environment.

Explore the Tocumwal Lane Street Art

When you think about street art in Australia, Melbourne takes the pole position in your head. After all, it is considered one of the world’s street art capitals. Canberra has designated “free places” that invite graffiti and street artists to infuse some colour and imagination into the country’s political hub, to shed its reputation as a public service town.

Tocumwal Lane, the back alley is known to locals for its free parking and smelly dumpsters. This ally with boring blank walls is now transformed into a supersized comic superhero wonderland. This has brought some excitement to this otherwise neglected spot in the city.

Visit Cockington Green Gardens

The first thing you notice as you pull up to park your car is the distinct whistle of the miniature steam train and squeals of delight from the passengers. We had a fantastic time at Cockington Green Gardens , which features meticulously designed miniature buildings, beautifully landscaped gardens, and amusing scenes.

We had seen a similar miniature Dutch village in Coffs Harbour which has replicas of the actual building in Holland while Cockington Green Gardens covers the English Village. This park is becoming ever more popular with the introduction of international exhibition grounds which incorporates incredible diversity of cultural styles and architecture. You can also take the miniature “steam’ train ride for an additional fee which covers various sections of the gardens.

The gardens’ miniature environments are truly awe-inspiring for both children and adults. Cockington Green Gardens is a very distinctive experience especially if you have an eye for detail.

Head to National Portrait Gallery

The bold concrete entrance, which complements the contemporary building, is the most noticeable aspect even before you reach the National Portrait Gallery . The gallery’s long cantilever walls and timber-framed ceiling are equally spectacular, making it a must-see for anybody visiting the capital.

Along with portraits of all the people who have helped shape this nation, the collection features some unique and unusual Australian aboriginal cultural artworks. The gallery is large and has a lot of room, and we were one of the few people that were there to view the beautiful and vibrant images. Unless there is a special exhibit, admission is usually free, and the museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, except for Christmas.

Stroll or ride a bike around Lake Burley Griffith

Lake Burley Griffin named after the architect Walter Burley Griffin is the city’s most well-known landmark. The lake with beautiful views is just a stone’s throw away from the other notable sites of Canberra and is a great spot to take a leisurely stroll or relax on the grass.

We hired one of the app-based electric bikes that are seen parked everywhere around the vicinity. The bike ride along the 40 km shoreline seems to be the most popular activity among children and adults alike as it’s a joy to ride this e-bike. Feel the cool breeze in your hair while slowly exploring the views. The water in the lake water is clear and the air is crisp that creates a very relaxing vibe, and the lake also features a variety of water sports for you to indulge in like canoeing, sailing and paddle boating.

Visit the Bonsai at National Arboretum

To be honest, the only reason we considered going to the National Arboretum was to take some spectacular photos of the big open gorgeous vista. The Arboretum is a 250-hectare site filled with rare, iconic and endangered trees that features lookouts, figurines, picnic areas with plenty of room to move about.

The arboretum is also home to the finest collection of the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection. Up to 80 bonsais are on a permanent exhibit in Australia, designed by some of the country’s best bonsai artists. The bonsais can be purchased at the arboretum gift store if you want to take them home with you. There is also a café on-site for a quick caffeine fix or to grab something to nibble upon along with a beautiful open-spaced restaurant for relaxed and delicious dining. The arboretum is open every day and admission is free.

Take in the views from Mount Ainslie

The best time to visit Mount Ainslie is at dawn or dusk where you can see a barrage of colours. Here you can understand and appreciate Griffin’s concept of a city built on a straight axis that runs from Mount Ainslie through to Parliament House.

Enjoy the breathtaking scenery by walking, cycling, or driving to the lookout. Photographers flock to this location to get picture-perfect views of Canberra. There aren’t many tourist attractions here, but you can get cold drinks, ice cream, and coffee from mobile kiosks near the top.

Stop by at the National Library of Australia

We are sure the library will not be on your list when planning a vacation itinerary but the National Library of Australia is one of the most modern libraries we have seen. The library is home to rare books and prints pre-dating the 1800s.

There is also a Treasures Gallery, which houses Australia’s most important artefacts and incredible stories. From James Cook’s voyage log to Edward Koiki Mabo’s journals and maps, discover hidden gems in the Library’s extensive collections. Many of these treasures act as a great conversation starter for curious learners. Bookplate Café and Paperplate Café housed within the library provide generous spreads and are open Monday through Friday from 8.30 AM to 3.30 PM.

Explore your curiosity at Questacon

The National Science and Technology Center in Canberra is a really amazing place, despite its dull name. It appeals to children as an incredibly fun place that also serves as a portal into learning and understanding science but adults enjoy it as much as kids. Questacon’s Q Lab offers an ever-changing collection of intriguing experiments, explosive demonstrations, and unique displays for budding scientists.

Because we are both engineers, it may seem like a biased opinion, but we thoroughly loved our time here. Unlike other galleries, it is interactive and encourages you to explore, discover, and touch everything. The best science museum in Australia features over 200 interactive exhibits, and we cannot recommend it highly enough.

Experience the panoramic views of Canberra from Telstra tower

The bizarre structure sitting atop the Black Mountain may remind you of the eye of Sauron from The Lord of the Rings franchise, which like the latter is practically visible from anywhere around the city. The iconic Telstra tower offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city, and it’s easy to see why Canberra is known as the Bush Capital.

You will need to get up to the tower’s observation deck for a small fee to experience the view as the vegetation around the base of the tower will block your field of vision. The tower, which stands around 200 metres above the summit, is one of Canberra’s most popular tourist attractions. You get to see the city’s top highlights like Parliament House, The Royal Australian Mint, The War Memorial, and Mount Stromlo Observatory.

Explore Mount Stromlo Observatory

Mount Stromlo Observatory , just outside Canberra, is currently known for its stargazing events after it was decommissioned following the 2003 firestorm. They offer private booking and free public astronomy nights where you get to hear from the astronomers themselves, observe planets and constellations, and peek through multiple telescopes that will take you deep into space.

They offer a site tour too, where you get to tag along and learn about its history, science, and future. We recommend carrying warm clothing as Canberra can get quite chilly at night. These special offerings happen about once a month or even less frequently, do check out their website to know about their upcoming events.

Where to stay in Canberra

We always prefer Airbnb with a few nights in hotels wherever we go, and Canberra was no exception. The city offers a range of accommodation from a dorm room to budget hotels and service- apartments to luxury 5-star hotels. The majority are located within the city borders, ensuring that you are close to the city’s tourist attractions and monuments.

Staying at QT Canberra , with its trademark mixture of playful and elegant décor and a great bar scene is a great way to have a good time in the nation’s capital. Ovolo Nishi , in the New Acton cultural arts neighbourhood, is another stylish hotel with an eye for detail. Avenue Hotel is a good option if you want to spend more time in the city.

You might alternatively base yourself in North Canberra, which is near to dining, entertainment, and shopping in Acton, Braddon, and Dickson. Adina Dickson, which offers decent accommodation within 2 kilometres from the CBD, is an excellent place to stay for a good price. South Canberra is another good option as it includes many suburbs close to the proximity of the city, as well as the Parliamentary Triangle, which is a must-see on any trip to Canberra.

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2 Days in Canberra Itinerary (2024)

Wondering what to do with 2 days in Canberra? That’s just enough time to see the highlights of Australia’s highly underrated capital city and experience the awesome food scene.

Spending a weekend in Canberra felt like a rite of passage for my partner and me as new(ish) Australians. Finding what to do in Canberra was a little bit harder though.

To save you the trouble, I’ve compiled this complete Canberra 2 day itinerary with everything you need to know about visiting Canberra.

Coming from Sydney, Canberra is a convenient weekend trip. You can easily squeeze in the highlights of Canberra in just two days. 

Canberra is very unique in that, unlike most cities that have grown organically, it was planned from the start by American architect Walter Burley Griffin.

The level of organisation and intentionality is obvious when walking around the city. The design, centred around Capital Hill, is in many ways reminiscent of Washington DC.

What is also remarkable about Canberra, especially to visitors from big cities, is the amount of space.

Canberra is filled with wide avenues lined with grassy verges and many of the buildings have extensive lawns.

How to get to Canberra 

Getting to Canberra from Sydney is either a short (approximately one hour) flight or a longer 4-5 hour train/bus.

Travelling to Canberra by plane

You can also fly to Canberra from most other major Australian cities or otherwise connect through Sydney or Melbourne . Qantas, Virgin Australia and Rex airlines all fly into Canberra Airport.

Unfortunately, flying to Canberra can be expensive at short notice and when we went the flights weren’t all that regular. With the introduction of new regional and low-cost domestic airlines in Australia, this should hopefully change soon. 

If you arrive for your weekend in Canberra by air then the easiest way to get into the central city is to taxi or Uber. There are local buses available but they aren’t super efficient.

Travelling to Canberra by train

If you aren’t flying, the easiest way to get to Canberra from Sydney is the train from Central station .

For a weekend trip to Canberra, there’s a convenient 5:30 service on Friday nights that you can jump on after work. Tickets are around $40 each way for an adult. There’s a return device on Sunday around 5 pm.

Bus replacements happen from time to time but these can actually be faster than the train.

The train to Canberra is spacious although didn’t offer tables or wifi. What they do have, which is super helpful on a Friday night, is a hot dinner service. 

Read the full guide on how to get from Sydney to Canberra by train

Where to stay in Canberra for 1-2 nights

Canberra has a full range of accommodations from hostels to Airbnb to luxe hotels. You can compare prices easily on Booking.com . I use this site to book all our accommodation because they have the most flexible cancellation policy around.

If you want the best night’s sleep of your life then you can’t go past Little National Hotel . The drawcard of Little National Hotel is the custom super king beds which are ultra cosy. These are hands-down the best hotel bed I have ever slept in! The rooms are definitely small (cosy) but the library and lounge with self-serve bar offer room to work or hang out. 

For a cheaper option close to the CBD, I’d recommend Canberra YHA .  The YHAs are a reputable brand in Australia and this place is only a short walk from the best of Canberra Centre. 

Where to eat for 2 days in Canberra

It’s not hard to find a great brunch in Canberra. In fact, just head to Kingston Foreshore and you’ll find several competitors for the best brunch in Canberra.

Local Press Cafe is great and they have blankets to stay cosy at the outdoor tables on cold mornings. Another great option is Bean and Table .  

The best places to go in Canberra for dinner are around Canberra Centre on the opposite side of Lake Burley Griffin.

The dinner options range from the divine sushi at Raku at the high end to standard chain offerings on the cheap and cheerful side.

At Via Dolce they have affordable pasta and a greenhouse-type setup which is super cute and lets you watch the world go by with some privacy. 

If you’re a real foodie and looking to discover some Canberra artisans then why not try a food tour? Klook has a great Canberra food, wine and distillery day tour .

What to see in 2 days in Canberra

Finally, the sightseeing. When it comes to things to do in Canberra, most options consist of “the National (fill in the blank)”. You’ll find the National Museum, the National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery and even the National bowling green. This is particularly true of the south side of Lake Burleigh Griffin which is filled with government buildings. 

I suggest planning to focus on one side of Lake Burley Griffin, on each day of your Canberra trip.

Day 1 in Canberra

On the first day – or if you only have 1 day in Canberra – check out the National Gallery, Old Parliament Buildings and Questacon on the south side of the lake.

Jokes aside, the National Gallery of Australia really is a national treasure and absolutely one of the must-visit places in Canberra. The permanent collections are free to access and include a Monet (in the basement!) and a Rubens.

There is a great mix of old and new as well as Australian and international artists. As a Kiwi, I was proud to see a McMahon on display – right above the Monet!

On top of that, the National Gallery in Canberra often hosts major international visiting exhibitions such as the Renaissance Masters exhibit that was on display in 2021. Check their website for the latest details. 

From the National Gallery, you can wander along the wide tree-lined roads to Old Parliament House .

Modelled on the American Capitol, Old Parliament House in Canberra is a throwback to colonial Australia and is filled with exhibits on everything from royal visits to beekeeping. They’re a great insight into the Australian system of governance for those of us not from Australia. 

You’ll also see the Aboriginal Embassy, the world’s longest-running protest site, on the front lawn of Canberra’s Old Parliament House.

While these buildings are no longer in active use, you can also go visit the new Parliament Buildings which are open for tours on certain days.

As with the National Gallery and most national facilities in Canberra, you don’t have to pay for entry. You only have to buy a ticket if you want access to certain feature/temporary exhibits.

This makes the galleries and museums the best free activities in Canberra and great options for Canberra on a budget. 

If you have kids or are a big kid at heart then Questacon is a must-visit in Canberra. This science and technology museum is paid entry and does need to be booked in advance, even on quieter weekends.

Questacon tickets are $24.50 for adults and $18.90 for kids over 4, and under 4s are free. Many of Questacon’s exhibits are hands-on and designed to both inform and entertain. 

Day 2 in Canberra

On your second day in Canberra, move on to the Canberra Centre area on the north shore, lakeside walks and the National Museum.

Lake Burley Griffin, which could easily be confused for a river, runs through the centre of Canberra. Cycling or cruising the lake is a great way to see most of Canberra and admire monuments like the National War Memorial.

You can now hire your own small electric boat for a private lake cruise.

You can hire bikes, boats or Segways at kiosks near Questacon on the south side. Or, do as we did and rent an escooter. Canberra is filled with them and it’s an easy and fast way to get around Canberra. 

Following the shoreline, you’ll find the Old Bus Depot Markets which, barring COVID, are usually going off on a Sunday morning. 

A bit further out on the Acton Peninsula, the National Museum of Australia is a true landmark. Designed by Howard Raggatt it’s set on the edge of the lake on the western edge of the city. You can learn a lot about Australia’s Aboriginal history from a visit here.

Once you’re done viewing the exhibits take some time to walk around the grounds and enjoy this peaceful end of the lake. 

1 Day trips from Canberra

If you’ve got a car or something and want to book a day trip, there’s also lots to do around Canberra.

There are wineries galore in the Canberra District and great walks around the National Arboretum and up to the Mount Ainslie Summit.

You could easily fill a trip to Canberra without any museums or ‘national’ anything! 

Canberra day tours

If you don’t want to organise things yourself or don’t have a car available then consider booking a day tour like a winery tour to the Canberra Hills region or a snow tour to the nearby ski resorts of Thredbo and Perisher.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Canberra

How many days do you need in canberra.

Canberra isn’t a very big city compared to Sydney and Melbourne so you don’t need as much time to see it. Two days or a long weekend is plenty of time to see the city.

If you want to do any day trips outside the city and see the Canberra wine region then consider staying 3-4 days all up.

Is Canberra safe for solo female travellers?

Canberra is a very safe city on the whole. Given all the embassies and government buildings, you can imagine there’s a lot of security!

As with anywhere, it’s best to stick to busy areas if you’re out at night (the south side of the lake can be very empty on weekends and feel a bit spooky). You can find more tips on solo traveller safety in Australia in my Australia travel guide .

Do you need a car when visiting Canberra?

Canberra is quite spread out for a small city so a car would be helpful. However, Uber and buses are available so the lack of a car shouldn’t stop you. We did a mix of walking, scooters (app-based hire) and Ubers.

Whatever your style, a Canberra weekend trip is definitely something every Australian and visitor to Australia should put on their Australia bucket list. 

Happy travelling!

Australia Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find awesome day tours on Viator and Get Your Guide
• Save on Sydney attractions with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your Australian dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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Things to Do in Canberra: 3-Day Itinerary

by Lisa Bull | Last updated May 5, 2022 | A.C.T.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more details.

If you’re looking for a cultural weekend trip in Australia, you’ll find plenty of interesting things to do in Canberra, the capital of Australia.

Located between Sydney and Melbourne, Canberra makes a great drive stop on a Sydney to Melbourne road trip , or a top weekend getaway from either city.

This 3-day Canberra itinerary can be enjoyed by foot or car and includes the top places to visit in Canberra. Read on to plan your visit, or watch my YouTube video below.

Day 1 Morning Itinerary: National Museum of Australia

If you’re hoping to visit some interesting museums in Canberra, make sure you pencil in the National Museum of Australia. It’s one of my top recommended places to see in Canberra.

It’s a flat and easy 30-minute walk to the National Museum of Australia on the Acton Peninsula from Canberra city; most of it is along the edge of Lake Burley Griffin, so quite scenic.

The National Museum is huge and extremely well laid out, with clear themes and lots to read and look at. I’d allow at least two hours inside if this sounds like your sort of thing.

I didn’t think I was a museum person, but there was so much information about the European settlers and Australian wildlife, as well as Australia’s indigenous people and the stolen generation, that I found it fascinating and very moving.

The building is a work of art in itself, and there’s also a nice cafe if you want to stay for lunch. If you’ve packed a picnic you can sit and eat outside in the Garden of Australian Dreams.

Day 1 Afternoon Itinerary: Canberra Botanic Gardens

Canberra Botanic Gardens are also located on the western side of Canberra city centre, so you can walk from the National Museum of Australia to the botanic gardens in the same day.

Here you’ll find the world’s most diverse collection of Australian plants, with over 6,000 different species growing.

You can pick up a map from the visitor centre on arrival, and also visit the lovely Pollen Café if you need a refresher. The meals are on the pricier side (around $17 upwards for breakfast), but the food is lovely.

There are lots of different sections at Canberra Botanic Gardens, including eucalypt lawns, a rainforest gully, and the very vibrant Red Centre Garden. I’d give yourself at least an hour to explore.

Optional Extra Canberra Attraction: Hike up Black Mountain to Telstra Tower

Behind the Red Centre Garden is a walking track leading up Canberra’s Black Mountain (you’ll see the signs) which takes you all the way to Telstra Tower .

I didn’t realise this walk existed until I arrived, but even though I had a cold and felt a bit rubbish, I decided to drag myself up to the top since I’d walked all that way already!

The sign says it takes 1 hour 10 minutes to get to Telstra Tower from the gate, but it only took me 30 minutes there and 20 minutes back down. And I walked very slowly and stopped a lot to take photos!

It is all uphill, but only the last five or ten minutes is particularly steep. I wouldn’t fancy doing it in the summer heat, but it wasn’t too hard in winter.

It costs $7.50 to go inside Telstra Tower and up to the viewing platform, but it’s well worth it as the 360-degree views of Canberra and the surrounding countryside are amazing!

You can’t actually see much from the base of the tower as trees obscure the view, so if you’re going to hike up there you may as well go inside.

Day 2 Morning Itinerary: Australian War Memorial & Canberra Museum and Gallery

One of the top free things to do in Canberra is visit the Australian War Memorial, which was built to commemorate the sacrifice of Australian people who’d died at war.

The Australian War Memorial is only a 20-minute walk from Canberra city centre. It’s worth taking a wander down Anzac Parade too, which has lots of war monuments dotted along the edges, as well as views all the way to Parliament House.

Once again, Canberra delivered so much more than I was expecting! The Australian War Memorial is a beautiful building, and much bigger than I’d anticipated. It really is one of the best places to go in Canberra.

Inside the Australian War Memorial, you can circle around the Pool of Reflection and the Eternal Flame in the Commemorative Courtyard, as well as stroll along the poppy-laden Roll of Honour, where the names of over 102,000 Australians who died at war have been inscribed in bronze on the wall.

My favourite area was the peaceful Hall of Memory, which holds the tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier. The mosaic walls, domed ceiling and stained-glass windows are absolutely beautiful.

I had no idea the Australian War Memorial also has quite a large museum inside! The are interesting exhibitions covering Australia’s involvement in each major conflict.

If you want to look around properly I’d allow two hours at the Australian War Memorial. The large Poppy Café next to it is also lovely if you want to stay for lunch or a coffee.

Optional Extra Canberra Activity: Hike up to Mount Ainslie Summit

I didn’t have time for this, but you can do a 4km-return hike up to Mount Ainslie summit from the Australian War Memorial. Here you’ll find one of the best lookouts in Canberra, with views across to Parliament House and beyond.

Day 2 Afternoon Itinerary: Canberra Museum & Gallery

Back in the city, Canberra Museum and Gallery is a small space on the corner of London Circle and City Square that takes about half an hour to look around.

There was an amazing exhibition on called Unfinished Business when I visited, by a Sydney-based artist called Belinda Mason. It tells the stories of 30 people with disabilities from Torres Strait Islander and Australian Aboriginal communities.

You can’t tell from the picture below, but the lenticular backlit photographs actually look 3D and are really amazing to see up close.

Day 3 Morning Itinerary: Parliamentary Triangle: Parliament House, Portrait Gallery & National Gallery

If you look on a map of Canberra you’ll see the huge State Circle and Capital Circle just south of Lake Burley Griffin. In the centre of these lies Australian Parliament House.

If you’re wondering what to see in Canberra in one day, I’d add Parliament House to your day trip itinerary. It’s one of the most well known Canberra attractions.

The area directly northeast of Parliament House, bound by Commonwealth Avenue and King Avenue, is Parliamentary Triangle, (aka Parliament Zone), where you’ll find lots of interesting Canberra attractions including two art galleries.

I’d allow at least two hours in this area, or more if you want to visit Questacon or go on a Segway tour. Here are some of the things to see in Canberra’s Parliamentary Triangle:

Australian Parliament House

It takes about 40 minutes to walk to Australian Parliament House from Canberra city centre. This modern-looking building is free to enter, and contains lots of information boards explaining the structure of Australian parliament and how bills are passed etc.

