Day 1:
Familiarise yourself with the area and explore some of the city’s history. Note that today will be relatively easy, as you probably had a long day arriving in the area either yesterday or today.
First stop is the Australian War Memorial.
A memorial, museum and archive dedicated to those who have died in the war, the Wars themselves and a collection of over 7,000 items.
We advise putting aside at least 2 hours to visit, but you could also spend 4+ hours. Entrance is free and can be reached from Civic Square (the town centre) on a 20-minute bus ride.
After a profound insight into the part Australians have helped play in War War I and II, take a short 10-minute stroll to Anzac Parade.
To end the day, head back to the Australian War Memorial to see the Last Post Ceremony.
This is a daily ceremony to commemorate a fallen soldier. It consists of sharing their story, honouring them with wreaths, and singing the National Anthem. The experience was extremely moving and amazing to be involved in. It begins at 4:30pm, but it can get incredibly busy, so try to arrive at 4:00pm. Remarkably, this is free and tickets are not required.
Day 2:
Start the day with a relaxing walk through Canberra's Botanic Gardens; Australian National Botanic Gardens.
Next, head to the incredible Nation Museum of Australia. Unfortunately, getting to the museum can be a bit of a hassle on public transport. From the Botanic Gardens, it requires a 20-minute walk, a 4-minute bus and another 4-minute walk. If you opt to drive, you have an easy 4-minute drive with parking costing $4 per hour Monday-Friday.
Afterwards, spent some time looking at beautiful artwork of the National Portrait Gallery.
Again, getting here is not easy. It requires a 2-minute walk, a 17-minute bus ride, a 2-minute walk, an 11-minute walk and a 4-minute walk. Alternatively, it is a 6-minute drive, $4 for parking Monday-Sunday per hour and has a 2.2m clearance.
Day 3: With a Car
On your final day, start by visiting Mount Ainslie Lookout.
Continue West to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, driving for approximately 45 minutes. Gibraltar Peak is a popular hiking trail covering 8km with an estimated time of 2 hours 30 minutes. You can either park at Dalsetta Car Park at the trail entrance for a small fee per hour or park at the Tidbinbilla Visitor Centre car park for free but an extra 27-minute walk.
If your legs still have a little more in them, on the way back into central Canberra, stop at Birrigal Time Trail. Birrigai Time Trail is a short 50-minutes walk attached to the Tidbinbilla Visitor Centre, which takes you to a rock shelter (significant to the aboriginal community.)
Alternative Day 3: Without a Car
Without a car and the realisation that public transport needs a bit more TLC in Canberra, you plan on staying in one area of the city.
Begin the day at Parliament House.
Parliament House is an impressive building that provides insight into the Australian government. Inside, you’ll find political exhibits and an art collection, while outside offers a stunning view over Canberra.
From here, walk 10 minutes to Old Parliament House.
Another 10 minute walk and you will reach the National Gallery of Australia.
With the late afternoon and evening to spare, I suggest one of two things:
Either move on to your next destination or spend it at The Civic Pub.
ACCOMMODATION SUGGESTIONS
Disclaimer: All prices are as of March 2025 and may change based on season and availability.
Caravan Park
Canberra Park - $58 for 1 night and 2 guests on a powered grass site
Pros - Spacious park and brand-new amenities
Cons - Slightly outside of town and lacks atmosphere
Low-Range
Forrest Hotel & Apartments - $110 for 1 night and 2 guests
Pros - Quiet location and close to restaurants
Cons - No kitchen and limited car parking spaces
Mid-Range
Meriton Suites Canberra - $181 for 1 night and 2 guests
Pros - Fully equipped kitchen including an oven and great amenities
Cons - Relatively small and expensive parking
High-Range
Hotel Realm - $291 for 1 night and 2 guests
Pros - Separate bath and shower and extremely spacious
Cons - Small swimming pool and some outdated bathrooms
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