Traveling to Canberra can be an exciting experience, and luckily there are plenty of tips to make sure you get the most out of your trip. Here are a few essential travel tips for Canberra:
- Check out the local events calendar. Every month, the City of Canberra has a list of events that you can attend. From art exhibitions to music festivals, there’s always something going on.
- Dress for the weather. Canberra can get quite cold in the winter, and hot in the summer. Make sure to plan your wardrobe accordingly.
- Plan your trip in advance. Booking accommodations and activities ahead of time can save you stress and money.
- Take advantage of public transport. Canberra has a great public transport system, so make sure to take advantage of it.
- Bring cash. Not everywhere in Canberra accepts credit cards, so it’s best to bring some cash with you.
Things To Do in Canberra / Top Must-see Sites and Monuments in Canberra:
- Australian War Memorial: Located in the heart of Canberra, this museum is dedicated to the honor and remembrance of Australians who have served in war. Admission is free and the site is open daily from 10am-5pm.
- National Museum of Australia: This fascinating museum showcases the history and culture of Australia and its people. Admission is free and the museum is open daily from 9am-5pm.
- National Zoo and Aquarium: This zoo and aquarium is home to a wide variety of exotic animals, from lions and tigers to seals and dolphins. Admission is $24 for adults and $17 for children. It is open daily from 9am-5pm.
- National Gallery of Australia: This iconic gallery houses some of the most famous pieces of art from Australia and around the world. Admission is free and the gallery is open daily from 10am-5pm.
- Parliament House: This iconic building is the home of the Australian Parliament, and is open to the public for guided tours. Admission is free and the tours are available daily from 9am-4:30pm.
- Mount Ainslie Lookout: This stunning lookout offers unparalleled views of Canberra and its surrounding areas. Admission is free and the lookout is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
- Telstra Tower: This iconic tower offers panoramic views of Canberra from the top. Admission is $13 for adults and $8 for children. The tower is open daily from 9am-9pm.
- Old Parliament House: This historic building was the home of the Australian Parliament from 1927-1988. Admission is free and the site is open daily from 9am-5pm.
- Botanic Gardens: This gorgeous garden is home to over 5000 species of plants and animals. Admission is free and the gardens are open daily from 8am-6pm.
- National Arboretum: This beautiful arboretum features over 94 forests of rare, endangered and symbolic trees from around the world. Admission is free and the arboretum is open daily from 9am-5pm.
- Questacon: This interactive science and technology centre is home to hundreds of interactive exhibits. Admission is $27 for adults and $19 for children. It is open daily from 9am-5pm.
- National Library of Australia: This iconic library houses a collection of over 10 million books, manuscripts and other materials. Admission is free and the library is open daily from 9am-5pm.
- National Portrait Gallery: This gallery features a collection of over 5000 portraits of renowned Australians. Admission is free and the gallery is open daily from 10am-5pm.
- National Carillon: This iconic tower is home to a collection of 50 bells that can be heard throughout Canberra. Admission is free and the Carillon is open daily from 9am-5pm.
- National Dinosaur Museum: This museum is dedicated to the study of dinosaurs and prehistoric life. Admission is $10 for adults and $7 for children. It is open daily from 9am-5pm.
- National Film and Sound Archive: This fascinating archive houses a collection of over 3 million items, from films to sound recordings. Admission is free and the archive is open daily from 9am-5pm.
- National Capital Exhibition: This fascinating exhibition showcases the history and culture of Canberra. Admission is free and the exhibition is open daily from 9am-5pm.
- The National Arboretum Canberra: This stunning arboretum features over 94 forests of rare and endangered trees. Admission is free and the arboretum is open daily from 9am-5pm.
- Cockington Green Gardens: This gorgeous garden features miniature replicas of iconic buildings from around the world. Admission is $13 for adults and $7 for children. It is open daily from 9am-5pm.
Don’t forget to get Travel Insurance Before You Travel
If you’re looking for travel insurance, we recommend the following travel insurance provider:
Our Top Travel Gear and Equipment Recommendations: Best Camera, Photo and Video Equipment for Your Travels
If you’re interested in our recommended travel gear and photo/video equipment:
- Best and Most Useful Travel Gear:
- Best photo / video cameras and equipment for Travel:
- Best Action Cameras and Portable Cameras
- Best Full-Frame DSLR Cameras and DSLR Cameras for Amateur and Professional Photographers
- Best Drones and Aerial Photography Cameras
- Best Tripods, Monopods and Selfie Sticks for Photography and Videography
- Best Mobile Phones and Cell Phones, Best Laptops and Computers for Travel:
Here is a 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip to Canberra:
Day 1:
- Visit the Australian War Memorial
- Visit the National Museum of Australia
- Visit the National Zoo and Aquarium
- Explore the Parliament House
Day 2:
- Take in the views from Mount Ainslie Lookout
- Visit the National Gallery of Australia
- Ride the Telstra Tower
- Explore Old Parliament House
- Visit the Botanic Gardens
Day 3:
- Visit the National Arboretum
- Explore the National Library of Australia
- Visit the National Portrait Gallery
- Experience the National Carillon
- Visit the National Dinosaur Museum
- Explore the National Film and Sound Archive
- Visit the National Capital Exhibition
- Explore the Cockington Green Gardens
By following these tips and exploring some of the amazing sites and monuments Canberra has to offer, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip!
We regularly use and recommend Booking.com for our hotel bookings, using this link comes at no extra cost to you and helps to support the site!
Where to stay in Canberra, Australia, best rated hotels and accommodations in Canberra, Australia:
Top Rated Hotels in Canberra, Australia priced over $200 per night:
- Hotel Realm
- Hyatt Hotel Canberra – A Park Hyatt Hotel
- Ovolo Nishi
- Peppers Gallery Hotel
- Hotel Kurrajong Canberra
Best Reviewed Hotels in Canberra, Australia priced between $100 to $200 per night:
Top Hotels in Canberra, Australia priced between $50 to $100 per night:
- Canberra City YHA
- Madison Capital Executive Apartments
- Alivio Tourist Park Canberra
- The Village Hostels Canberra
Please note that ratings and prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Make sure to check the current rates and availability through the provided links.
For more about Australia, Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne and other Australia destinations read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.
This page may contain affiliate links, using these for your bookings and purchases comes at no extra cost to you and helps to maintain this site, thanks for your support!
If you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to sign up to the OOAworld newsletter, LIKE our Facebook page and SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel, or FOLLOW us on Instagram or X (Twitter)!
Like a photo or artwork on the site? Order OOAworld’s custom prints, canvases and accessories by checking out the items in the Shop!
Share the road!
