Things to do in Canberra

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All about Canberra

When to visit

Following chilly and windy winters, spring brings welcome relief to Canberrans and large crowds of tourists due to one of the city’s largest festivals, Floriade—a month-long flower festival with vivid floral displays and illuminations. Despite its hot and dry weather, summer also draws in plenty of visitors with festivals, from the family-friendly fireworks of Skyfire to the rubber-burning mayhem of the Summernats car festival.

Getting around

Driving remains the easiest way to get around Canberra when sightseeing due to the city’s layout and limited local public transport timetables. Canberra’s bus network operates across the city, with its central station at the City Interchange on Alinga Street in Civic. A new light rail system also connects the Canberra city center with the showgrounds in the northern suburbs. Some areas of attractions are easily walkable, though, such as in Parkes and Kingston.

Traveler tips

If you’re after cocktails and a novel Canberra drinking experience, add the speakeasy Molly to your evening plans. To get there, follow the GPS coordinates 35°16’44.5″S+149°07’42.0″E, and don’t be discouraged if you find yourself in an unexciting back alley. Help your recovery the next day with a Canberra staple, Brodburger in Kingston, to see if you think their burgers are worth the hype—and the lines. (You can order ahead online.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I spend a day in Canberra?

Begin a day in Canberra with a visit to the Australian War Memorial and its world-class museum before getting a coffee at one of the cafes on Lonsdale Street in Braddon. Then cross Lake Burley Griffin to see Parliament House and the art inside the National Gallery of Australia before having a drink by the waterfront in Kingston.

Is it worth visiting Canberra?

Yes, Canberra is worth visiting if you’re curious about the Australian capital and enjoy museums, art, culture, and panoramic viewpoints. Despite Canberra’s stuffy reputation, the city is an excellent destination for food and nightlife and also a great choice for outdoor lovers with plenty of mountain trails to hike on.

How do I spend a weekend in Canberra?

For an entertaining weekend in Canberra, spend your Saturday exploring the War Memorial, relaxing at a cafe in Braddon, and admiring the view from Mount Ainslie. First thing Sunday, head to the Old Bus Depot Markets for food and shopping, followed by sightseeing around Parliament House and drinks at the Kingston Foreshore.

What is Canberra famous for?

Canberra is best known as the capital city of Australia and home to the country’s government and politics. The city’s most famous attractions are its national museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions, such as the Royal Australian Mint and the National Arboretum Canberra.

Does Canberra have good nightlife?

Canberra has a healthy nightlife scene, thanks to the city’s large population of both students and young professionals. Civic in the city center is the central hub of nightlife activity, with smaller hubs in the suburbs of Acton (near the Australian National University), Kingston, and Braddon.

Why do tourists visit Canberra?

Tourists visit Canberra for many reasons, but typically it is to see the city’s iconic landmarks, such as Parliament House, and to visit many of the city’s fine museums, including Questacon and the National Museum of Australia. People also often travel to Canberra for festivals like the Canberra Balloon Spectacular and Floriade.

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