This post was originally published on A Globe Well Travelled in 2018. The content has been revised and updated with fresh information.
I barely remember my first trip to Canberra as a teen.
Like many Aussie kids, I visited the nation’s capital on a school excursion—though at the time, the city’s politics and museums didn’t stand a chance against more exciting destinations like the Gold Coast. For years, I assumed Canberra was a place you visited once, ticked off for educational purposes, and never really thought about again.
But when my husband and I moved back to Australia after two years in New York, several of our Sydney friends had relocated to the capital. That gave us the perfect excuse for a return visit—and this time, Canberra completely surprised me.
As an adult, I appreciated its national museums, iconic monuments, and relaxed atmosphere in a way I simply couldn’t before. I also got to experience a very different side of the city: bustling brunch spots, cool bars, leafy neighbourhoods, and wide-open outdoor spaces teeming with kangaroos.
Many travellers skip the ACT entirely, but Canberra is absolutely worth visiting. This Canberra travel guide covers the best things to do in Canberra, where to stay, how to get there, and all the top Canberra attractions that make Australia’s capital such an underrated gem—whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a Canberra day trip from Sydney, or a longer itinerary exploring the region.
Quick summary:
This guide covers the best things to do in Canberra, where to stay, how to get there from Sydney, and which attractions are worth your time — whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a day trip to Australia’s capital city.
Recommended tours:
🚌 From Sydney: Highlights of Canberra Full Day Tour – Small-group day trip covering Parliament House, War Memorial, Mount Ainslie highlights
🏛️ Old Parliament House Walk Through History Tour – Guided exploration of historic chambers, King’s Hall, and Prime Minister’s Suite stories
🏨 Stay at: Adina Serviced Apartments Canberra Dickson – Spacious serviced apartments with parking, kitchen, and great access to Canberra attractions
Why visit Canberra?
There are plenty of reasons to visit Canberra, but here’s my number one reason: It’s a true representation of an Aussie city. Sure, the other big cities of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are awesome places to visit, but Canberra is different in that it’s not a big city, and I think that’s a good thing.
The streets are wide and spacious, there are gum trees lining the major roads and bushy hills right next to downtown. It’s even likely that you’ll see wild kangaroos hopping about within the city limits. It’s the kind of place where you can see the ‘real’ Australia, if you get what I mean.
It also has some fabulous annual events such as the Floriade spring flower festival and the Enlighten Festival, which is held every autumn at various locations around the city. I hit up Canberra for Enlighten in 2020 and was really impressed! The sculptures on the art walk were superb, the beer garden offered delicious local brews, and the Balloon Spectacular event (where dozens of hot air balloons drift into the sky at sunrise) was absolutely worth getting up early for.
How to get to Canberra (from Sydney, Melbourne & beyond)
Sydney is the closest major city to Canberra, and it takes 3 hours to drive between them. Driving from Melbourne is also possible, though it’s a much longer trip at around 7 hours.
There are frequent buses between Sydney and Canberra. The bus trip takes around 3-4 hours and the most basic tickets cost around $45 AUD one way. Check out the Murrays or Greyhound websites for bookings.
You can also fly into Canberra from most capital cities within Australia with Virgin or Qantas. Flights can be fairly expensive, but you might find a good deal if you book in advance.
Sydney to Canberra Day Trip
If you’re short on time or don’t want to deal with driving, a guided Sydney to Canberra day tour is an easy way to see the highlights of Australia’s capital in one day.
🚌 The Highlights of Canberra Full Day Tour is a solid option, especially for first-time visitors. This small-group tour (maximum 20 people) runs for around 8 hours and includes pick-up from major Sydney hotels.
This tour is a great option if you want a structured, informative introduction to Canberra without needing to plan transport or navigation yourself. You’ll travel in a comfortable vehicle while your guide takes care of the logistics and shares the history and significance of each stop along the way.
The itinerary covers Canberra’s major attractions, including panoramic views from Mount Ainslie, a visit to Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, and the National Archives Exhibition Centre.
How to get around Canberra
My husband and I chose to rent a car from Sydney Airport to use during our trip to Canberra. Canberra is a very car-friendly city, and having your own vehicle makes it much easier to move between attractions. Wide roads, minimal traffic, and plentiful parking mean driving here is far less stressful than in Australia’s larger cities.
