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Place in Australian Capital Territory
Photo: Dietmar Rabich, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
If it's your first time in Canberra and you're time limited to only exploring one part of Canberra, it has to be South Canberra. Sometimes referred to as the inner south, South Canberra houses some of Canberra's most important landmarks: Parliament House, and the broader Parliamentary Zone, containing the Old Parliament House, Questacon, the National Gallery etc., the Royal Australian Mint, The Lodge and the Government House.
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This vast building is the home of Australia's highest court and contains a vast lobby and three main courtrooms that are open to the public. Tours are available, though restricted when the court is sitting. The building also has a cafeteria. As a matter of etiquette, when you enter or leave a courtroom in session, remember to bow.
A lakeside installation along the southern edge of Lake Burley Griffin featuring 110 flags. The display represents the United Nations, the European Union, and individual nations that maintain an official diplomatic mission or embassy within the national capital. The flagpoles are fully illuminated at night.
The renovated National Archives building has excellent public galleries. It has two permanent exhibitions and holds others from time to time. The staff are most helpful if you have a personal archival query
This modern structure is one of the country's largest, and best, art galleries. It has a vast collection of paintings and sculptures collected from Australia and the rest of the world and has excellent Aboriginal artwork. A nice gift store and a large bookstore on the upper level. Free except for special exhibits. The Gallery offers free public one-hour tours: Australian and International art at 11AM and 2PM daily, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art at 11AM on Thursdays and Sundays. Allow at least half a day and possibly more.
There are two sections of the sculpture garden, one section in front of the building and the other section at the rear. Both sections are open 24 hours a day and fun to wander around in the evening. The Ouroboros sculpture added to the collection in 2024 is an ethereal, other worldly presence in the Canberra evening.
The library is primarily a research centre, but houses a permanent display of historically significant items as well as temporary exhibitions showing parts of the collection. It's an accessible space, entirely comfortable for anyone to visit. Also notable for its neo-classical architecture.
The Gallery opened to the public on the 4 December 2008, and displays some 400 portraits of people who have shaped and who continue to shape the nation. There are gallery spaces for the collection and temporary exhibitions, public areas including a café, shop, function room, theatrette, education and school group areas, and basement car parking. Portraits are in various media, depending on the era. Galleries are themed by era. The web site gives a good idea of the content.
featuring the Museum of Australian Democracy
The headquarters of the Australian government from the 1920s to 1988, this building is a must for political and/or historical junkies. The building gives a real feel of what it was like when it was in use and has in the past regularly featured rotating exhibitions on the controversies and scandals that rocked Australian politics. It is now a permanent museum. Most of the main rooms - the Prime Minister's office, the Cabinet Room, the various party rooms, the two houses - are open to visitors, as are many smaller rooms like the whips' offices and the broadcasting area. There are also historical photos of Canberra as it used to be, including the times prior to the creation of the artificial lake that shows Canberra under snow during winter (the lake warmed up the city and snow falls rarely on the city now). The gift store has decent souvenirs.
The National Science and Technology Centre
Questacon is an interactive museum of science with exhibits illustrating scientific ideas from the principles of physics to the motion of an earthquake. Great for kids and excellent science books can be picked up here. Allow at least half a day.
The seat of Australia's federal government and legislature and a remarkable piece of modern architecture. Outside, the forecourt faces Federation Mall and has iconic views. Much of the inside is open to the public during business hours (your bags are x-rayed and persons pass through a metal detector at the entrance). When inside the building, do not miss: Queens Terrace upstairs towards the forecourt, and the roof (via an elevator close to walkway to the House of Representatives). Various art, including portraits of past prime ministers are hung in the hallways. Enthusiastic guides perform free tours daily at 10AM, 1PM and 3PM (no booking required). Tours are shorter when Parliament is sitting as the chambers are occupied.
On sitting days, you are allowed to view proceedings in the public gallery from 2PM onwards. Your belongings, including electronic items will be cloaked, and a secondary security check is required. No further arrangement is needed to sit in the Senate chamber public gallery. To view Question Time from the House of Representatives galleries, preferably book your free seat by calling the Serjeant-at-arms +61 2 6277 4889 before . Expect queues to collect tickets, during the secondary checks, and then while waiting for sessions to begin. Consider bringing a small book to read during the wait. Members of the public can also observe hearings conducted by the parliament's various committees. Allow 2–3 hours. On-site parking can be limited when parliament is sitting.
