Discover the capital of Australia's rich cultural heritage
Top reasons to visit Canberra
- Diverse Attractions: Canberra boasts a mix of urban parks, art museums, and cultural sites, ideal for families and business travellers.
- Vibrant City Centre: The bustling Canberra CBD is filled with friendly locals, shopping centres, and dining options.
- Outdoor Adventures: Nearby nature reserves and skiing opportunities provide thrilling outdoor experiences for visitors.
- Rich Cultural Experiences: Explore iconic attractions that showcase the capital's unique charm and heritage.
- Varied Accommodation: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from hotels to family-friendly motels, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in Canberra
Discover a range of accommodation options in Canberra, from well-appointed hotels to family-friendly motels, designed to cater to both leisure and business travellers. Whether you're seeking a city-themed experience or a relaxing getaway, Canberra's hotels offer excellent facilities and services to ensure a memorable stay. Explore the best of Canberra's lodging choices, perfectly suited for your visit to the Australian Capital Territory.
- Pavilion on Northbourne: A sophisticated 4.5-star hotel, Pavilion on Northbourne is an excellent choice for business travellers seeking a blend of comfort and convenience. Rated 8.6 out of 10 by guests, this property boasts spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities for a productive stay. Located in Canberra, the hotel features a delightful on-site restaurant, a well-equipped gym, and conference facilities to cater to corporate needs. Its welcoming atmosphere ensures a pleasant retreat after a day of meetings or exploring the city.
- Avenue Hotel Canberra: Experience luxury at its finest with the 5-star Avenue Hotel Canberra, where elegance meets city convenience. With an impressive guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, this hotel offers beautifully designed rooms and a premium location in the city centre. Ideal for those seeking a city-themed vacation, the hotel features a stylish restaurant, a rooftop terrace with stunning views, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities. Its blend of modern design and attentive service makes it perfect for discerning travellers looking for a sophisticated escape.
- Deco Hotel: Embrace the charm of the city at the 4-star Deco Hotel, renowned for its vibrant city-themed atmosphere. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, this hotel is situated in the heart of Canberra, providing easy access to local attractions. Guests can enjoy contemporary rooms featuring modern amenities, a trendy café, and a well-stocked bar. The hotel's artistic decor and lively ambiance create a welcoming environment for both leisure and business visitors alike, ensuring a memorable stay.
Where to stay in Canberra
Canberra offers a vibrant blend of experiences, perfect for families and business travellers alike. Explore the bustling Canberra CBD, where friendly locals enhance the city's charm. Visit iconic attractions and enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere, or venture to nearby regions for a romantic getaway. With its diverse neighbourhoods, Canberra promises an unforgettable vacation filled with cultural richness and unique vibes, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers.
- Kingston: Nestled in the heart of Canberra, Kingston is a vibrant suburb that attracts a diverse range of visitors year-round. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and bustling city-themed experiences, it is a hub for shopping and leisure. The area is easily accessible, making it a convenient base for exploring local attractions. Highlights include a modern square and a picturesque lake, perfect for leisurely strolls. Kingston also boasts a sports facility stadium and a variety of shopping centres, catering to both locals and tourists alike.
- Braddon: Just a stone's throw from the city centre, Braddon is an eclectic suburb renowned for its trendy cafes and shopping experiences. Visitors flock to Braddon for its family-oriented vibe and dynamic city atmosphere. With a peak in visitor numbers during the warmer months, the area features a modern square and an event conference venue, making it ideal for both leisure and business travel. Braddon’s shopping mall centres offer an array of retail options, ensuring a delightful experience for all who visit.
- Narrabundah: Located in close proximity to central Canberra, Narrabundah is a charming suburb that appeals to business travellers and families alike. With a steady influx of visitors throughout the year, it boasts a thriving shopping area and convenient access to attractions. Notable highlights include a science museum and a theme park, providing fun for all ages. The local sports facility stadium adds to the excitement, making Narrabundah a versatile destination for both relaxation and recreation.
Things to do in Canberra
Shopping
In Canberra, visit the Canberra Centre, a vibrant shopping hub with a mix of high-street brands and local boutiques. For a unique experience, explore the Old Bus Depot Markets, showcasing handmade crafts and gourmet food, perfect for finding distinctive souvenirs and gifts.
Recreation
Experience the tranquil surroundings at the Yarralumla Nursery and Garden Centre, where you can stroll through beautiful gardens and enjoy a cup of tea. For a dose of relaxation, consider a visit to the Canberra Day Spa, offering a variety of rejuvenating treatments.
Explore the picturesque Lake Burley Griffin on a paddleboat or bike ride along the scenic paths. Alternatively, unwind at the Namadgi National Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature, hiking through serene landscapes and enjoying the fresh air.
Adventure
In Canberra, explore the stunning landscapes while hiking in Namadgi National Park, where diverse wildlife and breathtaking views await. Adventure seekers can try rock climbing at the iconic Mount Ainslie, offering exhilarating challenges and stunning panoramas of the city below.
Nightlife
Canberra's nightlife offers a vibrant mix of experiences. Enjoy live music at the iconic Canberra Theatre or sip cocktails at the stylish Bar Rochford. For a lively pub atmosphere, visit the Civic Pub, where you can unwind and enjoy a casual evening with friends.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Canberra
Canberra offers numerous ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free entry to attractions like the Australian National University and Parliament House. For transport, consider using buses or bikes, as they are economical options. The cheapest months to visit are May, August, and December, with Sundays being the most affordable days for accommodation. Use Expedia to compare prices and book packages that combine flights and hotels for additional savings. By planning your trip around these tips, you can experience Canberra without overspending.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Canberra are May, August and December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Canberra is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Canberra is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel accommodation in Canberra with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Canberra
Canberra is an ideal destination for families and business travellers alike, offering a blend of urban parks, art museums, and nature reserves. Popular attractions include the Canberra Centre, Canberra Stadium, and various cultural sites. Whether seeking outdoor adventures or family-friendly experiences, visitors will find plenty to explore in and around the city. Enjoy the unique offerings that make Canberra a memorable holiday destination.
- Lake Burley Griffin: This picturesque lake offers a serene escape in the heart of Canberra. Enjoy leisurely walks along its shores, take a relaxing boat ride, or simply soak in the stunning views. With its beaches and scenic spots, it's an ideal location for romantic picnics or outdoor activities.
- National Gallery of Australia: Immerse yourself in the world of art at this renowned gallery, which houses an impressive collection of Australian and international works. Experience cultural enrichment through diverse exhibitions and engaging programs that celebrate artistic expression.
- National Museum of Australia: Delve into the rich history of Australia at this captivating museum. Through interactive displays and thought-provoking exhibits, you can explore the nation’s heritage, culture, and evolving identity, making for an enlightening visit.
Best time to go to Canberra
The best time to visit Canberra can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Canberra falls in January, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Canberra falls in July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Canberra
Flying into Canberra is straightforward via Canberra International Airport (CBR), located 6km from the city centre. Excellent accommodation options nearby include the Avenue Hotel Canberra and Hyatt Hotel Canberra - a Park Hyatt, both rated 5 stars. The Hotel Realm, also a 5-star establishment, is situated 5km from the airport. For those considering alternative airports, Wagga Wagga (WGA) is 151km away, with hotels like the International Hotel Wagga Wagga, while Moruya (MYA) is 116km distant, offering options such as Corrigans Cove. Transportation services from these hotels to their respective airports are typically available, ensuring convenient access for travellers.