You can even watch Parliament in action from the public galleries in the House of Representatives and the Senate if you visit at the right time!

There’s also a café with a large terrace, and a viewing area on the roof. Most of the roof was closed for restructuring when I visited in 2018 though.

The National Science and Technology Centre, Questacon , is also located in Parliamentary Triangle. I hadn’t actually heard of this place until I passed it on the way back, but it looks like a fun way to learn about science, particularly if you have children!

Entry prices are $23 for adults, $17.50 for concessions and children between 4-16, $70 for a family of 2 adults and 3 children, and free for kids under 4.

Old Parliament House

Old Parliament House is a big, grand white building with surrounding gardens. You’ll pass it if you’re walking to Parliament House from the city. You can explore inside for a $2 donation.

National Gallery of Australia

I’d allow about an hour in Canberra’s National Gallery of Australia if you’re an art lover. It’s free to enter and has many different exhibitions on.

National Portrait Gallery

The nearby National Portrait Gallery is also free to enter, with lots of different styles of paintings to enjoy.

National Library of Australia

There are also events, guided tours and exhibitions on at the National Library of Australia , which you’ll pass before crossing the river on your way back to the city

Guided Segway Tour of Canberra

I saw lots of people on guided segway tours of Canberra with Seg Glide Ride around Parliament Zone. It looked like a fun way to explore Canberra!

Day 3 Afternoon Itinerary: Explore Canberra City Centre

If you’re looking for things to do in Canberra city centre, you’ll find plenty of shops and cafes to peruse. Head to Bunda St to look around The Canberra Centre shopping mall, which also has a Dendy Cinema inside if you fancy watching a movie.

For coffee or lunch in Canberra city, Dobinsons on Bunda St is reasonably priced and has a lovely colourful outdoor area.

Further Things to Do in Canberra

If you have more time in ACT, here are some alternative things to do in Canberra that I didn’t have time for.

• You could head down to the Royal Australian Mint and explore the sole supplier of Australia’s circulating coinage. 
• To get back to nature, the Canberra National Arboretum in Weston Creek has 94 forests of rare, endangered and symbolic trees from Australia and around the world.
• With dedicated cycle lanes on its main roads as well as around Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra is a very bike-friendly city. Check out the Visit Canberra website for more details on bike hire and routes.

Canberra Accommodation

To find the best deals on accommodation in Canberra, have a browse on Canberra accommodation on Hotels Combined . They compare prices across the major hotel comparison sites to ensure you find the best price. Here are some of your options.

Jamala Wildlife Lodge (Canberra Zoo Hotel)

The most unique accommodation in Canberra has to be the Jamala Wildlife Lodge ! These luxury lodges at the National Zoo and Aquarium include lavish king-size beds, bespoke African fixtures and decor plus premium amenities. The room rate includes all food and drinks and exclusive tours.

You can choose from three types of lodge:

• suites and rooms with a shark tank, pool, spa and gardens;
• treehouses overlooking the Molonglo River with giraffes, deer and alpaca directly outside;
• jungle bungalows looking straight out onto a variety of animal enclosures.

Crowne Plaza Canberra

With an outdoor pool, onsite gym and sauna, the 4.5* Crowne Plaza Canberra has plenty of facilities to keep you occupied when you’re not out exploring Canberra’s attractions.

The hotel is situated in the heart of Canberra, just 3km from Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial, and has an onsite restaurant and bar and even Tesla electric car charging points.

Pacific Suites Canberra

If you prefer more amenities than a hotel room has to offer, Pacific Suites Canberra has self-contained apartments, each with a full kitchen, laundry and a lounge and dining area.

You can walk to bars and restaurants in Canberra CBD from Pacific Suites, and the complex also has a pool and fitness centre.

Canberra City YHA

I stayed at Canberra City YHA , which I’d highly recommend if you’re looking for budget accommodation in Canberra. It’s centrally located and has great facilities; even a small indoor pool, spa and sauna!

Canberra YHA also has TV rooms, sofas, a decent kitchen, café, bar (yet no noise from it) and recycling bins inside the dorms, which I’ve never come across before!

The roof terrace would be great in summer. And they hold barbecues once a week so you can socialise, as well as other daily activities.

How to Get to Canberra from Sydney

Canberra is just close enough to Sydney to make it worth visiting for three or four days. The drive time from Melbourne to Canberra takes over six hours though, so it’s a bit far to go unless you’re flying or planning a longer trip.

Sydney to Canberra By Car

The distance from Sydney to Canberra is 287km along the M31, which takes about three hours to drive. Check out my guide on what to do in the Southern Highlands if you want to stop off in one of the cute country towns along the way.

If you’re on a Melbourne to Sydney road trip , you could take the inland route via Canberra instead of the coastal route, or cut up from the coast halfway along your journey. Particularly if you have a wet week ahead and can’t do much at the seaside towns.

Sydney to Canberra by Train

I travelled from Sydney to Canberra by train, as I fancied a break from driving.

A direct train from Sydney to Canberra takes just over four hours , and costs around $28 economy , or $40 first class at most times of day.

The trip has to be booked in advance on NSW TrainLink , as once the seats are all allocated they don’t sell anymore tickets (unlike in the UK where they will cram people on standing up and charge about four times this price!).

The train was full when I tried to book one day in advance, so I used my Opal card to get from Sydney to Moss Vale , which only cost about $6 , and stayed in an Airbnb overnight. Then Moss Vale to Canberra the following morning took 2 hours 20 minutes and cost $15 .

I couldn’t believe how great the facilities were on the train !

While it looked a bit dated inside, it had air-con, reclining seats, foot rests, fold-down tables, curtains, brochures with a bio of the staff and destination guides, net pockets for your stuff, a buffet serving hot meals and a huge amount of leg room!

Rather than ask to see your ticket the attendant comes around with a register and ticks you off! The scenery was lovely too. The picture above is a bit blurry, but there are actually about 50 kangaroos bounding across the grass!

The train station in Canberra is around 6km outside of the city , which is a bit of a pain. To get the bus to the city cross Mildura Road directly opposite the station and catch the number 80 . This cost me $4.90 in cash, but it does only run once an hour.

Canberra Weather

Note that Canberra weather is very different to the weather in Sydney! While the summers are hot, the winters are much colder . It was about 13 degrees in the day when I visited in July, and often dropped below zero at night.

It was extremely sunny though, so walking around was a constant cycle of whipping off my hat, gloves and coat in the sun because I felt boiling, then quickly putting them back on again when the wind blew or it was shady!

It’s also extremely dry in Canberra, although there is a severe drought at the moment. The grass was totally brown and frazzled, and even the leaves on the trees looked dead. I’ll admit I was struck with an overwhelming urge to leave on the first day, as the grey buildings and lack of greenery looked so depressing compared to Sydney!

Canberra did grow on me though; there’s so much cultural stuff to do, and it looks quite pretty from up in the mountains. I met some great people in the YHA too.

That’s it for my recommended things to do in Canberra, Australia’s capital city. Have a great time exploring Oz, and let me know in the comments what you thought of Canberra and if you have any further recommendations!

Lisa Bull, founder of Dreaming of Down Under, has been living in Australia as a British expat since 2015. After travelling to every state and territory in Australia and living in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney, Lisa knows from first-hand experience the best destinations to visit in Australia and the best budget travel tips. Her guides on this blog have been read by over 700k readers and helped thousands of people achieve their dream of living in or travelling Australia.

Thank you for sharing your journey to Canberra. I’m from Phils and planning to go to Sydney. And want to go to another city, which is better Canberra or Melbourne.

No problem. Canberra is great for museums etc and also has surrounding bushland for hiking. Personally I would choose Melbourne out of the two though. It’s much bigger and has a really interesting city centre with great old architecture, lots of cafes and beaches too.

Fantastic article of Canberra Thank you for sharing

Thanks Ria!

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Hi, I'm Lisa, a British expat living in Sydney. I've travelled almost the whole Australian coastline and love sharing detailed travel and migration guides to inspire other adventurous souls to travel or move to Australia. Read more about me!

Best Canberra 5 Day Itinerary You’ll Love

by Sharyn McCullum | Last updated Apr 9, 2024 | ACT | 54 comments

Is a visit to the capital of Australia Canberra in the Australian Capital Territory on your radar? Well you are in luck. I have been on a road trip to Canberra a few times during my life in Australia. I’ve been with my family on holiday when I was a kid, on a school trip to learn about Australia’s parliament and on quite a few weekend getaways from Sydney to Canberra. I love visiting Canberra as it is an interesting city, is easy to get around and has plenty to see and do. So if you are heading for a few days or a week in Canberra and need some inspiration as to the best things to see and do in Canberra, here is my best Canberra 5 day itinerary.

In this post I will cover everything you need to know for an enjoyable visit to Canberra ACT. From getting there, around, where to stay in Canberra and the best things to do in Canberra Australia. So if you are wanting to organise things to do in Canberra ACT for your trip, this post has you covered.

Table of Contents

A Brief History of Canberra

In the 1800s European explorers arrived in the Canberra area. It was in 1824 the first European settlers mostly claimed land and began farming it. The year 1901 saw the Australian colonies form the Commonwealth of Australia. At this time it was decided a new capital of Australia was needed. Both Sydney and Melbourne wanted the honour, but it was decided the new capital should be built in Canberra. Mainly because it was already settled and was good land for building a city. In 1908 a competition was held to find a designer to design the city. 1912 saw an American architect, Walter Burley Griffin (1876-1937) winning the competition and Canberra was begun.  

I acknowledge that for thousands of years the indigenous Ngunnawal people lived in the Canberra area. It’s believed the name ‘Canberra’ is derived from the indigenous meaning ‘meeting place’. This is very apt as it is the meeting place of all the politicians who represent Australia.

Where is Canberra?

Get great views over Canberra from Mount Ainslie lookout

First stop on this 5 day itinerary of Canberra is to the Mount Ainslie Lookout. This is a great place to start your visit to Canberra as you will be treated to a panoramic view over Canberra. Not matter the weather, the view is impressive and one of the best things to see in Canberra. I think starting your day at Mountain Ainslie will give you your bearings of where things are in Canberra and how big it is. You can see over Canberra with views of Lake Burley Griffin and Parliament House clear highlights. Even though I suggest visiting Mount Ainslie first, you can visit this lookout anytime. Some people take a picnic up there to watch the sunset over Canberra.

Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve is free to visit and can be accessed from Fairbairn Avenue. Just follow the drive that ascends to the summit of Mount Ainslie where you will find free parking. Some people like to walk to the top and there are a number of trails to get you there. The main trail to the top of Mount Ainslie starts in the Remembrance Nature Park behind the Australian War Memorial, which is our next stop on this 5 days in Canberra itinerary.

Australian War Memorial

After the great views over Canberra at Mount Ainslie head down the mountain to spend the rest of the day one in Canberra at The National War Museum. I suggest budgeting to stay the rest of the day here because it is very interesting with lots to see and to learn – well I think so, but I do love history!

Thanks to covid closures and now due to massive renovations happening at the war memorial visits are allocated in 2 hour slots. Now 2 hours isn’t enough to see all the exhibits so I suggest you book a 2 hour slot in the morning, then head to Poppy’s Restaurant for lunch, then book another 2 hour slot for the afternoon that leads to another booking for the last Post which happens every day at 4.30pm.

Currently the Australian War Memorial has knocked down the aircraft hall which it is rebuilding, bigger and better. There are a couple of planes on display. On entering the areas to visit at the Australian War Memorial include:

• Victoria Cross Area – See and read about all the soldiers who received the highest honour – the Victoria Cross.
• Explore the exhibits in the WWI room – learn about the different battles of WWI.
• Explore the exhibits in the WWII room – learn about the different battles of WWII.
• See the limited exhibits of current conflicts – this will be expanded once building works are completed.
• Walk along the honour roll in the commemorative garden and place a poppy.
• Throw a coin in the remembrance pool and visit the unknown soldier. Get great views of Parliament House from here in the distance.
• Eat at Poppy’s and enjoy a great meal such as my ‘Afghan Plate’.

See fighter planes

Place a Poppy along the Roll of Honour Wall

See the exhibits in the WWI room

Afghan Plate – my lunch at Poppy’s

The Australian War Memorial is one of my favourite places to visit in Canberra and it is one of the best free things to do in Canberra. I can spend hours here just walking around – and I have many times. You will find it at:

Treloar Crescent, Campbell ACT 2612 – follow the signs for car parking. It is open daily from with the Galleries open from 10 am to 4 pm daily (closed Christmas Day). If wanting to see the Last Post Ceremony entry is at 4.20pm with the Ceremony commencing at 4.45 pm.

Plan your visit and book your tickets to the Australian War Memorial here .

End your day with a good meal at a pub or restaurant close to your chosen accommodation.

Day 2 – Parliament House & Old Parliament House

Parliament house.

Start day 2 on this Canberra 5 day holiday at Parliament House. Parliament House is one of the must things to visit in Canberra, particularly when it is your firs time in Canberra. Sitting on Capitol Hill is new Parliament House and you cannot miss this building which is a symbolic piece of architecture. It was officially opened on 9 May 1988 by the late Queen Elizabeth II. Its principal structure is based on the shape of two boomerangs. These are topped with two axes. North-south and east-west and by an 81 metre high flagpole which is a lightning magnet if ever I saw one.

If you think the outside is impressive wait till you get inside. The building contains 4,700 rooms with many of them open to the public. Once you get through security, which is like going through airport security, you are free to explore large sections of the building. And can even watch parliament in action if the parliamentarians are sitting. This is one of the unique things to do Canberra, as you don’t get to do this every day!

The main foyer is impressive with its marble staircase and leads you straight to the Great Hall with a large tapestry on display. You can visit both the debating chambers of The House of Representatives, decorated green and The Senate Chamber which has a red colour scheme. Unless the politicians are sitting, you can go into the public galleries to watch the proceedings. There are also the paintings of all the Prime Ministers to see and other smaller exhibits and information as you walk around.

Parliament House on a fine day

After walking around Parliament House, take the lift up to the roof and walk on the lawns up there. And look up to the flagpole and out along the axes. You can get great views of the Australian War Memorial backed by Mount Ainslie. Maybe have a coffee or lunch in the Parliament House restaurant – you never know which politician you might see!

Parliament House is free to visit. It is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. The length of time will vary as to how long you stay there and will depend on your interest. If visiting Canberra with kids, their interest may not be as high or low as yours! If you go on one of the free tours, they can take around 25-30 minutes and must be booked in advance . You can walk around yourself but you won’t learn the tidbits you might if you go on one of the free internal tours.

Museum of Australian Democracy – Old Parliament House

Next stop on day 2 of this 5 day visit to Canberra is to the Museum of Australian Democracy or Old Parliament House. It is about a 10 minute walk or so from Parliament House. This big white building was formerly known as the Provisional Parliament House. It was home to the Parliament of Australia from 1927 to 1988 and was built for parliament as an interim home while Parliament House was being built.

You can visit Old Parliament House which I highly recommend. Today, it houses the Museum of Australian Democracy. Basically you will find the history of Australian politics shown through interactive displays here. Not into politics? Sound boring! Well actually no. My kids actually really enjoyed visiting here as there were many interactive exhibits and dress ups!

Besides the political history, you can visit the different rooms inside the building including the House of Representatives and the Senate which are off the Kings Hall. Plus, there are meeting rooms, a press room and the Prime Minister’s Suite. You can also stand on the steps outside which is the scene of the famous speech by Gough Whitlam after he had been sacked as Prime Minister on 11 November 1975.

The Museum of Australian Democracy is free to visit. You can plan your visit here .

After a day of politics, end your day with dinner in a restaurant or pub close to your accommodation or in the city.

Entrance to AIS

Listen to the bells at the Carillon

Extend Your Stay in Canberra to 6 or 7 days

If 5 days in Canberra isn’t enough, extend it as there are plenty more things to see and do in Canberra and it’s surrounds. If you are looking to spend a week in Canberra or more, things to see and visit include:

• Cockington Green. This is a miniature village that both young and old enjoy. Everything is a miniature – the castles, the trains, the people, the soccer pitch, the cricket green and even Stonehenge.

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54 Comments

Now I feel bad. I was supposed to move to Canberra once upon a time, and I was constantly complaining about how boring Canberra supposedly was. And now my brother and his family live there, and one of my best friends lives there as well, so I when I come home to Australia, I need to make a trip to Canberra. Thanks for this post, you’ve put my ignorant self in my proper place.

You are welcome Katherine. I think the most boring of places have interesting things to see and do, you just need to find out what they are! Enjoy your visit to Canberra – there are also many great eateries and wineries to visit!

Very well written article! The miniature village looks really fun 🙂

I’m glad you liked the article. Yes, walking around Cockington Green miniature village is a really fun thing to do – for all ages.

Canberra looks great to visit and your itinerary sounds perfect!

I’m pleased you like the sound of the itinerary. I think 5 days is a great length of time to spend in the one city.

I haven’t been to Canberra since I was a young girl. I would so much love to stay at the Jamala Wildlife Lodge one day.

Jamala Wildlife Lodge is just a fantastic experience however, it is an expensive one. It is definitely worth putting it on your bucket list.

I missed Canberra when I was in Australia. I had no idea there was so much to do there. I will have to add it to my list for when I make it back!

Yes, you definitely should try to include Canberra on your next visit. You won’t regret it!

What a great itinerary. I had no idea there were so many different things to do in Canberra and would love to pay my respects at the war memorial and see the miniature village.

If you have the chance you should definitely pay your respects at the War Memorial and walk around the miniature village. Tie them in with visiting other places in Canberra too.

I’m living in Melbourne at the moment (from UK originally) and really hoping to get over to the east coast before our visas expire in October! Thanks for sharing this, we want to see the capital on our trip!

Definitely put Canberra on your list when you go travelling, it is well worth the visit. I hope you are enjoying Melbourne?

Canberra is one of our favourite destinations. We spend hours in the War Memorial and Australian Archives. We had a blast at the AIS, had a punt at the racetrack and dog track. We were there while the show was on. We sat in on the Upper House and Senate and loved the wine tour. So many things to do in Canberra.

Canberra is a great destination as there is so much to see and do. I’m glad it is one of your favourite destinations. I’ve never been to the racetrack – I will try next visit.

We always make sure to get down to Canberra to see any major exhibitions at the National Gallery. Nothing like a good excuse to make the trip. We were lucky to see the Matisse & Picasso exhibition a few days before it closed due to Covid-19. There was also an exhibition of Hugh Ramsey’s portraits, someone I hadn’t heard of previously. Another place to include on your list for adults and kids is the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex at Tidbinbilla, about 35 kms southwest of the city.

Yes the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex at Tidbinbilla is a great place to visit – unfortunately I ran out of days on my 5-day itinerary. Next visit!

Thanks for sharing about Canberra! That Culture Loop Shuttle Bus looks like a great way to see some of the interesting places!

The Culture Loop Shuttle Bus is very handy when you don’t have your own transport. It takes you to all the best places to see in Canberra.

I would definitely visit the miniature village. It reminds me of Cullen Gardens in Toronto, Canada.

The miniature village is quite spectacular. I enjoyed my visit. The Toronto one sounds interesting.

I have never been to Australia. If I plan a trip to Australia, I will definitely include Canberra in my itinerary Thanks for the useful tips.

I hope you can get to Australia and include Canberra in your travel plans. The place is quite impressive.

I haven’t made it to Australia yet. If I plan a trip – will definitely include Canberra in my itinerary Thanks for the useful tips

Canberra being the capital of Australia is very interesting. The buildings, particularly our Parliament House is very impressive. Canberra is only 3-4 hours from Sydney so is very doable.

Canberra appears very laid-back. I would love to visit Mount Ainslie and taking in the panoramic view of Canberra. This place is a hotspot for photographers with plenty of fun to offer.

Canberra can be laid back and yes, the views from Mount Ainslie are fabulous – just go on a clear sunny day for the best views.

Great recommendations.. I would love to visit this part of Australia someday..

I hope you can too. You won’t be disappointed.

Thanks for the write up! Canberra is the only state/territory in Australia I haven’t visited, and to be honest I knew very little about it until now!

I hope you get to Canberra then one day – it is worth the effort.

I like the idea of starting a visit with a stop at Mount Ainslie Lookout to see the area. The lookout would help me get my bearings and I’d get to enjoy a terrific view.

Visiting Mount Ainslie Lookout first gives you a great outlook over Canberra so you can get your bearings. I hope you get to do that!

I feel bad I lived in Australia for 2,5 years and never visited the capital. No idea why but as far as I can see now there is a lot to explore. Close to the mountains, close to the ocean …

There is plenty to explore in and around Canberra – I hope you get back there one day!

I didn’t manage to visit Canberra during my Australia trip but I will definitely be saving for when I return! Thanks for a great itinerary!

That’s a shame – hopefully next trip.

That is such a helpful itinerary. I had no idea that Canberra had so many different things to do.

Thank you. I’m glad you think it a helpful guide and yes, it is surprising the amount of things to see and do at Canberra.

I feel Canberra is often overlooked by people traveling to Australia, but it looks like there’s so much to do! This sounds like the perfect itinerary for 5 days there 🙂

It is overlooked because people only think it has politicians – and not everyone likes politicians! But there are plenty of other things to see and do at Canberra.

