Welcome to Canberra, Australia’s capital city, where national monuments and political power collide with a vibrant arts and food scene.
From the iconic Parliament House to the stunning Australian War Memorial, Canberra is a city full of history and culture. But there’s much more to discover beyond the political and historical landmarks.
Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or an art lover, Canberra offers a wealth of attractions and experiences that will make your visit unforgettable.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the best things to see and do in the city, from its must-see sights to its hidden gems. So, join us as we highlight the main delights it has to offer.
Fall in Love with its Architecture
No matter what your architectural interests may be, Canberra has plenty to offer for those who appreciate stunning design and innovative buildings.
From historical landmarks to modern masterpieces, the city boasts some impressive structures. One of the most iconic buildings is the Parliament House, designed by renowned Italian architect Romaldo Giurgola. Its impressive design features two curved walls that symbolise the democratic process, and a roof is made of grass, which allows it to blend into the surrounding landscape.
Another must-visit landmark is the Australian War Memorial, which was designed by architects Emil Sodersten and John Crust in a Byzantine style. The memorial features a stunning domed chapel and a commemorative courtyard. Similarly, the National Museum of Australia, designed by Howard Raggatt, is another architectural marvel and features a striking and unique design inspired by the Australian landscape.
The National Gallery of Australia, designed by Colin Madigan, is an impressive building with a triangular-shaped exterior, which allows natural light to enter the galleries. While, The High Court of Australia, designed by Colin Madigan and Robert Peck von Hartel Trethowan, is also worth a visit for its modernist design.
For those interested in modern architecture, the Nishi Building in NewActon is a must-see. The building features a unique design with a façade made of recycled timber, and it was built with sustainable principles in mind. The Shine Dome, designed by Sir Roy Grounds, is another modernist masterpiece, featuring a futuristic design with a striking copper dome.
Cycle Around Lake Burley Griffin
Visiting Lake Burley Griffin is a must-do activity for anyone heading to Canberra.
This stunning man-made lake spans over 650 hectares and is surrounded by parks, walking trails, and iconic landmarks. Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the scenic paths and enjoy the picturesque views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains.
There are also plenty of activities to enjoy on the lake itself, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boating. You can even take a guided tour on a pedal boat or a sunset cruise while enjoying a drink and nibbles.
The lake is also home to several cultural attractions, including the National Gallery of Australia, the National Library, and the National Portrait Gallery. Additionally, the Captain Cook Memorial Jet, located in the centre of the lake, shoots water up to 152 meters high, creating an outstanding visual display.
Enjoy Some Fine Dining
In case you didn’t know, Canberra has an exceptional fine dining scene, with no less than 10 restaurants being awarded at least one chef’s hat.
Boasting, a number of high-end venues that offer innovative cuisine and impeccable service, some of the most notable fine dining establishments include Aubergine, Courgette, and Ottoman Cuisine, all of which have received critical acclaim and awards for their exceptional food and wine offerings.
Aubergine, located in Griffith, is known for its modern Australian cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant offers a six-course tasting menu that changes regularly to reflect the seasons and availability of ingredients. Meanwhile, Courgette in Civic is renowned for its French-inspired dishes and elegant dining room. The restaurant offers a la carte and degustation menus featuring beautifully presented dishes, such as roasted duck breast with smoked bacon, celeriac puree and a delightful cranberry jus.
For those seeking a more exotic dining experience, Ottoman Cuisine in Barton offers a fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours, with dishes such as slow-cooked lamb shank with saffron rice and pomegranate glaze. The restaurant’s elegant decor and exceptional service make it a popular choice for special occasions.
Other notable fine dining establishments you should try include Sage Dining Rooms, Chairman & Yip, and Monster Kitchen & Bar. All of which will delight you with their outstanding menus and top-quality service.
Check Out The Canberra Balloon Spectacular
Held annually, the Canberra Balloon Spectacular is a splendid hot air balloon event that spans nine days in March at the lawns of Old Parliament House.
The event features dozens of hot air balloons from all over the world, including colourful and creatively shaped balloons that float over Canberra’s landmarks and scenic landscapes. It typically starts early in the morning, as the balloons take off at sunrise for a breathtaking view of the city bathed in morning light.
