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Don’t miss out on a different kind of capital

Discover the unparalleled beauty and cultural richness of Canberra

With its breathtaking natural landscapes, vibrant cultural offerings, and premium experiences, Canberra is a must-visit city for visitors seeking a memorable experience.

Each season in Canberra unfolds with its own unique experiences and exciting events. During winter, indulge in the thrill of truffle hunts and partake in festive gatherings dedicated to this prized delicacy. As spring arrives, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of more than a million vibrant blooms on display at Floriade. The summer season entices visitors to wander through the cool mist of the Australian National Botanic Gardens. And as autumn sets in, the city comes alive with a beautiful array of colours showcased by the renowned Enlighten Festival, featuring the beloved Canberra Balloon Spectacular.

Our small sustainable city, Canberra, offers abundant space to breathe, unwind, and explore. Whether you're in search of iconic landmarks or eager to venture into its awe-inspiring natural wonders, Canberra has something for you. 

Don't miss out on these must-do experiences in Canberra

Join Juin Teh from #JustSwipeLah as she follows the production crew of the highly anticipated drama series, SHERO, on their journey through Canberra. Get a glimpse behind the scenes while discovering the best places to eat, shop, and explore in the city.

A map illustrating the location of Canberra between Melbourne and Sydney.

How to get to Canberra

Canberra is Australia's largest inland city and is just a short drive or flight away from major international ports in Sydney and Melbourne.

Fly to Sydney (SYD) or Melbourne (MEL) with Singapore Airlines and onto Canberra with several domestic direct flights available from these major cities daily.

If you prefer a scenic road trip, you can drive from Sydney or Melbourne to Canberra. Along the way, you have the opportunity to make interesting stops in the picturesque Snowy Mountains or explore the beautiful South Coast. 

SYD to CBR - 1-hour flight, 3 hours drive.

MEL to CBR - 1-hour flight, 7 hours drive.

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Getting around Canberra 

Canberra is a modern and well-planned city with a range of efficient and convenient transportation options. 

Getting around is easy, whether you choose to rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation such as the bus or light rail. If you're feeling adventurous, bike and e-scooter hire from the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre are popular options.

Canberra is known for being a driveable city with the majority of its attractions and destinations reachable by car within just a 15-minute drive. Having access to your own vehicle allows you to explore the surrounding region of national parks and country towns as well as the city.

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What to see and do

A drone shot of National Arboretum Canberra.
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Relaxing nature walks and wildlife spotting

Nestled between mountains and surrounded by bushland, Canberra is a nature lover's paradise, offering hiking trails, breathtaking views, and the opportunity to see Australia's unique flora and fauna up close. 

Be guided on Australian flora and fauna by the experts on the Best of Wildlife Tour by Canberra Guided Tours. You'll be led by a friendly guide who can help you to spot a variety of native wildlife such as kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, platypi, colourful parrots and emus.

The National Arboretum Canberra is an award-winning attraction with good reason. While children play amongst giant acorn cubbies and music-making instruments, adults will appreciate the sweeping views of the city and the Bonsai Collection, which hosts a world-class display of some of the finest miniature trees and forests in the world.

One of Canberra's most leisurely walks, known as the Bridge to Bridge loop, is the perfect way to take in the inner city and visit major attractions dotted along the way including the National Gallery of Australia, International Flag Display, and National Library of Australia, as well as several waterfront dining options. Other popular walks include Canberra Nara Peace Park in Lennox Gardens which boasts stunning cherry blossoms in spring and the National Gallery of Australia's Sculpture Garden.

For a unique way to explore the picturesque waterways of Canberra, don't miss the opportunity to hop aboard a GoBoat. These electric boats utilise recycled materials and offer visitors a delightful and eco-friendly experience.

Top outdoor adventures

Man sniffing a truffle
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Exceptional dining

Canberra is known for its showcase of diverse cuisines, fine dining restaurants, wineries, and unique culinary experiences, including wine-tasting tours and, food festivals.

The city hosts an array of award-winning restaurants such as an exceptional vegetarian restaurant, Monster Kitchen and Bar at Ovolo Nishi hotel, Akiba which has one of the largest sake collections in Australia, as well as casual eatery Yat Bun Tong Dumpling House located on the buzzing Lonsdale Street in Braddon.

