Canberra Hotels

So listen up. It’s time to book yourself Canberra accommodation and prepare to whoop it up in the Bush Capital. Yes, that’s right—in addition to being a hub for culture and politics, Canberra is surrounded by enough natural reserves and forestry to earn itself the title of Bush Capital. So how should you divide your time in this diverse destination? Don’t stop reading now—we’re about to dive in!

Captivating Canberra

There’s more that you can do in the capital city than things that you can’t. We’d say Canberra is aptly named, wouldn’t you? Eat, drink and be merry in this southern destination. Of course, you’ll have to remain somewhat dignified, seeing as how the center of the nation’s government is here. Because it’s a political hub, Canberra is home to:

• The Parliament of Australia: This is where the magic happens. Or at least where decisions are slowly made. You can tour Parliament building, built in 1988, and view historic documents during your trip.
• Museum of Australian Democracy: From 1927 to 1988, this building was the House of Parliament; today, the museum within its walls holds heaps of treasures. Tour the rooms once used to form Australian democracy, and see the chairs once sat in by important members of government.
• Australian War Memorial: You can pay homage to current and past members of the armed forces at the national memorial. Exhibitions, outdoor memorials and an aircraft hall are all open to the public.

Once you’ve sufficiently satiated your appetite for history (mmmm, it goes down like vegemite toast), it’s time to play outside. You’ve saved big on Canberra holiday packages with Wotif, so how about doing a cartwheel in Commonwealth Park? Near some of the best Canberra hotels you’ll find opportunities to bike, hike, and frolic outdoors. Yes, frolic.

• Centenary Trail: This 145km loop trail is perfect for joggers, photographers and cyclists. You’ll weave through secluded rural terrain and more populated regions. To walk the entire thing would take seven days, but you can certainly tackle the stretch in the nation’s capital and then retire to accommodation in Canberra to recharge.
• Canberra Air Space: In March, the Canberra Balloon Festival lights up the sky with bright nylon airships. If you want to get a bird’s-eye view of city landmarks any month of the year, embarking on a hot air balloon ride is the perfect way to do it. Barf bags optional.
• Lake Burley Griffin: Get your feet wet (no, really) when you visit Lake Burley Griffin. Swimming, kayaking and rowing are all on the activity menu.

What, you thought you would go straight from your outdoor excursion to a Sunshine Coast accommodation? Pshhh, you need to stop off for a beer and a bite or you’re not enjoying Canberra to the fullest.

• Dining: Locally sourced produce and innovative recipes collide in Canberra, and your taste buds get to reap the benefits. As for your waistline, well…you can always buy bigger pants. Sink your teeth into divine dishes in award-winning North Quarter restaurants, or explore the world of hip eateries outside the CBD. Central American food, Italian cuisine and cosmopolitan coffee bars are at your fingertips—literally!
• Drinking: So you have a taste for fine wine? You’re in luck! You can get tipsy with your pinky in the air (like a classy person) at Eden Road Wines or Helm Wines. If you’re after hops, grab a stool at a local brewery and order a cold one. Baldwin Distilling Company, Tortured Gum Brewery and others are waiting with open arms.

Take Time to Relax

All right, so we’ve sold you on a holiday, have we? Excuse us while we pat ourselves on the back…while we’re doing that, you can use this time to consider the best places to stay in Canberra. From high-rise, upscale accommodation to hotels near the top attractions, there is a place for you to lay your head in just about any of the city’s 18 districts. Here are a few of the neighbourhoods you might want to check in to:

Canberra Central

This is where the action is. If you’re wondering what’s on, the answer is: One of everything. Divided into the Inner North and Inner South regions, the District of Canberra Central is close to the best attractions and monuments. The National Gallery, Telstra Tower and Albert Hall are all within its bounds. What’s more, you’ll also find Lake Burley Griffin within grasp. In short, hotels in Canberra Central are always a good bet.

If you’re looking for Canberra hotel deals away from the fray, consider booking a place in Gold Creek Village, where galleries and boutiques beckon you to slow down for a bit. If you stay in this northern neighbourhood, you’re also within a short distance of places such as the Canberra Reptile Zoo and Cockington Green Gardens. A little birdie told us you should visit the Canberra Walk-In Aviary in this part of the city, and we say you should go for it.

So you want the chance to a bit off the grid? If you’re angling for more fresh air than modern amenities, stay in the Molonglo Valley. The newest region of the city, this district also offers prime access to the region’s natural beauty. Expect mountain views, bike paths and the Stromlo Forest Park in your backyard. Plus, you’re only 10km from the centre of town—so a cuppa or shopping excursion is never too far away. You are on holiday, after all. A retail splurge or two wouldn’t kill you.

So that settles it! An adventure in Canberra awaits, and you’re ready to take the plunge. Go ahead, book your hotels and activities with Wotif today. Sorry, you can’t bring home a koala from the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, but you can gulp down a few glasses of wine and have yourself a jolly good time bounding through the CBD like a kangaroo. So you’ll still have a holiday to remember.

Need insider tips on must-see attractions in Canberra? Check out our Canberra travel guide!