Ahh this brought back great memories of a student trip I took there. Loved the Parliament Houses!

Yes, many of us go to Canberra to learn about our nations parliament on a school excursion. I think we went for 3-4 days!

We have got to get to Australia soon!

I hope you do, you will enjoy it!

We are only going to have two days in Canberra this winter (I guess it’s summer for you!). Which museum would you say is THE must-visit?

There are plenty of them. I am not always big on museums myself but I found the National Museum quite interesting. Also Questacon.

Such a useful guide, I haven’t been to Canberra since I was a kid but definitely want to go back one day

I think many of us go when we are kids and don’t think to go back for a holiday. I hope you get back there one day!

I’ve never visited Australia and before reading your post Canberra wasn’t even on my radar! But it seems so interesting, and now I would definitely consider a stop there during a future trip to Australia! Thanks for the info!

Oh good. I think you would find Canberra interesting. I hope you get there.

If I ever get to Australia, Canberra is on my list. Mount Ainslie and the miniature village look fun!

Canberra is often overlooked as not being as exciting as say Sydney, but it is a very interesting city. Just like I would go to Washington to see Capital Hill. I hope you do get to Canberra one day.

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G’Day! Sharyn here, an Aussie discovering Australia. Let me show you around so you can discover Australia too.  Read my story here.

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Canberra

10 BEST Places to Visit in Canberra (2024)

What is the capital of Australia? If you said Sydney or even Melbourne, you could be forgiven for getting it wrong. In fact, it’s this place – Canberra. Although, if you’re going there you probably already know that! It’s no accident that this place is right between the two cities. If you’re visiting Canberra, you’ll be pleased to know that the city is packed with exquisite architecture and culture, even though its history only dates back just over 100 years!

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit in Canberra, helping you to plan your vacation. We think that there’s more than enough things to do in Canberra in 3 days, so if you’re looking to spend a long weekend in the city, our list will be perfect for you. First, though, let’s take a look at the best places to stay in Canberra.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Canberra:

These are the best places to visit in canberra, faq on the best places to visit in canberra.

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City Centre

Canberra City Centre – aka Civic, Civic Centre, CBD, or simply ‘City’ – is the heart of the Australian Capital. Properly established in 1927, the centre of town is a series of geometric road shapes lined by grand, early 20th-century edifices and plumes of green trees.

• Head to City Walk for a spot of retail therapy and some lunch al fresco
• And for even more shopping, head to the shopping haven of Canberra Centre
• Take yourself to Commonwealth Park for a lovely waterside walk

Yes, there are many places that you need to see. Maybe even too many. Before you scroll down any further, though, check out some of the best places to stay in Canberra and get your accommodation lined up. That’ll take a bit of the strain out, as it can get quite stressful trying to fit everything you want to see in anyway. Planning ahead and having your Canberra itinerary ready will make your whole trip way more enjoyable and you won’t miss out on the best hotspots. Speaking of…

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#1 – National Museum of Australia – A fascinating educational place to visit in Canberra

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• A great place to learn about the history, geography, and culture of Australia
• One of the best places in Canberra for an educational experience
• Admire the building’s incredible jigsaw inspired architecture

Why it’s awesome: You’ll notice in the capital, that there are a lot of National somethings in Australia. You have the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, and the National Library of Australia, just to name a few. One of our favourite national attractions in Canberra is the National Museum of Australia. Sitting on a peninsula that juts out into Lake Burley Griffin, it’s the perfect place to learn about Australia’s history as a nation. It also has some of the most in-depth and important exhibits on Aboriginal culture in the entire country!

What to do there: If you’re interested in the history, culture, and geography in Australia, then this place should be right at the top of your Canberra itinerary. However, you don’t just have to admire the building from the outside. Meant to represent the many interconnected stories that hold Australia together as a nation, the intricate architecture of the building is supposed to look like a jigsaw! So, it’s a must for architecture buffs too. Visiting with kids? There are some great interactive exhibitions that will keep them entertained too!

#2 – Lake Burley Griffin – A perfect place to visit in Canberra if you are on a budget

• Walk or bike around the waterfront paths
• Explore the six islands in the lake’s centre
• Home to some of the most important and recognizable landmarks in Canberra

Why it’s awesome: Lake Burley Griffin was named in honour of the architect who designed Canberra. Although the city’s original plan dates back to 1912, it wasn’t actually completed until 1958. Nowadays, it’s loved by both locals and tourists alike for its serene atmosphere and the wealth of activities you can do on and around the lake. In its centre, you’ll find several of the best places to visit in Canberra (including some that are on this list), dotted across 6 man-made islands. You’ll also be impressed by the 147m high Captain Cook Memorial Jet fountain!

What to do there: There’s so much to do around Lake Burley Griffin that in theory, you could spend your whole vacation here! Want to see the National Gallery or Museum? Tick. There’s also the Questacon science centre that’s another of the best places to visit in Canberra – especially if you’re with kids. While on the subject of visiting Canberra with kids, check out Commonwealth Park, which sits on the lake’s north shore. Here, you’ll find play areas, paddling pools, and even an amphitheatre! If you’re visiting the city in Spring, don’t miss the Floriade festival!

#3 – Australian War Memorial – One of the most incredible free places to go in Canberra

• Learn about the role of war in Australian history
• An incredible Byzantine style monument to honour Australia’s fallen
• One of the most poignant attractions in Canberra

Why it’s awesome: You can’t travel to the Aussie capital without visiting one of the most evocative landmarks in Canberra. The Byzantine dome of the National War Memorial looks like it’s been transported from Istanbul and is a fitting tribute to all the Australian soldiers who have lost their lives while fighting for their country. This fascinating attraction is more than just a memorial though – it’s also a museum that documents Australia’s war history. From colonialism to the present day. The Australian War Memorial is one of the attractions in Canberra that you shouldn’t miss, especially considering it’s free to visit.

What to do there: This incredible museum is well worth a few hours of your time, so we’d recommend putting at least half a day aside to visit. The exhibits in the museum include a collection of old aircraft, as well as a number of galleries. There are loads of interactive displays in the Child Discovery Zone too – so it’s easy to keep the kids entertained here. If you’re here as the day is coming to a close, don’t miss the Last Post. A tribute played every day at 4.55 pm. This is not only one of the most moving attractions in Canberra but in the whole of Australia.

#4 – New Parliament House

• Take in panoramic views of the city from the rooftop
• One of the most iconic landmarks in Canberra
• Learn how Australia’s unique and complex political system works

Why it’s awesome: Canberra’s history may not span much further back than 100 years, but in that time, they’ve managed to get through one Parliament House and built a second! And this one truly is a marvel of modern architecture. The building is shaped like another Aussie icon – the boomerang – and was opened by the Queen in 1988. The curved granite walls were designed to reflect the hills surrounding the capital. The Ceremonial Pool and huge flag pole are other impressive parts of this amazing building.

What to do there: If you have time, we’d definitely recommend taking a free guided tour of the New Parliament House. You’ll see all the architectural aspects that we mentioned above, as well as learning how Australia’s unusual political system works. You’ll also have the opportunity to enter several parts of the building, including the House of Representatives and Public Galleries. If you enjoy visiting the New Parliament House, you can visit the old one too. It’s now home to the Museum of Australian Democracy!

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#5 – Mount Ainslie Lookout – One of the most amazing places to visit in Canberra

• One of the city’s most popular viewpoints
• Hike or bike to the mountain’s 843-meter summit
• Get 360-degree views of the most iconic landmarks in Canberra

Why it’s awesome: You may not realize just how well-planned Canberra is when you’re at the city level. However, head to the Mount Ainslie Lookout and you’ll get fantastic views of this methodical and carefully outlined capital. The mountain just happens to line up perfectly with Anzac Parade, and you’ll be able to see Lake Burley Griffin and the stunning Capitol Hill. There are a couple of other lookout points where you can get fantastic views of the city too. If you’re itching for more after the Mount Ainslie Lookout, try those on Black Hill and Red Hill.

What to do there: If you’ve been feeling a little lazy since you arrived in town, or have spent too much time gorging yourself on food, take the Mount Ainslie Kokoda Summit Trail, a 2km hike that’s easy enough for beginners, but challenging enough to be fun and interesting! It’s paved too, so whether you want to walk or bike, you’ll not be too uncomfortable. The trail starts near the Australian War Memorial, so it’s possible to incorporate both these cool Canberra must-do activities into the same day.

#6 – Australian National Botanical Gardens

• Spot birds and butterflies in the beautiful botanical gardens
• Hunt for water dragons in the Rain Forest Gully
• One of the most relaxing points of interest in Canberra

Why it’s awesome: Australia is noted for its wildflowers, but it takes a lot of effort to trek across the country and see all of them. Instead, why not visit a place where they’ve all been kept together?! It’s surely the perfect solution – and you can do that here at the Australian National Botanical Gardens. Not only will you get to see all this fascinating flora (and the occasional bit of fauna) at the gardens, but you’ll learn about the plants’ roles in Australian life and society.

What to do there: You can even take a ¾ hour bus tour (don’t worry, it’s air-conditioned). This should tell you just how big the gardens are! However, it’s just as rewarding to visit the gardens and discover them for yourself on foot. They’re split up into sections, and you’ll get to see some of the different landscapes Australia is known for. For example, the rainforest gully is lush and green, and you may even be lucky enough to spot a water dragon. The Red Centre is the complete opposite – where you’ll get an idea of the Outback and its grasslands!

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#7 – Black Mountain Nature Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Canberra

• Get panoramic views of the city from the top of the Black Mountain Tower
• Get out into the Aussie bush
• Combine this with a trip to the Botanical Gardens for a great day out

Why it’s awesome: If you really liked the Australian National Botanical Gardens but haven’t managed to spend the whole day there, this is a great option for your afternoon. The Black Mountain Nature Park’s views rival those of the Mount Ainslie Lookout and enable you to get out in the bush! Although you’ve all heard the horror stories of venomous snakes and spiders, you’re more likely to catch a view of native birds here. This is also where you’ll find the Australian Institute of Sport.

What to do there: We’d definitely recommend taking a walk through the bush and spotting some wildlife. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars so you can really see it up close! The Black Mountain Tower deserves a place on your Canberra itinerary too. Not only does it offer fantastic views across the city, it’s also one of the best places to eat in Canberra. The revolving restaurant at the top of the tower certainly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! The Black Mountain Nature Park is one of the best places in Canberra to escape into the wilderness for the day!

#8 – Jet Flight Simulator Canberra

• Learn to fly a plane and land at your airport of choice
• Be guided by an experienced First Officer
• One of the more unusual things to do in Canberra

Why it’s awesome: Have you ever wanted to fly your own plane? Of course, you have. And Jet Flight Simulator Canberra is the perfect place to do that in a safe and secure environment. There’s a choice of over 22,000 virtual airports to land at, and guided by your First Officer, you should successfully navigate onto the runway. And if you don’t, just have another go!

What to do there: Learn the ropes of flying one of the most popular planes in the world, the Boeing 737. You might even realize a life-long dream! Not only is it cool having such a huge choice of airports to fly into, but there’s also a range of weather conditions. So, if you’re finding it too easy to fly in the sun, how about during a thunderstorm? This is a Canberra must-do if you’re interested in aviation… or you’re just a big kid that wants to fly a plane!

#9 – National Zoo and Aquarium

• Get up close and personal with Australian and exotic wildlife
• Take part in a ZooVenture Tour
• The only combined zoo and aquarium in the whole of Australia

Why it’s awesome: One of the most famous places in Canberra, the National Zoo and Aquarium is surprisingly the only combined zoo and aquarium in the whole country! It’s a great place to visit with kids, as there’s more to it than just looking at the animals and being impressed. You’ll learn a lot about conservation work here, and you might even be lucky enough to get up close and personal with your favourite animal! Also, there’s a cool safari lodge if you want to stay overnight and make it a visit to remember.

What to do there: Speaking of making your visit memorable, why not try one of the ZooVenture tours when you visit Canberra? Some of the options include hand-feeding giraffes, patting rhinos, and feeding bears. Don’t worry, it’s all perfectly safe and you’ll be accompanied by someone who has plenty of experience with animals! Whatever age you are, this will be an unforgettable memory of your time in Canberra!

#10 – Namadgi National Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Canberra

• How to see Canberra’s natural beauty
• Just a 40km drive south of the capital
• One of eleven areas on the Australian Alps National Parks and Reserves list

Why it’s awesome: Sometimes when you visit a capital city, it’s just an endless concrete jungle. So, it’s reassuring to know that just 40km south of Canberra, you can completely escape into the wilderness. Namadgi National Park is included on the Australian National Heritage List, as well as being one of just 11 protected areas on the Australian Alps National Parks and Reserves list. And with good reason too! The area is a habitat for more flora and fauna than you can shake a stick at (please don’t hit anything with said stick). Don’t miss it off your Canberra itinerary!

What to do there: If you’re wondering about how to see Canberra’s rugged outskirts, don’t miss taking a trip down here. Hiking trails criss-cross this national park so that even the most novice hiker won’t get lost. There are some incredible birdwatching opportunities in the park too, so twitchers should definitely pack their cameras and binoculars. This is one of the best places in Canberra to get in touch with nature and see the beauty of the Australian bush!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Canberra

What are the best free places to visit in Canberra?

Check out these cool places to visit in Canberra – the best thing about them, they’re free! – Australian War Memorial – New Parliament House – Lake Burley Griffin

Are there any natural places in Canberra?

Explore nature and enjoy some stunning views at the incredible places to visit in Canberra: – Mount Ainslie Lookout – Australian National Botanical Gardens – Namadgi National Park

What are the best places to visit in Canberra for outdoor adventures?

Outdoor lovers will have a blast at these places in Canberra: – Mount Ainslie Lookout – Namadgi National Park – National Zoo and Aquarium

Which places in Canberra can you visit during winter?

Even when it’s cold outside, these places in Canberra are pretty cool to visit: – Black Mountain Nature Park – New Parliament House – National Museum of Australia

Final Thoughts

So, that concludes our list of the best places to visit in Canberra. We hope that our extensive list has proved useful and helpful and that you’ve seen there’s such a wide variety of things to do in the Australian capital! Although it may not be as popular as Sydney or Melbourne, it’s well worth a visit thanks to so many museums, galleries, and cool outdoor attractions.

Not only will you have a better idea of the best places to visit in Canberra, but the best places to stay too. And with such natural beauty on your doorstep, it’s easy to get away from the big city lights!

All that’s left is for us to wish you a fantastic time when you travel to Canberra. And don’t forget to keep a copy of our list of the best places to visit in Canberra at hand!

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Solo Female Travel Blog

A Solo Travel Itinerary to Australia’s Beautiful Capital City, Canberra

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Canberra is an often overlooked place to visit for solo travellers coming to Australia. I hope when you’re finished reading this solo itinerary to Canberra that you will add it to your bucket list when travelling down under.

If you aren’t aware, Australia has 6 states (New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania) and 2 territories (Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory). Within the Australian Capital Territory is Canberra, the capital of Australia. In this travel guide, I’ll be covering all the basics for travellers looking to visit Canberra, including how to get to Canberra, where to stay and eat in Canberra, and what are the best activities to do in this city.

• How to get to Canberra from Sydney?

Solo itinerary to Canberra, Australia

Why visit canberra, what are the must-sees in canberra, 1. see australian history, 2. visit the floriade festival, 3. see the canberra balloon spectacular, 4. check out the views from mount ainslie lookout, 5. sip excellent wines at the wineries, 6. lake burley griffin, 7. eat at canberra’s hidden gem, 8. go to the farmers markets, 9. namadgi national park, 10. tidbinbilla nature reserve, let me know in the comments:.

Many people mistake Sydney as the capital of Australia but, it’s Canberra which is only a short 3-hour drive south of Sydney.

Canberra is home to an international and domestic airport, connecting you to 180 global destinations. If you fly from Sydney though, it takes usually less than an hour. There are nonstop flights 5 times a week from Sydney. I recommend booking the flights using the most trusted Skyscanner and Momodo.

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Alternatively, from Sydney, if you take a train you will arrive in Canberra just after 6 hours. You can also combine train and bus and the total trip would be around 5 hours. If you are feeling adventurous, the bike takes just over 15 hours! For more info, you can call 13 22 32 or go to transportnsw.info

If you are using public transportation, I recommend buying the Opal card which is the ticket to ride the train, ferry, light rail, and bus services around NSW. You can buy the Opal card from retailers including news agencies, 7/11, supermarkets, and some pharmacies. Just load dollar amounts onto the Opal card and tap on and off at Opal card readers. If you are traveling on a budget, then the train can be a safe option combined with Uber below.

Taxis, cars, and rideshare in case you are going to book taxi ranks are available around the city and at the airport too. Ride-share service Uber operates in Canberra and car hire is available at the airport and points around the city from companies including Avis, Budget, Thrifty, and Hertz.

Book Uber for $10 off your first Uber ride- Use code k7zapn and use code WT7BSQD2 for a $20 Didi discount which is a rivalry to Uber.

Where to stay in Canberra?

Solo travellers like myself will tell you that booking accommodation early works wonders. You can be certain where you will be sleeping and start planning your trip straight away. That said, I enjoy staying at nice and clean serviced apartments because it gives the privacy I desire and the central location to explore.

You can check hotel prices and book it through trusted  Booking.com or Agoda & find the best one that suits you. From central apartment-styled hotels, with all the necessities to cheap hostels; you can see it all on those two websites.

First of all, why not? Yeah. I mean it is the capital city of Australia so there’s that and we all need a solo getaway from time to time. In Spring, Canberra offers vantage points for whale watching, while winter and late autumn are excellent times to step out on a Coastal walk. All year round it’s a great place to explore the city, surrounding green spaces, historic museums, and culture. Besides that, Canberra offers some unique experiences and beautiful places that I have elaborated on below. I hope this gives you some good reason to visit Canberra and as explained above it is not that far from other cities in Australia. So, it is a convenient choice for that short break also.

If you are interested to see Australian history (National Museum of Australia, Australia’s Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia, and the Australian War Memorial), and wildlife Canberra is a perfect place. Compared to Sydney there are lesser things to see here but there are enough nonetheless.

As mentioned above, Canberra serviced apartments are right in the CBD and it was a short stroll to the museums and landmarks. You can even start your day with a few laps in the indoor heated pool, gym session, or sauna! Hence, I recommend staying there for ease of exploring. Just remember entry to most of the city’s major attractions is free and you can even do Canberra one day tour.

For this one, you will have to time it right which means it only runs between September and October. Floriade is a flower and entertainment festival that runs annually in Canberra’s Commonwealth Park featuring extensive displays of flowers with integrated sculptures and other artistic features. I remember enjoying this festival on a chilly night so, don’t forget to check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. A solo itinerary to Canberra would be fun only when you are dressed suitably for the weather!

I also enjoy heading over to Canberra for long weekend getaways, especially during the Floriade flower festival. It is definitely a must-visit for people interested in beautiful flower shows, usually open day and night!

This is another must-see in the solo itinerary to Canberra. This balloon festival used to be called the Canberra Balloon Festival. It is an annual hot air balloon festival that takes place on the lawns of the old Parliament House in Canberra. Balloons will start inflating at approximately 6.30 am and will be expected to launch at around 7 am, so make sure you get up early to see this amazing site. You can also buy breakfast in the morning from a variety of vendors or bring your own picnic.

Alternatively, you can also take a hot air balloon flight over Australia’s capital for the best view of Canberra.

MT Ainslie lookout offers fantastic views over Canberra along with the famous landmarks to be seen. It is not a bad walk-up at all, some step-ups are all paved if keep to the main trail. The path is well constructed and there are information boards on the way up about the war in the pacific. The drinking fountain at the top is appreciated. It is a beautiful environment with great walking/running/mountain bike trails. The views of Canberra and the surrounding areas are second to none. A great location for a picnic lunch or simply to get above it all for a spot of reflection.

With more than 30 wineries within 35 minutes drive of the city, the Canberra region is now also known as a wine-growing region. The exciting wine flavors and aromas are a given and you may even meet the actual winemaker when you visit their cellar doors for a tasting. They offer a wealth of knowledge about the local region, as well as the unique growing conditions and delicious blends.

There are tours of the wineries available which you can choose based on their reviews and years of experience. Many offer a pick-up service from your hotel or accommodation, so you can confidently enjoy wines with your lunch.

Lake Burley is a manmade lovely lake in Canberra. There are walking and cycling tracks, and scenic boat cruises, and it’s also a great spot for a picnic by the lake! It is quiet and suitable for kayaking or having brunch at many cafes around the lake. You can also watch the Captain Cook Memorial Jet which is on from 11 am to 2 pm each day. The jet is projected upwards of 114m high and leaves a misty trail that reaches the shore due to winds, so be careful if you don’t want to get wet. It is a must-see if you’re in Canberra!

If you are after great food in a comfortable setting, I recommend the Stock Kitchen and Bar. Despite being next to a busy road, it is quiet and comfy once you are inside. This hidden gem is located at one of Canberra’s serviced apartments Mantra on Northbourne Ave. Stock Kitchen is Canberra’s best-kept dining secret offering delicious food and great service.

Capital Region Farmers Markets is where you can buy fresh produce directly from the growers and enjoy a delicious local breakfast or brunch on Saturdays. Then on Sunday as Canberra’s tradition, you can visit the Old Bus Depot Markets. It is a great spot to pick up some tasty treats, a bunch of flowers, some fashion gems, and local artwork.