Public transport is also available, and includes buses and a light rail line, but it’s not especially convenient for tourists trying to cover multiple attractions in a limited timeframe. The light rail mainly services the northern suburbs, while buses can involve transfers and longer travel times. Walking and cycling work well around Lake Burley Griffin and the city centre, but for most visitors, renting a car is the most efficient option.
Best things to do in Canberra:
Australian War Memorial
The Australian War Memorial is one of Canberra’s most significant and moving attractions, combining a memorial, museum, and archive within a single complex. It tells the story of Australia’s involvement in global conflicts, from World War I through to modern peacekeeping missions, and does so in a way that’s deeply personal and thoughtfully curated.
While the museum galleries are extensive and can easily take several hours to explore, the commemorative areas are just as impactful. The Roll of Honour, lined with red poppies, and the central courtyard are quiet, reflective spaces that encourage visitors to pause and remember those who served. Even if you don’t usually seek out war museums, this is a powerful and worthwhile visit — and one that provides important context for understanding Australia’s national identity.
I’m not usually drawn to war memorials, but this one genuinely surprised me. I didn’t spend hours in the museum galleries; instead, I found myself lingering in the courtyard and along the Roll of Honour, where the wall of red poppies felt especially powerful. It’s a quieter, more reflective experience than I expected.
Old Parliament House
It wouldn’t be a trip to Canberra without visiting Old Parliament House, which served as Australia’s temporary seat of government from 1927 to 1988. Today, the building is home to the Museum of Australian Democracy and is one of the most fascinating Canberra attractions for understanding how modern Australia was shaped.
Even if you’re not usually drawn to political history, this is one place that’s genuinely engaging. The rose gardens outside are beautiful, the reflective pool out the front is wonderfully photogenic, and there’s even a popular bar tucked behind the building — proof that Canberra does heritage with a modern twist.
🏛️ For a deeper experience, it’s may be worth joining the Canberra: Old Parliament House ‘Walk Through History’ Tour. This guided tour takes you beyond simply wandering the halls, bringing the building’s stories to life as you explore the chambers and corridors where key decisions were made.
You’ll sit on the original leather benches in the Senate and House of Representatives, walk through King’s Hall — once the bustling heart of Parliament — and step inside spaces like the Prime Minister’s Suite and party rooms. It’s an excellent way to understand not just Australian politics, but how democracy actually works — and why this historic building still matters today.
New Parliament House
Sitting just behind Old Parliament House, Parliament House is one of Canberra’s most iconic landmarks. Opened in 1988, the building is partially embedded into Capital Hill, with a grassed roof that visitors can walk across for sweeping views back toward the Australian War Memorial.
Inside, Parliament House is open to the public and offers free guided tours that explain how Australia’s political system works. You can also watch live parliamentary sessions if Parliament is sitting during your visit, which adds an extra layer of interest (check the calendar to see if this will be the case).
The interior design is impressive, featuring Australian materials, large open spaces, and artworks that reflect the country’s history and values. Even a short visit gives you a better understanding of how the nation is governed.
Mount Ainslie
If you’re chasing one of the best views in Canberra, Mount Ainslie should be high on your list. The lookout at the summit offers a perfectly aligned view down Anzac Parade, across the Australian War Memorial, and toward Parliament House — a perspective that was intentionally designed as part of Canberra’s original city plan.
You can drive to the top or hike up from the base if you’re feeling energetic. Sunrise and sunset are particularly popular times to visit, when the city is bathed in soft light. It’s also common to spot kangaroos along the road or near the lookout, making this one of the most scenic and distinctly Australian things to do in Canberra.
Lake Burley Griffin
At the heart of the city, Lake Burley Griffin ties Canberra’s major attractions together. The man-made lake is surrounded by walking and cycling paths, parklands, galleries, and museums, making it a central part of any Canberra itinerary.
It’s a great place for a relaxed stroll, a bike ride, or a picnic with views back toward Parliament House and the surrounding hills. Attractions like the National Gallery, National Library, and the Carillon are all located along the foreshore, so you’ll likely find yourself returning to the lake multiple times during your visit. It’s especially pleasant on warm days and during spring when the surrounding gardens are in bloom.
