From headline sights to easy half-day trips, these are the best things to do in Canberra, a Planned capital with national museums in Australian Capital Territory, Australia, with tips drawn from how people really visit.

Canberra is Australia’s purpose-built capital, designed around a lake and set among rolling hills and bushland. It is home to the country’s major museums, galleries and parliament, and is also surprisingly green and relaxed, with good dining and cycling.

Small Group Canberra Day Trip from Sydney
Small Group Canberra Day Trip from Sydney

1. Visit the Australian War Memorial

This large memorial and museum honors Australians who served in conflicts. Plan a few hours and approach with respect.

2. Tour Parliament House

The building has a grass-covered roof that visitors can walk on, with views over the city, and you can watch parliament when it sits.

The collection includes Indigenous Australian art, modern works and international pieces, with a sculpture garden.

4. Explore the National Museum of Australia

The museum tells Australia’s stories through objects, history and Indigenous perspectives, in a distinctive building.

5. Walk or cycle around Lake Burley Griffin

A path circles the lake and passes major sights, parks and bridges, ideal for a relaxed morning.

6. Climb Mount Ainslie or Black Mountain

Hilltop lookouts give views of the lake and the city’s planned layout, and Black Mountain has a tower with a view.

7. Visit the National Arboretum

A large forest and garden area with views, trails and a visitor center above the city.

8. See kangaroos at Tidbinbilla

A nature reserve a short drive south with wildlife, walks and chances to see kangaroos, koalas and birds.

Canberra Quick Facts

  • Location: Australian Capital Territory, Australia.
  • Type of place: Planned capital with national museums.
  • Best time to visit: Visit in autumn (March to May) for golden foliage and clear, mild days, or in spring (September to November) for the Floriade flower festival. Summers are hot and dry, and winters are cold with frosty mornings but sunny days.
  • Suggested time: 2 to 3 days, or 1 day if you are short on time.
  • Busiest: Floriade season, parliamentary sitting weeks and school holidays. Quietest: January and winter weekdays.
Private Canberra Winery Tour with lunch
Private Canberra Winery Tour with lunch

What to Eat in Canberra

Look for Australian produce, local wines from the nearby Canberra District, lamb, seafood and good coffee. Braddon and Kingston have a lively restaurant scene.

Getting Around

Canberra Airport is about 7 km (4 mi) from the center and has flights from major Australian cities. From Sydney, the drive takes about 3 hours, and buses and trains also connect the two cities, with a light rail line serving the city.

Money-Saving Tips

Many national attractions have free entry. Save by using free parking at some museums, picnicking by the lake and visiting in the off-season.

Mistakes to Avoid

  • Trying to walk between major sights that are far apart.
  • Visiting in winter without warm clothing.
  • Missing Floriade by not booking early.
  • Planning too little time for the museums.
Spies and Secrets in the Capital: Women in Espionage Walking Tour
Spies and Secrets in the Capital: Women in Espionage Walking Tour

Best Time to Do These Things

Visit in autumn (March to May) for golden foliage and clear, mild days, or in spring (September to November) for the Floriade flower festival. Summers are hot and dry, and winters are cold with frosty mornings but sunny days. Attractions are spread out across the city, so a car, bike or the tram and buses make sightseeing much easier than walking.

Top-Rated Tours in Canberra

These are the best-reviewed options currently listed for Canberra, based on traveler ratings and review counts on Viator. Prices are starting prices and change with date and group size.

How to Fit It All In

Most visitors need 2 to 3 days to cover the highlights without rushing, and 1 day is enough for the essentials. Our Canberra trip-length guide shows how to split the days, and the best time to visit page helps you choose the season. Attractions are spread out across the city, so a car, bike or the tram and buses make sightseeing much easier than walking.

Plan Your Trip

More Canberra planning help: best tours and experiences in Canberra, best time to visit, things to do, where to stay and how many days you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the number one thing to do in Canberra?

Visit the Australian War Memorial tops most lists. This large memorial and museum honors Australians who served in conflicts.

What can I do in Canberra in one day?

Visit the Australian War Memorial and then walk or ride to Parliament House.

Is it worth booking a guided tour in Canberra?

Tours save time on logistics and often include entry or transport. Listed tours start around $15 with a typical price near $135. The most-reviewed option we list is Highlights of Canberra Full Day Tour, rated 4.9 from 474 reviews and starting around $135.

Are there good day trips from Canberra?

Visit the National Arboretum and See kangaroos at Tidbinbilla are popular add-ons. See our trip-length guide for how to fit them in.

Plan Your Tours in Canberra

Ready to book? See our full roundup of the best tours and experiences in Canberra for guided options, skip-the-line tickets, and day trips.