If you want a lovely place for wandering, I recommend heading to Namadgi National Park. It is a beautiful place full of Australian native flora and fauna. Sometimes you can even see wallabies, kookaburras, lizards, and more animals! If you want to have a great view while hiking this is a great place to go. Burrumbah rock is a great short hike with a fantastic view. For more advanced hiking I’d recommend Mt Tennant which is a 5-hour return trip.

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is a perfect place to spend a day in nature with kangaroos! Not only that you can also spot five famous native Australian animals that call the area home: the koala, platypus, kangaroo, emu, and wombat, Mount Ainslie, and Jerrabomberra Wetlands also! it’s a great place to interact with the local wildlife.

There are barbeques, picnic tables, and ample toilet facilities available. Easy walking trail and information signposts for everyone and great views from the top. Once you arrive here, don’t forget to pick up a free brochure available from the Visitor Centre to plan your day inside the reserve. Remember, the only drinking water supply is outside the Visitor Centre so recommend bringing your own.

11. Day trips to the Beach

If you don’t mind a drive Canberra is only two hours drive to the NSW south coast for its unspoiled beaches, stunning scenery, and quaint towns. The best months for swimming are February and March and even in the peak summer period, you can find a beach to have all to yourself on the Canberra Region Coast. Beaches in Eurobodalla and Narooma offer some great options near Canberra.

I hope this solo itinerary to Canberra and its surrounds helped you.

• What do you think of this Solo itinerary to Canberra?
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18 thoughts on “ a solo travel itinerary to australia’s beautiful capital city, canberra ”.

I will love to go to Canberra balloon spectacular and that farmers market is very interesting thank you for this guide

I haven’t been in Canberra but I have already been in Sydney and Melbourne. I hope to see the balloon festival! Looks so nice!

Thank you for this, Canberra is even more beautiful in winter. Hopefully will make it there when this lockdown disappears.

Canberra looks incredible! Why have I never heard of this destination? Probably because I haven’t researched it until now. Thanks for the education!

I’ve always wanted to visit Australia. It’s such a beautiful country. I’d love to take a trip to Canberra following this itinerary. I love that you included little hidden spots, as well.

I didn’t even Canberra was the capital of Australia I thought it was Sydney. Very interesting post on the capital. I’m not much of a traveler but I’m sure would be a great visit.

The Floriade festival and day trips to the beach are what I would surely do if I get the chance to visit Canberra! It would be such an idyllic vacation if I would be able to walk among those flower fields and watch sunsets at the beach!

I have family in Australia so I’ve been meaning to go for a while. I’d love to know more about the history and get to see some of the beautiful natural lands. Sadly a lot of it was damaged during the fires. But after lockdown it’s certainly somewhere I plan to go.

Australia is my number one travel destination for sure. It is at the very top of my list as I have always juts loved it and I had no idea that Canberra was the capital and what a beautiful place! I will for sure make sure to get there soon 🙂 Thank you!

I have never heard of Canberra before. Thank you for sharing. It looks like one of the most photographic vacation spots. Good tip about the Accor Hotels. I have stayed at one in Europe and they are economical and clean and usually pretty central to the action.

Australia has been on my bucket list ever since Crocodile Dundee and Man from Snowy River, haha. I would love to visit Canberra as well!

I would love to visit Canberra. Australia is high on my list of places to visit, and now I will add Canberra to that list when I explore Australia. That festival looks incredible, and it would be wonderful to learn more history! Thanks for this article.

I have always wanted to see Australia and I didn’t know the capital was Canberra!lol Looks like it has so much to do and experience as well as in Sydney. Can’t wait to visit after all this is over!

I miss traveling. I would love to visit Canberra it looks lovely.

I’ve wanted to go here for a long time. It’s really beautiful. Thank you for sharing this!

I´d love to see Canberra Balloon Spectacular – must be an epic experience! Hope to visit Australia soon!

Because of you, Canberra is on my list for this coming long weekend. Thanks for the weekend trip idea! This looks amazing and so close to Sydney!

Regrettably did not make it to Canberra on our last Aussie Adventure, but we met loads of lovely people who called the city home! Perhaps on our next visit!

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GUIDE TO CANBERRA Travel (2024) |Things to Do, Attractions & Tips

• 10 minute read

• January 19, 2024

Canberra Travel Guide 2024 – Things to Do, What To Eat

Hello my Dear Travel enthusiasts

Welcome, Adventure seekers! Join us on a captivating journey through Australia’s picturesque capital city in this week’s blog on Amazing World. This time, we’re unraveling the fascinating history, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems that make Canberra special.

Canberra, with its roots tracing back to indigenous communities, carries the rich legacy of being a meeting place, as reflected in its name derived from the word “ kanbara .” What makes this city even more intriguing is its meticulous planning, courtesy of American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahoney Griffin, who won an international competition in the early 1900s to design the city.

In our exploration, we take you behind the scenes at the Royal Australian Mint, where coins come to life, and visitors can mint their unique souvenirs. Parliament House, the nation’s political heart, also takes the spotlight, showcasing breathtaking architecture, historical displays, and stunning city views.

But that’s not all – our journey extends to the Red Center Garden, where uniquely Australian flora and fauna captivate visitors. Join us as we stumble upon the oldest rocks in Australia and embark on unexpected adventures, including a quirky trip to Costco.

About Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.

Canberra is Australia’s capital city, situated in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) between Sydney and Melbourne. It was intentionally designed in the early 1900s to be the nation’s capital by American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahoney Griffin, winners of a global design contest. The name “Canberra” comes from an Aboriginal word, “kanbara,” meaning meeting place.

With a population of about 400,000, Canberra is known for its history, impressive architecture, and large national parks. Landmarks like the Royal Australian Mint, where coins are made, and Parliament House, a symbol of Australian democracy, define the city.

Besides its political significance, Canberra offers a lively cultural scene with museums, galleries, and exciting events, making it a vibrant destination at the heart of Australia.

How to Reach CANBERRA

• By Air: Canberra Airport (CBR): The city is served by Canberra Airport, which operates domestic flights. You can book a flight to Canberra from major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide.
• By Car: Canberra is well-connected by road. You can drive to Canberra from nearby cities, such as Sydney (around a three-hour drive) or Melbourne (approximately a six-hour drive), using major highways like the Hume Highway.
• By Train: The Australian Rail Network offers train services to Canberra. The Canberra Railway Station is located in the suburb of Kingston. The train journey provides scenic views of the Australian landscape.
• By Bus: Bus services connect Canberra with neighboring cities. You can find intercity bus services that operate from Sydney, Melbourne, and other regional centers.
• By Coach: Long-distance coaches also operate to and from Canberra. These services are suitable for travelers looking for an economical and comfortable mode of transportation.
• By Bike or Walking: Canberra has a well-maintained network of bike paths and walking trails. If you’re in the vicinity, cycling or walking can be a scenic and healthy way to reach the city.

When planning your journey to Canberra, consider your preferences, budget, and schedule to choose the most convenient mode of transportation.

When is the cheapest time to visit Canberra?

Winter (June to August)

Reasons for Affordability:

• Winter is the off-peak season in Canberra due to colder temperatures.
• Fewer tourists during this time result in lower demand for accommodations and attractions.
• Airlines and hotels may offer discounted rates to attract visitors during the quieter months.

Considerations:

• While prices may be lower, it’s essential to be prepared for colder weather, with temperatures often dropping below freezing at night.
• Winter is the truffle season, offering unique culinary experiences for those interested in local cuisine.

Top Activity and Things to do in CANBERRA

Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn).

Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May):

• Spring and autumn are considered shoulder seasons with milder temperatures and pleasant weather.
• These seasons offer a balance between lower prices and more favorable weather conditions.
• Accommodations and attractions may still offer discounted rates compared to the peak summer season.
• Outdoor activities and events are available, providing a chance to enjoy Canberra’s natural beauty.

Considerations: While not as cold as winter, spring mornings and autumn evenings can be cool, so packing accordingly is advisable.

Explore the Rich History of Canberra

Indigenous Heritage: Canberra’s rich history begins with its indigenous roots, dating back thousands of years. Dive into the cultural significance of the land and its people at the Australian National Museum, which vividly showcases the stories and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

National Museum of Australia: Step into the National Museum of Australia to embark on a historical journey. Exhibits cover the gamut, from the ancient past to contemporary Australia, offering a comprehensive overview of the nation’s cultural evolution.

Old Parliament House: Discover the political history of Australia at Old Parliament House, where the original seat of government stood. Explore historic chambers, interactive displays, and exhibitions that provide a captivating insight into the country’s political evolution.

Australian War Memorial: Pay homage to Australia’s military history at the Australian War Memorial. A somber yet enlightening experience, it honors the sacrifices of those who served in conflicts, presenting a poignant narrative of the nation’s wartime contributions.

Lanyon Homestead: For a glimpse into early European settlement, visit Lanyon Homestead. Wander through the homestead, outbuildings, and gardens, immersing yourself in the pastoral lifestyle of the 19th century.

Marvel at the Architectural Wonders

Parliament House: Marvel at the iconic Parliament House, a testament to Canberra’s architectural brilliance. From its grand flagpole to marble staircases and council chambers, explore the intricacies of this political hub and enjoy panoramic views from its rooftop.

National Gallery of Australia: Delight in the architectural masterpiece of the National Gallery of Australia. A haven for art enthusiasts, the gallery houses a diverse collection, surrounded by stunning sculpture gardens that add to the aesthetic appeal.

National Library of Australia: Explore the architectural beauty of the National Library, a serene space boasting an impressive collection of books and manuscripts. Its design complements the intellectual atmosphere, creating a perfect blend of form and function.

Telstra Tower: Ascend Telstra Tower for panoramic views of Canberra’s skyline. The modernist design of the tower is as impressive as the vistas it offers, making it a prime spot for photography and absorbing the city’s layout.

Australian National University Campus: Take a stroll through the Australian National University’s campus. The amalgamation of contemporary and traditional architecture creates a visually appealing environment, inviting exploration.

Enjoy the Beauty of National Parks

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Trails, wildlife encounters, and the opportunity to see the endangered Southern Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby make it a haven for nature lovers.

Namadgi National Park: Discover the rugged landscapes of Namadgi National Park, offering mountain ranges and Aboriginal rock art. Hiking enthusiasts will find this park a perfect destination for exploring the wilderness and enjoying scenic vistas.

Australian National Botanic Gardens: Explore the Australian National Botanic Gardens, showcasing the nation’s diverse flora. Themed gardens, unique plant species, and a tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal place to connect with nature.

Lake Burley Griffin: Experience the calming ambiance of Lake Burley Griffin, a man-made oasis in the heart of the city. Whether walking along its shores, renting a kayak, or simply enjoying the scenic views, it’s a serene escape.

Cotter Dam and Cotter Reserve: Discover the tranquility of Cotter Dam and Reserve, an ideal spot for picnics and water activities. Escape the urban bustle and unwind in the peaceful surroundings.

Visit Unique Cultural Institutions

National Gallery of Australia: Beyond its architectural marvel, the National Gallery houses an extensive collection of art. From traditional Indigenous art to contemporary international masterpieces, the exhibits offer a captivating journey through artistic expressions.

National Museum of Australia: The National Museum not only preserves history but also presents it in engaging and interactive ways. Dive into exhibitions and events that celebrate Australia’s diverse cultural heritage.

National Science and Technology Centre (Questacon): For a hands-on scientific experience, visit Questacon. This interactive science and technology center caters to all ages, making learning about science an exciting adventure.

Australian Institute of Sport: Sports enthusiasts can appreciate the Australian Institute of Sport. Take a guided tour to witness world-class training facilities and learn about Australia’s sporting achievements.

National Film and Sound Archive: Delve into Australia’s cinematic and auditory history at the National Film and Sound Archive. From vintage films to contemporary recordings, it’s a journey through the nation’s cultural tapestry.

Discover the Unique Flora and Fauna

Australian National Botanic Gardens: Wander through the Australian National Botanic Gardens to discover a vast array of native plants, including rare and endangered species. Educational tours provide insights into the importance of preserving biodiversity.

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve: Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Encounter kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. The reserve also plays a vital role in the conservation of endangered species.

Australian Reptile Centre: For those fascinated by reptiles, the Australian Reptile Centre is a must-visit. Get up close with various snake and lizard species, while informative talks educate visitors about Australia’s unique reptilian inhabitants.

Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary: Experience the conservation efforts at Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary. Home to reintroduced species like the Eastern Bettong and Bush Stone-curlew, it’s a testament to Canberra’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

Red Center Garden: The Red Center Garden offers a uniquely Australian landscape. Explore the vibrant flora adapted to arid conditions and enjoy a peaceful stroll in this distinct botanical environment.

PLACES TO Explore in CANBERRA

What is the australian capital territory known for.

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is primarily known for housing Canberra, the purposefully planned capital city of Australia. Canberra serves as the political and administrative center, hosting key government institutions like the Australian Parliament House. The ACT is renowned for its cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and the Australian National University.

With a focus on natural beauty, the territory boasts national parks, reserves, and the man-made Lake Burley Griffin. Canberra is often referred to as the “Bush Capital” due to its abundant bushland reserves and extensive bike-friendly infrastructure. Additionally, the ACT hosts cultural festivals and provides sporting facilities, contributing to its vibrant and multifaceted reputation.

Where to Stay in Canberra?

What is the best must try dishes in canberra (by locals).

Conclusion .

Canberra, the capital city of Australia, offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors, from exploring its rich history and iconic landmarks to indulging in unique and flavorful local cuisine. The city’s planned layout by renowned architects gives it a distinctive character, and its cultural scene, including museums and galleries, adds depth to the visit. Key attractions such as the Australian War Memorial, Parliament House, and the National Gallery of Australia provide insight into the nation’s heritage and political significance.

For those considering a visit, the choice of where to stay in Canberra is broad, with options ranging from the central business district in Civic to the trendy Braddon neighborhood and the serene suburbs of Kingston and Manuka. The table showcasing accommodation options with daily charges provides a quick reference for various preferences and budgets.

How much did you like Our detailed  Canberra Travel Guide 2024 – Things to Do, What To Eat ?  Review Also, please share these  Blogs  with your friends on social media.

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• January 18, 2024

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The best things to do in Canberra, Australia

Updated On 4th July, 2024

Canberra is Australia’s capital, and one of few planned cities in the world, with its ultimate layout being the product of an international design contest. This well thought out city often tends to be overlooked by travellers, hailing from either near or far, and a visit here will have you quickly discover that those people are missing out. There are so many fun things to do in Canberra, and it’s definitely worth a stop if you’re backpacking in Australia , solo travelling in Australia , or heading out on an Australia road trip. 

Canberra is often not visited by backpackers who tend to favour the East Coast , but that’s not to say that the best things to do in Canberra aren’t worth a visit. From sightseeing in Australia’s capital and visiting museums, war memorials and Parliament House to visiting the stunning scenery at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve or Jerrabomberra Wetland, there’s plenty of adventure to be had!

It is easy to spend at least a week exploring Canberra and its surroundings, not to mention the side-trips you can do on the way to and from Sydney, such as the Wombeyan limestone caves in Wombeyan Karst Conservation Reserve, or the pretty coastal towns, such as Kiama. The best option is to drive via the inland route on the way to Canberra, and take the coastal roads on your return (or vice-versa), making the most of your  campervan hire from Sydney .

In this Canberra travel guide, you will find a collection of the best “must see and do” activities and attractions.

Other travel guides you might find useful…

• The best things to do in Australia
• The best things to do in Western Australia
• Australia: the ultimate travel guide
• A guide to solo travel in Australia
• Australia: the ultimate East Coast bucket list
• The best things to do in Sydney
• The ultimate Tasmania road trip itinerary
• The best things to do in South Australia

Getting to Canberra…

Although there is an airport located in Canberra, Sydney is the busiest airport in Australia, and is frequently used as a gateway city into Australia’s East Coast . Being such an accessible destination, it is a great place to commence a road trip in Australia, and you’ll have plenty to keep you busy before you explore beyond.

The drive from Sydney to Canberra is only a few hours, making it perfect for either a weekend getaway, a stop en route to Melbourne , or as your dedicated holiday destination. 

The most convenient way to journey through Australia, is by means of a campervan hire. One of the many advantages being that you get to experience the stunning, ever-changing landscapes, but also, you have the freedom to stop whenever you like to see sights and attractions discovered along the way. Having your accommodation and amenities already sorted, means nothing to worry about if you decide to spend an unplanned extra night here or there. 

See more day trips from Sydney here.

Where to stay in Canberra?

There are several campgrounds in close proximity to the city, however, the Alivio Tourist Park which is just 4kms outside of the city centre, has consistently great feedback. They also offer ensuite sites, in case your campervan rental does not have its own amenities, and all their sites are powered.

For other options in the area, the free smartphone app “Discovery Roadtrip”, is a great resource to search for campgrounds, attractions and restaurants.

Places to eat and drink in Canberra…

• Tu Do Vietnamese Restaurant – Sargood Street, O’Connor
• Breakfast at Gather Café – Mort Street, Braddon
• Pizza at Briscola Italian – Alinga Street – there are a variety multi-cultural options in this one location, so there are lots more places to eat in Canberra in this area if you don’t fancy Italian! 
• An Nguyen Vegan restaurant

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Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all my pins are at the touch of your fingertips.

The best things to do in Canberra…

1. australian war memorial.

This huge museum, and shrine to Australians who lost their lives at war, contains a huge collection of military history, displays and galleries. One of the best things to do in Canberra is to learn about Australian war history here. There are some interactive exhibits and guided tours are available, with something to hold the attention of any aged visitor. Outside the building, the pretty scenery is dotted with relic artillery and commemorative statues. 

2. Lake Burley Griffin

This man-made lake in the middle of Canberra, creates the picture-perfect setting for the monuments and sculptures that are located here, such as the National Police Memorial. Black swans gracefully glide across the water, and the lush green grass lining the tidy pathways welcome you on a walk. Head over the Aspen Island footbridge and be captivated by the impressive, 50 metre high, National Carillon. 

3. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Located a scenic 40-minute drive from Canberra, the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve houses a menagerie of native wildlife. This sanctuary is dedicated to conservation and has several breeding programs for threatened species. One of the best things to do in Canberra (well, nearby, anyway) is to go walking here and see the wildlife. The beautiful walking tracks inside the reserve wind you around their five ponds, homestead ruins and past the many residents, such as platypus, emus, koalas, kangaroos and many species of reptiles and birds.

4. Questacon

Questacon is a dedicated science museum, which may sound boring, but the look of wonder and excitement on the faces of the children visiting here, would tell you otherwise. Trust me, it’s one of the things you must do in Canberra. There are interactive rooms and activities, robots, an earthquake demonstration and even a tornado generator. There is also a great little shop here, with many science-related games and toys available to purchase.

5. Parliament House

Entry is free, and no visit to Canberra would be complete without the obligatory visit to Parliament House. The building itself is beautiful, as is the Lego replica on display. You can join a tour, which is informative and guided by very friendly staff who work here, or you are free to explore on your own. The art displayed throughout is filled with history, and there is a café on site to stop for a meal or a cup of coffee. It’s one of the places to visit in Canberra that you cannot miss!

6. The Truffle Farm

If you’re looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city, one of the best things to do in Canberra is to visit the Truffle Farm. It’s a lovely rural farm where you can hunt for truffles and enjoy a variety of truffle inspired dishes, prepared by their talented chef. There is also a selection of truffle products available to purchase and take home.

7. Capital Wines

Wine tasting should be on any Australia bucket list ! This boutique cellar door winery and art gallery is just a 15-minute drive outside of Canberra. Here you can purchase some local wine, enjoy a cheese platter or share a glorious gourmet food & wine experience.

8. The National Dinosaur Museum

One of Australia’s largest permanent dinosaur exhibits, you can see over 300 fossil and skeleton displays, and the collection here continues to grow. One of the best things to do in Canberra is to pay a visit – I mean, who doesn’t love dinosaurs?! Walk through the gardens and spend some time with “Stan”, Canberra’s famous Tyrannosaurus Rex.

9. Australian Institute of Sport

Immerse yourself in Australian sports history through a variety of interactive displays. View the special exhibit of sports memorabilia and visit the souvenir shop to purchase a keepsake of your visit.

explore BACKPACKING ON THE blog here

10. Canberra Shopping Outlet Centre

Grab a bargain with outlet pricing on brand name fashion, including Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Oroton and Calvin Klein, as well as home maker stores such as TK Maxx and Harris Scarfe. 

11. National Portrait Gallery

This gallery is dedicated to creating awareness and appreciation of Australian history, identity and culture, through portrait art, and one of the best things to do in Canberra is to visit. There are a variety of mediums used throughout the exhibit, including photography, sculpting and paint, and informative explanations accompanying each piece.

12. Jerrabomberra Wetland

If you want to get out in nature, one of the best things to do in Canberra is to head out to Jerrabomberra Wetland. It’s one of Australian Capital Territory’s most valuable wetland nature reserves, providing refuge to many native birds, such as the Kingfisher, as well as species migrating through. Enjoy a bird-watching stroll through this natural wonderland, there are three easy walking trails to choose from.

explore SOLO TRAVEL ON THE blog here

13. Royal Australian Mint

One of the best free things to do in Canberra (even the tour is free), the Royal Mint is the only producer of Australian coins. Watch how they are made and then mint your own coin to take home, available from the onsite gift shop.

