Keytours Vacations logo

Details for Canberra

Home / Australia / Canberra
Discover Canberra's Wonders
Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is a vibrant hub of culture, art, and politics, surrounded by picturesque nature reserves and showcasing iconic national monuments and museums.
Current Weather
55.54 °F - Clear Min/Max: 53.69 °F / 58.37 °FFeels: 53.85 °F Humidity: 65%5 Day Forecast

Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Description

With almost half a million inhabitants, Canberra is one of the world’s few planned cities. Canberra is a city in a park with golden autumn leaves and glorious spring blooms. Surrounded by native bush land, Canberra is perfect for getting back to nature. Following the Federation in 1901, Canberra was chosen as a site for the national capital. The initial design for Canberra was the work of a Chicago architect, Walter Burley Griffin, with wide, tree-lined avenues and spacious open parklands. Many national institutions and monuments are located close to the shores of Lake Burley Griffin — the focal point of the city. The city enjoys four distinct seasons and visitors will get a different experience depending on the time of year they choose to visit. It is close to the mountains and native bushland and is often referred to as ‘the bush capital’. Originally a public service town, the national capital is now also a major university and research centre with an emphasis on high technology industries.

Useful information
Population:

466,566

Currency:

Australian Dollar (AUD) $1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

Dial 'Triple Zero' for Ambulance, Police or Fire: 000

Opening Hours:

Many shops are open seven days a week (except Christmas Day and Good Friday) from 9am and 5:30pm although hours vary. On Friday nights shops are open until 9pm.

Do & See
Australian War Memorial

Australian War Memorial

Australian War Memorial

The Australian war memorial serves both as a memorial to Australians who served their country and as a military museum. The building, roughly shaped like a Byzantine church, is a revered national shrine.

Caving at Wee Jasper Caves

Caving at Wee Jasper Caves

Caving at Wee Jasper Caves

Are you ready to get a little dirty? Explore the Wee Jasper Caves near Canberra for a different and thrilling experience. As you descend into darkness, you will be able to see rays of sunlight slowly getting thinner. Wee Jasper Caves are known for their peculiar limestone features and they are sure to take your breath away. Sometimes you can catch an underground concert or a workshop here.

Floriade — Australia’s biggest celebration of spring

Floriade — Australia’s biggest celebration of spring

Floriade — Australia’s biggest celebration of spring

The Floriade is an annual event in Canberra that celebrates spring. Visit Commonwealth Park and a rough estimate of one million flowers in bloom with integrated sculptures and other artistic features. Wander around in the park and enjoy all the colours at this world-class festival.

Hot Air Ballooning over Canberra

Hot Air Ballooning over Canberra

Hot Air Ballooning over Canberra

Soar up into the skies above the Australian capital and see its top attractions below as you slowly drift through the air on board a graceful hot air balloon. Memories made during the experience will last a lifetime.

Lake Burley Griffin

Lake Burley Griffin

Lake Burley Griffin

Explore this artificial lake either by walking or cycling the many pathways around the lake shore or take a boat cruise. It's popular with fans of rowing, sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding or fishing. 40km shoreline is dotted with cafes and restaurants.

Lennox Gardens

Lennox Gardens

Lennox Gardens

Lennox Gardens is a beautiful find on the south side of Lake Burley Griffin. It is home to the Beijing Garden and Canberra Nara Peace Park, both featuring sculptures and lovingly maintained plants. Every October, the gardens host the Canberra Nara Candle Festival.

Mount Ainslie

Mount Ainslie

Mount Ainslie

Get one of Canberra's best views from Mount Ainslie, a hill with an elevation of 843 metres (2,766 ft). The trail begins at the Australian War Memorial. Drive, walk or bike up the mountain for a spectacular view during the day or a beautiful sunset.

National Arboretum Canberra

National Arboretum Canberra

National Arboretum Canberra

The National Arboretum Canberra maintains 94 forests of rare, endangered and symbolic trees from Australia and around the world. All 20 kilometres of walking and cycling tracks are at your service. Don't miss the living artworks in the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection. You can take guided bus and walking tours, spend some time monkeying around the whimsical POD Playground, recharge batteries at the café or restaurant.