Back outside, the Formal Gardens are east of the main building. This is a small, tranquil green space, with flowers in warmer seasons, artwork, and the Bali Memorial. Here, or Queens Terrace, or the Parliament House roof, the lower slopes up the sides of Parliament House, or Federation Mall are nice places to take a breather. To explore the grounds further, feel free to walk (or ride) along tracks (within Capital Circle) both east and west of Parliament House in cool shade. Find the entrances along the corners of Parliament Drive. Another shady track runs along the base of Capital Hill (between Capital Circle and State Circle). Find this track midway down the access road to Kings Avenue, on the right side, and proceed clockwise. You can exit the track at any point along the length, and the other end is close to Surveyors Park. If in Canberra when Floriade is held, there are additional tours of the Parliament House gardens.
A small museum with lots of restored fire appliances used during the 20th century, including several large fire trucks. The museum is free to access, but a gold-coin donation is encouraged for maintenance purposes.
Learn and see how glass is made in this contemporary professional glass making factory. There are several workshops available, including several "make-your-owns".
Yarralumla
The main official residence of the Governor-General of Australia, representative of King Charles III in Australia. Closed to the public except for open days, which take place approximately twice a year. There is a viewing platform, Government House Lookout off 420 Lady Denman Drive, or glimpses can be seen from the main gate at Dunrossil Drive, Yarralumla, or Weston Park, Yarralumla. Often kangaroos are to be spotted munching grass on the lawns, so be careful driving along the ride that gets to the viewpoint, especially at dusk.
The Prime Minister's official residence. Generally closed to the public and you can only see part of the garden from behind the wall and the entrance from the freeway. There are open days about once a year and if you are lucky to be in Canberra then, it shouldn't be missed.
Has several exhibits of historic locomotives that have been used in New South Wales during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Some of the most notable locomotives include Australia's oldest operating steam locomotive and one of the world's oldest mainline steam locomotives.
Take a tour of the mint and see how coins are made. You will even get the chance to mint your own souvenir coin. Look for the pudding coins as a souvenir (not always available). Allow 1–2 hours.
This small dam across the Molonglo River was completed in 1963 in order to create Lake Burley Griffin. A viewing platform is located off Lady Denman Drive near the eastern edge of the dam.
Offers two lookouts of the greater Canberra area, though nearly everyone comes here to see a view of the rest of South Canberra. Vehicular access is available and a casual cafe style restaurant is at the peak. Unfortunately, the trees may block the view, but if so, walk a few metres back and you'll get a better view.
Historic house picturing life in Canberra in the early days of the territory.
This swimming pool was built in art deco style and opened in 1930.
A family recreation park in Weston Park featuring a 36-hole mini-golf layout built around scaled models of Canberra landmarks. Additional attractions include a miniature railway circuit, a walk-in outdoor maze, an animal petting farm, and a cafe operated out of historic train carriages.
A dedicated short-game practice facility featuring an 18-hole pitch and putt short course, an 18-hole outdoor mini-golf layout, and a two-story driving range equipped with night lighting. Includes a large on-site retail pro shop.
An 18-hole par 69 public golf course featuring tree-lined fairways, light bunkers, and water hazards. The facility operates without strict dress codes or member-only bookings, allowing open access to social players daily. Facilities include a golf shop, equipment hire, and cart rentals.
An 18-hole par 72 inland championship course located on the slopes of Red Hill. The layout features undulating fairways, heavy bushland surrounds with resident wildlife, and a full pro shop. Social play hours are available throughout the week alongside a public restaurant.
formerly Canberra Golf Club
Formed in 1926, it is one of the oldest golf clubs in Canberra. Its original grounds were behind the Hotel Canberra on the river flats on both sides of the Molonglo River.
The wetlands and the area surrounding this wetlands are an important spot due to the large array of different wildlife. There are many bushwalking trails and if you're into fishing, it's surprisingly permitted (though you're not allowed to catch certain fish).
A boat cruise operator on Lake Burley Griffin offering private charters, themed social cruises, and group scenic tours. The fleet includes the 'Maid Marion' (a 35-passenger catamaran with indoor and outdoor decks, a sound system, and climate control) and the 'Cygnet' (a smaller, quiet electric boat hosting up to 10 passengers for intimate gatherings). Private charters feature full BYO food and beverage flexibility with on-board barbecue facilities.
A casual watercraft rental service located at Lotus Bay on the southern side of Lake Burley Griffin. The club rents out Hobie Wave resort-style catamarans (no sailing experience required), RS Quest dinghies (for experienced sailors), and stand-up paddleboards. All hires include lifejackets. Operations are weather-dependent and may close during excessive or insufficient winds.