National Gallery of Australia
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the National Gallery of Australia, one of the country’s most important cultural institutions. The gallery houses an impressive permanent collection that includes Australian, Indigenous, Asian, and international works, with everything from large-scale paintings to intricate sculptures and contemporary installations.
One of the highlights is the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art collection, which offers insight into the world’s oldest continuous living cultures. The gallery’s lakeside location also makes it an easy stop when exploring Lake Burley Griffin, and entry to the permanent collection is free, making it one of the best value attractions in Canberra.
Lonsdale Street, Braddon
For a taste of Canberra beyond the national institutions, head to Lonsdale Street. This lively strip in the inner-north suburb of Braddon is packed with cafés, bars, breweries, restaurants, and food trucks, and it quickly became our favourite area to spend an evening.
The section between Haig Park and Cooyong Street is especially popular, offering everything from casual brunch spots to late-night dining and craft beer. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing and shows off Canberra’s local food and drink scene — something many visitors don’t expect from the capital.
More places to visit in Canberra
If you have extra time in Canberra, there are plenty of additional attractions worth adding to your itinerary. The National Museum of Australia is a great follow-on from the War Memorial and Parliament precinct, with engaging exhibitions that explore Australia’s history, culture, and identity. Nearby, the National Portrait Gallery offers a quieter but equally compelling experience, showcasing portraits of influential Australians from politics, sport, the arts, and public life.
For something a little different, the Royal Australian Mint gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how Australia’s coins are made, and it’s surprisingly interesting even if you’re not usually drawn to industrial-style attractions. The National Library of Australia is another underrated stop, particularly for its exhibitions, lakefront setting, and peaceful reading rooms.
If you’re visiting Canberra with kids — or just enjoy hands-on experiences — Questacon is a standout. This interactive science museum is packed with experiments, demonstrations, and exhibits that are genuinely fun for all ages and a good option if the weather turns cold or rainy.
Where to stay in Canberra
Where you stay in Canberra can make a big difference, as accommodation is spread across several neighbourhoods. For first-time visitors, areas just north of the city like Braddon and Dickson are convenient bases, with easy access to major attractions, good food options, and straightforward driving and parking.
🏨 We stayed at the Adina Serviced Apartments Canberra Dickson, which was a solid, practical choice for a Canberra stay, especially if you’re visiting for more than one night.
Despite having a rental car, parking wasn’t an issue thanks to the hotel’s secure undercover parking. Our room was spacious, with a separate lounge and kitchen, and it was comfortable enough for us to work remotely during the week, with a proper desk and reliable free Wi-Fi. There’s also a café in the lobby serving real coffee and light meals, which was a nice bonus.
If you want to be close to nightlife and dining, Braddon is a great alternative, while staying near the city centre or Lake Burley Griffin suits visitors focused on galleries and museums.
FAQ: Visiting Canberra
Is Canberra worth visiting?
Yes — Canberra is full of national museums, scenic lookouts, festivals, and great food. It’s an underrated destination that surprises a lot of travellers.
What is Canberra famous for?
Canberra is known for Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, Lake Burley Griffin, and major cultural institutions like the National Gallery and National Museum.
When is the best time to visit Canberra?
Canberra is lovely year-round, but spring and autumn are the standouts. Spring brings Floriade’s colourful blooms, while autumn has the Enlighten Festival and gorgeous fall foliage around the lake.
How many days do you need in Canberra?
Two days is perfect for seeing the main attractions at a relaxed pace. You can squeeze the highlights into one day by taking a Canberra day tour from Sydney, but staying a full weekend gives you time to enjoy brunch spots, museums, and Mount Ainslie without rushing.
How far is Canberra from Sydney?
It’s around a three-hour drive. Buses take 3–4 hours, and flights are usually 50 minutes.
Is Canberra easy to get around without a car?
You can use buses and the light rail, but some attractions are spread out. Renting a car is the easiest way to explore, especially for short visits.
*I was a guest of Visit Canberra during my stay in Canberra. I’m proud to be an honest and transparent blogger, so every opinion expressed on AGWT is a true review of my experience.
Leave a Reply