Dining
Chairman & Yip

Chairman & Yip

Chairman & Yip

With its innovative menu, Chairman and Yip is blending Asian and Western flavors. The restaurant is located in the heart of Canberra and has received many awards over the years. Make sure to leave room for the delicious desserts.

Courgette

Courgette

Courgette

This gorgeous restaurant owned by the celebrated chef James Mussillon offers you a brilliant Modern European dining experience in a luxurious space overlooking a walled garden. The creative combinations and the superb cellar of vintage Australian wines make this a popular choice. Order a la carte of go for a multi-course degustation.

Eightysix North

Eightysix North

Eightysix North

Eightysix is an upscale yet unpretentious Modern Australian restaurant in Braddon with an open kitchen. There are no paper menus since the options change so frequently.

Flavours Of Ethiopia

Flavours Of Ethiopia

Flavours Of Ethiopia

The spicy traditional Ethiopian dishes will bring a touch of exotic flavours to your dining experience. Take the chance to try some traditional Ethiopian bread, Injera, or Ethiopian coffee. The vegan and vegetarian options are fantastic and just as delicious as the meat options, so no one will miss out.

Indian Affair Restaurant

Indian Affair Restaurant

Indian Affair Restaurant

This restaurant is said to have the best Indian food in Australia and has won a few awards over the years. Indian Affair restaurant welcomes you to a warm atmosphere with friendly staff that will serve you with a smile.

Little Istanbul

Little Istanbul

Little Istanbul

Try a genuine Turkish meze and mains at Little Istanbul, a sparklingly modern restaurant in Greenway. The restaurant has a wide range of dishes and flavours on its menu, it can be hard to choose which one to try. Sharing dishes to get the most out of the experience is recommended.

Mezzalira

Mezzalira

Mezzalira

Pizzas straight from the wood-fired oven, antipasti, and a range of delicious handmade pasta make this an ideal location for a casual meal at reasonable prices. Mezzalira has truly brought the Italian cuisine to Canberra.

Rubicon

Rubicon

Rubicon

Rubicon is located in the centre of Griffith Shopping Centre and serves Modern Australian meals in a cosy atmosphere under the soft illumination of fairy lights. Try anything from sashimi, pork and manchego croquette, to the beef rib eye and the duck fat roasted potatoes with autumn greens. Crack the crust on a creme brulee while you're at it.

Cafes
Bookplate

Bookplate

Bookplate

Located inside the National Library, Bookplate is the perfect spot for coffee and cake after touring the lake or the national institutions close by. Sit back and watch the world go by as you enjoy a cup of excellent coffee and a delightful meal.

Močan & Green Grout

Močan & Green Grout

Močan & Green Grout

Močan & Green Grout is a stylish, retro-chic cafe in New Acton with inventive meals cooked in an open kitchen. The outdoor space is outdoor space is drowning wall-to-wall in greenery. Finish your meal with a deep chocolaty fair-trade espresso.

My Cafe Manuka

My Cafe Manuka

My Cafe Manuka

My Cafe serves Modern Australian food breakfast (all-day) and lunch. Sit out on the pavement and watch the passing parade that is busy at all times of the day.

Patissez

Patissez

Patissez

Patissez in Manuka has been instagrammed and loved by tourists and locals alike. They serve absolutely outstanding breakfast food. Guests are raving about their zucchini and corn fritters, chilli funghi and sensational milkshakes.

Penny University Cafe

Penny University Cafe

Penny University Cafe

Penny University has an eclectic aesthetic, outstanding coffee and serves local produce with a globally inspired twist. The name comes from the term used to describe first coffee houses in London back in the 17th century. Penny U aspires to keep the tradition going by creating a unique environment for the sharing of ideas and conversation. Start your day in good company and try their Middle Eastern Bruschetta for breakfast.

Silo Bakery

Silo Bakery

Silo Bakery

Silo Bakery is a cute bakery with a few bistro tables. It offers a wonderful selection of artisanal bread and pastries, along with a walk-in fridge stocked with delectable cheese. Come here for breakfast and lunch, or just a coffee break.