14. Australian National Botanic Gardens

If you’re a plant lover, this is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Canberra. Representing the diversity of Australian flora, these beautiful gardens exhibit plant-life from a variety of environments, such as arid and alpine. The botanists also assist with conservation of endangered plants, by cultivating them to avoid future extinction.

15. Old Bus Depot Markets

This must visit Sunday market is located inside a retired bus depot and one of my favourite places to visit in Canberra – especially if you love food and a good bargain! There is a huge variety of stall offerings, including food, produce, art, craft, clothing and jewellery.

16. Namadgi National Park

Located 40km outside of Canberra, the Namadgi National Park provides a wealth of hiking opportunities, from beginner walks to advanced treks. One of the best things to do in the Canberra area is to grab your boots and go hiking! This picturesque section of bushland wilderness is huge, covering almost half of the ACT’s area.

explore ACTIVE TRAVEL ON THE blog here

17. Canberra Glassworks

A gallery and an art studio, the Glassworks offer classes or general public viewing of their running workshops. If you don’t have time to take a class and make your own, you can purchase one of their stunning creations in their foyer shop. Definitely one of the best places to visit in Canberra if you love being creative!

18. Floriade

If you are lucky enough to visit between mid-September to mid-October, Floriade takes place annually and is a celebration of all things Spring. Both community gardens and Commonwealth Parklands provide a utopia of colourful flowers to appreciate. This flower festival is also one of the best free things to do in Canberra, as there’s no entry fee! 

If you aren’t wishing to end this journey back in Sydney, you may consider an itinerary that continues to Melbourne or Adelaide. If you hire a campervan one way, you can see more of Australia without any back-tracking.

• A Sydney to Melbourne road trip itinerary

We hope you found some of these things to do in Canberra helpful with planning, or even just inspiring, your next holiday in Australia.

What are your favourite things to do in Canberra?

Where are the best places to visit in Canberra? Anything you’d add to this Australia travel guide?

Love as always and happy adventuring…

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

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Blog > The complete guide to: Canberra travel

The complete guide to: Canberra travel

Just ranked by Lonely Planet as the #3 city in the world to visit in 2018 and packing a big punch for a small, easygoing city, Canberra is where nature and outdoor adventure can be found alongside cultural must-sees and burgeoning local food and coffee precincts. Here are our tips to help you plan your perfect trip to the city.

Getting to and from Canberra

If you’re arriving into Canberra airport, the new Transport Canberra bus service Route 11 is a good option to and from the city centre (about 5 AUD each way and runs at least every 30 minutes. Otherwise it is not far by metred taxi to the city centre, where most hotels are clustered on the north side of the lake (a taxi will cost you about 25 AUD and take 10 to 15 minutes).

If you’re coming from Sydney, the best value option is the frequent Murrays bus from Sydney Central Railway Station. It is three hours’ travel through bushland, farmlands and around Lake George straight to the heart of Canberra city (the Jollimont Centre bus station), which is within walking distance to a range of nearby hotels and apartments, and the youth hostel.

The Greyhound bus or V-line train and bus combination from Melbourne obviously takes a lot longer (about nine hours), but is a great way to see the countryside.

Getting around Canberra

With an extensive network of footpaths and cycle-ways, walking and cycling are the best options for getting around the heart of Canberra. No parking or taxi fees! (Nearly everywhere in the city is paid parking.) Get your free map of the Lake Burley Griffin cycle loops from the Visitor Centre at Regatta Point (also supplied free on our tours).

Of course the best way to cycle the city or go on an effortless circuit of the parklands around the lake is to hop on your bike. Hire a straight pedal bike from Rohan at Cycle Canberra (0449 557 838) and he will deliver a bike to where you are staying. Some hotels also have Spinway bike hire using a credit card.

The extensive Transport Canberra bus system is also a good way to get around. You’ll need to buy a MyWay travel card from a local newsagent or agent. About 30 AUD will be enough to get you around most places for two days. And the buses are also equipped with racks at the front to carry bikes.

If you want to get out further to the spectacular nature parks of Tidbinbilla or the deep space tracking station (a 45-minute drive south), or to wineries (a 30- to 50-minute drive north), then hiring a car is really your only option.

The cycle paths take you to curious encounters just a few kilometres from the city centre | Photo by Canberra Urban Adventures

Things to do in Canberra

Canberra is pretty unique in options for experiencing the city, from the country’s national political and cultural institutions, to cosmopolitan café strips, to the “bush capital” (and kangaroo spotting) — all within a few kilometres of each other around a central lake.

As the nation’s capital, Canberra boasts lots of big national attractions, like the impressive Australian Parliament House atop Capitol Hill. And down the hill, by the southern side of the lake in front of Parliament, are art galleries, the Questacon science museum and many other national institutions.

Around on the north side of the lake, perched on a lakeside peninsula, is the architecturally stunning National Museum of Australia — one of the best places to learn about ancient Aboriginal and Islander cultures.

For café culture lovers

To enjoy the cosmopolitan café experience, there are three precincts with a good variety of scrumptious eating places and great coffee. We recommend the Kingston Foreshore (eastern end of the lake), the New Acton precinct (west of the city centre) and the hip Lonsdale Street in Braddon (just north of the city).

In the parliamentary triangle, there are also cafés at the National Library (great food and lake views from the outside terrace) and art galleries.

For wild side adventurers

For the bush capital experience, the best place to start is a walk in the Australian National Botanic Gardens. The gardens are three kilometres west of the city under the flanks of Black Mountain. (#localsknow tip: Black Mountain has the tall, round “Telstra Tower” — a useful landmark for keeping your bearings from anywhere in Canberra.) To go deeper in the bush capital, the 25-kilometre circuit around the cycle paths of western Lake Burley Griffin, and an optional five-kilometre side trip up to the hilltop Village Centre of National Arboretum Canberra will take you past grazing kangaroos (or snoozing kangaroos if in the middle of the day), abundant birdlife and some epic mountain vistas.

For serenity seekers

The unique contrast of national capital and bushland character is best experienced on the lake in a kayak in the late afternoon light, when life seems to kick back and slow down a notch. In a short easy kayak cruise you can glide from water views of the grand national buildings at the city centre to a serene lake wilderness surrounded by forested peaks — with just a glimpse of the Parliament House flagpole above the trees to remind you that you’re in a city.

For sports fanatics

Get Aussie fever up close, but without the crowds of Melbourne. The footy, cricket and basketball games have most Canberrans gathering for their tribal rituals thoughout the year. For the two local footy codes/teams (the Raiders or the Brumbies), head to the stadium in Bruce, nine kilometres west of the city (there are plenty of bus services). Cricket is at Manuka Oval east of city, which also plays host to the occasional up-close-and-personal Aussie Rules footy game for visiting teams. The women’s basketball team (the Caps) play at the National Convention Centre near the city centre.

The difference in Canberra, unlike in bigger cities, is the venues are less crowded and you are closer to the action on the field or court. It is usually very easy to get tickets at the venue. So if you want to experience Aussie sporting fever up close without being overwhelmed by huge crowds or rip-off prices, Canberra is the place to give it a go.

What’s on in Canberra

An intimate place to experience local and Australian performances (music, comedy and theatre), and usually at a great price, is the Street Theatre , just a 10-minute walk west of the city and next to the university. It’s also surrounded by places to eat, which serve the many overseas students living on campus. The Canberra Theatre right next to the city centre is where the big touring shows from Sydney and Melbourne roll through.

To catch a movie and check out the unique Nishi building and local restaurants, it is worth the 20-minute stroll to the Palace Cinema and its bar in the New Acton precinct, just west of the city centre. Otherwise the Dendy cinema complex is conveniently located above street cafés in the Canberra Centre shopping mall.

For the most comprehensive week-by-week listing of local gigs and events happening in Canberra, check out the Out in Canberra website .

If you love smelling the flowers, the annual Floriade festival in October is the place to be. It has expanded to include live music and other attractions at an outdoor stage amidst flowers and food stalls.

In February, the cosmopolitan nature of Canberra comes alive at the National Multicultural Festival , with the pedestrian mall in the city centre crammed with cuisines, dance and music from every corner of the planet.

In March, the ever-growing Enlighten Festival lights up the city, with national buildings in the parliamentary triangle becoming backdrops for spectacular light shows and installations, and the lakeside parks a place to find great street food and performances. It also incorporates the annual hot air balloon festival, if you are willing to get up early for the dawn balloon lift-off down by the lake.

In March and April, thousands of Australians flock to Canberra for the Easter long weekend National Folk Festival .

At the National Museum, where Australia’s stories come alive (and a top spot for lunch or a cool drink) | Photo by Canberra Urban Adventures

Canberra on the big screen

A uniquely Canberra place to start (and a place to visit when in Canberra) are the films and music at the National Film and Sound Archive . Yes, it sounds a bit dry — but just forget the word “archive.” The place is packed full of free and interesting exhibitions and screenings of all things Australian.

Canberra on record

Listen to “Under the Milky Way” by The Church (local boy made good) and The Whitlams’ “I Make Hamburgers” for a music taster, so to speak. And check out “Ready for the Fight” by local sometimes-band Fun Machine — where the glitter never comes off.

Canberra in books

Read “My Brilliant Career” by Miles Franklin (also a film by Gillian Armstrong). The author grew up in the Brindabella mountains west of Canberra 100 years ago but her themes of ambition and unsatisfied love are timeless, as is perhaps the message of her sequel, “My Career Goes Bung” for a modern politician or two.

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Looking for the best Canberra 1-day Itinerary?

Are you planning a visit to Canberra, the capital city of Australia, but only have one day to explore? Don’t worry!

This article will provide you with a comprehensive one-day itinerary to make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

From iconic landmarks to cultural hotspots, Canberra has something for everyone. Let’s dive into an exciting day of exploration!

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🔍 Table of Contents

Canberra 1-day Itinerary

Canberra, located in the Australian Capital Territory , is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and stunning natural beauty.

Although one day may seem limited, you can still have a fulfilling experience by visiting some of the city’s must-see sites.

Let’s explore the best places to visit during your one-day adventure in Canberra.

☑️ Morning: Discover Australian History

Canberra is an excellent place to learn about Australian culture and history. You can visit museums and galleries to see Australian art, history, and science exhibitions.

Monuments and memorials, like the Australian War Memorial and Anzac Parade, pay tribute to Australia’s military history and sacrifice.

📍 Explore The Australian Parliament House

Start your day by visiting Parliament House, the political heart of Australia.

Take a guided tour to learn about the nation’s democratic processes and witness the grandeur of the building’s architecture.

Explore the public galleries to observe parliamentary proceedings and gain insights into the country’s governance.

Observe parliamentary sessions, attend committee inquests, and witness the discussion of essential bills.

Discover many Australian treasures, from symbolic architectural masterpieces to modern art exhibits, on display within the building’s walls.

Both permanent and temporary exhibitions are available to visitors.

💡 Pssst… did you know you can now have me design a custom itinerary especially for you? Simply fill out the contact form here , and we’ll get started right away on a unique vacation that caters to your personal travel style and preferences!

Don’t miss the chance to walk on the roof of the building and take in the views of the city below.

Strategically situated on the land axis originating from Mount Ainslie, it traverses straight through the heart of Capital Hill.

The architects ingeniously intersected this axis with the legislative axis, which encompasses both Houses of Parliament and is joined by the Members’ Hall.

Looking towards the north from up high, the Australian War Memorial, Lake Burley Griffin, and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House come into view.

The establishment was designed to match the architectural features of its older counterpart and enable the latter to possess an individualistic character.

The Australian Parliament House is open every day except for Christmas Day.

📍 Discover the Australian War Memorial

Next, head to the Australian War Memorial, an iconic landmark honouring the sacrifices of Australian servicemen and women.

Explore the galleries and exhibitions that chronicle the nation’s military history.

Witness the moving commemorative ceremonies and pay respects at the Roll of Honour, a solemn tribute to those who lost their lives in conflicts.

Don’t miss the chance to attend the Last Post Ceremony, which honours the Australian war dead and is held every evening at sunset.

The Australian War Memorial has a new temporary entrance available for public access.

However, visitors must acquire timed tickets to explore the Memorial galleries or attend the daily Last Post Ceremony at 4:45 pm in the Commemorative Area.

These tickets are readily available for booking and can be accessed via Fairbairn Avenue, which also leads to the visitor car park.

It’s important to note that all visiting school groups and individuals aged school groups should make bookings beforehand.

📍 Visit The National Museum of Australia

Wrap up your morning by visiting the National Museum of Australia to delve into the country’s diverse cultural heritage.

Explore the fascinating exhibits that showcase Indigenous artifacts, historical objects, and interactive displays.

Gain a deeper understanding of Australia’s past and present through engaging storytelling.

☑️ Mid-Morning: Embracing Nature and Art

In addition to its cultural and historical attractions, Canberra is known for its natural beauty.

The city is built around Lake Burley Griffin, a great place to walk or bike.

📍Stroll around Lake Burley Griffin

Take a leisurely stroll around Lake Burley Griffin, a picturesque man-made lake in Canberra’s heart. The lake is a popular spot for Canberrans to exercise and socialize.

Enjoy the scenic views of the city’s landmarks, such as the Captain Cook Memorial Jet and the National Carillon.

If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike or kayak to explore the lake further.

📍Appreciate Australian National Botanic Gardens

Discover the natural beauty of Australia at the Australian National Botanic Gardens. Take a guided tour or explore the gardens at your own pace.

Admire the diverse flora, including native plants and rare species.

Don’t miss the stunning displays of colourful blooms in the Rainforest Gully and the Rock Garden.

📍Immerse in Art at the National Gallery of Australia

Indulge your artistic senses at the National Gallery of Australia. Marvel at the extensive collection of Australian and international artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and indigenous art.

Take a moment to appreciate masterpieces by renowned artists and discover new perspectives through temporary exhibitions.

The gallery has a great café and a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs for your visit. It is open every day (except Christmas Day) from 10 am-5 pm. Admission is free but requires a ticket .

☑️ Lunch: Culinary Delights

If you’re searching for the ultimate dining and drinking experience in Canberra, look no further than the Kingston Foreshore!

Nestled alongside the picturesque Lake Burley Griffin, this vibrant precinct has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

The Foreshore is the place to be, packed with fantastic restaurants, trendy cafes, and cool bars.

Experience the perfect blend of stunning waterfront views, a lively ambience, and delectable culinary delights.

Discover the top-notch Kingston Foreshore restaurants and bars that will leave you craving more. Indulge in a memorable dining adventure during your Canberra 1-day itinerary.

List of some of Kingston Foreshore’s restaurants and bars:

• Pomegranate Restaurant
• 38 Espresso
• Magoo’s Cafe and Bar
• Molto Italian
• Morks Restaurant
• Zeytin Turkish Cuisine

☑️ Afternoon: Cultural Experiences

Beyond the museums and galleries, you can witness the vibrant cultural scene through live performances, theatrical productions, and festivals throughout the year.

Canberra’s cultural experiences go beyond passive observation, encouraging active engagement and interaction.

📍 Learn at Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre

Embark on a hands-on learning adventure at Questacon, a national science and technology centre.

Questacon is a hands-on science museum that is fun for kids and adults.

There are interactive exhibits that explore energy, force, and motion and a section on space science. The centre also hosts workshops and special events throughout the year.

Discover scientific principles, engage in experiments, and be amazed by the wonders of innovation and discovery.

For adults, an online ticket costs $24.50, and for children (4-16 years of age), it costs $18.90. Children under four years of age are FREE.

📍 Experience the National Portrait Gallery

Explore the National Portrait Gallery, which showcases the diversity and stories of influential Australians.

Marvel at the collection of portraits that celebrate notable individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields.

Gain insights into Australia’s history , culture, and achievements through the art of portraiture.

📍Engage at the Australian National Film and Sound Archive

Immerse yourself in Australia’s cinematic and musical heritage at the Australian National Film and Sound Archive.

Explore the interactive exhibits, watch screenings of classic films, and listen to iconic recordings.

Delve into the country’s audiovisual history and gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural contributions.

☑️ Late Afternoon: Explore Australian Wildlife

Prepare to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Australian wildlife during the late afternoon segment of your Canberra 1-day itinerary.

The capital city, nestled within the natural splendour of the Australian Capital Territory, offers a range of opportunities to encounter unique and fascinating native animals in their natural habitats.

📍 Wildlife encounters at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Venture into the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, located on the outskirts of Canberra, for a unique wildlife experience.

Embark on walking trails through diverse habitats, spotting kangaroos, koalas, emus, and other native animals along the way.

If you are interested in delving into the ancient heritage and rich culture of the Ngunnawal people, perhaps you’d like to explore the oldest heritage site in the ACT, which astonishingly predates the Pyramids of Egypt by five times!

Embark on a captivating guided walk led by esteemed Aboriginal Rangers from Birrigai Outdoor School.

They will accompany you to the remarkable Birrigai Rock Shelter, a site that has been dated to exist for a minimum of 25,000 years.

Brace yourself for a moderate 3-kilometre walk, ensuring you’re prepared with appropriate footwear, sun protection, and an ample water supply.

It’s important to note that this outdoor event is suitable for individuals aged eight and above.

It’s essential to come equipped with suitable shoes, sun protection, and plenty of drinking water, as this will be an outdoor event.

The age suitability for this activity is eight years and above. Additionally, please be aware that this event is free of charge but is unfortunately not accessible via wheelchair.

☑️ Evening: Sunset and Entertainment

As the day gradually transitions into the evening, Canberra reveals its vibrant and captivating side, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and lively entertainment.

This segment of your Canberra 1-day itinerary invites you to soak in the breathtaking sunset views and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant nightlife.

📍Enjoy a Spectacular Sunset at Mount Ainslie Lookout

As the day draws close, reach Mount Ainslie Lookout for a breathtaking panoramic view of Canberra at sunset.

Capture memorable photos as the city transforms under the golden hues of the sky.

Take a moment to appreciate the capital’s beauty before moving on to the vibrant evening entertainment.

📍Immerse in the Vibrant Nightlife of Canberra

Cap off your day by immersing yourself in Canberra’s vibrant nightlife. Explore the city’s lively bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Whether you prefer live music, theatre performances, or a relaxed evening with friends, Canberra offers a variety of options to suit your preferences.

Where to Stay in Canberra

Let’s explore some of the best accommodation options in Canberra that will complement your Canberra 1-day itinerary.

From sleek designer hotels with stunning views to centrally located establishments near iconic landmarks, we’ll help you make the most of your visit to Canberra.

Let’s dive in and find the ideal place for your stay in the capital city!

1. Ovolo Nishi

• ⭐ Rating: 8.3 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Location, comfortable bed, good breakfast
• 🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com

Experience the charm of Ovolo Nishi during your visit to Canberra. Indulge in the 24-hour fitness centre for a workout or savour delectable vegetarian cuisine at Monster Kitchen and Bar, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The restaurant is phenomenal. The decor is amazing. Beautiful art work everywhere” -elle (see more reviews)

This upscale hotel also boasts a trendy bar/lounge, a convenient snack bar/deli, and complimentary bike rentals.

Fellow travellers sing praises for the friendly staff and exceptional dining options.

Your stay at Ovolo Nishi will enhance your Canberra 1-day itinerary.

2. A by Adina Canberra

• ⭐ Rating: 9 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Location, excellent service

Located in the City Centre district of Canberra, A by Adina Canberra offers a convenient stay. National Convention Centre Canberra, Canberra Centre, and Anzac Parade are within walking distance.

At the same time, the National Gallery of Australia, Australian-American War Memorial, and Telstra Tower are just a short drive away.

Private parking is available on-site.

You’ll find all the essentials in the guest rooms, including air conditioning, a microwave, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk.

Each room at the hotel features a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom.

I could smell freshness right after stepping inside the lobby. staff were amazing. great ambiance…” -deula (see more reviews)

At the reception, A by Adina Canberra is ready to assist guests with area information and navigation.

Discover nearby attractions like the National Museum of Australia, the Australian War Memorial, and Questacon.

Enhance your Canberra 1-day itinerary with a comfortable stay at A by Adina Canberra.

3. QT Canberra

• ⭐ Rating: 7.8 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Location, on-site restaurant and bar

Experience the epitome of sleek designer accommodation at QT Canberra.

Ideally located in central Canberra, with stunning views of Lake Burley Griffin, this hotel also boasts Canberra’s most extensive conferencing facilities.

Please stay connected with free WiFi available throughout the hotel while our dedicated concierge team provides exceptional service.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Canberra, as QT Canberra is just a 3-minute drive from the Parliament of Australia.

Explore the rich history and culture of the city with a short 5-minute drive to both the Australian War Memorial and the National Gallery of Australia.

I like how we had the Dyson hairdryer in our room. It was a surprised, it works really well and dries up the hair very quickly. Room was comfy and pillows.” -anne (see more reviews)

Indulge in the meticulously styled rooms at QT Canberra, offering picturesque views of the city or the serene lake.

Whether you’re here for work or relaxation, our rooms provide the perfect setting with a balcony, an ergonomic desk, and a well-stocked minibar.

Satisfy your culinary cravings at Capitol Bar & Grill Restaurant, a must-visit dining destination in Canberra. Prepare to be wowed by prime-cut steaks served with captivating wood-fired theatrics.

