Don’t miss out on a different kind of capital
Updated 7 Jan 2026
Looking to plan your next Australian adventure? Look no further than the capital city, Canberra.
With its stunning natural beauty, iconic national attractions, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, Canberra is the perfect city for an unforgettable Australian adventure.
As the nation's capital city, Canberra is home to many of Australia's must-see attractions including Australian Parliament House, Australian War Memorial, National Museum of Australia, and National Zoo & Aquarium, all while being surrounded by green urban spaces.
Being a small city, Canberra offers a chance to escape the busyness of big cities with plenty of space to breathe and explore. Whether you're interested in discovering the Australian story at iconic attractions, or immersing yourself in its natural wonders, this city has something for everyone. From family-friendly activities to wildlife encounters and exceptional dining experiences, this city promises to impress and inspire.
How to get to Canberra
Canberra is Australia's largest inland city and is just a short drive or flight away from major cities including Sydney and Melbourne.
Fly to Sydney (SYD) or Melbourne (MEL) and onto Canberra with several domestic direct flight options available from these major cities daily. Enjoy a relaxing journey with seat-in-coach options from Sydney to Canberra, offering comfortable seating, scenic views along the way, and a hassle-free travel experience.
Make the journey part of the adventure and take a scenic drive from Sydney, stopping at the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame in Bowral to learn about one of Australia's most beloved sports legends.
SYD to CBR - 1 hour flight, 3 hours' drive.
MEL to CBR - 1 hour flight, 7 hours' drive.
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 hire is a popular option which can be rented directly from the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre.
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 also explore the surrounding region of national parks and country towns as well as the city itself.
What to see and do
Nature walks and wildlife spotting
Nestled between mountains and surrounded by bushland, Canberra is a nature lover's paradise, offering walking trails, breathtaking views, and the opportunity to see Australian animals up close.
Join the Kangaroos and Koalas Tour with Canberra Guided Tours and discover Australia’s iconic animals up close. Led by expert guides, you’ll have the chance to spot kangaroos grazing in the wild and koalas resting in their natural habitat, along with other native Australian species like wallabies, platypus, vibrant parrots, and emus.
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 International Flag Display, as well as several waterfront dining options.
Just five minutes from the city centre you can be transported to another world at the Australian National Botanic Gardens. Join a passionate and knowledgeable tour guide as you travel on the magical flora bus and take in over 4,500 species on display in Canberra's bushland setting.
Premium experiences
Canberra offers unforgettable experiences within its most iconic attractions allowing visitors to discover, connect, and understand what it means to be Australian.
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 on the Signature Experience Tour.
At the Australian War Memorial, experience a private exploration of the memorial’s collection told through the powerful stories of courage, devotion, and mateship. Stay for the Last Post Ceremony which takes place daily.
Soar above the city in a hot air balloon to see these iconic attractions and Canberra’s stunning natural beauty from above.
Amazing views you can drive to
Canberra boasts a plethora of stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal city to appreciate the beauty of Australian bushland. As a result, the city is dotted with numerous picturesque lookouts that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery and the perfect photo opportunity.
From the top of Mount Ainslie, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the city's skyline and the surrounding mountain ranges, while a drive up Red Hill offers stunning views of the city's picturesque suburbs and rolling hills. A visit to the National Arboretum Canberra is a must for nature lovers, where you can explore stunning gardens and forests while taking in panoramic views of the city below.
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.
Canberra hosts one of Australia's best playgrounds, Pod Playground. The playground is situated in the National Arboretum Canberra, 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.
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.
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 and local gems such as Blu Ginger, as well as the ever popular Rama's Fiji Indian Restaurant.
For a taste of Australia's mouth-watering burgers, head over to Brodburger in Kingston, where you'll try some of the best burgers in the country. Next door you will find the largest dedicated glass-making facility in the southern hemisphere, Canberra Glassworks.
With stunning views of Lake Burley Griffin, Snapper and Co. offers fresh fish and chips with a relaxed family atmosphere.
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. This incredible and immersive experience also treats guests to two exclusive zoo tours that encounter some of the zoo’s rarest, largest and most dangerous inhabitants.
Located just minutes from the airport, Beltana Farm beckons with its expansive trufferie boasting over 800 trees. Immerse yourself in the seamless blend of nature's beauty and luxurious comfort as you choose from a range of charming and unique accommodations. The on-site restaurant caters to both truffle enthusiasts and non-truffle lovers with a menu designed to delight every palate.
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.
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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