Stand By Me

Stand By Me

Stand By Me

Stand By Me is a cosy café bathed in sunlight that will treat you to the warmest and friendliest brunch. The menu is a multicultural mix that ranges from okonomiyaki pancake to Egyptian-style ful — a stew of cooked fava beans served with vegetable oil, herbs and spices. Be sure to order the French toast special, which changes weekly.

Sweet Bones

Sweet Bones

Sweet Bones

Sweet Bones is a boutique cafe and bakery with a rebellious look, organic vegan cakes, breakfast and brunch dishes. Their menu is entirely vegan and features blueberry pancakes, Tex Mex burritos, breakfast burgers and smoothie bowls.

Bars & Nightlife
ANU Union Bar

ANU Union Bar

ANU Union Bar

Australian National University (ANU) Union Bar is a very popular place for students and off-campus folks. This is a great place to relax with friends and play pool. The crowd is, predictably, on the younger side.

Bentspoke Brewing Co.

Bentspoke Brewing Co.

Bentspoke Brewing Co.

Bentspoke is a microbrewery and tap house which has been twice crowned Best Australian Small Brewer. They are not afraid of bending the rules of how beer and cider should be made, so get your taste buds ready for a flavourful journey.

Casino Canberra

Casino Canberra

Casino Canberra

Casino Canberra has everything for prime entertainment. With its 40 gaming tables with roulette, blackjack, poker and keno in a laid-back atmosphere there is plenty to choose from if you are in a gaming mood. The casino has two excellent bars for enjoying a cold beer and relaxing.

Hippo Co

Hippo Co

Hippo Co

Hippo C is he quintessential whisky and cocktail experience in Canberra. Huge selection, innovative seasonal cocktails and experienced bar staff will guide you through an educational and fun whiskey tasting. Every Wednesday evening, Hippo Co presents live jazz and blues, and hosts some of the best jazz musicians from Australia and around the world.

Joe's Bar

Joe's Bar

Joe's Bar

Joe’s Bar is a bar and an Italian restaurant, where both food and drink are treated with utmost care. Start with antipasti, move on to the lasagne, and the burrata. Foremost, Joe's is an intimate place to gather, experience and engage with family and friends, new and old.

King O'Malley's Irish Pub

King O'Malley's Irish Pub

King O'Malley's Irish Pub

A wide selection of Australian and International beers accompanied by great pub food await visitors to King O'Malley's. In this busy, noisy but convivial pub atmosphere the friendly staff will take good care of you.

Molly

Molly

Molly

Molly, a 1920s speakeasy in Civic, is hidden within Hobart Place, behind an unmarked wooden door and down a dark staircase. The bar is seriously well equipped with the widest choice of spirits. Their scotch range is splendid, from good old classics to exquisite aged ones. A charcuterie board and an old-school Negroni is always a winning combination.

Mooseheads Pub & Nightclub

Mooseheads Pub & Nightclub

Mooseheads Pub & Nightclub

With four unique levels playing a selection of R&B, Chart, Dance, Old School and just a touch of the heavier club sounds, you will find one that fits your taste in music and style. Each floor has its very own bar to cater to your needs. The nightclub is one of the hottest late night party venues around. Come here during the day for some decent pub grub and a pint.

Shopping
Art Store at the National Gallery

Art Store at the National Gallery

Art Store at the National Gallery

The Shop at the National Gallery of Australia range of inspirational and contemporary art products and books, including items produced exclusively for the museum. Find beautifully printed books that cover everything from art to fashion to interiors to architecture, and lots more besides. All purchases support the Gallery. Contactless payment only, no cash.

Bisonhome

Bisonhome

Bisonhome

Bisonhome is a ceramic workshop in Pialligo where you can buy beautiful, handcrafted ceramics for the kitchen, dining, and living room. They are made with modern designs and come in a gorgeous range of colours.

Bungendore Wood Works Gallery

Bungendore Wood Works Gallery

Bungendore Wood Works Gallery

Bungendore Wood Works Gallery exhibits Australian wood art, sculpture, home decor items and modern furniture by the country's leading designer. Here you can buy beautifully designed gifts. The gallery is located 35 kilometres east of Canberra.

