Canberra

Situated in ACT, the Australian Capital Territory, Canberra is Australia’s capital and newest city. Specifically created for the purpose of running the country, Canberra is a tiny centre, stretching only 30 kms from east to west, yet it is home to some of Australia’s most important historical and cultural treasures. The diplomatic heartland of Australia, Canberra is home to the Australia seat of government, Parliament House, and a number of galleries, shops, museums and restaurants.

Most of the national attractions hug the shores of Lake Burley Griffin and the Parliamentary Triangle. It’s here that you’ll discover the delights of the many magnificent art, science and historical collections, as well as a number of intriguing exhibitions and interactive displays.

Canberra Facts

The largest inland city in Australia, this is a cosmopolitan centre and offers a high quality of living for its residents. Canberra is actually known as “bush capital” given the large areas of green parkland and open space that was built into the design of the city on its formation in 1911.

There is plenty to see and do here, with everything from national monuments and attractions, to a dynamic nightlife, gourmet cuisine and a wealth of sporting entertainment. Canberra boasts a myriad of events and festivals covering everything from fast cars, to folk music and flowers. Floriade is the largest flower festival in the southern hemisphere and each spring Canberra’s Commonwealth Park is transformed into a tapestry of colour with more than a million bulbs in bloom.

Surrounded by the state of New South Wales, Canberra is close to many fascinating sites and attractions. The nearby Canberra wine district is just a 20 minutes drive away, and home to the well-known Brindabella Hills, Pankhurst and Surveyor’s Hill labels. Further afield, the Lake George vignerons as produce a superb vintage.

Batemans Bay and the Canberra coastline makes for a great day out, with the charming galleries, craft shops, cafes and bakeries of the coastal towns providing plenty of distractions - not to mention the freshest fish and chips you’ll ever eat!

If you want to find out more about Canberra that we haven’t covered in our city guide, go to the Canberra tourist information site for an indepth look at the city’s sights.

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Canberra Balloon Fiesta. Courtesy of Tourism Australia

Parliament House. Courtesy of Tourism Australia

Lake Burley Griffin. Courtesy of Tourism Australia

National Museum of Australia. Courtesy of Tourism Australia