Things To Do
in Canberra

Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is known for its well-planned layout and stunning natural surroundings. It features numerous national institutions, including the Australian Parliament House and the National Gallery of Australia. The city is surrounded by bushland and offers a mix of cultural experiences and outdoor activities.

With its modern architecture and rich history, Canberra serves as a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Australian National Museum, where you can learn about the country's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll around Lake Burley Griffin and enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the scenic parks nearby.

evening
:

Dine at one of Canberra’s renowned restaurants, such as The Boat House, and enjoy the view of the lake.

day 2
Day 2: Historical Insights and Exploration
morning
:

Visit the National Gallery of Australia to admire a collection of Australian and international artworks.

afternoon
:

Explore the Australian War Memorial and participate in a guided tour to learn about Australia's military history.

evening
:

Experience Canberra’s nightlife at the lively Braddon area, stopping at local bars and eateries.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee (café)$4
🍔Meal at a restaurant$20
🍕Pizza$15
🏨Hotel (mid-range)$150
🚌Public transport ticket$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and parks.
  • Family-friendly atmosphere with various activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be less frequent.
  • Can be quite cold in winter months.

Places to Visit in Canberra

Visit one of these nice places.

Parliament House

A stunning piece of architecture set on a hill, providing panoramic views of the city.

Lake Burley Griffin

A picturesque lake offering beautiful views, especially at sunset, perfect for landscape photography.

National Gallery of Australia

The gallery’s outdoor sculptures and gardens are ideal for capturing artistic and natural beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Canberra

Canberra offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural population, with various local dishes and dining experiences to explore.

Canberra Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Barramundi

A popular Australian fish, often served grilled or pan-fried, showcasing the local seafood.

Must-Try!

Meat Pie

A classic Australian comfort food, filled with meat and gravy, served hot.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Canberra Night Markets

A vibrant market offering a variety of street food from different cultures every Friday night.

Climate Guide

Weather

Canberra has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and dry, with temperatures averaging between 25-35°C (77-95°F). Winters are cold, with daytime temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F), often dropping below freezing at night. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Indigenous Culture

Be mindful of and respect the traditions and culture of Indigenous Australians.

Queuing

Canberrans value order; always wait your turn in lines.

Casual Dress

The city has a relaxed dress code; casual attire is generally acceptable in most settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Canberra is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 000, and it’s wise to have travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Tipping in Canberra

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving 10-15% is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (September - November)

Enjoy blooming flowers and mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm temperatures, ideal for exploring parks and outdoor events, but be prepared for occasional heatwaves.

Autumn (March - May)

Experience cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, making it a great time for photography.

Winter (June - August)

Canberra can get quite cold, with occasional frosts; however, it offers a cozy atmosphere and winter festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Canberra at Night

Canberra's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to various tastes. The Braddon area is known for its trendy bars and craft breweries, while the City Centre offers a mix of late-night venues. Live music, particularly at venues like The Basement, and themed nights at clubs create a lively atmosphere for night owls.

Hiking in Canberra

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Ainslie Trail

A popular hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding areas from the summit.

Corin Forest

Features numerous trails through lush bushland, ideal for both hiking and mountain biking.

Airports

How to reach Canberra by plane.

Canberra Airport

The main airport serving Canberra, located just 8 km from the city center, offering both domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Canberra is designed with walkability in mind, especially around the city center and major attractions. The city features well-maintained sidewalks, bike paths, and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some suburban areas may require a vehicle for easier access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Australians

The original inhabitants with a rich cultural heritage, contributing to the city's diversity.

Government and Public Service Employees

Many residents work in the public sector due to Canberra's status as the nation's capital.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Australian Rules Football

A popular sport in Canberra, with local teams competing in the Australian Football League (AFL).

Rugby

Rugby union and league have a strong following, with several local clubs and competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Canberra is generally manageable, with peak hours usually occurring during weekdays. Public transport options include buses that connect various suburbs to the city center, and cycling is encouraged with dedicated bike lanes. Parking is available but can be limited in busy areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Canberra.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many restaurants in Canberra offer plant-based options, ensuring a variety of choices.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, with clear labeling on menus.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Canberra has a well-developed healthcare system, with several public and private hospitals available. The ACT Health system provides comprehensive services, and emergency care is accessible. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide