Home - Travel Destinations - Canberra: Discover The Beautiful Capital of Australia- as a Travel Destination
If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Home - Travel Destinations - Canberra: Discover The Beautiful Capital of Australia- as a Travel Destination
If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Canberra the capital city of Australia, is approximately 280 kilometers (174 miles) southwest of Sydney, the largest city in Australia, and about 660 kilometers (410 miles) northeast of Melbourne.
Canberra is easy to reach.
Flights arrive at Canberra Airport, only a short drive from the city centre. Driving is popular too, especially from Sydney or Melbourne, with smooth highways and scenic stretches along the way. Many travellers include Canberra as part of a road trip, stopping for a night or two before continuing onward.
Formally the city is home to the country’s political institutions, including Parliament House and the High Court. It is also renowned for its planned layout, beautiful gardens, national monuments, and cultural institutions. But is it worth visiting as a vacation and travel destination?
The city feels open and calm, built around water, parks, and wide walking paths. Lake Burley Griffin sits right at the heart of it all, creating an easy rhythm for walking, cycling, and long coffee stops. Add free national attractions, nearby wineries, and seasonal festivals, and Canberra becomes a place that rewards a relaxed pace.
As a vacation destination, Canberra offers a range of attractions and experiences.
Many of Canberra’s top sights are free and easy to visit.
The Australian War Memorial is powerful and thoughtfully designed, with a daily Last Post ceremony that draws both locals and visitors.
The National Gallery of Australia offers world-class collections in a calm, spacious setting.
Parliament House invites visitors to walk across the grass-covered roof and enjoy wide views across the city.
For outdoor time, the National Arboretum spreads across rolling hills with lookout points and quiet picnic spots, while Glebe Park offers a shady escape right in the centre.
You’ll have the option of some beautiful places to stay. It all depends on what you love, but we have a few suggestions you might love as well:
From outside the building might look strange and odd, but inside it is warm, cozy and uniquely stylish.
See what the weather is like: Read more…
The locals in Canberra primarily speak English, as it is the national language of Australia. However, like any city, there may be some unique terms or slang that are commonly used by locals. Here are a few examples of Australian slang that you might encounter in Canberra:
These are just a few examples, and there are many more unique Australian slang words and phrases you may come across while in Canberra. It can be a fun and interesting way to engage with the locals and immerse yourself in the local culture.
You can explore on your own by using the local bus services.
The local bus services are reliable, allowing you to hop on and off throughout the day.
One of the best ways to spend sunset in Canberra, Australia is by visiting Mount Ainslie. Here’s a suggestion for a memorable sunset experience in Canberra:
Head to Mount Ainslie Lookout: Drive or take a short hike up Mount Ainslie, which offers a stunning panoramic view of Canberra and its landmarks. The lookout provides an ideal vantage point to watch the sunset as the city lights up in beautiful hues.
Arrive in Advance: Plan to arrive at the lookout well before sunset to secure a good spot. This will give you time to relax, soak in the views, and find the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset.
Bring a Picnic: Pack a picnic basket with your favorite snacks, drinks, and a cozy blanket. Find a comfortable spot to settle in and enjoy a picnic while you wait for the sunset. It’s a great way to unwind and savor the moment.
Capture the Moment: Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking views and the changing colors of the sky. The sunset from Mount Ainslie provides fantastic photo opportunities.
Spring brings fresh air and colour, with the famous Floriade flower festival filling Commonwealth Park from September to November. Autumn feels crisp and golden, ideal for lake walks and outdoor dining. Winter stays lively thanks to food events and truffle season in the surrounding region. Summer offers long daylight hours and warm evenings by the water.
Lake Burley Griffin shapes daily life in Canberra. Flat walking and cycling paths circle the water, making it easy to explore without a car. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and lake cruises give a different view of the skyline. Sunset is the best time to be here, when the light softens and cafés along the shore start to fill.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve brings wildlife and walking trails close to the city. Mount Ainslie lookout rewards a short drive with sweeping views across Canberra, especially at sunset. These quick escapes add variety without long travel times.
You CAN stretch your travel budget while getting the most out of your holiday. Between your city passes, your travel and rail passes, and hop-on-hop-off buses you will save and see plenty more.
The Australian War Memorial: A moving tribute to Australia’s military history, featuring exhibits, memorials, and a reflective atmosphere. Worth visiting to pay respects and gain insights into the nation’s past.
Parliament House: Iconic political landmark offering guided tours, exhibitions, and beautiful views. Only worth a visit if you’d like to witness Australia’s democracy in action and to appreciate its architectural significance.
National Gallery of Australia: Home to a vast collection of art, including indigenous and international works. Worth visiting for art enthusiasts and those seeking cultural enrichment.
National Museum of Australia: Showcasing the nation’s history through interactive exhibits and artifacts. Worth visiting this impressive building on an ‘island’, to deepen understanding of Australia’s diverse heritage as well as the stunning architecture.
Australian National Botanic Gardens: Extensive botanical gardens featuring native flora, walking trails, and stunning landscapes. Worth visiting to appreciate Australia’s unique plant life and enjoy a peaceful escape. A family-friendly activity to enjoy the outdoors on a sunny day.
Questacon (National Science and Technology Centre): Interactive science exhibits and educational activities for all ages. Worth visiting for families and those with a curiosity for science and innovation.
Mount Ainslie: Scenic lookout offering beautiful panoramic views of Canberra. Worth visiting for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts seeking breathtaking vistas of the city.
National Zoo and Aquarium: Home to a wide variety of animals, including endangered species. Worth visiting for animal lovers and families looking for an interactive wildlife experience.
Cockington Green Gardens: Miniature village with meticulously crafted buildings and landscaped gardens. Worth visiting for a unique and charming experience, especially for those with an appreciation for craftsmanship. It is just a fun and pretty place to visit for the whole family.
Lake Burley Griffin: A central waterway for recreational activities, including boating, cycling, and picnicking. Worth visiting to enjoy outdoor pursuits and take in the beauty of Canberra’s surroundings.
💡 Travel Tip:
Canberra has a strong café culture, especially in Braddon, where breakfast spots and relaxed restaurants line the streets. Kingston Foreshore is known for waterside dining, perfect for long lunches and sunset drinks. Local wineries just outside the city focus on cool-climate wines, making an easy afternoon trip for tastings and vineyard views. Craft breweries in areas like Fyshwick add a casual stop for beer lovers.
Braddon feels energetic and modern, packed with cafés, bakeries, and dinner spots.
Kingston Foreshore runs along the lake and suits travellers who enjoy evening walks and outdoor seating.
Civic forms the city’s central hub, with City Walk linking shops, restaurants, and public spaces in an easy stroll.
This beautiful capital of Australia is worth exploring – but do it with someone that has the knowledge…
In summary: Canberra suits travelers who enjoy space, scenery, and good food without crowds. Days unfold easily here, shaped by lake walks, long lunches, and seasonal events that give each visit a different feel. It’s a capital city that invites you to slow down, look around, and enjoy the journey.