A self-drive electric boat rental service operating from the Kingston Foreshore on Lake Burley Griffin. The picnic-style watercraft accommodate up to eight passengers and feature a central built-in table layout. No marine license or prior boating experience is required to pilot the vessels, which operate via simple low-speed steering controls. Safety equipment and life jackets are provided on-site, and dogs are permitted on board.
Temporarily suspended. An eco-friendly tour company offering quiet historical sightseeing and morning tea cruises aboard all-electric vessels. Under normal circumstances, the company runs daily tours from mid-September through to mid-May. All public cruises are temporarily offline while the operator undergoes extensive maintenance following a vessel incident.
A watercraft rental service operating from the northern edge of Lake Burley Griffin, a short walk south of the city centre. The fleet features four-passenger pedal boats and ten-passenger self-drive electric boats equipped with fully enclosed overhead canopies, Bluetooth speakers, and internal cooling storage. No marine or boating licence is required to pilot the electric watercraft. Secondary pick-up points also operate out of Commonwealth Place and the Kingston Foreshore.
Open seasonally from October to April for group bookings of 10 to 28 people. A lakeside aquatic hire service based at the YMCA Sailing Club on Yarralumla Bay. Offers two-hour sessions using a fleet of single kayaks, double kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs).
Axxe - Urban Axe Throwing
It's a rather niche thing that you probably wouldn't usually think of doing daily, learn to throw steel axes onto wooden targets. Over 18s only, and bookings highly recommended.
The Manuka Oval hosts the Prime Minister's XI match, an annual match where a team consisting Australian cricketers picked by the country's prime minister plays against an overseas touring team. Since 2008, Manuka has held international cricket matches sporadically. Has a capacity of 13,500.
High quality Turkish at a reasonable price, no alcohol allowed on premises. Absolutely delicious and very generous kebab rolls - local favourite. Takeaway available.
A budget cafe with an all day breakfast and a reasonable lunch range. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options are fairly limited, but there are a few on the menu.
Swiss owner, nice pastries made on premises. Includes a reasonably sized and decorative indoor and outdoor seating area.
Good breakfast, however almost always very crowded - expect 'attitude' instead of service. They also have a dedicated cheese room.
A fine-dining restaurant particularly known for its food as well as its wine and cocktail program. Steak is a popular meal to have at this restaurant.
Consistently awarded best Turkish in Australia, great atmosphere.
Consistently excellent food, extensive winelist and BYO (bring your own) are accepted. Great atmosphere, romantic rear indoor courtyard.
East/West fusion of great repute.
Offers daily buffet dinners in its restaurant from 6PM and high teas from 3 to 5PM. It is one of Canberra's most high-end cafes, and offers a very different experience to other cafes in Canberra.
One of the few fine dining restaurants in Canberra, this one with a large waterfront view of Lake Burley Griffin, with a mix of several Australian dishes, with some good wine too.
Large microbrewery with outdoor seating and dedicated areas for kids to play.
Located perched right on the water's edge along the bustling Kingston Foreshore.
Durham Pub
British-style pub.
One of Canberra's longest-running pubs. Once notorious for being rough, it has long since been transformed into a safe venue On its upper levels, the pub still maintains bare-bones backpackers accommodation, though it is usually occupied by long-term tenants.
Large upscale lakeside pub.
Located inside the historic Old Parliament House. This heritage bar was once strictly restricted to parliamentarians and their guests.
Art deco-themed restaurant and bar.
Located inside the Hyatt Hotel Canberra
Formerly known as Southside Village, this holiday park offers a relaxed budget-friendly base right on the boundary of Fyshwick. Accommodation ranges from powered caravan and camping sites to self-contained two-bedroom cabins equipped with private bathrooms, kitchens, and air conditioning. On-site facilities include a children's playground, BBQ facilities, guest laundry, and a recreation room with Wi-Fi. Located just off Canberra Avenue, on the southern border of Fyshwick.
A budget-friendly hotel offering 207 rooms ranging from standard hotel rooms to two-bedroom apartments. Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a gym, and complimentary guest parking. The on-site Bar 203 and Restaurant 203 serve daily breakfast and casual dinners. Adjacent to the Canberra Public Golf Course.
A 4-star apartment hotel containing 63 rooms equipped with private kitchenettes and standard room amenities. The property welcomes pets for an additional fee and offers immediate walking access to the local commercial and dining precinct. A short walk from the central Kingston shops and 400 metres from the Canberra Railway Station.
