2025 Canberra Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Located in Canberra, Australia, Kings Park and the adjacent Queen Elizabeth II Island boast a majestic name. However, they offer a stark contrast by providing a tranquil retreat along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, making them a must-visit destination. Nestled in the picturesque area by Lake Burley Griffin, this spot combines waterfront views, bird habitats, and expansive green spaces. It’s the perfect place for travelers to unwind and experience the harmonious coexistence of urban life and nature. 📌 Attraction Information: 🕰️ Opening Hours: Open all day 🏖️ Environment/Facilities: Wooden boardwalk, viewing platforms, restrooms (located near the bell tower) 📍 Address: Kings Park, Wendouree Drive, Parkes ACT 2600, Canberra, Australia 💰 Cost: Free 🌳 Kings Park: The Green Lung of the City Kings Park is one of Canberra’s few parks that is close to the city yet offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Situated by the lake, it’s an ideal spot for family picnics, gatherings with friends, or a simple afternoon stroll. Many locals bring picnic mats, sports equipment, or even their dogs to enjoy leisure time here. Strolling along the lakeside trail, you can admire the reflection of blue skies and distant mountains on Lake Burley Griffin, resembling a natural watercolor painting. This trail also leads to Queen Elizabeth II Island, making it a popular route for walkers and cyclists. 🏝️ Queen Elizabeth II Island: Serene Waterfront Walkway From Kings Park, follow the wooden bridge, and you’ll soon arrive at Queen Elizabeth II Island. Formerly known as Aspen Island, it was renamed in 2021 to commemorate the Queen’s 70th anniversary of accession. The island’s most prominent landmark is the National Carillon, a 50-meter-tall musical bell tower with 57 bells. It plays enchanting melodies every Wednesday and weekend afternoon, with the sound gracefully echoing across the lake. The island features viewing platforms and pavilions, offering a clean and tranquil environment that’s perfect for capturing sunsets and lake views. If you’re lucky enough to visit when the bells are ringing, take a moment to sit quietly on a lakeside bench and immerse yourself in the serene blend of music and nature. 🎒 Practical Tips: • Weekends can be crowded; visiting early morning or late afternoon is recommended for a more comfortable experience. • The lakeside trail is quite long, so wear comfortable shoes. • There are no food or drink vendors in the park, so bring your own water and snacks.

Nestled among gentle hills and glistening lakes, Canberra is a city where grace meets tranquility—a capital that softly murmurs romance 🥰 at every turn. 🏛️ Explore National Icons (With 🆓 Entry) 1️⃣ Parliament House Take a free guided tour, watch live parliamentary debates (when in session), and enjoy views from the rooftop terrace. Tip: Visit early for fewer crowds. 2️⃣ Australian War Memorial A powerful tribute with free galleries and exhibitions. Don’t miss the Last Post Ceremony at 4:45 PM daily. 3️⃣ National Gallery of Australia (NGA) 🆓 general admission. Explore Australian, Aboriginal, and international art. Bonus: Don’t miss the Sculpture Garden by Lake Burley Griffin. 4️⃣ National Portrait Gallery 🆓 to enter and view portraits of notable Australians in politics, sport, and the arts. 5️⃣ Museum of Australian Democracy (Old Parliament House) Entry is 🆓 for kids 👧🏻 and by donation for adults. Learn about Australia’s political journey. 🛍️ Markets and Local Life 🛒 Old Bus Depot Markets (Sunday): Handmade crafts, food, and live music. 🧑🌾 Capital Region Farmers Market (Saturday): Fresh local produce and gourmet food. ☕️ Lonsdale Street, Braddon: Trendy cafes, boutiques, and street art. 🌳 Nature and Outdoor Activities 🌱 Australian National Botanic Gardens Entry is 🆓. Explore native flora, walking trails, and peaceful garden spaces. Great for photography and birdwatching. ☘️ National Arboretum Canberra 🆓 to enter and walk around. Enjoy 94 forests of rare trees, fantastic views, and free discovery trails. 🍃 Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve (🆓 entry on select days) Although normally ticketed, it often has 🆓 entry days on public holidays or weekends—worth checking online before you go. 🥨 Cafés & Brunch Spots 🍞 The Cupping Room (CBD) A local favourite for expertly roasted beans and a buzzing brunch atmosphere. Perfect for a flat white and seasonal granola bowl. ☕ Barrio Collective Coffee (Kingston) Renowned for its specialty coffee, healthy bowls, and vibrant community vibe. Coffee lovers often rate it among Canberra’s best. 🧡 I hope this travel guide becomes a trusted companion for uncovering Canberra’s many hidden treasures and sparks a deeper appreciation for this often-overlooked destination. May your journey begin with wonder in the heart of Australia’s capital 🦘🐨 #travel #couplestrip #staycation #thingstodo #familytravel #museums #citydaytours

