Best things to do in Canberra
Canberra is hot right now. Ranking in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel put the nation’s capital front and centre on must do lists all round the world. A three-hour drive, or under an hour flight from Sydney, makes Canberra the perfect getaway or weekend break. With cultural attractions, gastronomic delights and funky boutique precincts you will be left wondering why you didn’t get there sooner.
BEST TIME TO GO TO CANBERRA
Spring and autumn are the pick of the seasons in Canberra. The “Bush Capital” puts on its best displays of colour, weather and events during these times. Winter can be cold. A great time to dig a little deeper into the cultural vibe of the city. Prices are at their best too. Summers in Canberra are a great time to explore the outdoors. It can get hot though, so cover up and remember the sunscreen.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CANBERRA
The great thing about Canberra is it's no more than half an hour to anywhere. You will find great value self-contained houses and apartments conveniently perched near attractions, restaurants and shops.
THINGS TO DO IN CANBERRA
It’s the diversity of things to do in Canberra that sets it apart. The added bonus? Attractions and experiences are never far away. Art and history come alive at museums, galleries and memorials that will keep you busy for days. Great places to start are The Australian War Memorial, Parliament House and The National Museum of Australia.
The second added bonus? Most of these national icons are free. There’s no shortage of outdoor adventures either. Cycle around Lake Burley Griffin, or head to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Namadgi National Park.
You can even take a walk (or drive, if you aren’t up to it) to the Mt Ainslie Lookout. You’ll get a great view of the city and maybe even spot a skippy or two.
Events in Canberra are next level. Highlights include Floriade, winter’s Truffle Festival, the Wine Harvest Festival and the Canberra Balloon Festival. But that’s just the start. You’ll find art, food, music, sport events and markets to tickle your fancy on Canberra’s events calendar.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN CANBERRA
Best food in Canberra
Canberra’s hot to trot food scene keeps soaring to new heights and it doesn’t look like stopping anytime soon. Fresh produce abounds. Canberrans take their coffee, craft beer and cool climate wine pretty seriously too. From classic cafes, sensational pub grub and fine dining to food trucks and street food Canberra are cementing its reputation as a foodie hot spot. To get started head to Lonsdale Street and take your pick.
Best coffee in Canberra
You will find plenty of quirk, personality and spirit in the coffee houses and cafes that make up Canberra’s innovative coffee scene
In the city try the super cool Coffee Lab where art meets science. Or head to popular The Cupping Room. No. It's not a massage parlour. Iconic Tilley’s Divine Café Gallery has the jazzy vibes pumping while Lonsdale Street Roasters is uber funkyand fun. There are plenty more to try. Follow your nose and you’ll unearth little coffee gems all over Canberra
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WHERE TO GO SHOPPING IN CANBERRA
What sets Canberra’s shopping apart is the boutique precincts. Local creations, mixed with designer trends and cafes to keep you going. The city is great but also head to Braddon and Manuka. Like most cities there are also outlet stores, large shopping centres, boutique and department stores. Check out Canberra’s market scene too. If you’ve only got time for one make it to the Old Bus Depot Markets in Kingston.
Find your perfect holiday accommodation in Canberra at Search and Stay.
For more information, VisitCanberra.