Things To Do
in Canberra
Canberra is Australia’s capital, crafted as a planned city with sweeping parklands and a backdrop of hills. It blends grand national institutions with vibrant arts, food, and cafe culture. The city is easy to navigate, with museums, galleries, and green spaces around Lake Burley Griffin.
Visitors will also find convenient day trips into nature just beyond the city limits.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Australia, where you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of the country. Enjoy a guided tour that highlights the diverse stories of Australia, including its Indigenous heritage. Take your time to explore the interactive exhibits that encourage a deeper understanding of the nation’s past.
After lunch at the museum café, stroll around the nearby Acton Peninsula and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Burley Griffin. Consider renting a bike to explore the area, taking in the fresh air and vibrant surroundings. Stop by the picturesque gardens and capture some stunning photographs of the lake and surrounding landscape.
As the sun sets, head back to the city center for dinner at one of Canberra’s acclaimed restaurants. Choose from a range of cuisines, from modern Australian to international delights, ensuring a satisfying meal. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the lakefront, enjoying the shimmering reflections of the city lights on the water.
Begin your day with a visit to the Australian War Memorial, where you’ll gain insight into Australia’s military history through captivating exhibits and personal stories. Spend some time in the galleries, exploring the displays that commemorate the service of Australians in wars. Don’t miss the Last Post Ceremony held at the memorial's Stone of Remembrance, a poignant experience that pays tribute to the fallen.
Enjoy lunch at the café located within the memorial, offering a variety of delicious meals and snacks. Afterward, take a stroll through the beautiful grounds, reflecting on the significance of the memorial and its gardens. Visit the Research Centre to delve deeper into specific aspects of Australian military history, should you have particular interests.
Wrap up your day with a casual dinner in the nearby Braddon district, known for its trendy eateries and vibrant atmosphere. Discover local craft breweries or wine bars for a taste of Canberra’s burgeoning food scene. Cap off the evening with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Vegetarian meal | $12-20 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $8-13 |
| 🛏️Hostel dorm bed | $25-45 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Well-planned city with lots of green spaces
- Strong cultural scene and easy access to nature
- Can be spread out; some venues require transport
- Prices can be higher in tourist hotspots
Places to Visit in Canberra
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic architecture and expansive lawns provide strong framing for national political symbolism and sunrise shots.
Water reflections, bridges, and skyline views—great for early morning or dusk photography.
Panoramic city vistas, especially at sunset or clear nights for city lights.
Architectural space and reflective grounds offer solemn, respectful compositions and wide-angle opportunities.
Bold architecture and surrounding greenery; interesting lines and shadows to capture.
Food in Canberra
Canberra Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Aussie meat pie with seasoned minced beef and gravy; widely available at bakeries and pubs around Canberra.
Must-Try!
A sponge cake coated in chocolate and desiccated coconut; found in cafes and bakery windows across the city.
Crisp oat biscuit often served with coffee; a staple in Australian bakeries and cafés.
Lean, gamey meat occasionally featured on menus; look for bush-tucker inspired dishes at modern Australian restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Saturdays at EPIC (Exhibition Park in Canberra), offering local fruit, vegetables, bread, cheeses, and ready-to-eat foods at a bustling, producer-driven market.
A large indoor market with fresh produce, meat, seafood, and specialty items—great for pantry staples and picnic supplies.
Sunday markets in Kingston featuring handmade crafts, street food vendors, and live music in a relaxed, artsy setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Being on time is valued for appointments and reservations; plan errands with reasonable buffers.
Respect orderly queues; Australians typically queue for service and public transport.
Direct, friendly communication is common; sarcasm is usually light-hearted but avoid offensive remarks.
Canberra has strong sun; wear sunscreen, hats, and light protective clothing outdoors.
Safety
Tipping in Canberra
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia; it’s appreciated for excellent service but not expected. Some venues may add a service charge for large groups.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is still accepted, and EFTPOS is available at most outlets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional afternoon thunderstorms; days can be long (sunrise early, sunset late). Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan lakefront activities for cooler mornings or evenings.
Mild temperatures and clear, crisp days; great for outdoor photography and walking tours as foliage begins to change color.
Cool to cold with frosts; occasional light snow on the surrounding hills. Pack warm layers and a rain jacket; many indoor venues are excellent for warm respite.
Moderate temperatures with blooming gardens and parks; transitional weather—carry a light jacket and an umbrella for sudden showers.
Canberra at Night
Hiking in Canberra
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trails through alpine terrain and protected habitats just outside Canberra.
Short climb with rewarding panoramic views of Canberra and the surrounding region.
Forest trails and lookout points within easy reach of the city.
Remote bushwalking in the Tidbinbilla area with longer, challenging routes.
Airports
How to reach Canberra by plane.
Serves domestic flights with some international services; good rail and bus connections to the city center.
Major international gateway with frequent domestic flights to Canberra and strong onward connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of residents work in federal and territory government roles.
Universities and research institutions attract students, staff, and academics.
A balanced mix contributing to a stable, family-friendly community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular spectator sport with regional teams and public viewing across bars and venues.
Seasonal matches and local leagues; summer sport with events in stadiums and parks.
Local clubs and occasional professional fixtures attract enthusiastic crowds.
Active local leagues, with matches in spring and autumn at various venues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Canberra.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Canberra’s cafes and restaurants; look for vegetable-forward dishes, salads, grain bowls, and plant-based proteins; many venues can adapt menus—ask about fish-free or egg-free options if needed.