#traveldiaries 🛩Travel Month: September 🛌 Accommodation: Novotel Canberra 💞Reasons to Recommend: Aside from being known as the home of various Australian government infrastructures, agencies and museums, Canberra is also famous for the biggest celebration of spring, where trails of tulips can be found throughout the city. Day 1️⃣ We decided to explore the Parliament House, Regatta Place, Cherry Trees Grove, and Australian War Memorial. Day 2️⃣ We followed the trail of tulips from the Canberra Times fountain towards Commonwealth Park to celebrate Floriade. It was fun! 📌Optional: Mount Ainslie Lookout #canberra #australia #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip #floriade

#traveldiaries 💞Reasons to Recommend: This is a perfect place to conduct massive conventions and events. I was here for a business conference and it accommodated thousands of people. It was spacious and very clean. The chairs are comfortable too! 🏖️Facilities: They have toilets in the upper and ground level, waiting areas and cafe. 📍Address: 31 Constitution Ave, Canberra ACT 2601 #familytrip #localguides #canberra #australia

#traveldiaries 💞Reasons to Recommend: It's a lovely cafe with unique and aesthetic interior design. The Egg's Benedict and Omellette are also delicious. We also love the hot drinks served. We will definitely come back here! 📍Address: 5/21 Genge St, Canberra ACT 2601 🕰️Business Hours: Monday to Friday from 6am until 330pm. #canberra #australia #localguides #familytrip #breakfast #thebeardedbean

#traveldiaries 💞Reasons to Recommend: Novotel Canberra is situated in the heart of the metropolitan city. Several shops and restaurants are just walking distance from this hotel. They also have indoor spa and heated pool, which is perfect for the cold weather. We also love their daily breakfast buffet. Plus, the staff are very accomodating and helpful. 📍Address:65 Northbourne Ave, Canberra ACT 2601 #familytrip #localguides #australia #canberra #novotel

#traveldiaries 💞Reasons to Recommend: These cherry trees were presented by the Japanese government during their visit in 1980. The Cherry Tree Grove caught our attention during our visit to Regatta Point. It's absolutely stunning and photoworthy! It made me feel I am in Japan once more. Hence, I suggest visiting Canberra during spring to see beautiful flowers and trees blooming throughout the city. #canberra #australia #historicallandmarks

#traveldiaries 💞Reasons to Recommend: Located in Novotel Canberra, First Edition Canberra Restaurant offers breakfast buffet with a variety of delicious meal options in which we love during our stay. Every penny spent is worth it! We also had dinner in here. Their steak is so good, although their only option for the side were mashed potato and vegetables. 📍Address: 65 Northbourne Ave, Canberra ACT 2600

#traveldiaries 💞Reasons to Recommend: It is a beautiful fountain centrepiece by an Australian architect, Robert Woodward, commissioned by the Federal Capital Press in 1976. It is located in front of the Canberra Centre and is close to Canberra Plaza Walkthrough. This was installed in 1979 as a gift to the people of Canberra. Hence, it is a landmark with historical significance. 📍Address: Canberra ACT 2601 #canberra #australia #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip

My solo trip :)) Canberra 3 day 2 night Canberra เป็นเมืองที่เงียบสงบใากๆ ตอนเดินบาวรรั้งก็ได้ยินเสียงนกบิน ได้ยินเสียงลมพัดผ่านต้นไม้ มีความสุขมากๆเหมือนได้อยู่กับธรรมชาติ people in Canberra it’s so nice . เป็นเมืองที่เหมาะแก่การพักผ่อนมากๆ ตอนเช้ารีบตื่นเช้าไปดูพระอาทิตย์ขึ้นด้วย มีความสุขมากๆเลย🥺 อยากกลับไปที่นั้นอีก เป็นเมืองที่เงียบสงบและไม่วุ่นวายเลย