Visitors can enjoy breakfast from a variety of food trucks while watching the balloons take off, or even book a hot air balloon ride themselves for a unique and unforgettable experience. Best of all, the event is free to attend.
Visit The Canberra Distillery
Visiting the Canberra Distillery is a must-do experience for those who appreciate the art of crafting spirits.
This small-batch distillery located in Fyshwick is known for its award-winning gin, vodka, and liqueurs, made using locally sourced botanicals and fruits. The distillery offers tours and tastings, where visitors can learn about the distilling process and the ingredients used in each product.
The knowledgeable staff is happy to answer questions and provide recommendations based on individual tastes. Don’t worry, visitors can also purchase bottles of their favourite spirits to take home or enjoy in the on-site tasting room.
Go Hiking!
For all its stunning architecture, Canberra also offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for hikers of all levels. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including Mount Ainslie, Black Mountain, and the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, which are well worth exploring on foot.
Probably the most popular hiking trail is the Mount Ainslie Summit Walk, which offers panoramic views of Canberra and the surrounding areas. The trail is a 4.5 km round trip and takes about a couple of hours to complete, depending on your fitness level.
Another well-tackled hiking destination is Black Mountain, which features several trails ranging from easy to difficult. The Black Mountain Summit Walk is a 3.5 km round trip and offers stunning views of Canberra and the Australian National Botanic Gardens.
For those wanting a more challenging hike, the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve provides a good workout. It offers several trails, including the popular Gibraltar Peak Trail, which is an 8.2 km round trip and takes around 4 hours to complete. Offering beautiful views of the Tidbinbilla Valley, you’ll also get to see plenty of wildlife, including kangaroos and wallabies on it too.
Partake in a Glass-Blowing Class
Canberra Glassworks is a fascinating cultural institution that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the world of glass artistry.
Situated in the Kingston arts precinct, it is Australia’s only cultural centre dedicated to contemporary glass art. Here, you can watch skilled glass artists create their pieces in the studio, participate in hands-on workshops, and learn about the history of glass-making.
Visitors can also enjoy a self-guided tour of the facilities or go on a guide-led tour, which includes a behind-the-scenes look at the artists at work, the history of the building, and the techniques used in glass art. Undoubtedly, the highlight of the tour is watching the artists at the furnace, blowing and shaping the molten glass into intricate and delicate forms.
Additionally, the centre also hosts exhibitions, artist talks, and special events, showcasing the latest in contemporary glass art. While the gift shop offers unique glass artworks, handcrafted by the resident artists for purchase as a souvenir.
Visit a Winery
While Canberra may not be as well-known as other wine regions in Australia, it does have a thriving wine scene that is definitely worth exploring. With more than 30 wineries scattered throughout the surrounding countryside, Canberra offers plenty of options for wine lovers to taste some top-notch wines.
One of the best ways to experience Canberra’s wine scene is through a guided tour, which can take you to some of the region’s top wineries and vineyards. The tours typically include tastings, cellar door visits, and a chance to meet the winemakers and learn about their craft.
Some of the most popular wineries in Canberra include Clonakilla, which is renowned for its award-winning Shiraz Viognier, as well as the Mount Majura Vineyard, which produces a range of cool-climate wines, including Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Shiraz. Other notable wineries in the region include Lark Hill Winery, Gallagher Wines, and Helm Wines.
Many of these wineries also offer food options, such as cheese platters, charcuterie boards, and other local produce, so you can enjoy a full culinary experience, among beautiful scenery while sipping on their wine.
Get Some Culture
Canberra is home to several world-class museums and art galleries that offer a rich cultural experience for those who visit them.
One of the most prominent is the National Gallery of Australia, which houses an impressive collection of Australian and international art. The gallery is home to over 170,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs, and hosts several temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Some of the most famous pieces on display include Jackson Pollock’s ‘Blue Poles’ and Sidney Nolan’s ‘Ned Kelly’ series.
Another must-visit museum in Canberra is the Australian War Memorial, which honours the sacrifices of Australian servicemen and women. The museum features a vast collection of artefacts, including weapons, uniforms, and personal letters, and has an extensive exhibition space that chronicles Australia’s involvement in various wars and conflicts.
