Hot air balloons floating over a lake beneath a pastel sky, Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © Tourism Australia

Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © Tourism Australia


Day 1: Lake Burley Griffin and NewActon

The heart of Canberra is Lake Burley Griffin, so get your bearings by spending the day on and around the water.

Day 2: Canberra’s icons

As the nation’s capital city, Canberra has no shortage of must-visit icons. Art lovers and history buffs will love spending the day at the city’s best museums, memorials and galleries.

Day 3: National Arboretum and Braddon

Spend your final day in Canberra seeking out more of the outdoors, joining a cultural tour and digging into the suburban food scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

To get to Canberra from the United States, you'll first fly into a major Australian city such as Sydney or Melbourne, or connect via global hubs like Singapore, Doha, or Dubai. From there, you'll hop on a quick domestic flight to Canberra.

Travelling to Canberra from the United Kingdom usually involves a connecting flight through major international hubs such as Singapore, Doha, or Dubai, before continuing on to Sydney or Melbourne. From there, you'll hop on a quick domestic flight to Canberra.

Getting to Canberra from China typically involves flying into a major hub such as Sydney or Melbourne, either directly or via an international connection like Singapore. From there, it’s a quick domestic flight into Canberra, making it a smooth journey into Australia’s capital city.

Yes, Canberra has a great relaxed pace and plenty of interactive experiences for every member of the family. Kids will especially enjoy Questacon, which features hands-on science exhibits designed to be fun and engaging. Outdoor activities are also a highlight, from cycling or walking around Lake Burley Griffin to exploring open spaces at the National Arboretum Canberra.

With its relaxed atmosphere and a range of casual dining options like Verity Lane Market, Canberra is an easy and enjoyable city to explore with children, while still offering plenty for adults to experience along the way.

Getting around Canberra is easy, with many of the city’s key attractions located close to each other, particularly around Lake Burley Griffin. Walking and cycling are popular ways to explore this central area, with scenic paths linking major sights. For places a little further out, short drives or local transport can take you to spots like the National Arboretum Canberra, Mount Majura and the lively precinct of Braddon. Many galleries, museums and dining areas are also clustered within convenient distances, making it easy to explore at a relaxed pace.

Canberra is a wonderful year-round destination, but spring (September to November) is especially special thanks to events like Floriade, when the city comes alive with vibrant flowers and a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

Autumn (March to May) is another beautiful time to visit, with crisp air, golden and red leaves across the city and generally mild, comfortable weather that’s perfect for sightseeing and exploring at an easy pace.