March is the best time to visit Canberra if you want that Capadoccia experience. Every year, these hot air balloons take off as part of Canberra Day which falls on March 13. The balloons take off almost every morning for that week, depending on weather conditions. Head to Patrick white lawns for the take off spot, or hang around Lake Burley Griffin to see the colourful balloons in the sunrise sky. Address: Queen Elizabeth Terrace Parkes ACT 2601 #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #summervacation #celebratewithtrip #passionpassport

This restaurant is always fully booked - even on a weekday evening. It is because SoLita is Canberra’s only I restaurant accredited by Naples, Italy! So you know the food is going to be super authentic and delicious. We had the pesto and cheese pizza for only $12 AUD! The pasta that we ordered (Carbonara & Aglio Olio) were under $25 AUD each, and had huge portions! One plate is enough for 2 people. The atmosphere was really lively and cozy too 🩷 Address: 143 London Cct, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia #canberra #australia #foodie #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #summervacation #celebratewithtrip #passionpassport #2023travelwish

This brunch spot is one of the highest rated in Canberra, and is always bustling with crowds every time I go there. It’s called the Cupping Room, and it serves delicious brunch, lunch items as well as the famous ONA coffee. You can choose your choice of coffee beans curated by the ONA brand. We tried the Avocado Toast and French Toast! Both were under $25 AUD each. Portions were decent and taste was great. The ambience was clean, fresh and cozy! Address: 1/1-13 University Ave, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia #canberra #australia #celebratewithtrip #foodie #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #awesomepic #cafe #passionpassport #2023travelwish

This place is a one stop shop for all your fun and adrenaline needs! Power Kart Raceway is conveniently located in Canberra, and here you can go-kart, ice skate, play glow in the dark mini golf, as well as play other arcade games. It’s perfect for all ages, as they have kid-friendly cars for go-kart as well. Check out their website as they different promotions on each day! Address: 125 Canberra Ave, Griffith ACT 2603, Australia #wecreate #2023travelwish #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #couplestrip #canberra #australia

Within without is a major Skyspace by American artist James Turrell, one of his largest and most complex to date. Light is Turrell’s medium, and his Skyspace is a viewing chamber that affects the way we perceive the sky. Located at the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, Within without is located in the Gallery’s new Australian Garden on the south side of the building. 天空之城 - James Turrell 最具代表性的作品，耗时三年1000W打造，必须打卡！

#Ho-kang-seu #Canberra 🧳Address: 65 Northbourne Ave, Canberra ACT 2600 Australia 🧳Check-in: from 2:00 PM Check-out: until 11:00 AM The pool is large, so it's good for swimming, and there's a sauna, so I used it a lot. Breakfast was neither more nor less, just like a 4-star hotel. It was just okay to eat. 👍110,000 won per night including breakfast is cheap for the price of Australian food. Good~

#Ho-kang-seu #Canberra 🧳Address: 65 Northbourne Ave, Canberra ACT 2600 Australia 🧳Check-in: from 2:00 PM Check-out: until 11:00 AM The biggest advantage of Novotel in Canberra is its good location. If you take the Murray to Canberra, you can get off at the back of Novotel and travel between cities. You can also get on the intercity bus at the back of Novotel. As expected of a 4-star hotel, the rooms are not too small and have a TV, desk, air conditioning, and twin beds. There is a bathtub in the bathroom, and they provide plenty of towels. 👍Considering the cost of living in Australia, a 4-star hotel is cheap at 110,000 won per night. If you are looking for a hotel with a good location and good value for money in Canberra, I recommend Novotel~

#WinterTravel#Canberra 🧳Address: Parkes Pl W, Canberra ACT 2600 Australia 🧳Opening Hours: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu 8:30 AM - 8:00 PM Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Sat, Sun 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 🧳Admission: Free The National Library of Australia hosts various events such as performances and exhibitions. There is a large lawn next to the library, and a river runs next to it. 📍If you come to Canberra, it would be a good idea to visit the National Library of Australia at least once~

🇦🇺Australian war memorial🇦🇺 🪙Royal Australian mint.🪙 🍷🍸Eat & Drinks🍷🍸 🌥🌸Cockington Green Gardens🌸🌥 one day trip from Sydney to Canberra #canberra ##funs #joy Great food great brews. Go to place in Canberra for a special beer. I particularly enjoyed the Descent22 Imperial Stout. Rich vanilla flavour aged in foeder barrels with a hint of hops. At 10% it’s not a session ale but great for a winter’s night in Canberra. Very generous serve for a strong beer too! Combined with the tasty food menu it made for a great night out (spicy chicken wings). The atmosphere upstairs makes the place even better.

