
Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © EventsACT
3 days in Canberra
Canberra makes for a perfect short break full of food, culture, history and outdoor activity.
By Leah Dobihal
Trip Overview
3 days | Car | 33km (20mi)
- Learn about Australian history, politics and culture at some of the best museums and galleries in the country
- Get outdoors to explore nearby national parks and Lake Burley Griffin
- Explore a sophisticated dining scene and cool-climate wines
Day 1: Lake Burley Griffin and NewActon

GoBoat, Lake Burley Griffin, Australian Capital Territory © VisitCanberra
The heart of Canberra is Lake Burley Griffin, so get your bearings by spending the day discovering all the ways you can enjoy it.
Find the fun to be had on Lake Burley Griffin:
- Walk, cycle or even Segway one of three tracks around Lake Burley Griffin
- Hire a GoBoat for a unique picnic right on the water
- Stop by the National Carillon for a recital and let the kids run wild at Boundless
- Head to Verity Lane Market for dinner. With multiple venues here, everyone can pick their preferred cuisine
- End the evening with a nightcap at one of Canberra’s great bars
Find great places to stay in Canberra
Day 2: Explore the city’s icons

Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © Tourism Australia
Art lovers and history buffs will love exploring Canberra’s best museums, galleries and monuments.
Explore Australian art and culture in Canberra:
- Browse the faces of politicians, artists, athletes, royalty and more at the National Portrait Gallery
- If you have kids in tow, head to Questacon to learn about sound, light, force, biology, mathematics and space
- Historians will enjoy the free tours (every half-hour) at the Australian War Memorial
- Want to see Australia’s politics in action? Plan a visit to Parliament House
- A bit of an institution itself, book in for dinner at Monster Kitchen & Bar
Explore Canberra’s best restaurants
Day 3: National Arboretum and Braddon

Spend your last day in Canberra exploring more of the beautiful outdoors.
Get outside with these great experiences:
- Stroll through a sculpture gallery, wander beneath the treetops and browse a bonsai collection at the National Arboretum Canberra
- If you’re travelling with little ones, discover a little world at Cockington Green Gardens
- Take a foodie tour of Braddon to get the inside scoop on the latest additions to the culinary scene
- Learn about the Traditional Owners of the land and visit sacred sites with Dhawura Tours

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © Tourism Australia