Elevate your Canberra 1-day itinerary by choosing QT Canberra, where impeccable design, breathtaking views, and exceptional dining await you.

Other Top Attractions in Canberra

In addition to the renowned attractions mentioned earlier, Canberra boasts many other captivating sites that are well worth exploring.

These attractions, among many others, add depth and variety to your Canberra experience, ensuring something to captivate every visitor.

Don’t miss the chance to explore these remarkable sites during your Canberra 1-day itinerary.

📍 Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House

The Old Parliament House in Parkes, Canberra, has been converted into the Museum of Australian Democracy, which actively portrays the nation’s social and political history.

Its objective is to interpret and explore the past and present while envisioning the future.

This is achieved through various means, such as highlighting the significance of Parliament in the people’s lives, conserving and arranging collections, offering educational and enjoyable public programs, and additional services that enhance the visitor experience.

The museum is housed in a nationally listed heritage building.

It is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm but closes on Christmas Day.

📍 Commonwealth Park

Spanning from the city’s centre to the shoreline of Lake Burley Griffin, Commonwealth Park is a spacious and beautifully landscaped green space.

The park boasts a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, from leisurely walks and runs, to cycling, playtime, and picnics.

It also showcases unique and charming gardens, water features, and artwork, adding to its allure.

The park offers several attractions, such as an expansive open-air stage known as Stage 88, a children’s playground, and an amphitheatre.

Additionally, it serves as the location for the National Capital Exhibition at Regatta Point and hosts the highly anticipated flower festival, Floriade, annually.

📍 Royal Australian Mint

If you’re interested in coins and currency, check out the Royal Australian Mint.

Partake in a unique experience that provides exclusive insight into the production and progression of Australian coins.

Their free guided tour encompasses fascinating tales and a behind-the-scenes look at the Mint factory floor.

The Mint conducts complimentary guided tours all year round, except for public holidays such as Christmas and Good Friday.

There is also a gift shop where you can buy commemorative coins.

How to Get to Canberra

Canberra Airport (CBR) serves as the main gateway to the city. It offers domestic flights from major cities in Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide.

Alternatively, you can drive or take a bus from major cities in Australia, such as Sydney or Melbourne.

The city is well-connected to major highways, including the Hume Highway (M31) from Sydney and the Barton Highway (A25) from Melbourne.

The driving routes offer scenic views and the opportunity to explore the surrounding regions at your own pace.

If you don’t want to drive or fly, you can take a full-day tour from Sydney. From Mount Ainslie, the Australian capital unfolds before your eyes.

Parliament House’s historic halls and the poignant Australian War Memorial await your exploration.

Delve into Canberra’s intriguing history at Yarralumla and revel in the city’s splendid parks and lakes.

This comprehensive tour, including transport and entrance fees, guarantees an intimate and value-packed experience in Canberra for your memorable 1-day itinerary.

Getting Around Canberra

Getting around the capital is made simple and affordable with the public bus and light rail network operated by Transport Canberra.

As you plan your Canberra 1-day itinerary, discover how effortless it is to navigate the city using the journey planner .

🚌 Buses and Light Rail Services

Enjoy the convenience of a prepaid ticketing system with the MyWay smartcard when using public transport in Canberra.

Purchase your MyWay card from recharge agents located throughout the city.

Tap your card at light rail stations when boarding a bus and even when purchasing a daily ticket.

Opt for the daily ticket for a seamless sightseeing experience, valid until midnight on the day of purchase. Plus, children under five years travel free, adding to the family-friendly appeal.

🚌 Red Explorer Loop Bus

Discover the convenience of the Red Explorer Loop Bus , allowing you to hop on and off at prominent attractions easily.

Departing from the Canberra Museum and Gallery, this bus operates regularly from Monday to Saturday.

No reservations are required; arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled departure and purchase your ticket directly onboard.

🚌 Airport Transfers

Transport Canberra efficiently offers daily transportation services to and from Canberra Airport.

On weekdays, Rapid Bus 3 operates on a half-hourly schedule, while on weekends, it runs hourly.

This route connects passengers from the Canberra Airport terminal to the city interchange, Belconnen interchange, Cohen St interchange, and Spence Terminus.

Canberra is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, making cycling a popular choice for locals and visitors.

The city offers an extensive network of dedicated bike paths and shared paths, allowing you to pedal around while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

🚗 Car Rental with DiscoverCars

If you value the freedom and flexibility of driving your own vehicle, renting a car is an excellent choice.

Canberra is home to multiple car rental companies that provide a diverse selection of vehicles to accommodate your preferences.

For a hassle-free car rental experience in Canberra, consider using DiscoverCars , an affiliate that partners with renowned rental companies worldwide.

DiscoverCars offers a convenient platform to compare prices and find the perfect vehicle for your Canberra 1-day itinerary.

Visiting Canberra FAQs

How many days are enough for canberra.

For a comprehensive exploration of the city’s significant landmarks, museums, and cultural sites, a minimum of 2-3 days is recommended.

This allows you to visit iconic places such as Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Museum of Australia, among others.

If you have a specific tour, such as a winery or distillery tour, and wish to delve deeper into specific areas of interest, you might want to extend your stay to 3-4 days.

This provides ample time to fully immerse yourself in Canberra’s offerings and engage in guided tours, exhibitions, and special events.

Can you get around Canberra without a car?

Certainly! Canberra offers excellent transportation options that allow you to navigate the city without relying on a car.

Whether you hop on a bus, ride the light rail, pedal a bike, or enjoy a leisurely stroll, getting around Canberra without a car is feasible and enjoyable.

Which month is best in Canberra?

Spring in Canberra (September to November) brings pleasant weather with mild temperatures.

The city comes alive with colourful blooms, including the iconic Floriade festival, showcasing vibrant floral displays.

It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities, exploring gardens, and enjoying festivals and events.

If you prefer mild weather and vibrant blooms, spring is a delightful time to visit. For outdoor activities and pleasant temperatures, summer and autumn are popular choices.

The colder months can be appealing if you enjoy cooler weather and the charm of winter landscapes.

Conclusion: Canberra 1-day Itinerary

In this Canberra 1-day itinerary, you can experience the best of Canberra’s history, culture, nature, and entertainment.

From iconic landmarks like Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial to immersive cultural experiences at museums and galleries, this itinerary ensures you maximise your time in the Australian capital.

Embrace the beauty of the city’s natural surroundings and indulge in its vibrant culinary and nightlife scenes.

Canberra truly has something for everyone, leaving you with unforgettable memories.

Meet Kate. She is the founder of one of Australia's most popular and helpful travel planning communities, where she shares reliable information and exclusive discounts. With her passion for exploring and love for travel, Kate enjoys showcasing the best of Australian tourism. Her mission is to make Australia Travel Hub the leading resource for travelling across Australia, making your adventures more affordable and accessible.

100 things to do in Canberra

Updated 30 Aug 2024

Can you tick off all 100 things to do, see, eat, and drink?

Challenge your friends and family to complete all 100 iconic activities including museums, galleries, walks, lookouts, native animal spotting, children's activities, restaurants, bars, lake activities, markets,  and tours.

Museums and galleries

Canberra is well-known for its national attractions, but culture lovers also thrive within the city's local arts scene and heritage sites. Many offer free entry and tours.

1.       Walk in the footsteps of decision makers at Australian Parliament House (free entry).

2.       Pay your respects at the Australian War Memorial (free entry).

3.       Uncover Australia’s many stories at the National Museum of Australia (free entry).

4.       See ancient and contemporary art at the National Gallery of Australia (free entry).

5.       Discover local tales at the Canberra Museum and Gallery (free entry).

6.       Visit famous faces at the National Portrait Gallery (free entry).

7.       Witness the memory of our nation at the National Archives of Australia (free entry).

8.       Watch classic films at the National Film and Sound Archive .

9.       Meet talented artists at Canberra’s 30+ boutique art galleries (free entry).

10.   Travel back to the 1830s at Mugga Mugga Cottage .

Outdoor adventures

A 100% renewable energy city with over 70% dedicated nature space, Canberra is a nature lover’s dream.

11.       Complete a lap of the capital on the Canberra Centenary Trail .

12.       Conquer Canberra’s four urban peaks and be rewarded with stunning lookouts.

13.       Hike through Namadgi National Park (free entry) and reconnect with nature.

14.       Spot koalas at The Sanctuary in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve .

15.       Head to the Australian National Botanic Gardens (free entry), home to over 4500+ native plants.

16.       See the city on two wheels as you cycle along Canberra’s many bike paths and trails .

17.       Stargaze at Mount Stromlo Observatory’s public evenings.

18.       See endangered spotted quolls at Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary (free entry).

19.       Walk through 90+ forests of rare and significant trees at the National Arboretum Canberra (free entry).

20.   Fish, swim, canoe, and spend a night under the stars on the banks of the beautiful Cotter River near where it meets the Murrumbidgee River.

Kid and family activities

From beginner snow slopes to miniature villages, Canberra offers more than just the classics when it comes to epic family activities. 

21.       Get hands-on as you learn about the wonders of science and technology at Questacon .

22.       Learn how to toboggan and ski on the beginner-friendly slopes of Corin Forest .

23.       Challenge yourself on an aerial obstacle course set amongst a pine forest at Treetops Adventure Canberra .

24.       Get crafty or opt for role play at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House (donation entry).

25.       Learn about endangered animals and breeding programs at the National Zoo and Aquarium .

26.       Make money at the Royal Australian Mint (free entry).

27.       Enjoy visual storytelling, animation, and imaginative play at the National Museum of Australia’s Discovery Centre .

28.       Meet snakes, owls and everything in between at the Canberra Reptile Zoo .

29.       Marvel at handmade miniature replicas of buildings from around the world at Cockington Green Gardens .

30.   Roar with a T-Rex at the National Dinosaur Museum .

Foodie experiences

Make the most of every meal and drink on your trip. Meet the chefs, taste local produce, and feast at highly awarded cafes and restaurants.

31.       Sip a coffee made by an Australian Barista Champion .

32.       Discover for yourself why so many Canberra restaurants have achieved famed  chef hat status .

33.       Find your new favourite wine at one of the 140 vineyards and 40+ wineries within a 35-minute drive of Canberra.

34.       Tour Canberra’s breweries to taste Australia’s favourite beer two years running and the nation’s first carbon-neutral brews .

35.       Savour local flavours as you sample Canberra’s gin distilleries .

36.       Catch a gig or two at the capital’s popular live music bars .

37.       Join a truffle hunt to watch talented dogs locate delicious gems before feasting on the finds.

38.       Indulge in a meal with a view that is just as delicious as the dishes.

39.       Hop between cafes, restaurants and bars in the foodie heaven that is Braddon .

40.   Spend a morning brunching, shopping in boutiques, and watching boats flit across the lake at the Kingston Foreshore .

Lake activities

The glistening centrepiece of Canberra, Lake Burley Griffin is a water playground whilst its shoreline is home to many great trails and sites.

41.       See iconic sites including the Australian War Memorial and Australian Parliament House on a walk beloved by locals, the five-kilometre bridge-to-bridge loop .

42.       Cycle around the lake on 40 kilometres of paved bike paths.

43.       Hire an e-scooter and zip around the lake to the National Triangle, home to many museums and galleries.

44.       Enjoy a floating picnic on a sustainable, electric GoBoat made from recycled PET bottles.

45.       Skipper your own luxury Love Boat and see the sites in style.

46.       Learn a new skill and see the sights with  Stand Up Paddle , or SUP as the locals call it. 

47.       Soak in Canberra’s signature colourful sunsets on a Lake Burley Griffin cruise .

48.       Join a qualified Stand Up Paddle instructor on a self-paced journey around Lake Burley Griffin.

49.       Keep an eye out for the ghost rumoured to haunt Blundells Cottage , a 150+ year-old home on the shores of the lake.

50.   Hear the Southern Hemisphere’s largest musical instrument, the National Carillon , located on Queen Elizabeth II Island.

Picture perfect places

Your camera roll will be filled with picturesque scenes from your trip to the capital. Check out @VisitCanberra on Instagram for more inspiration.

51.       Be neighbours with lions, giraffes, meerkats, or sharks for a night at Jamala Wildlife Lodge .

52.       Sleep amongst the vines with Cubby and Co’s luxury belle tents at Mount Majura Vineyard and Yarrh Wines.

53.       Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city on a hot air balloon flight .

54.       Snap a selfie in front of iconic mid-century modern architecture .

55.       Take in the panoramic views from Mount Ainslie lookout .

56.       Admire the ancient practice of growing and training tiny trees at the National Bonsai & Penjing Collection (free entry).

57.       Enjoy an impromptu photo shoot amongst Canberra’s many Cherry Blossoms each spring.

58.       Find the perfect backdrop of russet red leaves each autumn .

59.       Watch kangaroos sunbathing at Weston Park .

60.      Find your favourite sculpture to pose with at Canberra's unique galleries .

Markets and popular shops

Many boutique, speciality, and mega stores are open seven days a week, whilst weekends in Canberra are full of markets.

61.       Browse The Little Burley Market at the lake’s edge every Saturday to taste gourmet food and find artisan goods.

62.       Stock up on fresh, local produce at the Capital Region Farmers Market held every Saturday.

63.       For a sprawling market with over 200 stalls in a country setting, head to Hartley Hall Markets held on the first Sunday of every month.

64.       Hosting some of the region’s best, Haig Park Village Markets is a foodie delight held in leafy Braddon each Sunday.

65.       Admire glass homewares, art and jewellery at the Canberra Glassworks’ shop. Stop by on a Sunday to pair your trip with a visit to the neighbouring Old Bus Depot Markets .

66.       Live out your witch and wizardry dreams at Quizzic Alley , a store dedicated to Harry Potter’s magical world.

67.       Shop the wares of dozens of local craftsmen and vintage sellers at Dirty Janes Canberra , a warehouse full of delights.

68.       Pick up a piece of miniature art at Australia’s smallest art gallery, the Gallery of Small Things .

69.       Find your next read at the National Library of Australia bookshop where the shelves are filled with the works of talented Australian authors.

70.       Get the perfect souvenir of your trip to the capital at Pop Canberra , a Braddon shop dedicated to local flavours, art, and accessories.

Indoor activities

Explore the great indoors with adventures waiting to be discovered behind every door.

71.       Ever wanted to break a faulty printer with a baseball bat? Head to Breakr .

72.       Perfect your axe-throwing skills at Axxe .

73.       Test yourself at BlocHaus , an inclusive bouldering centre where no ropes, partners, or experience are needed.

74.       Jump in all directions at BOUNCEinc , an unparalleled indoor adventure with a X-Park ninja course, trampolines, dodgeball, wall running, and a cliff jumping experience.

75.       Work together to outsmart a cunning set of challenges at Escape Rooms Canberra and reward yourself at the garden cocktail bar.

76.       Try to get a hole-in-one at Holey Moley mini golf or work with friends to score points in the four-minute challenge rooms where whimsy meets mayhem at Hijinx Hotel .

77.       Choose between karaoke, arcade games, ten-pin bowling, table tennis, and pool at Kingpin .

78.       Get an adrenaline hit at Power Kart Raceway as you speed along a F1-style indoor circuit.

79.       Watch the best international cinema, arthouse, and quality new release films at Palace Electric before getting a drink at their Prosecco Bar.

80.   Try wheelchair basketball, virtual downhill skiing, rock climbing, and football penalty shootouts at Sportex at the Australian Institute of Sport .

Tours and guided experiences

See the very best of Canberra on a tour with a local. Taste Canberra’s food and wine, explore the Australian bush, and learn about our First Nations culture.

81.       Taste the best flavours, dishes, and drinks during an Eat Canberra Food Tour .

82.       Identify native plants used for medicinal, culinary and cultural use by traditional custodians on a Ngala Tour of the National Arboretum Canberra.

83.       Learn how women and queer people have shaped history in Canberra on a She Shapes History tour .

84.       Choose between eight self-drive heritage trails that explore the long, diverse history of the capital region with Canberra Tracks .

85.       Journey back in time to become a part of 'The Dreaming' with Dhawura Tours’ Ngunawal guides in Canberra’s nature reserves. 

86.       Meet vintners, taste local wines, and visit cellar doors on a guided tour of the Canberra Wine Region .

87.       See the capital and Brindabella Ranges from above on a helicopter tour with Air CBR .

88.       Join one of the cultural tours by Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation to see and learn about the land from the eyes of the Ngunnawal people.

89.       Design your own tour full of museums, galleries, wineries, and award-winning attractions with Canberra Guided Tours .

90.   Hop on Hop off the Red Explorer Loop Bus to visit popular attractions including the embassy precinct.

91.   Spot native, nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat on a Night Safari tour .

What’s on - events, festivals, and games

Enjoy events, festivals, and exhibitions throughout the year. Explore our events calendar to discover even more.

92. Pose in front of a backdrop of over one million blooms and annuals at Floriade (14 September – 13 October, free entry), Australia’s largest celebration of spring.     

93.       Immerse yourself in the art of a French Post-Impressionist master at Gauguin’s World: Tōna Iho, Tōna Ao (on until 7 October) at the National Gallery of Australia.

94.       Journey to the land of the pyramids to discover the wonders of society, religion, and the afterlife at Discovering Ancient Egypt (on until 8 September) at the National Museum of Australia.

95.       Celebrate science and history at CURIOSITY: Building Breakthroughs (on until 11 May) at Questacon with a LEGO display meticulously crafted by Brickman.

96.       Choose your favourite artwork at the  National Photographic Portrait Prize (on until 13 October), where 34 finalists provide a powerful visual record of the past year.

97.       Photograph the aptly named Canberra Balloon Spectacular (15-23 March, free entry) when dozens of hot air balloons take to the sky.

98.       Marvel as the capital's museums and galleries become canvases for digital artwork at Enlighten Festival  (28 February - 10 March).

99.       Watch talented dogs hunt truffles and taste the delicacy for yourself during truffle season  (July - September).

100.       Celebrate completing 100 awesome things to do in Canberra at one of the capital's hidden bars .

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Convincing Reasons Why You Should Visit Canberra

Australia's capital city, Canberra, is located between Sydney and Melbourne, with incredible snow-capped mountains to the east and the picture-perfect New South Wales coast to the west. With award-winning restaurants, deeply significant cultural institutions, and a jam-packed year-round calendar, it has plenty to offer travelers from around the world. 

For international travelers who indulge in vaping, properly research nicotine prescriptions before traveling to Australia to ensure you properly abide by the laws surrounding these products. 

Spectacular Scenery

When visiting Canberra, you will quickly realize that you don't have to drive long distances to experience the beauty of the natural world. Located close to the center of the business district is Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, where you can get up close and personal with the iconic Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, native birds, and reptiles. 

A twilight tour of Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary will take you back in time to life to the wild Australian bush from 100 years ago. Alternatively, choose from the many walking and cycling trails that will give you incredible city views with little effort. 

Navigation Made Easy

Attempting to navigate a new country can be extremely intimidating. And the sheer size of Australia can make this feel even more challenging. But a road trip through this vast and incredible country is made more manageable when you experience the ease of navigation through the capital city. 

Situated between mountains and surrounded by lakes, Canberra is a natural paradise easily explored by car, with roads free of tolls and stress-inducing traffic. Take in the sights and sounds at your own pace, allowing you to hit all the landmarks without feeling rushed. 

Great Accommodation Options

The sheer versatility and availability of accommodation in Canberra is genuinely astounding. Whether you hope to glamp under the stars alongside majestic wild animals at the Jamala Wildlife Lodge or prefer the creature comforts of luxury hotels overlooking the city skyline, you will not be short of memorable locations from which to choose. 

Ovolo Nishi, which overlooks Lake Burley Griffin in the New Acton cultural precinct, will be an interesting and comfortable selection for a glamorous and sustainable option. 

Rich in Indigenous Heritage

Like many other regions across Australia, visitors can immerse themselves in some of the oldest artifacts and evidence in human history through Canberra's galleries and museums. An extensive collection of original and rare Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art is a sight to behold, including various examples of original handcrafted objects.

You can attempt to create your own versions at the workshop in the National Arboretum Canberra or learn more about local Ngunnawal culture with Dhawura Tours. 

Sustainability is Thriving

Canberra is the first city in mainland Australia to achieve an energy supply that is 100% renewable, an incredibly progressive step forward in reducing its environmental impact and playing its part in sustainability. 

Recently, the local government has gone one step further by making a considerable investment in sustainable energy, making it a top vacation spot for environmentally conscious travelers. 

Key Cultural Institutions

To properly understand some of the most essential parts of the country's history, visiting cultural institutions like the Royal Australian Mint and the National Portrait Gallery in Canberra is a must. Because most of the national attractions are completely free of charge, you are able to witness the moving Australian War Memorial and browse the collections at the National Library without spending a dime. 

Year-Round Appeal

A unique characteristic of Canberra is that it offers visitors year-round appeal, with a calendar jammed pack with events, festivals, and experiences that cover each season. In autumn, the deciduous trees start to change into golden gems, transforming the city into an autumnal dream. Winter brings around snow-capped mountain peaks and roaring fires, the perfect backdrop for cozy dinners and movie nights with friends. 

When spring rolls around, the wildflowers, cherry blossoms, and tulips are in full bloom for the annual flower festival, while the hot summer months bring a healthy sunshine glow to anything and everything.  