Canberra Centre

Canberra Centre

Canberra Centre

Canberra Centre is the ultimate destination for fashion and lifestyle. There are an outstanding collection of Australian and International fashion labels here and over 260 specialty stores. Stores you will find here are for example David Jones, Target, Apple, Zara, David Lawrence, Laura Ashley, G-Star Raw, and many more.

Canberra Outlet Centre

Canberra Outlet Centre

Canberra Outlet Centre

This shopping centre is home to over 100 leading Australian and international brands. It offers discounts of up to 70% off normal retail prices and contains ladies' and men's fashion, children's wear, footwear, handbags, jewellery, accessories and sporting goods.

Capital Region Farmers Market

Capital Region Farmers Market

Capital Region Farmers Market

The Capital Region Farmers Market is Canberra's best source of fresh organic produce. More than 100 local farmers set up stalls every Saturday at Exhibition Park. You will find everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to flowers, honey, baked goods, smoked meats, eggs and dairy products. Grab a coffee to-go and explore the planet-friendly offerings.

Country Road

Country Road

Country Road

For over 40 years, Country Road has designed lovely products for an authentically Australian way of life for women, men, and children. Their passion is creating beautiful and sustainable products that are made to last.

Handmade Canberra

Handmade Canberra

Handmade Canberra

At Handmade Canberra you can find stylish, unique and exceptional handcrafted designs made by local and interstate designers. This is a great place to buy funky Canberra souvenirs. The market regularly attracts over 20,000 visitors. See the official website for latest dates.

Tourist Information
Canberra Airport (CBR)

Canberra Airport (CBR)

Canberra Airport (CBR)

Canberra Airport is located 7 kilometres east of the city centre. There are no direct flights to international destinations, but there are direct connections to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide. The Airport Express shuttle "Bus route Rapid 3" operates from the airport to the city centre. The trip takes about 20 minutes. Buses leave every 15 minutes on weekdays and every 30 minutes on weekends. If you are going skiing, Snow Connect specialises in Airport transfers from Canberra to Thredbo, Canberra Airport to Jindabyne, and Canberra Airport to Perisher. Taxis are available at all times of the day from the front of the Terminal. Passengers can choose from six different car rental companies. Approximate fare can be found on the airport's website.

Public Transport

Public Transport

Public Transport

ACTION is Canberra's public bus service, which covers most tourist sites and suburbs. On the bus you can pay with the prepaid MyWay smartcard or cash. The Canberra light rail operates between Gungahlin Place and Canberra City, travelling along Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue. With Greyhound (www.greyhound.com.au), there are also regular bus services that operate from Canberra to Sydney about 3–3.5 hours by dual carriage highway. The bus terminal is located in the Jolimont Centre, 61 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra City.

Taxi

Taxi

Taxi

Uber, Ola, DiDi, Shebah and GoCatch ridesharing apps are used in Canberra. You can also phone for a taxi, hire one from a stand or flag one down in the street. It is advisable to check prices before jumping in a taxi, and do not forget to add the per kilometre fare depending on time of day, vehicle type and number of passengers. You can call Australia’s national taxi booking phone number — 131 008. Alternatively, call ACT Cabs Canberra Taxi taxis directly.

Electricity

Electricity

Electricity

Australia operates on a 230/240V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. The country uses Type I power plugs, which feature two flat pins forming a 'V' shape, along with a grounding pin. This standard is also commonly used in New Zealand, Argentina, China, and several Pacific island nations. Remember to pack a universal adapter if your devices use a different plug type to ensure hassle-free charging.

Pharmacy

Pharmacy

Pharmacy

In Canberra, and Australia more broadly, there are several major pharmacy chains where you can pick up over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, personal care items, and more. The major pharmacy chains are Chemist Warehouse, TerryWhite Chemmart, Priceline Pharmacy, Amcal, Blooms The Chemist and Capital Chemist. It's always worth checking the opening hours as these can vary, especially on weekends and public holidays.

Postal Service

Postal Service

Postal Service

Post offices are located throughout the city and in suburban shopping centres. Stamps are also available from newsagents. If you want to mail letters, look for red post boxes around town.

Telephone

Telephone

Telephone

Country code: +61 Area code: (0)2

Vacation Planner Banner