Canberra Travel Guide
Contents
- Canberra — A Planned Capital in the Landscape
- Canberra and Its Antipode
- The City
- Top Things to Do in Canberra
- Do and See
- Dining in Canberra
- Cafés in Canberra
- Bars & Nightlife
- Shopping
- Tourist Information
Canberra — A Planned Capital in the Landscape
Canberra is one of the world’s few purpose-built capital cities, designed deliberately as a “city in a landscape.” Set between rolling hills and native bushland, it combines monumental civic architecture with open space, water, and strong visual order.
Following Australian Federation in 1901, Canberra was chosen as a compromise capital between Sydney and Melbourne. The city’s layout was designed by architect Walter Burley Griffin, whose plan emphasised geometry, symmetry, and integration with the surrounding environment. Wide boulevards, axial sightlines, and generous parklands continue to define the city today.
Canberra and Its Antipode
Every place on Earth has an antipode — the point directly opposite it on the globe, connected by a straight line passing through the Earth’s core.
Canberra’s antipode lies in the North Atlantic Ocean, far from any major landmass. Like most cities in southern Australia, Canberra forms a land-to-ocean antipode, reinforcing its geographic position as a city shaped by distance, planning, and inward national focus rather than global density.
This contrast mirrors Canberra’s character: structured, reflective, and defined more by ideas and institutions than by scale.
The City
With a population approaching half a million, Canberra functions as Australia’s political and administrative centre, while also serving as a major university and research hub. Many national institutions are located close to Lake Burley Griffin, the city’s central organising feature.
Canberra is often referred to as “the bush capital,” with more than half of the Australian Capital Territory designated as national park. The city experiences four distinct seasons, offering different perspectives throughout the year — from spring blooms to autumn colours.
Top Things to Do in Canberra
New Parliament House
The seat of Australia’s federal government, completed in 1988, featuring contemporary architecture, public galleries, and landscaped roof gardens.
Old Parliament House
Now a museum, this former seat of government offers insight into Australia’s political history, with preserved chambers and rose gardens.
Australian War Memorial
A national shrine and museum commemorating Australians who served in military conflicts, set along a formal axis with Mount Ainslie.
National Gallery of Australia
Home to a comprehensive collection of Australian art, including one of the world’s most significant collections of Aboriginal art.
National Museum of Australia
Situated on Acton Peninsula, this museum explores the people, events, and ideas that shaped Australia.
National Library of Australia
A landmark institution inspired by classical architecture, housing Australia’s published heritage.
Questacon
An interactive science and technology centre with hands-on exhibits for all ages.
Lake Burley Griffin
An artificial lake at the heart of the city, popular for walking, cycling, kayaking, rowing, and scenic cruises.
Mount Ainslie Lookout
One of the best viewpoints in Canberra, offering a clear view along the city’s central axis.
Floriade
Australia’s largest spring flower festival, held annually in Commonwealth Park.
National Zoo & Aquarium
A wildlife park located near the city centre, featuring native and international animals.
Wee Jasper Caves
A limestone cave system offering guided caving experiences outside the city.
Hot Air Ballooning
A sunrise balloon flight over Canberra provides a unique perspective of the city’s design and landscape.
Royal Canberra Golf Club
A highly regarded inland golf course set among native trees and parkland.
Do and See
Walking Trails & National Parks
A network of well-maintained trails runs through surrounding bushland, forests, and nature reserves.
Local Wineries
The Canberra region supports a cool-climate wine industry, with cellar doors and tastings within easy reach.
Snowy Mountains
Seasonal access to alpine regions and ski fields lies a few hours south of Canberra.
Dining in Canberra
Canberra’s dining scene reflects its cosmopolitan population, with strong representation from Asian, European, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Many restaurants are located in the city centre, Manuka, Kingston, and Dickson.
- Water’s Edge
- Courgette
- Chairman & Yip
- Mezzalira
- Thai Cornar
- Ethiopia Down Under
- Morks
- Ottoman Cuisine
- Indian Affair Restaurant
- Rubicon
- Aubergine
- Eightysix
Cafés in Canberra
Canberra has a strong café culture, with quality coffee and brunch venues spread throughout the city and inner suburbs.
- My Cafe Manuka
- Bookplate
- Koko Black
- Silo Bakery
- Močan & Green Grout
- The Cupping Room
- Penny University Cafe
- Stand By Me
- Sweet Bones
- Patissez
Bars & Nightlife
While often perceived as quiet, Canberra has an active nightlife scene driven by its large student population and growing bar culture.
- Casino Canberra
- Joe’s Bar
- Molly
- King O’Malley’s Irish Pub
- Hippo Co
- ANU Union Bar
- Mooseheads Pub & Nightclub
- Parlour
- Bentspoke Brewing Co.
Shopping
Shopping in Canberra is centred around large malls and weekend markets, with a growing emphasis on local designers and handmade goods.
- Old Bus Depot Markets
- Canberra Centre
- Canberra Outlet Centre
- Capital Region Farmers Markets
- Local wineries and cellar doors
- Independent boutiques in Braddon and Manuka
Tourist Information
Canberra International Airport is located approximately 7 kilometres from the city centre and offers direct domestic connections.
Public transport is operated by ACTION buses, with services covering most suburbs. Taxis and rideshare services operate throughout the city.
The best time to visit Canberra is during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), when temperatures are mild and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.
Electricity in Australia is 230 volts / 50 Hz using type I plugs.