Walter Cafe boasts views of glistening Lake Burley Griffin with ingredients meticulously sourced from Australian producers while The Marion next door offers delightful high tea. On the other side of the lake you will find Snapper and Co. serving fresh fish and chips with a relaxed family atmosphere.

Unique foodie experiences

Exterior shot of the Australian Parliament House building
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Premium experiences

Canberra offers visitors unforgettable luxury experiences in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. One of the most premium experiences is hot air ballooning, where you can soar above the city and enjoy breathtaking views of natural landscapes and iconic landmarks. 

On the signature experience tour at Australian Parliament House, discover exclusive behind-the-scenes access to rarely seen private, official and ceremonial spaces, along with a traditional high tea with a contemporary twist. 

Take advantage of the fact Canberra is one of the rare capital cities in the world to boast its own truffle farms and embark on a truffle hunt and degustation experience at Beltana Farm or The Truffle Farm.

Mount Stromlo Observatory offers world-class private site tours and stargazing sessions led by professional or experienced amateur astronomers and includes after-hours access to the observatory, use of Mount Stromlo’s outreach telescopes, and a guided experience in viewing some of the most interesting features of the Southern Hemisphere sky.

mum and daughter talking to ceramic seller
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Shopping

Canberra's local markets offer a vibrant and diverse shopping experience that is not to be missed.

Every Saturday, The Little Burley Market by the lake showcases a mix of handmade crafts, and delectable street food and is the perfect location to explore the nearby attractions. 

On Sundays, the Old Bus Depot Markets offer a unique experience with a wide range of arts, crafts, and delicious food while the Haig Park Village Markets provide a bustling hub of local vendors atop the many shops and eateries in Braddon. 

The Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets is a paradise for food lovers, featuring fresh produce, gourmet treats, and specialty ingredients. Additionally, the city boasts several farmers' markets, allowing visitors to indulge in locally grown produce and artisanal products.

Shopping and markets

A small child is on a toboggan in the snow.
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Family activities

You will be delighted to discover that there are endless activities perfect for the whole family to enjoy. 

Children will feel like giants as they explore hand-built miniature at Cockington Green Gardens in Gold Creek Village. The Canberra Reptile Zoo, National Dinosaur Museum, and  Canberra Walk-in Aviary are all within walking distance. 

Education is at the heart of fun and play in Canberra. Step into a world of fascinating exhibits, hands-on experiments, and mind-bending demonstrations that bring science to life at Questacon. Children will also love the immersive and educational attractions such as the Royal Australian Mint and the Discovery Centre at the National Museum of Australia

Families visiting Canberra during winter can play in the snow at Corin Forest, located just a 45-minute drive away from the city centre. In addition to the snowy wonderland, the 1.2km Alpine Slide is also a popular attraction that can be enjoyed all year round, providing a  fun way to explore the surrounding Mountain Ash forest.

Family activities

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Unique accommodation

With a range of luxury accommodations, including award-winning boutique hotels and spas, immerse yourself in comfort and style while enjoying breathtaking views of the city's natural surroundings.

Canberra is home to five-star rated Jamala Wildlife Lodge at the National Zoo and Aquarium, where you can spend the night only meters away from lions, bears, cheetahs or tigers in the jungle bungalows, or relax on the balcony of the giraffe tree house as you marvel at the size and beauty of your new giant friend. 

Or take to nature with a stay in Cubby and Co's tiny house. You'll have breathtaking views of the vines at Mount Majura Vineyard without compromising the comforts of home.

If you're looking for accommodation  in the heart of the city at one of Australia's most sustainable buildings, Ovolo Nishi is a good option, where every angle of this captivating building provides the perfect photo opportunity. 

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What's next?

Book your trip

Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience all that Canberra has to offer.

Book your trip to Canberra today with your travel agent and discover why it is a must-visit destination in Australia. You'll leave with memories that will last a lifetime.

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Flights to Australia with Singapore Airlines

Search flights to Australia with Singapore Airlines and take a road trip to Canberra.

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Packages with Chan Brothers Travel Singapore 

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