Three Day Itinerary

Day 1 

Morning  

Wake up to the still waters of Lake Burley Griffin and start your day with the ‘Bridge-to-Bridge’ loop walk, where Parliament House peaks through in the distance and outdoor sculptures dot the shoreline. Pause for breakfast at Walter Café, then pop next door to the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre for insider tips—or grab a coffee at Margot, a chic lakeside spot. 

Afternoon 

As the day warms, venture out to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Here, kangaroos graze in open fields, and koalas nap in eucalyptus trees. It’s a slice of wilderness just 40 minutes south from the city. Hike the trails or take it easy with relaxed animal spotting—the choice is yours. For something truly unique, check into Jamala Wildlife Lodge, combining luxury and adventure—you might dine next to a lion or wake up to a giraffe outside your window. 

Night

When evening falls, watch the city glow from Mount Ainslie Lookout before settling in for dinner at The Boat House, an iconic lakeside restaurant. Signature dishes like prawn butter barramundi and local produce pair beautifully with Canberra District wines. 

Day 2

Early Morning  

Rise before dawn for a hot air balloon ride over Canberra with Balloon Aloft. Float above the city for a bucket-list experience that offers breathtaking views of Lake Burley Griffin and the surrounding hills. 

Morning  

Canberra’s cultural heart beats strong, and today is all about exploring it. Begin at the National Gallery of Australia, home to an extraordinary collection of Australian and international art that invites quiet contemplation. Afterward, linger over brunch at the gallery café or Bookplate Café at the National Library. 

Afternoon 

Spend the afternoon uncovering stories of courage and identity at the Australian War Memorial. Time your visit for the Last Post Ceremony at 4:30pm every day for a moving tribute that resonates long after you leave. Alternatively, the National Museum of Australia offers interactive exhibits that bring the nation’s history to life in vivid detail.

Night

As night falls, the city’s dining scene beckons. Begin at Verity Lane Market, a bustling food hall housed in the historic Sydney Building. For a more intimate experience, book a table at Such and Such, serving inventive Modern Australian cuisine with flair. After dinner, be treated to a live performance at the Canberra Theatre Centre or The Street Theatre—because in Canberra, the arts don’t sleep when the sun goes down. 

Day 3

Morning  

For your final day, a leisurely morning stroll through Braddon’s Lonsdale Street will offer many brunch spots like EightyTwenty, B-Side and Barrio. Afterward, explore the eclectic mix of artisan boutiques that make this precinct a haven for style and creativity.

Afternoon 

Venture just 30 minutes out of the city centre and into the Canberra Wine District. Begin at Clonakilla known for its iconic Shiraz Viognier, then continue to Four Winds Vineyard for wood-fired pizza paired with award-winning wines. Shaw Wines and Nick O’Leary’s cellar door, Heywood, offer more opportunities to sip and savour. 

On your way back, linger at Poachers Pantry, where a kitchen garden-inspired menu and cool-climate wines are served against a backdrop of rolling hills. Closer to town, Mount Majura Vineyard awaits, with The Truffle Farm just next door for a seasonal treat. 

Or, for pure relaxation, retreat to Jindii EcoSpa in the Australian National Botanic Gardens, where nature-inspired treatments melt away the last traces of stress. 

Night

Return to the city for a memorable finale. Right in the city centre, Raku offers contemporary Japanese dining with precision and flair—a fitting end to a Canberra escape that’s all about discovery.