 "Planning a trip to Australia? Here's your cue to include a pit-stop in Canberra!")
Canberra’s location makes it the perfect base for exploring the regions around the capital of Australia. Within a few hours’ drive away are the pristine beaches of the NSW South Coast and the beautiful Snowy Mountains. A city that has more than just an urban touch to it, here’s your sign to take a detour to Canberra to experience the best of Australia in one place.
Spend 72 hours to discover the top highlights this city has to offer. Whether you’re captivated by scenic beauty, drawn to cultural landmarks, or keen on culinary adventures, Canberra offers a unique blend of experiences. Here’s your cue to dive into the must-see attractions and activities that will make your visit unforgettable.
DAY-1
Discover the Australian story
There’s no better place to discover the Australian story than in Canberra. The city is home to some of Australia’s most significant collections in its many national museums and galleries. Explore one of the world’s most architecturally acclaimed buildings, Parliament House, and see the nation’s most popular and important objects – from the Holden Prototype No.1 to bark paintings and ochre used by First Nations artists more than 50,000 years ago - at the National Museum of Australia. Watch how Australian money is made at the Royal Australian Mint or place a poppy on the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial. Many of the national attractions are free to enter and close to the CBD.
Wine tasting at Mount Majura Vineyard
Featuring a seated tasting set-up, the Mount Majura Vineyard cellar door offers an interactive yet relaxing experience. Along with being a pioneer in the Canberra District Wine Region, the vineyard is also quite renowned across the country for its Spanish red wine variety, Tempranillo.
Mount Ainslie lookout and its hopping kangaroos
One of the reasons that make Mount Ainslie Lookout a tourist hotspot are the hopping kangaroos that can be easily spotted at the back of the Australian War Memorial and is just a few minutes away from Canberra’s CBD. Mount Ainslie Lookout is the perfect spot to take in the sweeping views across the city and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Nomnom at Beltana Farm
Escape the ordinary and embrace a unique dining experience at Beltana Farm Dining. Nestled within the picturesque Pialligo enclave of Canberra, you’ll find a sprawling truffle farm during the winter season. It’s a place to relax and savor moments while enjoying a farm-style shared menu.
Stay at Midnight Hotel
Known to be the first Marriott International property in Canberra, Midnight Hotel is situated in the bustling neighbourhood of Braddon, a hub that brims with award-winning eateries and unmissable bars and breweries. Guests can explore the eclectic neighbourhood and nearby attractions like the National Gallery of Australia, National Portrait Gallery, Museum of Australian Democracy, and Parliament House on foot or with the hotel’s Lekker X electric bikes.
DAY-2
Spend time exploring Lake Burley Griffin
Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra’s magnificent centerpiece, offers an ideal water playground for rowing, sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding adventures. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, one can immerse in a serene cruise experience, or simply unwind at one of the many Instagrammable cafes and restaurants with picturesque water views.
A feast for the senses
Awaken your Asian palette at AKIBA that specializes in ‘New Asian’ cuisine. The buzzing ambience of the restaurant and bar perfectly matches the food, which features delicious fresh flavours of street-food snacks and share plates and an exotic cocktails and drinks list. The easiest way to go is the ‘Feed Me’ option – the chef’s choice of eight dishes.
It’s a small world at Cockington Green Gardens
Explore Cockington Green Gardens, located in the quaint Gold Creek Village, and marvel at meticulously crafted miniature buildings from over 30 countries. From Scotland’s Braemer Castle to Peru’s Machu Picchu, this enchanting display of tiny hand-built structures and impeccably maintained gardens will captivate your imagination.
DAY-3
See the sights from above in a hot air balloon
Start the day at dawn on a hot air balloon flight, and float peacefully over the picturesque city taking in the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys from a bird’s eye view. End the exciting experience with a delicious breakfast and sparkling wine to toast to your amazing adventure at the historic Hyatt Hotel. A one-of-a-kind experience to see some of the most breathtaking views of the area and create lifelong memories you will never forget.
The National Zoo & Aquarium awaits the wild at heart
Get up close and personal with some of the world’s most exotic, wild and native residents at the National Zoo & Aquarium. Hear the purr of a cheetah, feed a bear or get to know a meerkat during some of these amazing interactive animal experiences that await those wild at heart.
Unwind at the National Arboretum Canberra
For the active visitor, enjoy over 20 kilometers of multi-purpose tracks that wind through 94 stunning forests at the National Arboretum Canberra. It’s a vibrant collection of living forests and gardens, offering breathtaking views and interactive experiences – this is the place to take a break, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy a leisurely stroll.
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