Canberra, a small little town some 300 kms southwest off Sydney (one of the biggest & vibrant cities in the world), was my first port of call and my home for the first 4+ years in this beautiful country. I got my permanent residency while I was in India and was "allocated" ACT. It was mandatory for me to live here in Canberra for the first 2 years. I had some doubts about living here and how I would survive in such a small city. Small city for me meant fewer job opportunities etc. I ended up living here for 4 years. :)
It was quite a shock at first - culturally and overall - since I was born and raised in different parts of India, with it's 1.4 billion people there is no concept of "privacy" once you step out of your house. Always that hustle & bustle. Everywhere. Likewise for an Australian traveling to India for the first time, it would be too much to handle !
While India is a fantastic country with age-old tradition and world-renowned culture, Australia is very different. Canberra, as a city, suddenly felt aloof. No people, empty roads, extremely clean everywhere. Harsh winter with temperature going down to -9 degrees. But we, as a family of 3, started to enjoy it within a few months. And while we were here for 4 years, there are quite a few places we explored that I would love to show you. So, these are my best places to visit in Canberra:
1. Australian War Memorial – A moving tribute to Australia's military history
Australian War Memorial (Image Courtesy: Vanessa Gallagher)
The Australian War Memorial in Canberra is a national monument that honours the members of Australia's armed forces who have died or served in wars. It combines a shrine, a world-class museum, and an extensive archive. Visitors can explore galleries with military artifacts, personal stories, and interactive exhibits. The memorial also features the Hall of Memory, the Tomb of the Australian Soldier and beautiful commemorative gardens. Daily Last Post ceremonies are held at sunset, offering a moving tribute to the fallen. One of the unique places to visit in Canberra, recommended 100% !!
Located at Fairburn Avenue, Campbell ACT.
Free of charge entry & exit.
Timing: All days open from 9 am to 5 pm.
2. Parliament House – Explore the heart of Australian politics
The Australian Parliament
Parliament House is the centre of Australia's government and a symbol of the nation's democracy. Located on Capital Hill, it features striking modern architecture and expansive lawns. Visitors can take guided tours, watch parliamentary debates from the public galleries, watch Question Time, explore exhibitions about Australia's political history and sit in on committee inquiries. The building also houses impressive art collections and offers panoramic views of Canberra from its rooftop.
Open Time: Open everyday, except Christmas Day, 9 am to 5 pm
Charges: Free, you may have to buy tickets for special exhibitions or events
Facilities: Queen's Cafe for refreshments, Post Office, First Aid, Free Wifi, Parliament Shop for your souvenir shopping etc.
3. National Gallery of Australia – Home to impressive art collections
National Gallery of Australia, Canberra | Photo by Martin Ollman (c) Lindy Lee
The National Gallery of Australia is the country’s premier art museum, located on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra. It houses more than 155,000 works of art, including the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. The gallery features Australian, Asian, European, and American art, with highlights such as Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles and Sidney Nolan’s Ned Kelly series. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibitions, sculpture gardens, and interactive programs for all ages. The building itself is an architectural landmark, offering a unique cultural experience in the heart of the city.
Entry Free
Open everyday from 10 am to 5 pm
Underground paid parking only through debit / credit card
Free Tours: Everyday at 10.30 am and 1.00 pm at MAIN ENTRANCE
4. Lake Burley Griffin – Perfect for walking, cycling, or a scenic cruise
Lake Burley Griffin | Photo by National Capital Authority
Lake Burley Griffin is a central feature of Canberra, designed as part of the city's original plan by architect Walter Burley Griffin. The lake is popular for outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Its scenic shores are lined with parks, gardens, and landmarks like the National Carillon and Commonwealth Park. There are also several picnic spots, public art installations, and opportunities for birdwatching. Cruises and boat tours offer a unique perspective of Canberra’s skyline and attractions. The lake is such a vibrant hub for both relaxation and recreation in the heart of the city, that almost 99 out of 100 people on any given day will classify this as one of the best tourist attractions in Canberra.
This lake is 9 kms long and has width of 300 to 1200 metres.
5. Questacon – Interactive science and technology center, great for families
Questacon, Canberra
Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre is one of Canberra’s top attractions, especially for families and curious minds. It features over 200 interactive exhibits across themed galleries, covering topics like physics, robotics, space, and the human body. Highlights include the Excite@Q gallery with hands-on experiments, the Earthquake House simulation, and live science shows. Questacon encourages learning through play, making science fun and accessible for all ages. The center also offers workshops, demonstrations, and a science shop for unique gifts.