Space Lovers Rejoice

Located just 45 minutes from the city, nestled in the Tidbinbilla Valley, is the NASA Deep Space Communications Complex . It has only two counterparts in the world, located in Spain and the USA, making it a limited and unique experience. 

A guided tour will take you through the various rare exhibits, including space food, costumes, old cameras, and a moon rock estimated to be 3.8 billion years old. Space enthusiasts will be able to enjoy these exciting features, including a replica of the Mars Exploration Rover, completely free of charge. 

A Foodie's Paradise

For any food lover and enthusiast, choosing a vacation spot based on the thriving and iconic food scene is not out of the question. And for foodies hoping to experience delicious and unique cuisines while traveling, the buzzing restaurants, local cafes, and sprawling vineyards will not leave you disappointed. With 140 vineyards and 40 cellars from which to choose, wine lovers will thrive in the cool-climate region, rich with locally produced wines. 

The Australian Botanic Gardens will let you enjoy a scrumptious breakfast or fluffy lemon-curd waffles surrounded by comforting birdsong and spectacular native flora. 

Also read Things To Do In Miami During Your Downtime

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10 Day Trips From Canberra That You Will Enjoy

Michela Australia Destinations Australia Road Trips , Canberra 1

Canberra is an exciting city with incredible sights and attractions and a thriving dining and café scene. While there is plenty to do in the city, getting out of the city for the day to explore the scenic countryside is also worthwhile.

Table of Contents

Canberra is lucky to be surrounded by an abundance of exciting destinations, all within an easy drive from the city, so you can still stay in the Canberra city centre and venture out there. If you haven’t booked your hotel yet, here is what we recommend:

Best Places to Stay in Canberra ➡️ Mercure Belconnen ➡️ Ovolo Nishi ➡️ Sebel Campbellì

Day Trips from Canberra

Here are some excellent day trips from Canberra that you will enjoy.

Visit the historic village of Gundaroo

Located across the border in New South Wales but just a 35-minute drive north of Canberra, Gundaroo is a cute little historic village dating back to the gold rush days in the 1800s. Visit the Gundaroo Colonial Inn for a beer or a pub lunch while enjoying the atmosphere of this charming 1872 pub. Down the road, Grazing Restaurant, located in the 1865 Royal Hotel building, gets rave reviews for its fantastic food. There are also several cellar doors in town where you can taste wines from the local region.

A day trip to the wine region of Murrambateman

The wine region of Murrambateman is the east of Gundaroo. If you’re a wine lover, a day trip to this excellent wine region is a must. Cool climate wines do well, such as Riesling and Pinot Noir, and some of the best vineyards near Canberra are located here, including Eden Roads Wines, Four Winds Vineyard and Shaw Vineyard Estate.

The weekend is the best time to go as more cellar doors are open, and you can make a day of it. Enjoy a day of wine tasting and indulge in a lovely lunch at one of the vineyards.

A day of skiing at the Snowy Mountains

Canberra is located in Australia’s high country, and it is close enough to New South Wales ski resorts that you can hit the snow for the day in the winter.

Head off early, and in two and a half hours, you can reach Perisher or Thredbo for a day of skiing and play in the snow. The Snowy Mountains are well worth visiting at any time of the year, though, and Kosciusko National Park is a great spot to do some hiking or mountain biking. At the same time, the towns of Jindabyne and Cooma are beautiful places near Canberra, where you can stop and explore.

Visit the heritage-listed Braidwood

You can reach Braidwood in just over an hour’s drive east of Canberra. This charming heritage-listed town is full of history. Walk the streets lined with old historic buildings and visit the Braidwood Museum . There are some excellent cafes and places to eat, such as TorPeas or The Albion, along with boutique shops and antique stores to explore. Don’t miss the superb bakery, Dojo Bread. Admire the old theatre across the street and enjoy one of their fantastic pies.

Drive to the Lanyon Homestead

To get a taste of farm life in the 1800s, visit Lanyon Homestead , half an hour’s drive south of Canberra. This historic homestead is full of history, dating back to 1835.

The stunning main home of the property was built in 1859, and you can enjoy a tour of the house to learn about its history and admire its charming old-world features. Enjoy tea and scones at the café, sitting inside the historic building or at one of the outside tables on the lawn.

Take a dip at the Cotter Reserve.

The Murrumbidgee River is where Canberrans go on the weekend to swim and escape the city during summer. There are several right spots to take a dip, but Cotter Reserve is one of the most popular, located on the tributary, the Cotter River.

This scenic spot is just half an hour’s drive west of Canberra, but you will feel a world away from the city. Enjoy a picnic on the river with forest and tranquillity all around. Take a refreshing dip at one of the swimming holes on the river, visit Cotter Dam or take the kids to the fun-filled playground at Cotter Avenue.

Drive to the ocean and visit Batemans Bay

Canberra might be an inland city, but it is actually not that far from the east coast , so you can still enjoy a beach day trip from the city. Batemans Bay is the top spot that Canberrans go to when they want to visit the ocean, located just a two-hour drive down Kings Highway.

This charming seaside town has plenty to offer, with some excellent cafes for lunch, Crumb and Espresso Yourself. When you’ve recharged with some great food, there are a ton of water activities to enjoy. For many, it is best to spend the day on one of the fantastic beaches located just outside of town.

Visit the historic town of Bungendore

If you’re heading to Batemans Bay, or want to enjoy a day trip within a short drive of the city, stop in at the historic town of Bungendore. This little town is just a half hour’s drive east of Canberra and is full of little gems that will draw you in.

Visit the historic Bungendore Royal Hotel for a beer or eat at one of the charming small cafes. The Bungendore Wood Works Gallery is well worth checking out for its excellent local handmade wooden art pieces, furniture and other household items.

Go to the Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex

To the west of Canberra is a NASA funded series of substantial deep space satellite dishes used to examine space, right here in Australia’s capital. The complex is impressive to view, and the attached visitor centre makes visiting the Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex a good day trip from the city.

Stop at the Gibraltar Falls

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve i s an excellent spot to head to for the day to escape the city and get back to nature. The highlight is a visit to the scenic Gibraltar Falls , which tumbles 50 metres down into Gibraltar Creek. This lovely spot is located just west of the Canberra Deep Space Communications Centre, so you could even combine the two into one big day trip.

There are so many beautiful places around Canberra that you could never get bored. Whether you want to get back to nature for the day, visit a country town, or even go to the beach, all this is possible on a day trip from Canberra.

How to organise your day trips from Canberra

The best way to organise your day trips from Canberra is to hire a car if you prefer to go on a self-driving day trip from Sydney or an extended weekend tour.

Find the best deals: ➡️ Car Rentals

Guided Activities and Tours From Canberra

If you are on a tight schedule, you may want to combine a guided day tour with public transport trips from any city; here below is a top selection of guided day tours.

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Flickr Photo Credits: Gundaroo Murrambateman Snowy Mountains Lanyon Homestead Batesman Bay Deep Space Communication Complex

First published in 2017, last updated in March 202 4

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Agness October 25, 2017 @ 8:15 pm

Canberra seems like an awesome travel destination and going there would be a dream come true for me! When’s the best time of the year to explore it?

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16 Unmissable Things to do in Canberra

Updated November 9, 2019

// By Margherita

We’re heading back to Australia! Here is all you need to know about the best things to do in Canberra – 16 fun activities including alternative, active, and free things to do in Australia’s capital!

First things first – did you know Canberra is Australia’s capital? Australians will go ‘well, of course it is’ , but trust me, many first-time international visitors still think that the capital of Australia is either stunning Sydney , or coffee-loving Melbourne. 

Canberra is a planned city, conceived and built by architect Walter Burley Griffin in the 1920s, exactly to be Australia’s capital. Its location is not unplanned – Canberra is almost exactly half-way between Sydney and Melbourne , the two main Australian cities who were both vying to become capital of the country. 

For decades, Canberra was dismissed as a not very interesting place , with nothing much besides embassies and institutional buildings. Yet, guess what – that’s all completely untrue. Canberra is full of things to do, including lots of free museums, memorial buildings, markets, a vibrant brewery and café scene, and stunning nature all around. 

Book your Canberra accommodation and keep planning your trip with the best free, active, and alternative things to do in Canberra!

If you’re also heading to Sydney, check our article about the best day trips from Sydney !

Free Things to do in Canberra

1) bridge to bridge walk around lake burley griffin.

One of the most popular things to do in Canberra , especially for locals, is the central circuit around Lake Burley Griffin , an artificial lake built in the centre of town.

This 5km walk is known as ‘Bridge to Bridge’ because it runs from Commonwealth Bridge to Kings Avenue Bridge, passing a lot of picturesque sights, local attractions, and plenty of shops and cafés en route. The most recommended approach it is to start and end in Commonwealth Park. That way, you’d get to relax at the end in the most pleasant attraction in the route.

The Bridge to Bridge walk is a great way to get an introduction to the city – alternatively, you can always join a Canberra tour. Below are some recommendations:

• Canberra Day Tour of Australia’s Capital
• Inside the Heart of Canberra Electric Bike Tour
• Canberra Hot Air Balloon Flight at Sunrise
• Canberra Sunsets and Serenity Pedal Bike Tour
• Canberra Island Hopping with the Waterbirds Kayak Tour

2) Parliament of Australia

The Parliament of Australia is open for the public all year round except for Christmas. It definitely deserves a mention on this list of free things to do in Canberra , because of its memorable blend of cool architecture, unique art pieces, and the chance to see debates and law-making in real time.

You can get a guided tour that will show you around the building, and the extra curious ones can even book a question session to ask questions about the Parliament and Australia in general. Once you’re done, you can go to the Queen’s Terrace Café for some refreshments.

3) National Museum of Australia

As one of the most fascinating places in Canberra , the National Museum is dedicated to cataloguing and researching Australia’s history – and like most Canberra museums, it’s totally free!

One of the best things about it is that almost everything is interactive, and its exhibits include several subjects. Here you can learn about Aboriginal history and culture, modern-day Australia, Australian environment and geography, subjects like lifesaving and bushrangers, and so much more. There is even a program for kids to build and design a robot!

On top of that, the museum’s architecture is worth paying attention to, and its waterfront setting is just spectacular.

4) Royal Australian Mint

The Royal Australian Mint is one of Canberra’s true gems and best free attractions. This is place where Australian coins are being produced on a daily basis.

When visiting the mint, you’ll get to see robots creating all sorts of coins, from regular ones to artistic creations and even to quirky collector’s coins. The mint also has a collection of rare and unique coins , each of which has its own particular tale, and you might even get to snag a quirky coin yourself.

5) Australian War Memorial

Like many other countries, Australia too had its share of wartime victories and losses. The Australian War Memorial is dedicated to the lives Australians lost during all wars Australia has ever participated in.

The museum was planned at the end of WW1, but construction didn’t begin until 1941, with subsequent additions remembering the role played by Australia in all recent conflicts. Sections worth visiting include the Commemorative Area , with the Pool of Remembrance and the Hall of Memory , housing the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier. It’s a somber place where the atmosphere plays an important role in the experience.

Don’t miss the Last Post Ceremony each day at 4.55 PM, just before the museum closes, when the Australian anthem is played followed by the story of an individual fallen soldier, and then the Last Post played on the bugle. It might be a difficult place to visit for some , but it’s a small price to pay to understand Australia’s history and the way it helped shape the world.

6) Canberra Glassworks

The Glassworks are a one of a kind attraction, and one of the coolest free things to do in Canberra. It’s a place where you get to see professional glass artists at work, and you can try your hand at shaping glass.

The Glassworks are housed in the historic Kingston Power House , which used to be one of the most important buildings in Australia. It provided a lot of things for Canberra — from employment to housing for the entire telecommunications system, and it powered the development of the city. A lot of that history and heritage can still be found in the building.

7) Deep Space Communication Complex

This is the de facto best spot for those with a penchant for exploring the stars. This complex ran by NASA  just outside Canberra, is an international network of antennas that provide support for spacecraft on interplanetary missions.

The enormous antenna sends and receives information constantly, to and from spacecrafts in the solar system. Here you’ll find a piece of the moon, the latest photos of space, and the latest information about anything related to the outer space. Don’t miss this free Canberra attraction!

8) Questacon

Canberra is a great destination for museum lovers – many deserve to be in this list of free things to do in Canberra, but we need to make a selection as they would be too many to include. I love hands-on science museums so we couldn’t fail to mention Questacon , the National Science and Technology Centre.

Here you’ll find over 200 interactive science exhibits for young and grown-ups alike, including caged lightning with a Tesla coil, a gravity well, an earthquake lab, and many more!

Alternative Things to do in Canberra

9) old bus depot market.

This peculiar market has become one of Canberra’s best alternative things to do throughout the past couple of decades. It originally began as an idea by two locals to have a spot where people could sell and buy high quality merchandise on a weekly basis.

Today, it has become a huge weekly event that happens every Sunday where you’ll find over 200 stalls selling all sorts of things. From handcrafted jewellery, to clothing, to the best street food in Canberra, this award-winning market is the best way to spend a Sunday in the capital.

10) Telstra Tower

Sitting high on the summit of Black Mountain, this 195-meter tower is a beacon for Telstra, the Australian mobile carrier. However, there’s much more to it, because the Telstra Tower isn’t a mere telecommunications tower – it is also the best observation deck in Canberra.

Located a short drive away from the city centre and surrounded by a patch of splendid nature where kangaroos roam free, the Telstra Tower offers the best views of the city, and it’s one of the best secret things to do in Canberra! Actually, it might not be the true ‘hidden secret’ it used to be a few decades ago, but it still definitely is something that every visitor to Canberra should experience.

11) Mount Ainslie Lookout

Canberra and its surrounding region are a place of great natural beauty, and there is no place better to take that all in than the lookout on the top of Mount Ainslie. From there you’ll have a vantage point over the entire city, Lake Burley Griffin and surrounds.

That’s also the exact spot where famous architect Burley Griffin first came up with his plans on how to design Canberra a century ago. According to him, the lookout on Mount Ainslie is one of the best galleries that overlooks the irregular amphitheater that is Canberra.

12) Canberra Beer Tour

Canberra still has a long way to go before it reaches Melbourne as a craft beer destination, but it does have a few impressive microbreweries and brewpubs – so much so that you can make a day out of it!

Check out these Canberra beer tours – how’s that for an alternative way to explore Canberra?

• Canbeera Explorer – Full Day Capital Beer Tour
• Canberra Beer and Brewery Tour – 3 Hours

Active Things to do in Canberra and Around

13) batemans bay tour.

Batemans Bay is the favourite coastal escapade for residents of Canberra , and it’s a great destination for a day trip from the city. You can rent a car and explore independently or join a guided tour including hiking, beach time, visits to oyster farms and historical towns. It’s a truly offbeat part of Australia , and you’re pretty much guaranteed you’ll see kangaroos!

Here are some awesome Batemans Bay tours from Canberra!

• Canberra to Batemans Bay Day Tour
• Great Walk 27 beaches – 3 Day Hike Batemans Bay

14) Namadgi National Park

This entire open range is a diverse piece of land that offers some of the finest natural landscapes in Eastern Australia. It’s a great spot to discover and explore old Aboriginal heritage, while you’re hiking through unique trails.

You’ll be surrounded by wonderful and unique wildlife , and you’ll get a chance to make camp at some of the most scenic spots in Australia. You can even do some horseback riding on specifically designated trails, as well as discover Bendora Arboretum , the last high altitude arboretum in this part of the county.

15) National Arboretum

This vast arboretum is one of Canberra’s most beautiful attractions. It’s a 250 hectare site, which you can explore freely either by foot, cycle, or even horseback. The botanical beauty found in the National Arboretum is very diverse, and it includes an impressive collection of miniature trees,  National Bonsai and Penjing Collection.

There are plenty of interactive displays to be found – playgrounds, open sculptures, picnic areas, and viewpoints where you’ll get breathtaking views of Canberra. The arboretum is a spot where you can get lost in – sometimes even literally, because there are also some labyrinths you can explore in the Gallery of Gardens.

16) Jerrabomberra Wetlands

This unique natural attraction is strategically located in the heart of the city, at the edge of Lake Burley Griffin. The Jerrabomberra Wetlands were originally created in the 1960s, due to the damming of the Molongolo River to create the lake, which produced a wetland area as a result.

Today, it’s a natural reserve filled with an incredible amount of biodiversity. Birds from all over migrate to find refuge here as well as water rats, turtles, water dragons, and even platypus. There are regular events taking place in Jerrabomberra Wetlands, that promote learning about the local wildlife. 

These are just some of many fun things to do in Canberra – the city may be small in size, but it makes up for it in terms of natural beauty and cultural activities. Not to mention, the abundance of free museums and other free things to do in Canberra mean your visit to the city won’t necessarily blow a big hole in your budget. 

Canberra’s status as a capital city means there is an ample choice of hotels – however, don’t forget it’s often necessary to book your accommodation in advance, as beds do fill up during special occasions and events. On top of that, booking early is the best way to get great deals!

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Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

Guide to Canberra

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• Getting to Canberra
• When to visit
• Accessibility

Find a mix of history, art and the outdoors in Australia's capital city.

The small-yet-mighty capital of Canberra is a city that punches far above its weight. Well-known museums and historical sites are just the beginning. Dig a little deeper to find bustling brewpubs, hidden gems, quiet nature and family-friendly attractions. Head just outside the city to relax and unwind in a scenic cool-climate wine region that produces some stellar drops.

Canberra is just as easily reached by air as by car. Fly into Canberra Airport (CBR) on either an international flight or from any Australian state or territory. 

• Canberra Airport (CBR) is 7km (4.5mi) from the city and services both international and domestic flights
• Hire cars, taxis, rideshares and a shuttle service are available at the airport for pre-purchase or hire upon arrival
• Canberra is just a three-hour drive south of Sydney

After you’ve arrived in Canberra, you’ll find getting around is easy due to its compact size. Walking and biking are great options to see what's on offer. 

Canberra enjoys warm summers and crisp winters, however this city is considered a year-round destination. During autumn and spring the city is at its most vibrant with exciting festivals, colourful natural landscapes and mild weather . 

• High season: Spring and autumn (August to October and March to May)
• Low season: Winter (June to July)
• Don’t miss:   Enlighten Festival (March)

Travellers will find plenty of accessible and  wheelchair-friendly  options for accommodation and attractions in Canberra. 

• Arrival: Canberra Airport provides assistance for people with disabilities. Staff can help with security screening and ordering an accessible taxi.
• Getting around: Canberra’s light rail stations have ramp access and designated waiting areas for passengers needing assistance, while the city’s buses have ramps that can be lowered. Wheelchair Accessible Taxi Services can also be booked online or over the phone. 
• Accessible experience highlights: Travellers with limited mobility can ride the Flora Explorer mini-bus throughout the abundant National Botanic Gardens . Don't miss the faces of famous Aussies at the National Portrait Gallery .
• Helpful resources: The Canberra-based travel agency GetOutAble specialises in accessible and inclusive travel.

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16 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Canberra

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 28, 2023

Crammed with cultural treasures, Canberra, in the ACT (Australian Capital Territory), is the carefully crafted capital of Australia. It's no accident that the city lies between Sydney and Melbourne . The site of the capital was chosen as a compromise between these two rival cities in 1908. American architects, Walter Burley Griffin and his wife, Marion Mahony Griffin, won an international competition for the city's design, which incorporates vast greenbelts and geometric shapes.

Lake Burley Griffin , in the city center, is Canberra's sparkling jewel. Many of the city's top tourist attractions and things to do lie along its shores, including the National Gallery of Australia, Questacon, and the National Library. The parliament buildings, as well as some of the city's other top tourist attractions, lie within the Parliamentary Triangle, formed by Kings Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue, and Lake Burley Griffin.

Canberra is also known for its fantastic festivals, including the famous Floriade, a celebration of the city's many spring blooms. Find out more about the best places to visit in Australia's dynamic capital with our list of the top attractions and things to do in and around Canberra.

See also: Where to Stay in Canberra

Australian War Memorial

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The Australian War Memorial is Canberra's most poignant attraction. Inaugurated in the middle of WWII, the massive Byzantine-style monument commemorates Australia's war fatalities. But it's more than just a war memorial. The site combines an excellent museum, archives, art gallery, and library.

The Commemorative Courtyard at the entrance to the memorial is a haunting introduction. Inscribed in bronze on the walls of the colonnades are the names of every Australian who has died in war since 1885, and the length of the list is spine chilling.

Beyond the entrance, different galleries retrace the stories of Australia's armed conflicts from colonial days to the present. The exhibits are constantly evolving, but highlights include the collection of old aircraft and the child-friendly Discovery Zone packed with interactive displays.

If possible, you should set aside several hours to appreciate this thought-provoking memorial, and if you're visiting near the end of the day, try to stay for the Last Post , a moving tribute to the fallen played at 4:55pm daily. Visiting the memorial is one of the best free things to do in Canberra, and the 90-minute tours are highly recommended.

Address: Treloar Crescent (top of ANZAC Parade), Campbell

Official site: https://www.awm.gov.au/

The final fulfillment of architect Walter Burley Griffin's vision for Canberra in 1912, New Parliament House is a marvel of modern architecture. The boomerang-shaped structure nestles comfortably into Capital Hill and was designed to replace the Provisional Parliament House at the base of the hill, now known as Old Parliament House .

