Canberra has been named third in Lonely Planet’s 2018 Best Tourist Cities of the Year. Do you want to know how Canberra‘s international goodness impressed the judges? The capital city is naturally living up to its reputation. Get ready for a surprise trip to Canberra that’s about to kick off.
Canberra Balloon Fiesta
Remember the fairytale world you pictured for yourself as a child? What could be better than a hot air balloon ride in Canberra on a crisp autumn day?
In March, hot air balloons worldwide will fill the Canberra skies. I also looked up and marvelled at the colourful hot air balloons rising from the lawns of Old Parliament House. You can book a ride with a hot air balloon company in advance and become a real hero of a colourful fairytale in the sky!
Museums and Galleries
Give yourself a break and set aside a day to explore Canberra’s top museums and galleries to your heart’s content. Start at the National Gallery of Australia (Parkes Pl E, Parkes). Then, head to the National Portrait Gallery (King Edward Tce, Parkes) for a taste of art. Explore the National Museum of Australia to get to know the country better, or the Science and Technology Museum (King Edward Tce, Parkes) for a different world of science. Parkes) to experience a different world of science.
Australian National University
The Australian National University is why many students come to Canberra. After all, we all know that ANU is ranked 20 in the QS World Rankings (although in other rankings, it is only 40 or 50). It is an open campus with an area of 150 hectares. The University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne’s areas are 72 hectares and 22.5 hectares, respectively. This campus is like a construction site that now has a new campus. So it’s not wrong to visit an excellent & beautiful university.
Parliament House
When you’re in Canberra, Parliament House is the first place you’ll want to visit. It is located in the centre of Canberra and is one of the most famous buildings in the world. My impression is that the exterior lines are simple, the interior is concise and clear, and there is no flashy feeling at all. I believe many partners for the name of Parliament House are not unfamiliar with the “Canberra boutique day trip” that must pass through the place.
Popularity: Parliament consists of two chambers. The lower House is responsible for enabling and enforcing legislation, while the Senate (Upper House) is responsible for approving legislation. The two chambers are seated in two different chambers in the Capitol building, with the Senate’s chamber being decorated primarily in red clay and the House of Representatives using green leafy colours. Both chambers are open to the public during question time. The only difference is that an appointment must be made by telephone to attend a Senate questioning session, whereas no appointment is required to attend a House questioning session. It is not allowed to take photos in the chamber.
National Gallery of Australia
The National Gallery of Australia is Australia’s pre-eminent art gallery, housing Australian, Aboriginal and Asian art treasures. If you’re an art lover, you’ll find endless fun here, with regular art exhibitions on various themes.
Braddon
If you want a classy urban experience, welcome to the Braddon District. Located just outside the CBD, the Braddon District has several trendy design, art and homeware shops such as Bisonhome (G14 / 27 Lonsdale St) and Hive (58/30 Lonsdale St). It’s also known for its food, don’t you believe me? Try Sonoma Bakery (1/21 Lonsdale St), Tipsy Bull (2/5 Lonsdale St) and Dessert Laboratory Frugii (57/30 Lonsdale St)!
Canberra Wineries
Canberra is every wine lover’s heart’s desire. It is dotted with vineyards, 140 vineyards, and 30 cellars, most less than 30 minutes drive from the city. Canberra produces pinot noir, merlot, shiraz, tempranillo and more, so there’s bound to be a wine to suit your taste. There’s no need for a chauffeur to get you around, with attentive local guides and tours available to help you sip and savour the wines while taking in the sights and sounds of the estates.
NewActon
Picturesque NewActon is Canberra’s most innovative cultural precinct, and you’re sure to be impressed with its excellent urban design and art, food and shopping. Visit the Nishi Grand Stair, built with thousands of timbers, for a perfect blend of vintage and modern. Enjoy a glass of local wine at the Cellar Door, or stop by the Mocan and Green Grout (1/19 Marcus Clarke St) for a rare brunch treat for lazy people.
Lake Griffin
How can you say you’ve been to Canberra without visiting Lake Griffin? Pick a sunny day, head out from the Confederation Bridge to walk around beautiful Lake Griffin, visit the Captain Cook Memorial Fountain and the National Clock Tower, and finish the 5km stroll at the Kings Road Bridge. If you’re tired, take a break at Bookplate Café in the National Library of Australia for a delicious cup of coffee.
Coffee
For Australians, coffee is not just a drink. It’s a habit and a passion, and Canberra has a thriving coffee culture. Canberra’s coffee culture is thriving. Ona (4 Palmerston Ln), a coffee house run by a world-champion barista, and Highroad (Cnr Cape & Woolley St, Dickson) will serve you a steaming coffee and a delicious breakfast. Have a cup of coffee and feel good all day long!
Stargazing at the Observatory
The most romantic thing I can think of is stargazing with you. Canberra’s low pollution levels and clear skies create ideal conditions for exploring the universe. One of the best places to do it is Mount Stromlo Observatory, home to the Australian National University’s Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics. The Observatory hosts regular stargazing parties. So come and explore the vastness of the universe and have a romantic rendezvous with the stars.
FAQ
Canberra offers a plethora of iconic attractions including Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia, and the Australian War Memorial. These sites provide an insight into Australia’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Absolutely! The National Museum of Australia is a treasure trove of Australian social history. Its exhibits offer a deep dive into the country’s past, from its indigenous heritage to its colonial history and contemporary culture.
Canberra is home to several stunning natural attractions. Lake Burley Griffin, nestled in the city’s heart, offers beautiful views and recreational activities. Mount Ainslie Lookout and the Australian National Botanic Gardens are also must-see spots for nature lovers.
Lake Burley Griffin is a popular spot for boating, cycling, and walking. You can also enjoy bushwalking and wildlife spotting at Namadgi National Park, located just outside the city.
While Canberra itself doesn’t host any, the nearby Australian Convict Sites, including the Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area on Norfolk Island, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