6. National Museum of Australia – Discover the nation's stories and culture
The National Museum of Australia explores the nation’s social history, focusing on the stories, cultures, and events that have shaped Australia. Located on the Acton Peninsula by Lake Burley Griffin, the museum features engaging exhibitions on Indigenous history, settlement, environment, and contemporary issues. Highlights include the First Australians gallery, the Garden of Australian Dreams, and interactive displays for all ages. The museum’s striking architecture and lakeside setting make it a must-visit destination in Canberra.
7. Mount Ainslie Lookout – Offers panoramic views of the city
Mount Ainslie Lookout | Photo by Russell Street on Flickr | CC by SA 2.0
Mount Ainslie Lookout offers some of the best panoramic views of Canberra and its surrounding landscapes. Accessible by car, bike, or a popular walking trail, the lookout provides a stunning vantage point to see the city’s layout, Lake Burley Griffin, and major landmarks like Parliament House. It’s a favourite spot for sunrise and sunset photography thereby making it one of the best places to visit in Canberra.
There are informative signs highlighting points of interest. The lookout is a must-visit for anyone wanting to capture the beauty of Canberra from above.
Free entry, open everyday
Located at: Mount Ainslie Drive, Ainslie
8. Australian National Botanic Garden
The Australian National Botanic Gardens showcase the world’s most comprehensive collection of native Australian plants. Located at the base of Black Mountain in Canberra, the gardens feature themed walking trails, lush rainforests, rock gardens, and a variety of habitats. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, birdwatching, photography, and educational programs. The gardens are also home to the Red Centre Garden, representing Australia’s arid interior, and the Paperbark Treehouse, offering elevated views. It’s a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and a great place to learn about Australia’s unique flora.
9. Royal Australian Mint
The Royal Australian Mint in Canberra is the sole producer of Australia’s circulating coins. Visitors can watch coins being made from a viewing gallery, explore interactive displays about coin production and history, and even strike their own souvenir coin. The Mint features fascinating exhibitions on rare and historic coins, as well as a gift shop with collectible items. Guided tours are available, making it a popular destination for families, collectors, and anyone interested in Australia’s currency and heritage.
Watch the video below on how the coins are designed and produced:
10. Canberra City Centre (CBD)
Canberra CBD (Central Business District) is the vibrant heart of the city, known for its mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions. The area features popular precincts like Civic, Braddon, and New Acton, each offering trendy cafes, restaurants, bars, and boutique stores. Key sites include the Canberra Centre shopping mall, Canberra Theatre Centre, and Glebe Park. The CBD is also close to major museums, galleries, and Lake Burley Griffin, making it a convenient base for exploring the city. The surrounding neighbourhoods are known for their lively street art, weekend markets, and diverse food scene.
11. Cockington Green Gardens
Cockington Green Gardens is a unique attraction in Canberra featuring beautifully landscaped gardens filled with miniature buildings and scenes from around the world. Visitors can stroll through displays of tiny villages, historic landmarks, and model railways, all crafted with incredible attention to detail. The gardens also offer picnic areas, a café, and a miniature steam train ride, making it a favourite for families and garden enthusiasts. It’s a whimsical and charming spot that offers something different from the usual city sights.
Open Time: Everyday, 9.30 am to 5.00 pm (last entry at 4.15 pm)
Charges: Adults $25, Child (4-16 Yrs) $16, Senior Citizens (60+) $19
12. Telstra Tower
Telstra Tower
Telstra Tower, also known as Black Mountain Tower, is an iconic telecommunications tower located on Black Mountain in Canberra. Standing 195 meters tall, it offers spectacular 360-degree views of the city and surrounding region from its observation decks. Visitors can learn about the history of communications in the tower's exhibition area, enjoy a café with panoramic vistas, and take in the city lights at night. The tower is a popular spot for photography and sightseeing, making it a must-visit landmark in Canberra.
Just to show you all how the wind blows from here, click this link to watch the video !
13. Weston Park, Yarralumla
Weston Park is a spacious and scenic park located on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra. It’s popular for family outings, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, barbecue facilities, and walking and cycling paths. The park also has a miniature railway, a wading pool, and plenty of open space for sports and relaxation. With its beautiful lakeside views and abundant birdlife, Weston Park is a favourite spot for locals and visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors.
14. National Arboretum
National Arboreturm (Image Courtesy: Jake Heinemann)
The National Arboretum, Canberra is a vast living collection of over 44,000 rare and significant trees from around the world, spread across 250 hectares. It features themed forests, beautiful gardens, and walking trails with panoramic views of the city and Lake Burley Griffin. Highlights include the striking Village Centre, the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection, and the Pod Playground for children. The Arboretum is a popular spot for picnics, photography, and learning about global tree conservation. It’s a unique destination for nature lovers and families alike.
Let me know if you have any other places to see on your list I haven't covered here. Happy to hear from you !! :)