Canberra City

Overview

Canberra might be Australia’s capital, but it’s far from just politics and parliament. It’s a modern city surrounded by nature, packed with national treasures, brilliant food and wine, and a creative, laid-back energy that often surprises first-time visitors. Whether you’re here to dive into the country’s history, see famous artworks up close, or explore lakeside trails and mountain views, Canberra is full of quiet charm and big surprises.

Explore Canberra Your Way

At The Road Trip Oz, we make exploring Canberra and the ACT effortless. Whether you’re flying in, road-tripping from Sydney, or stopping as part of a longer journey through southern Australia, we’ll tailor your visit to fit your style.

• Self-drive tours – Cruise at your own pace with a personalised itinerary, including scenic drives, hidden gems, and expert tips for every stop.
• Private guided tours – Get more from your visit with a local guide who’ll bring history, culture, and Canberra’s best-kept secrets to life.
• Small group tours – A relaxed and social way to explore, with every detail sorted for you.

We take care of the planning — you get to enjoy the journey.

Seasonal Highlights in Canberra

Each season in the nation’s capital has something different to offer, from snowy peaks nearby in winter to a riot of colour in spring.

Summer (Dec–Feb): Warm days & lakeside living

• Kayak or paddleboard on Lake Burley Griffin
• Visit cool indoor museums and galleries
• Relax in the shade of the National Arboretum

Autumn (Mar–May): Crisp air & colourful leaves

• Stroll through red and gold foliage in Commonwealth Park
• Time your visit with the famous Enlighten Festival
• Sip local wines by the fireplace in nearby Murrumbateman

Winter (Jun–Aug): Cool temps & cosy culture

• Visit exhibitions and museums without the crowds
• Enjoy warming meals and hot drinks in local cafés
• Take a day trip to the snowfields in the nearby Brindabellas

Spring (Sep–Nov): Flowers, festivals & perfect weather

• Don’t miss Floriade — Australia’s biggest flower festival
• Walk or cycle the lakeside paths under blue skies
• Spot kangaroos grazing on the city’s outskirts

Best Things to See & Do in Canberra

Top Attractions

• Australian War Memorial – A powerful tribute to Australia’s military history
• Parliament House – Join a free guided tour or watch Question Time in action
• National Gallery of Australia – Home to works by Monet, Jackson Pollock, and iconic Indigenous artists
• Lake Burley Griffin – A scenic hub for walking, biking and watersports
• National Museum of Australia – Quirky, interactive exhibits that make Aussie history come alive
• Mount Ainslie Lookout – The best panoramic view over the city and Parliament House
• National Arboretum – 250+ gardens and forests, with incredible views and walking trails
• Questacon – Science meets fun at this hands-on museum for kids (and curious adults)
• Floriade Festival (Spring only) – A huge, colourful celebration of spring blooms
• Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve – Spot emus, koalas and kangaroos just outside the city

Photo Hotspots

• Mount Ainslie Lookout – Classic shot of Canberra’s city axis
• Lake Burley Griffin at sunset – Reflections, fountains and wide-open skies
• Floriade Festival – Rows of tulips and vibrant floral displays
• Parliament House roof – A unique perspective of this architectural icon
• National Arboretum – Sweeping views with bonsai and botanical beauty

Hidden Gems

• Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve (back trails) – Skip the main summit route and take the quieter tracks through bushland
• Australian National Botanic Gardens Rainforest Gully – A hidden corner of the gardens with misted walkways and native ferns
• The Cupping Room – A tucked-away café by the team behind ONA Coffee, beloved by locals but often missed by visitors
• Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve – Spot emus, koalas and platypus just 40 minutes from the city
• Canberra Glassworks – Watch local glassblowers in action or take a short hands-on workshop

Where to Stay in Canberra

Mid-Range Comfort

• East Hotel – Spacious, apartment-style rooms in the heart of Kingston, close to restaurants and the lake

• Avenue Hotel Canberra – Modern and central, with easy access to Braddon’s cafés and the city centre

• Abode Woden – A solid base in Canberra’s south, great for day trips to the Tidbinbilla region

Luxury Stays

• Ovolo Nishi – Stylish and eco-conscious, with a boutique feel and bold design in NewActon

• Hyatt Hotel Canberra – A classic five-star hotel with art deco charm and lush gardens

• Jamala Wildlife Lodge – One of the most unique stays in the country — sleep next to lions, cheetahs or giraffes at the National Zoo & Aquarium

Choosing the Right Rental Car for Your Canberra Trip

Whether you’re staying in the city or venturing into the countryside, we’ll help you pick the right car for comfort and convenience.

• Compact cars – Great for city stays and quick getaways
• SUVs – Perfect for families or trips to the nearby mountains
• Vans – Ideal for larger groups or anyone needing extra space
• Electric vehicles – Canberra has great charging infrastructure for a greener journey

If you’re planning to explore wine regions or head to the snow, we’ll match you with the best fit.

Add Canberra to a Bigger Aussie Road Trip

Canberra fits beautifully into a southern Australia itinerary. Combine it with:

• Sydney – Just three hours away, with stunning coastal stops along the way
• Snowy Mountains – An easy side trip in winter for skiing and snowplay
• Murrumbateman wine region – Just 30 minutes away, with boutique cellar doors and beautiful country roads

Whether it’s a quick weekend or a full southern loop, we’ll help you connect the dots.

Why Travel with The Road Trip Oz

Canberra is packed with stories — and we’ll help you discover the ones that matter. Whether you want to focus on food, history, or just get the lay of the land, we’ll make sure your trip is effortless and unforgettable.

• Private guided tours – Sit back, relax, and let an expert show you the best of the capital
• Self-drive tours – Explore at your own pace with a fully planned itinerary
• Small group tours – A fun, social way to see all the highlights without the hassle of planning

We know where to go, when to go — and how to make your Canberra visit count.

Book Your Canberra Escape

Ready to explore Australia’s capital with less stress and more wow? Whether it’s your first visit or you’re finally seeing it properly, we’ll make sure it’s one for the books.

Contact The Road Trip Oz today and we’ll start planning your personalised Canberra adventure.