A wonderful trip during vacation. Enjoyed fabulous views and food with friends just like we used to do. #summervacation

Canberra is the capital of Australia, and as such the parliament is located here. You can visit Parliament House independently or on a tour. The building is recognizable from all over the city as it is located in the center of the city on Capitol Hill. On your visit to the parliament you can explore the huge building and its 4500 rooms. Highlights include the house of senate and the house of representatives as well as the main foyer and the great Wall with lots of art pieces all over the building. Parliament House is open every day except Christmas from 9 to 5 and admission is free of charge. Address: Parliament Drive, Canberra Australian Capital Territory 2600

The Australian War Memorial in Canberra is a must see when visiting the capital of Australia. It's so much more than a memorial as it also acts as a museum. The memorial commemorates the Australian involvement in war throughout history, from the colonial period to the first world War and more recent events. You can find lots of items on display such as old uniforms, medals and even fighter jets and tanks. Admission is free, but you do need to book in advance as there are a limited number of tickets available for each time slot. Address: Treloar Crescent, CAMPBELL Australian Capital Territory 2612

Getting There - drove our own car but uber from the city is only $10-$15 Attractions - where most of the ministers stay Hotels - Forrest Hotel & Apartments Food & Restaurants - local shops coles, restaurants only 5 minute walk away can ride scooters Shopping - 5 minute walk

The Aboriginal Tent Embassy is a permanent protest occupation site as a focus for representing the political rights of Aboriginal Australians. First established in 1972 as a protest against the McMahon government’s approach to Indigenous Australian land rights, it is made up of signs and tents. Since 1992 it has been located on the lawn opposite Old Parliament House in Canberra, the Australian capital. It is not considered an official embassy by the Australian Government. The targets of protests at the Embassy have changed over time, and as of 2021 include not only land rights but also Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination. #historicculture

Australian War Memorial merupakan salah satu museum populer di kalangan turis di Canberra. Museum ini dibangun oleh pemerintah Australia untuk menghormati dan mengenang jasa pahlawan yang telah gugur. Di dalam museum, digambarkan perjuangan pahlawan Australia ketika melaksanakan misi perang bahkan menangani konflik di luar negeri. Pada bagian tengah gedung juga terdapat api abadi yang menggambarkan simbol semangat dan jasa para pahlawan. Berbagai fasilitas untuk kenyamanan pengunjung pun tersedia disini, seperti toilet yang super bersih, kafe dan toko suvenir. Untuk jam bukanya mulai dari pukul 10.00-17.00 waktu setempat dan masuknya tidak dipungut biaya alias gratis. Jika kalian berkunjung ke ibukota Australia jangan lupa mampir ke museum ini ya. Tempatnya cukup recomended apalagi untuk kalian yang senang dengan wisata sejarah. #museumquest

#tripaway #tripaway

Canberra, the capital of Australia. What to do and see. Canberra is the "ideal city", created to be perfectly human-sized. Very few cities in the course of human history have been built for a specific purpose. In 1908 the Australian government decided to build a capital for its state. * National Museum of Australia A museum, among the most important in the state, to understand the origins of these lands and beyond. Here is where to admire one of the priceless works: Blue Poles: Number 11, 1952, a dripping painting by the American artist Jackson Pollock; and then Monet, Andy Warhol and much more including a suggestive memorial dedicated to the first inhabitants of these lands. The complex is divided into 4 large exhibition areas: Aboriginal, European, Asian and international art. * Hot air balloon ride over the city * A bike ride with kangaroos You don't need to drive a lot to find yourself completely immersed in the most incredible nature and identify with one of those films that we have all seen on Australia. I warn you that this is where I felt my eyes become shiny with the beauty I was witnessing. In the company of Canberra Urban Adventures we went into the hinterland. * The Memorial, the Parliament and the view from above #australia #canberra #awesomepic #unforgettableexperiences

kangaroo watching