Established in 1927, this heritage hotel features red-brick, neo-Georgian architecture. On-site facilities include the Hale Gym & Spa wellness centre. Guests have immediate walking access to the adjacent Realm Precinct's restaurants and bars. Set on two and a half acres of gardens on the edge of the Parliamentary Triangle.
A family-owned 3-star property offering 75 motel-style rooms alongside 40 one- and two-bedroom serviced apartments equipped with full kitchens. Features an outdoor BBQ area, discounted tennis court hire, free guest parking, and the Sherwood restaurant.
formerly Best Western Plus Garden City Hotel
A 4.5-star motel-style property located away from the city centre. Facilities include an outdoor pool, a gym, and free undercover parking. The on-site Secret Garden Bar & Restaurant is open daily for breakfast and Monday through Thursday for dinner. Located near the Jerrabomberra wetlands, a car is highly recommended for transit.
Opening two years after the Hotel Canberra, the Kurrajong is venerable but much smaller than and not quite as grand as its competitor on the other side of Parliament. This, too, was a firm favorite with politicians: most memorably, Prime Minister Ben Chifley chose to stay here instead of the official Lodge, and even passed away in room 205 in 1951. Each of the Kurrajong’s 26 rooms have King size beds, mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities, in-room safe, free in-house movies.
A 5-star design hotel that prioritises compact, smart-luxury guest rooms. All 120 rooms are identical in layout, featuring a wall-to-wall super-king bed, a rain shower, and a smart TV. Public amenities include a shared guest library and a rooftop lounge.
Self-contained one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments with full kitchens and laundry facilities. Features a solar-heated outdoor swimming pool, barbecue facilities, and a standard gym. Note that the building does not have elevators/lifts; the three- and four-bedroom options are located on the second floor and require climbing stairs.
A modern apartment hotel featuring 85 self-contained rooms, including larger family configurations. Rooms are equipped with laundry machines and kitchenettes. The hotel is pet-friendly by prior arrangement (fees apply) and has a ground-floor convenience pantry. Located on the perimeter of the Capital Public Golf Course.
formerly The Diplomat Hotel
A boutique-style 4.5-star hotel offering 105 guest rooms and specialty spa suites. Amenities include a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, an indoor gym, and the on-site Diplomat Bar & Grill, which is open daily for breakfast and dinner.
formerly Rydges Capital Hill
An upscale hotel featuring large rooms and suites built around an atrium. Amenities include an indoor swimming pool, a gym, a sauna, and the on-site George Bar and George Grill restaurant.
A contemporary apartment hotel offering studios and self-contained one- and two-bedroom apartments with full kitchens and laundry. Features family-specific "Kids Studios" equipped with bunk beds and play areas. On-site dining options include Agostini's Italian restaurant and Joe's Bar.
The closest Canberra gets to a grand old hotel. First opened in 1924 as "Hostel No. 1" to house politicians visiting Parliament. After extensive renovations and extensions, it became Canberra's first five-star hotel when Hyatt adopted it into its flagship Park Hyatt collection in 1988. Low-rise and diminutive from the outside, it's surprisingly grand inside, with 1920s Art Deco style throughout and an airy lounge offering high tea by day and craft cocktails by night. Plush, spacious guest rooms branch off to the back, and there's a well-equipped gym with pool, hot tub and sauna in a dedicated building across the road.
A modern 5-star hotel offering standard rooms, spa suites, and serviced apartments. Facilities include the on-site Hale Gym & Spa, indoor pool, and direct access to several premium dining and beverage venues located within the commercial precinct courtyard. Located inside the Realm Precinct, near Parliament House.
A spacious single-storey outlet mall with 124 stores, primarily brand-specific ones.
Not surprisingly given the venue, this store stocks an excellent range of Australian books. The price range tends to be a bit higher than other places, but it's worth for the range found here.
A medium-sized independent bookstore with a good range. Popular with journalists and politicians.
The National Portrait Gallery's store stocks a large range of recently-released art and non-fiction books and is very popular with Canberrans.
As the name would suggest, the markets are in a rundown bus depot that is no longer in use. Most of the stalls sell a wide variety quality arts and crafts, with a few food and produce stalls in the mix. There is often live music being played and occasionally they run theme days to keep the markets interesting.
Fyshwick Markets
Fresh produce, including fruit, vegetables, meat and fish. Sunday afternoons are a good time to pick up some bargains.
By bus
Being near the centre of the city, South Canberra has several ACTION rapid buses that run through it and it can get confusing.
By train
If you're visiting Canberra by train, Canberra Railway Station is in Burke Crescent, Kingston and all trains that come to Canberra come here, making it the only part of Canberra to have a railway…
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