For those interested in science and technology, Questacon is an interactive museum that offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The museum features over 200 exhibits, including a virtual reality experience, a giant slide, and an earthquake simulator.
The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House is another notable attraction, which gives visitors an insight into Australia’s political history. The museum is housed in the former Parliament House building and features a range of interactive exhibits and displays that explore the nation’s democratic traditions and institutions.
Lastly, the National Portrait Gallery is an excellent destination for those interested in portraiture and photography. The gallery features portraits of famous Australians, including politicians, actors, and sports stars, and has a rotating collection of temporary exhibitions.
Cycle Around The City
Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the scenic beauty of Canberra. The city is blessed with a vast network of bike paths and tracks that are perfect for cycling enthusiasts of all levels.
You can take a leisurely ride around Lake Burley Griffin, which offers stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the National Museum of Australia, the National Gallery of Australia, and the Carillon.
For those seeking a more challenging ride, the Stromlo Forest Park is a popular destination. This mountain biking haven offers an array of trails that cater to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
If you don’t have your own bike, there are several bike rental options available, including electric bikes, which make it easier to conquer the city’s hills.
Check out the Pod Playground
The Pod Playground and Forest Sculpture Gallery in Canberra are must-visit destinations for families with children under the age of 10.
Located within the National Arboretum, The Pod Playground is an innovative and unique play space that features acorn-shaped pods connected by net tunnels, giant banksia cones for climbing, and slides that resemble oversized leaves. It is set among stunning views of the city and surrounded by the Arboretum’s collection of rare and endangered trees, making it a beautiful and educational experience for children and adults alike.
Just a short walk away is the Forest Sculpture Gallery, where visitors can view a stunning collection of outdoor sculptures created by local and international artists. The sculptures are set amongst the trees, and each one tells a different story, creating a magical and immersive experience. The gallery also features indoor exhibitions that showcase a variety of artistic mediums, including painting, photography, and ceramics.
Take a Dip in One of Canberra’s Pools
Canberra has a variety of swimming pools, both indoor and outdoor, which are perfect for a refreshing dip during the warm months.
The Canberra Olympic Pool, located in the heart of the city, has both indoor and outdoor pools, including a 50-metre pool, a diving pool, and a children’s pool. But for those seeking a more natural swimming experience, the nearby Cotter River offers swimming holes and picnic areas.
Another popular swimming spot is the Manuka Pool, which is one of the oldest public pools in Canberra and has been a local favourite since it opened in 1931. The pool has a 30-metre outdoor pool, a children’s pool, and a cafe.
The Dickson Aquatic Centre is another great option, with an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, and a water play area for kids. While for those who want to take their swimming to the next level, the Canberra International Sports & Aquatic Centre (CISAC) offers a wide range of aquatic activities, including swimming lessons, lap swimming, and aqua aerobics.
No matter which swimming pool you choose to visit, Canberra has no shortage of options for a refreshing swim and a relaxing day in the water.
Shop Till You Drop
If you love nothing more than shopping when you visit a new place then Canberra won’t disappoint. It has a thriving shopping scene that offers a mix of traditional shopping centres and unique local boutiques.
The Canberra Centre, located in the heart of the city, is the premier shopping destination, featuring plenty of high-end and mainstream retailers in which to browse.
For those looking for something more unique, the boutique-lined streets of Braddon, Kingston, and Manuka offer a range of fashion, homewares, and artisanal goods. Additionally, if you are wanting a truly local shopping experience, the Old Bus Depot Markets, held every Sunday, is a must-visit. There, you’ll be able to view and purchase locally made crafts, homewares, and artisanal food products.
Watch a Festival or Event
Canberra hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant destination for travellers.
One of the biggest events is the Enlighten Festival, which takes place in March and transforms the city’s iconic buildings into illuminated works of art. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, delicious food and wine, and explore the national institutions after hours.
Another much-loved event is Floriade, which runs from mid-September to mid-October and showcases more than one million blooms across Commonwealth Park. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and those who appreciate beautiful gardens.
Other events include the National Multicultural Festival in February, which celebrates the diverse cultures of the city, and the Canberra Balloon Spectacular in March, where hot air balloons fill the sky at dawn. The Canberra Theatre Centre also hosts a range of performances throughout the year, including theatre productions, concerts, and dance performances.