Where to stay

As a relatively new, fully planned city (construction began in 1913), Canberra is well laid out and very easy to navigate so you can easily access all areas worth visiting from wherever you stay. Public transport is regular and efficient during the day and taxis are affordable as most attractions are close to the city. This means you are free to focus on the style and quality of accommodation rather than the location.

Having said this, serious foodies and culture vultures might prefer to stay near NewActon, the restaurant and artistic hub of the city. Braddon, Barton and Kingston are all convenient “inner-city” suburb alternatives with easy access to the CBD. Canberra boasts an impressive array of accommodation these days, from plush five-star hotels such as the top-end Hotel Realm to friendly B&Bs and self-catering serviced apartments. Queanbeyan – a 15-minute drive east of the CBD – has a more laid-back country attitude and offers many affordable accommodation alternatives plus scenic drives, wine trails and factory outlets.

Our top picks

Hotel Hotel

25 Edinburgh Avenue

The self-styled “place for people people” is located in the NewActon arts and culture precinct and epitomises the emergence of Canberra chic.  Inspired by the Australian shack, each room has an eclectic assortment of artworks, restored furniture and funky curios.

Hyatt Hotel Canberra

120 Commonwealth Avenue

Graceful, elegant and only minutes to Parliament House, this heritage hotel boasts Art Deco interiors that carry through to superb rooms, a lavish Clubhouse, ambient cafe, cosy bar and Tea Lounge.

QT Canberra

1 London Circuit

Centrally located on the northern shore of Lake Burley Griffin, QT is faithful to its political heritage with hidden rooms, private hallways and historical artefacts and is home to hip bars and restaurants, designer decor and high-end finishes. 

Novotel Canberra

65 Northbourne Avenue

Standing on vibrant Northbourne Avenue, this contemporary hotel is just steps from dining and retail precincts and offers both hotel and apartment-style rooms plus an indoor heated pool, gym, restaurant and bar.

Mercure Canberra

Corner of Ainslie & Limestone Avenue

Old world charm seamlessly blends with modern interiors at this historic hotel, placed only moments from the city centre and featuring spacious rooms and split-level lofts, a relaxed beer garden and courtyard restaurant.