Best things to do in Canberra
Find out more about those top places in Canberra
Canberra Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Things to Do, and Places to Visit in Australia’s Capital City
Often overshadowed by its larger, more famous neighbors Sydney and Melbourne, Canberra is a hidden gem that shouldn’t be overlooked. Australia’s capital city may not be as bustling or iconic as Sydney’s Harbour or Melbourne’s laneways, but it offers a unique charm that makes it one of the most intriguing places to visit in the country. Despite some skepticism from travelers who may not initially consider it a top destination, Canberra is full of surprises and exciting experiences that make it a must-see on any Australian itinerary.
As the largest inland city in Australia, Canberra was chosen as the nation's capital after several disputes between Sydney and Melbourne in the early 20th century. Today, it serves as the heart of Australia’s political and cultural landscape, home to many important government buildings, including the iconic Parliament House. But beyond politics, there are plenty of things to do in Canberra that will captivate history buffs, art lovers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
For sightseeing in the capital, start with a visit to Parliament House, a striking modern building where you can take guided tours and learn about Australia’s political history. Nearby, the Australian War Memorial is a solemn and deeply moving tribute to the country's military history, featuring exhibits, galleries, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The surrounding ANZAC Parade offers a stunning view of the city, making it one of the top attractions in Canberra.
If you're looking for cultural experiences, Canberra has no shortage of world-class museums and galleries. The National Gallery of Australia is home to an impressive collection of Australian and international art, while the National Museum of Australia explores the country's history from Indigenous cultures to modern times. For those with a love of science and technology, the Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre is an interactive museum that will entertain and educate visitors of all ages.
Nature lovers won’t be disappointed either. With its vast parks, lakes, and nature reserves, Canberra is an excellent place for outdoor activities. Take a relaxing walk or a paddle boat ride on Lake Burley Griffin, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of the city. If you’re up for some hiking, the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve just outside the city is home to native wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and koalas, offering a perfect escape into nature.
In addition to its cultural and historical attractions, Canberra is also known for its vibrant food scene. The Braddon and Kingston Foreshore areas are filled with trendy cafes, gourmet restaurants, and local markets where you can sample fresh produce and innovative dishes. Canberra’s dining culture has blossomed in recent years, making it a foodie destination worth exploring.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, Canberra has something to offer every kind of traveler. This travel guide to Canberra will help you discover the city’s rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable addition to your Australian adventure.
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War Memorial
There are quite many museums in Canberra, with all telling an important part of Australia’s history. One of such is the Australia’s War Memorial. Situated in Treloar Cres, it was built to commemorate members of the country’s armed forces who died or participated in wars involving the commonwealth of Australia. Opened in 1941, it is the best place to get the full details of most of Australia wars – it is divided into 3 parts; the Hall of Memory with the tomb of the unknown soldier, Research Center and the Commemorative Area (Shrine).
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Parliament House
Regarded as Canberra's most important structure, the Parliament House was opened on 9 May 1988 by Elizabeth II Queen of Australia, it was designed by Romaldo Giurgola and has fast become a symbol of Australia. Sitting atop Capital Hill, it contains 4,700 rooms including a marble staircase that leads to the Great Wall which is known for its lovely tapestry. Visitors are allowed to explore most of the rooms, and although tickets might be needed to access some areas they are also free but must be booked online.
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National Zoo and Aquarium
Located at the end of the lake Burley Griffin in Yarralumia is the two in one special for lovers of wildlife. The National Zoo and Aquarium set up by Geoff Da Deppo covers an area of 19 hectares making it one of the biggest in the country. Privately owned the zoo relies on support from volunteers and ticket sell to stay functional - its main attractions include its large collection of big cats, penguins and endemic plants. For visitors there are several interactive tours to make the visit a memorable one.
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Black Mountain
If you love nature and don’t mind a little hiking, then Black Mountain is a place for you. Rising to 812 meters, it offers the best flora and fauna attractions, with over 500 species of plants, 5,000 species of insects and 100 species of birds. The hike to summit usually begins at the end of the Frith substation behind the CSIRO, Acton and may take about two hours - on your way watch out for the iconic Black Mountain Tower.
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Lake Burley Griffin
The Lake Burley Griffin is now firmly a part of Canberra, which makes it so hard to remember that it is an artificial lake. Named after renowned architect Walter Burley Griffin, the lake was formed after the Molonglo river was dammed – it is located at the approximate geographic center of the city. There are several cruises available to take visitors round the lake while they get to see most of its surrounding major attractions.