A New York-based architect won an international competition for the design of the new building, and on May 9, 1988, the Queen officially opened Parliament House. The date in May was chosen to commemorate the first meeting of Federal Parliament in Melbourne in 1901 and the first meeting of Parliament in the Old Parliament House in 1927.

From the expansive grassed walkway, which forms the roof, you can enjoy panoramic views of Canberra and see how Parliament forms the central focus of the city's street layout.

Architectural highlights of the building include the two huge circular walls, composed of granite, which mirror the curves of the hill; the towering 81-meter flagpole; and the Ceremonial Pool. In the foyer, 48 columns of illuminated greenish-gray marble create the impression of a eucalyptus forest. Throughout the public spaces, exhibits display important documents (the Magna Carta is a highlight) and retrace important events in Australian history.

From the gallery running around the first floor, you can gain admission to the public galleries of the green-hued House of Representatives, and the Senate, traditionally dressed in red. A visit during sitting times is a great way to view first-hand how parliament functions, and the free guided tours offer fascinating details about the building.

After visiting, you can take the 3.5-kilometer Parliament House Walk to the city center and learn about the Parliamentary Triangle along the way through interpretive signs.

Address: Parliament House, Canberra

Official site: http://www.aph.gov.au/

A short walk from New Parliament House at the base of Capital Hill, Old Parliament House is now home to the Museum of Australian Democracy. Not only can you soak up the history of this National Heritage-listed building, you can also learn about the important foundations of Australia's government.

Opened by the Duke of York (later King George VI) in 1927, the building is designed in the "stripped classical" style and was occupied by the Australian Parliament until 1988, when New Parliament House was officially opened. It was formerly called Provisional Parliament House, and was only standing in until a permanent structure could be designed and built – a feat finally realized 61 years later.

The museum is like a time capsule. You can learn about past Australian Prime Ministers; sit in the old Prime Minister's Office, a relatively humble affair; visit the Press Room; and read important historical documents. The chambers of the House of Representatives and the Senate are modeled on the British House of Commons and House of Lords with paneling and furnishings made of Australian woods, and wall hangings displaying Australian flora. Parents will appreciate the child-friendly exhibits and free daily craft activities.

After a visit to the building, you stroll among the National Rose Gardens . Free, guided tours help you get the most out of your time here, and you can also take a fascinating Indigenous Experiences of Democracy tour.

Address: 18 King George Terrace, Parkes

Official site: http://moadoph.gov.au/

Beautiful Lake Burley Griffin is the centerpiece of Canberra. Named for the city's architect, this artificial lake was included in his original plan of 1912, but didn't come to fruition until 1958. Today, it's a picturesque setting for all kinds of outdoor activities.

Tourists and locals alike come here to bike and stroll along the waterfront paths; picnic along its park-fringed shores; and fish, sail, or paddle the glistening waters. Looking for things to do in Canberra at night? Book a dinner cruise on the MV Southern Cross and see the twinkling lights of the city as you glide around the lake feasting on gourmet food.

Six islands lie at its center, the largest of which is Aspen Island , home to the National Carillon, a gift from the British government with 55 bronze bells .

Sprinkled around the lake are some of Canberra's top things to see and do, including the National Gallery, National Library, Questacon, and National Museum.

Standing on the shores of the central basin, you can see the Captain Cook Memorial Jet , a 147-meter-high fountain inaugurated in 1970 on the 200th anniversary of Cook's discovery of Australia. A globe sculpture depicting the path of Cook's voyages lies on the shores of the lake at Regatta Point.

On the north side of the lake, Commonwealth Park is a great place to visit with children. Here, you'll find play areas, paddling pools, waterfalls, an amphitheater, and a path round the park.

In spring, the park is the venue for the famous Floriade festival, a celebration of spring, when more than a million flowers are in bloom.

On the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, the National Gallery of Australia contains Australia's largest collection of art . The cubic concrete structure was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in October 1982 and consists of 11 main galleries on three levels, as well as a large Sculpture Garden laid out according to the four seasons and a Fern Garden.

The purchase of the extensive collection began in 1968 and includes works from Australia, Asia, Europe, America, and the Pacific, as well as the largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art in the world . Among the museum's collection is Jackson Pollock's Blue Poles , purchased in 1973 and now one of the gallery's most famous paintings.

Mediums range from oil paintings and watercolors, to sculpture, decorative art, drawings, book illustrations, sketchbooks, photographs, films, ceramics, costumes, and textiles. Locals and tourists alike will also enjoy the many special exhibitions.

After exploring the gallery, you can visit the adjoining High Court of Australia , with graceful fountains, Carrara marble-paved floors, and murals.

Address: Parkes Place, Parkes

Official site: http://nga.gov.au/Default.cfm

Traveling with kids? Questacon is one of the top Canberra attractions for families. Between the High Court and the National Library on Lake Burley Griffin, it's an interactive National Science and Technology Centre with all kinds of hands-on science displays and do-it-yourself experiments designed to delight and inspire.

The exhibits seek to promote understanding of the importance of science and technology in everyday life. Science shows, special events, and guest lectures complement the 200 hands-on exhibits .

In the Technology Learning Centre, budding innovators can participate in workshops and build and play with technology. Highlights of the permanent exhibits include the H2O-Soak up the Science room with water-related fun, the Free Fall slide, and Earthquake House. No wonder this is one of the top things to do in Canberra for families.

Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes

Official site: http://www.questacon.edu.au/

Near the High Court of Australia and the National Gallery , the National Portrait Gallery of Australia displays some 400 portraits of the nation's most influential people. You can easily spend an hour or two coming face to face with Australia's movers and shakers, brought to life through paintings, photography, and sculpture.

Multimedia presentations divulge fascinating details about the lives of the people who helped shape the nation, and special exhibitions provide new things to see. Visiting the gallery is a breeze: parking is free, and the popular café and bookshop are a great way to top off a tour.

Official site: http://www.portrait.gov.au/

Opened in 1968, the National Library of Australia is a treasure trove of Australian books, manuscripts, newspapers, historic documents, oral history, music, and pictures. Its most valuable possessions are Captain Cook's journal (1768-71) and Wills' diary of his expedition with Burke in 1860-61.

Architecturally, the building is a dramatic contrast from the National Gallery and High Court. Built in the style of a Greek temple, its classical effect is underscored by the lavish use of marble and travertine on the columns and walls. Marble from Greece, Italy, and Australia was also used in the decoration of the interior.

In the foyer are superb stained-glass windows by Leonard French and three Aubusson tapestries woven from Australian wool.

On the lower floor, the Treasures Gallery displays highlights from the library's collection, and the Exhibitions Gallery hosts special visiting displays, which often require advance booking.

Official site: http://www.nla.gov.au/

To really appreciate the layout of this carefully planned capital, head to the lookout of 843-meter Mount Ainslie. It's one of the city's most popular vantage points. A well-paved walking/biking trail winds for just over two kilometers from the rear of the Australian War Memorial . Along the way, you can pause at the commemorative plaques to learn about historic Australian battles, and you might even see some kangaroos, as well as an array of beautiful birds.

It's also possible to drive up to the lookout. Thanks to Walter Burley Griffin's vision, the lookout aligns perfectly with Anzac Parade, Lake Burley Griffin, Old Parliament House, and, in the background, the sleek lines of New Parliament House. On breezy days, be sure to bring a jacket.

Other popular lookout points include Red Hill , to the south of here, and Black Hill , to the west.

Address: Mount Ainslie Drive, Canberra

About a kilometer west of the city center, the 50-hectare National Botanic Gardens are a must-visit for green thumbs. Spread across the slopes of Black Mountain, these carefully tended collections display a range of different habitats and present all the important species of Australian flora. Kids will also love to run wild here.

The Rain Forest Gully is particularly impressive. Look for water dragons among the lush foliage. Other highlights include the Red Centre garden, with deep red earth and a spinifex grassland, as well as the Children's Discovery Walk . The gardens are also a haven for birds and butterflies.

From the gardens, you can access Black Mountain Nature Park and hike to the summit for glorious city views.

Wondering about other Canberra gardens to visit? You'll also enjoy exploring the National Arboretum Canberra , about a six-minute drive away. This 250-hectare nature area encompasses forests of rare native and exotic trees, the National Bonsai and Penjing collection, a Gallery of Gardens, picnic areas with panoramic viewpoints, and a fantastic children's playground.

If you're looking for cheap things to do in Canberra, this is an excellent option. Entry to the gardens is free, but you'll pay a small fee to park at the on-site parking lot.

Address: Clunies Ross Street, Acton

Official site: http://www.anbg.gov.au/gardens/index.html

Australia's only combined zoo and aquarium, this privately owned venture is a hit with families and anyone who loves animals. It's only five minutes from the city center.

The National Aquarium displays a wide range of marine life, from the tiny denizens of the reefs to huge sharks.

In the neighboring zoo, you can view all the important species of Australian fauna, as well as exotic species as such as lions, tigers, cheetahs, bears, and more. The animal encounters are extremely popular and allow visitors to go behind the scenes and interact with a range of exotic creatures. You can meet a meerkat and get up close with cheetahs, giraffes, sun bears, and rhinos, among other animals at this popular Canberra zoo.

Address: 999 Lady Denman Drive, Western Creek, Yarralumla

Official site: http://www.nationalzoo.com.au/

On a peninsular jutting into Lake Burley Griffin, the National Museum of Australia spotlights the nation's social history. The contemporary building itself is a conversation piece, with beautiful lake views. Inspired by a jigsaw, it was intended to underscore the interconnected stories that helped shape the nation.

A major theme of the exhibits is the cultural history of Indigenous Australians. Other highlights include exhibits on the Gold Rush, Australian industry, clothing, and migration. Children will also find a few interactive displays to keep them busy.

Address: Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula

Official site: http://www.nma.gov.au/

On Aspen Island in Lake Burley Griffin, the white Carillon Tower was a gift from the British government on Canberra's 50th birthday in 1963. The 50-meter-high tower incorporates three sleek columns clad in opal chip and quartz. Within the towers are 55 bronze bells ranging from seven kilograms to six metric tons.

You can bring a picnic and relax on the surrounding lawns. Better still, visit during a recital (Wednesdays and Sundays from 12:30 to 1:20pm), when the music of the bells wafts across the lake. The tower looks especially beautiful when it's lit at night.

Location: Kings Park, Aspen Island, Canberra

Black Mountain Nature Park is a great wilderness experience to combine with a visit to the adjacent Australian National Botanic Gardens . It lies just west of the city center.

Walking trails wind through the bushland, where you can see many species of native birds and other wildlife, including wallabies. The Black Mountain Summit Trail is a popular 2.7-kilometer (one-way) trail , which takes you to Telstra Tower , where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

At the foot of Black Mountain, the Australian Institute of Sport is the training center for Australia's top sportsmen and women, with a swimming stadium and tennis center.

Address: Black Mountain Drive, Acton

The Royal Australian Mint is a great place to spend an hour or so and learn about the heritage of Australia's currency. All Australian coins are minted here.

You can watch the manufacture of coins from a gallery, learn about the history of Australian coins through a video presentation and multimedia displays, and discover some of Australia's rarest coins. Looking for unique things to do in Canberra? Try minting your own $1 coin. You can also meet Titan, the mint's money-making robot.

Take advantage of the free tour at 11am and 2pm Monday through Friday. In the foyer of the Mint is a small museum with a souvenir shop.

Address: Denison Street, Deakin

Official site: http://www.ramint.gov.au/

Craving a nature fix while you're in the city? Drive eight minutes from the city center to Jerrabomberra Wetland, and you can be wandering through tranquil wetlands listening to the sounds of nature.

Ironically, this bird-rich wetland was created when Lake Burley Griffin was filled, causing the water table to rise on the Molonglo River floodplain.

If you're an avid birder, you're in luck. You'll find more than 170 different species here, including the purple swamphen, black swans, eastern rosellas, and yellow-tailed black cockatoos. Bird hides make it easy to spot some of the more skittish species.

Boardwalks, walking tracks, and signs make it easy to explore this urban oasis, and bird-watching tours and other specialist talks enhance a visit. You can also explore three different trails and learn more about the unique features of the wetland by downloading a free app.

Address: Dairy Road, Fyshwick ACT

Official site: https://www.jerrabomberrawetlands.org.au/

Many of Canberra's top attractions cluster within the Parliamentary Triangle overlooking Lake Burley Griffin, so anywhere in or near this area is a convenient place to stay. Nearby, the suburbs of Manuka and Kingston are known for their fantastic shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The city center, north of Lake Burley Griffin, also makes a handy base and is minutes away by car from the Parliamentary Triangle. Here are some highly rated hotels in these convenient areas:

Luxury Hotels:

• Smack dab in the Parliamentary Triangle near Questacon, the five-star Hyatt Hotel Canberra has a wonderful pool and fitness center, and serves high tea in its lounge.
• Also in the Parliamentary Triangle at the foot of New Parliament House, modern Hotel Realm lies within walking distance of Manuka and Kingston's many restaurants.
• Trendy Hotel Hotel has views to Parliament House and Lake Burley Griffin and occupies a funky honeycomb building. Inside, it's all smoky hues and mottled light.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In Kingston, near shops and restaurants, the stylish East Hotel offers excellent value for money – especially for families and extended stays. Its studios and apartments come with fully-equipped kitchens, as well as washers and dryers.
• Also offering spacious apartments, as well as King rooms and spa suites, the contemporary Avenue Hotel Canberra lies near shopping malls in the city center.
• Minutes from New Parliament House, the quirky and minimalistic Little National Hotel offers excellent value, with sleek, compact rooms and comfy beds.

Budget Hotels:

• Quality hotels with budget rates are rare near the city center and the Parliamentary Triangle, but the Leumeah Lodge offers clean, crisp rooms with large showers, about a 20-minute drive from here.
• Cheap rates compensate for the petite rooms at the Ibis Budget Canberra . It's about a 15-minute drive from the Parliamentary Triangle.

Wondering about places to visit near Canberra in winter? You can ski the slopes of some of Australia's best ski resorts about a two-hour drive south of Canberra. Rising to a height of 2,228 meters, the rugged Snowy Mountains host top resorts, including Perisher, Thredbo, Smiggin Holes, Charlotte Pass, Guthega, and Mount Blue Cow.

But you'll find plenty of things to do in the Snowy Mountains year-round. In the summer, the region offers fabulous hiking, horseback riding, water sports, and fishing.

At Tidbinbilla, about an hour's drive from Canberra, you can learn about Australia's role in space exploration at the Canberra Space Center in the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex, one of only three in the world . Budding astronauts can see the largest antenna complex in the Southern Hemisphere , explore models of different spacecraft, and learn about the foods astronauts eat on the space shuttle.

Just south of here, the excellent Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is a great place to see wildlife such as grey kangaroos, rock wallabies, emus, koalas, and the elusive platypus. Hiking trails weave throughout the reserve, allowing you to soak up all the natural beauty and spot animals along the way.

Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex

• Address: Paddy's River, Tidbinbilla, 421 Discovery Dr, Paddys River ACT
• http://www.cdscc.nasa.gov/

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

• Address: Paddys River Road, Paddys River ACT
• https://www.tidbinbilla.act.gov.au/

About 40 kilometers south of Canberra, the historic homestead of Lanyon is a lovely spot to spend a morning or afternoon. Set in attractive parkland on the Murrumbidgee River, the homestead recalls 19th-century rural life and is still a working farm with sheep, cattle, and horses.

You can step back in time and tour some of the homestead's rooms, filled with antique treasures, or stroll through the beautiful gardens. After exploring the grounds, the café is a great place to enjoy a snack.

Address: Tharwa Drive, Tharwa

Official site: http://www.historicplaces.com.au/lanyon-homestead

About an hour's drive from Canberra, Goulburn is the center of a wealthy farming district at the junction of the Wollondilly and Mulwarry Rivers. The discovery of gold at Braidwood, 87 kilometers south, brought the town wealth. Today, many handsome buildings bear witness to the town's prosperity in the 1870s. Of particular interest are Riversdale Historic Homestead , the town hall, courthouse, and St. Saviour's Cathedral .

Rocky Hill Lookout offers great views over town, and you can visit a WWI memorial here. On the western outskirts of town is the Big Merino , a 15-meter concrete tribute to Australia's wool industry, with a small shop and museum. Train buffs will enjoy the Rail Heritage Centre .

The little settlement of Berrima was founded around 1830 and is one of Australia's best-preserved Georgian towns. In the last few decades, the beauty of the Georgian buildings has been rediscovered, and the town is now protected as a national monument.

Many artists and potters have settled here. It's worthwhile spending a few hours browsing the art galleries and shops and relaxing at the cafés. In addition to a number of old inns, you can explore the historic buildings on the Berrima Historic Walk .

Cockington Green, about nine kilometers north of the city, is a favorite place to visit for families. Set amid pretty gardens and sprawling lawns, it's a picturesque English village in miniature, as well as a display of tiny buildings from around the world. Hop aboard the miniature steam train , explore the Waverley Dollhouse, and admire the tiny castles and cottages.

Address: 11 Gold Creek Road, Nichols

Official site: http://www.cockingtongreen.com.au/

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More Places to Visit near Canberra : Feel like embracing winter and carving up some slopes? Less than a three-hour drive away from Canberra, you'll find some of Australia's top ski resorts . Visiting in the summer? You can explore The Kosciuszko Walk, one of the Australia's top hikes . If you need help deciding what other things to see and do during your visit Down Under, see our article on top Australian itineraries .

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10 Best Things To Do in Canberra, Australia [with Suggested Tours]

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List of Best Things to do in Canberra, Australia

1. australian war memorial.

2. National Gallery of Australia

3. Australian Parliament House

4. Mount Ainslie Lookout

5. Royal Australian Mint

6. Questacon

7. Lake Burley Griffin

8. Cockington Green

9. National Museum of Australia

Suggested Tour:  From Sydney: Private Canberra Day Trip with Parliament House

10. National Portrait Gallery

Where to stay in Canberra, Australia

Budget hotel.

ibis Budget Canberra 

ibis Budget Canberra offers air-conditioned rooms with a TV and a work desk. All rooms feature an alarm clock and a private bathroom with a shower. Each room is heated and has access to WiFi. The centrally located Hotel ibis Budget Canberra is 15 minutes’ drive from the entrance of Canberra, Parliament House, and the Australian National Botanic Gardens.

Price: Starts at $55 per night for a Queen and Single Bunk , includes taxes and charges, and it offers a free cancellation.

Luxury Hotel

Hyatt Hotel Canberra – A Park Hyatt Hotel

Offering a state-of-the-art fitness center with an indoor swimming pool and sauna, this luxury hotel is only 5 minutes drive from Parliament House . Each room features  luxurious interiors with a sitting area, a  large work desk, and a  marble bathroom with a deep bathtub and  separate shower . The Clubhouse at Hyatt Hotel  Canberra offers a fully-equipped fitness center with personal trainers, massage services, spa pool, bike hire, and a floodlit tennis court.

Price: Starts at $223 per night for Park 2 Twins , includes taxes and charges, add $27 for breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

These are the possible things you can do in Canberra, Australia. So if you are ready to have a fun and exciting trip, you know what to do and where to go! So pack your things now and prepare yourself for a wonderful adventure in Canberra.

Fun Facts About Canberra

• Canberra is one of the few places in Australia where you can experience a hot air balloon ride.
• There are more than 30 wineries in the city.
• Canberra has secret tunnels and underground highways.
• The word “Canberra” came from the word Kambera or Canberry that is believed to mean “meeting place” in Ngunnawal.

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Two Monkeys Travel Group – Community Travel Blog is a travel blog and website. We quickly grew into a valuable source of inspiring travel stories, advice, itineraries and travel guides, with the aim of demonstrating how to live a sustainable life of travel, whilst living your own definition of success. If you'd like to contribute and write a guest post, contact us at [email protected]

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Photos from Canberra

Blogs from Canberra

Latest blog posts from canberra.

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Lately Canberra has been staking a claim for the title of Australia's coolest city – and we’re not just talking winter temperatures. Where else can you find superb dining and world-class cultural experiences only a short stroll from wildlife-filled bushland reserves and serene lakeshore views?

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

National Gallery of Australia

This Australian national art collection is showcased in an impressive purpose-built gallery within the parliamentary precinct. You can justifiably bypass…

National Portrait Gallery

Occupying a flash, purpose-built building, this wonderful gallery is a striking representation of Australia's shifting self-image and a must-see for art…

Australian War Memorial

Canberra's glorious art-deco war memorial is a highlight in a city filled with interesting architecture. Built to commemorate 'the war to end all wars',…

Australian Parliament House

Built in 1988, Australia's national parliament building is a graceful and deeply symbolic piece of architecture. Sitting atop Capital Hill, the building…

National Museum of Australia

As well as telling Australia's national story, this museum hosts blockbuster touring exhibitions (admission prices vary), which often outpoint the…

Most families visiting Canberra head straight for Questacon, Australia's premier science museum, where they can play around with fun interactive exhibits…

Museum of Australian Democracy

The seat of government from 1927 to 1988, this elegantly proportioned building offers visitors a taste of the political past. Displays cover Australian…

Australian National Botanic Gardens

On the lower slopes of Black Mountain, these sprawling gardens showcase Australian floral diversity over 35 hectares of cultivated garden and 50 hectares…

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