Nestled in the heart of Australia lies a city often overshadowed by its bigger siblings, Sydney and Melbourne.
Yet, Canberra, the nation’s capital city, is a hidden gem brimming with culture, history, and an abundance of fun-filled activities waiting to be discovered.
From iconic landmarks to picturesque landscapes, Canberra offers a diverse range of experiences sure to captivate travellers of all ages.
Without further ado, let’s delve into the top attractions and activities you can visit to make your stay in Canberra an unforgettable one!
Despite the capital being renowned as the political hub of Australia, the city centre of Canberra boasts a rich cultural tapestry, with its museums standing as jewels in its crown.
Image Source: National Gallery of Australia, Canberra
Among the impressive array of museums and galleries, we highly recommend starting your cultural journey at the largest art museum in the country – the National Gallery of Australia.
Stepping into the gallery, you’ll get to marvel over a diverse range of collections, including Asian art, European masters and contemporary installations, with their largest collections on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.
Truly deserving of their global art hub status, the gallery houses many iconic artworks by Australian artists such as Sidney Nolan and Arthur Boyd, as well as famous international artists like Jackson Pollock and Pablo Picasso!
Oh, have we mentioned their Sculpture Garden – a tranquil oasis showcasing monumental sculptures by talented artists such as Anthony Gormley, Henry Moore and more?
Image Source: National Portrait Gallery
Speaking of art galleries, every tourist should definitely drop by this remarkable institution when you visit Canberra!
Located just a stone’s throw away from the Parliamentary Triangle, the National Portrait Gallery stands as a tribute to Australia’s rich tapestry of individuals who have shaped its politics, history and culture, spanning from colonial times to the present day.
Whether it be historical figures like Captain James Cook and Ned Kelly or contemporary icons such as Cate Blanchett and Adam Goodes, each portrait tells a riveting tale depicting their lives and legacies.
Beyond its permanent collection, the gallery also occasionally hosts temporary exhibitions, events, and programs that celebrate creativity, diversity, and the power of portraiture. Honestly, it’s a haven for art lovers!
Image Source: Australian War Memorial
Of course, for history enthusiasts, the War Memorial is the perfect spot for you. Standing proudly in the midst of the Australian Capital Territory, the memorial serves as a poignant tribute to the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and women throughout history.
Its imposing architecture, featuring the Commemorative Courtyard and the Hall of Memory with its Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier, evokes a sense of reverence and solemnity, reminding visitors of the human cost of war.
The memorial comprises an extensive collection of artefacts, artworks and personal stories, including the original 1868 Aboriginal breastplate worn by King Billy of Ballarat and Phar Lap’s heart.
Through immersive exhibitions, interactive displays and multimedia installations, you can gain a deeper understanding of Australian history and its lost soldiers, as well as the broader impact of war on society.
Image Source: National Museum of Australia
Situated on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, the National Museum guides visitors on a captivating journey that showcases stories of Indigenous Australians, European settlers and diverse communities that have shaped the Australian experience.
As you wander through the vast array of exhibitions, you’ll notice that every nook and corner of the museum’s impressive architecture features a distinctive looped design inspired by the shape of a Dreaming track.
Through its immersive exhibits, interactive displays and diverse programming, the museum is sure to deliver an exceptional experience for all its visitors.
What’s more? Once you’re done, take a few minutes to rest by the lake and feast your eyes on the breathtaking natural beauty of the city skyline and lush parklands.
Visiting Canberra would not be complete without a stop at the pride and symbol of Australia’s national identity – a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by renowned architect Romaldo Giurgola.
With its striking design of triangular shape and sweeping curves, the building harmonises perfectly with the landscape. Adorned with marble and granite, it reflects both the grandeur of the nation’s democratic institutions and the natural beauty of the Australian landscape.
Beyond its role as the centre of governance, the building itself serves as a canvas for artistic expression, with intricate mosaics, sculptures, and indigenous motifs enhancing its interior and exterior spaces.
Whilst you’re there, hop on a guided tour to get the maximum learning experience!
Image source: Ticketek
A visit to Canberra is truly incomplete without exploring Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre, a beacon of inspiration for curious minds of all ages.
With its iconic building, designed to stimulate curiosity and discovery, Questacon offers a hands-on experience that brings science to life. Each exhibit is a playground of scientific exploration, from the principles of physics to the mysteries of the cosmos, ensuring that visitors are not just spectators but active participants in the journey of learning.
Spanning several floors, the centre is home to over 200 interactive exhibits. Whether it’s watching a spectacular science show or engaging in a hands-on workshop, there’s always something new to discover.
Highlights include the Excite@Q gallery, where you can experience the thrill of a free fall; the Earthquake House and the Awesome Earth exhibition, which allow visitors to feel the power of nature; and the Q Lab, which offers a chance to witness live science experiments.
Make your Canberra trip twice as memorable by going on a hot air balloon ride at sunrise!
Image Source: Balloon Aloft
As part of the Enlighten Festival held in March, the Canberra Balloon Spectacular takes flight against the picturesque backdrop of Canberra’s iconic landmarks and natural landscapes, painting the sky with a kaleidoscope of colours and shapes.
This spectacular 9-day annual event showcases a diverse array of balloons, each meticulously crafted and piloted by skilled balloonists from across Australia and beyond. The mesmerising sight is further enhanced by the rising sun within its horizon, casting a magical glow over the city below.
And that’s not all! From balloon tethering and pilot meet-and-greets to live music performances and delicious food stalls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy amidst the festival atmosphere.
Y Suites on Moore is everything a university student needs during their academic tenure.
Strategically located within walking distance or a bus ride away from Canberra’s major universities and convenient amenities like major public transport hubs, supermarkets and more, each apartment is tailored for a busy uni student.
And what’s more? Our all-in-one rental solution guarantees peace of mind with zero hidden fees and no unexpected expenses!
✅Premium, fully furnished student rooms and shared apartments, inclusive of Wi-Fi and utilities
✅Full access to various common areas for socialising, studying, exercising, playing, and resting
✅The opportunity to connect with other like-minded students from different prestigious universities through our community events
✅Excellent security measures that ensure your personal safety
✅ Hassle-free customer service managed by our attentive and well-trained staff
Book an on-site tour with us!