Canberra – The Ultimate Guide: What to Do, Where to Stay and What to See

Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is a great place to explore. From fantastic museums and art galleries to stunning outdoor spaces, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, there’s plenty to do in this bustling city.

To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to Canberra. Here’s what to do, where to stay and what to see in this vibrant Australian capital.

What To Do in Canberra

For a fun-filled day trip or an extended holiday, there are plenty of things to keep you entertained in Canberra. From visits to top museums – including the National Gallery of Australia – to romantic dinners out and exciting activities for younger travellers, this city has something for everyone.

Here are some of the top things to do in Canberra:

• Visit a museum: Canberra has some of the best museums in Australia. The National Gallery of Australia has an amazing collection of artworks and sculptures spanning centuries, while the Australian War Memorial is an important and sombre monument to those who have served in Australia’s military.
• Shop on the capital’s streets: There are plenty of great shopping opportunities in the city. Visit the high-end shops of Manuka or take a stroll down the historic Lonsdale Street and browse the many independent boutiques. For more traditional shopping, head to Old Bus Depot Markets for handmade crafts.
• Try some local food: Canberra has some fantastic food options. For traditional Aussie cuisine, visit Pialligo Estate for their famous sausage rolls. Or for something with more international flavour, head over to Red Rattler in Braddon for their mouth-watering Mexican tacos.
• Enjoy outdoor activities: For the active traveller, there are plenty of outdoor activities in Canberra. Take a hike or a bike ride around the lake at Kingston Foreshore Park or take a surf lesson at Aranda Beach. Alternatively, head over to Mount Ainslie Lookout for magnificent views of the city.

Where To Stay in Canberra

Canberra has a range of great accommodation options for your stay. From hotels perfectly positioned close to the centre to cosy bed & breakfasts on the outskirts of the city, there’s something for every budget.

Luxury Hotels

For those looking for luxury, The Hotel Realm is one of Canberra’s best 5-star hotels and offers opulent rooms with stunning views of the city. Alternatively, there are several boutique hotels located in the centre of Canberra if you’re looking for something a little less grandiose.

Mid-Range Hotels

If you’re looking for somewhere in the mid-range price bracket, try Little National Hotel in Barton. This stylish hotel offers great value-for-money and is also conveniently located close to the lake and other attractions within the city.

Budget Accommodation

If you’re travelling on a budget, Haig Park Hostel is a great option for budget accommodation. Located only 2 kilometres from the centre of Canberra, this hostel provides simple rooms and communal facilities at very competitive rates.

What To See In Canberra

Canberra is home to some incredible sights and landmarks that should not be missed during your visit. Here are some of the highlights of this spectacular city:

• The Australian War Memorial: This emotional tribute to men and women who have served in Australian military operations is a must-see whilst in Canberra. Its galleries are filled with information and artefacts about the many wars that have been fought over the years.
• The National Gallery of Australia: As mentioned above, this impressive gallery houses an incredible collection of fine art from local and international artists spanning centuries. The collection also includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artwork which is a must-see.
• Parliament House: This iconic building is home to Australia’s federal government and offers guided tours for visitors. From the beautiful gardens and sweeping views to the intricate architecture of the building itself, this is an essential stop during your visit.
• The National Arboretum: Set amongst 92 hectares of hillsides, forests and lakes on the slopes of Black Mountain is the majestic National Arboretum. Home to 94 forests made up of 44 different species of native trees, this arboretum offers stunning views of the city below.

So if you’re planning a trip to Australia’s thriving capital city of Canberra, there are plenty of exciting things to see, do and experience. From incredible landmarks such as Parliament House and The National Gallery of Australia to riverside walks and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.