Canberra
National treasures, world-class museums, and wine country
About Canberra
Canberra is Australia's purpose-built capital, designed by American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin. Far from the stereotype of a boring government town, Canberra is a sophisticated city of world-class museums, thriving culinary experiences, and over 140 wineries within 35 minutes of the city centre. Set among bushland and surrounding Lake Burley Griffin, it's one of Australia's most underrated destinations.
Quick Facts
- Population: 460,000
- Founded: 1913
- Airport: Canberra (CBR)
- Time Zone: AEST (UTC+10)
- Known for: National museums, Parliament, wine region, cycling
Top Highlights
Australian War Memorial
One of the world's most significant war memorials, this deeply moving museum tells the story of Australia's military history from the colonial era to the present through immersive galleries, dioramas, and the hauntingly beautiful Hall of Memory.
National Gallery of Australia
Home to over 155,000 works of art including the finest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art in the world. Highlights include Jackson Pollock's Blue Poles, Sidney Nolan's Ned Kelly series, and rotating international exhibitions.
Parliament House
Australia's seat of government is open to the public for free daily tours. The building itself is an architectural marvel, built into Capital Hill with a 81-metre flagpole visible across the city. Watch Question Time for lively political debate.
Questacon
The National Science and Technology Centre offers over 200 hands-on interactive exhibits across eight galleries. From earthquake simulations to free-fall slides, it's a thrilling experience for visitors of all ages.
Wine & Dining
Canberra's wine region has quietly become one of Australia's best. Over 140 vineyards within 35 minutes of the CBD produce exceptional cool-climate Shiraz, Riesling, and Pinot Noir. The Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier is considered one of Australia's finest wines. In the city, the areas around NewActon, Braddon, and Kingston Foreshore offer inventive restaurants, craft breweries, and bustling Asian eateries that belie the city's buttoned-up reputation.
Nature & Outdoors
Canberra is one of the world's few capital cities with a nature reserve within its boundaries. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve offers walking trails through eucalypt forests where you can spot platypus, kangaroos, and koalas in the wild. The cycling and walking paths around Lake Burley Griffin connect the city's key landmarks across 40km of trails. Namadgi National Park, covering over half the ACT, offers alpine wilderness, rock art sites, and challenging multi-day hikes.
Seasonal Events
Canberra's seasons are its secret weapon. Spring brings Floriade, Australia's biggest celebration of spring with over a million blooms transforming Commonwealth Park. Autumn paints the city's many deciduous trees in fiery reds and golds. The Enlighten Festival illuminates national institutions with spectacular light projections, while the Truffle Festival in June celebrates the prized Canberra region truffles with fine dining events and foraging experiences.