What to do in Canberra

Activities, attractions and tours

Parliament House which includes landscape views and an administrative building
Canberra
Parliament House which includes an administrative building
Acton featuring a city and modern architecture
Canberra

Canberra Tourist Attractions & Activities

Canberra isn’t just the capital city of Australia and home to its best cultural and historic sites. It’s also gorgeous, nestled at the foot of Australia’s highest alpine peaks alongside a pristine mountain lake. Plus, it’s smack in the middle of wine country. Suffice it to say, if you’ve never been to your country’s capital, you are missing out. There are tons of things to do in Canberra, from easygoing strolls through museums and gardens to action-packed adventures that will have you flying high in the sky—literally. Locals know that Canberra is small but mighty; it’s easy to get around and has plenty of wide open spaces. Whether you are one of those friendly folks or are just visiting, Expedia.com.au has your plans for the next few days covered.

What to Do in Canberra

This city has all the incredible museums and menageries you would expect of a capital. The National Zoo and Aquarium is the only place in the country to combine the two, so you get double the fun. They have loads of animal encounters available, including cheetahs and their world-famous white lions. Or take the Zooventure tour and hand-feed lions, tigers, and bears—oh my! If you prefer a different way to get your adrenaline going, visit the Australian Institute of Sport to see where the top athletes train, then see explosive demonstrations at Questacon, Canberra's National Science and Technology Centre. And for true museum lovers, the National Museum of Australia can’t be missed.

Wait, didn’t we mention flying? Canberra tourist attractions certainly aren’t limited to looking at things on display in museums. Rise above it all on a hot air balloon flight and get a different look at Canberra’s landmarks. From up here, Lake Burley Griffin and the Parliament House look like small specks. After that, you may find yourself in need of a libation or two. Day trips into the surrounding wine country are easy to come by, and with over 140 wineries, you’re sure to find something you like. For those who like their drinks caffeinated, Canberra has a buzzing café scene as well. It is even home to a former World Barista Champion. Pretty neat.

You won’t need too much caffeine to browse all the great offers here on Expedia.com.au. Our easy-to-use site and booking tools make it a cinch to plan your Canberra holiday, from flights and hotels to awesome activities for all ages. When you’ve got Expedia.com.au as your travel partner, you can breathe easy.


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Most fun & popular experiences in Canberra

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What to do in Canberra


Discover the most popular places to visit in Canberra

Explore areas of Canberra

Australian War Memorial showing a memorial and flowers

Canberra City Centre

4/5(1,992 area reviews)

The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Canberra City Centre. A stop by Canberra Museum and Gallery or Canberra Theatre Centre might round out your trip.

Canberra City Centre
Kingston which includes a bridge and modern architecture

Kingston

The buildings of this foreshore, once a Canberra industrial hub, have been transformed into a welcoming urban lakeside community.

Kingston
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Braddon

Abundant dining options and relaxing spas are well-reviewed features of Braddon. Make a stop by top sights like Canberra Contemporary Art Space while you're exploring the area.

Braddon
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Queanbeyan

Visitors to Queanbeyan enjoy its bars, and if you want to do some exploring, The Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre is worth a stop.

Queanbeyan
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Belconnen

Unique features of Belconnen include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Bimbi Beach or Bargang while you're exploring the area.

Belconnen
Australian War Memorial showing a memorial and flowers

Northern Canberra

4/5(1 area review)

Northern Canberra is known for its popular shops, and with sights like Canberra Museum and Gallery and Civic Square, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Canberra.

Northern Canberra

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Frequently asked questions

Is Canberra worth visiting?
With a mix of festivals and history, there are many things to do in Canberra. When you're here, check out Mount Ainslie, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Canberra?
Start your adventures with a visit to Mount Ainslie and Canberra Reptile Zoo. Then, check out different areas of Canberra for local dining and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Canberra?
Mount Ainslie is one of the top tourist attractions in Canberra and should feature high on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Canberra?
Three days will be enough time to check out some popular city attractions, such as Mount Ainslie, Big Splash Waterpark and Mount Pleasant Nature Reserve. The average stay in Canberra is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your adventure, Canberra Airport isn't far away.
Is Canberra a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Canberra, like Mount Ainslie and Mount Pleasant Nature Reserve, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.16 kilometres from central Canberra is Canberra City Centre and Braddon is 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Canberra with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with cool activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Canberra with kids.

What to do in Canberra for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or adventure seeker, there are loads of things to do in Canberra for adults including The Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre and Australian and New Zealand 1916-1918 Memorial.
Are there free things to do in Canberra?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Canberra is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can visit without taking your wallet out. Mount Ainslie is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.