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The 6 best day trips from Canberra

Relax, unwind and head out of the city with these sweet day-trip spots that are temptingly close from Canberra’s CBD

Canberra’s location in the middle of Victoria and New South Wales means it's ripe for excellent day trips that show off the very best of this corner of Australia. So, if you’re looking to escape the city for a couple of hours, here are the most dazzling day trips from Canberra to take, featuring bucolic wineries, seaside towns and adventures in the great Australian countryside.

RECOMMENDED: The most epic Australian road trips to do before you die .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best day trips from Canberra

Go bakery hopping in the southern highlands.

Whether you're a fan of antiquing, slogging through kilometres of scribbly bushland or tearing into flaky croissants, it's never a bad idea to head to the Highlands. This charming region, under a two-hour drive from Canberra, is a foodies paradise full of old-school pubs, little laneway cafés and upmarket restaurants. But, it’s the bakeries that are worth travelling for. With locations in Bowral, Berrima and Mittagong , the award-winning Gumnut Patisserie should definitely be top of the list. You won't regret lining up for their warm sausage rolls, golden croissants and finger lime meringue tartlets, which have drawn locals and visitors to the bakery for almost 30 years. Top tip: the queues are always quieter at Gumnut’s Berrima bakery, and you can walk right across the road to Baked in Berrima for fresh focaccia sandwiches and sugary apple turnovers. It’s also worth dropping into Robertson for a rich pepper steak pie at Southern Rise Bakery , followed by a bright yellow custard tart at the famous Robertson Pie Shop . 

Escape to nature in Namadgi National Park

Have you ever encountered a wild emu? If the answer’s no, your state of deprivation can be quickly rectified with a visit to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve , an expansive, protected area on the fringe of the Namadgi National Park , at the northern end of the Australian Alps. Around 40 minutes' drive southwest of Canberra, Tidbinbilla is home to a huge variety of birdlife, as well as kangaroos, wallabies, platypi and some very accessible koalas. There are 24 signposted trails to explore in the park, including an Aboriginal Heritage Walk . These range in difficulty from very easy – the wheelchair-accessible Koala Path – to long and challenging uphill hikes, including one that leads to the rocky outcrop of Gibraltar Peak , which, when you make it to the top, has remarkable views out across the valley below. Venture further into Namadgi National Park to learn more about the local Ngunnawal people, who have lived on this land for at least 21,000 years. Popular walks for day visitors include hikes up to the granite boulders at Square Rock, the Yankee Hat rock art site in Gudgenby Valley and Mount Franklin (yes, of bottled water fame).

Get tipsy in Canberra’s wine regions

Not only is Canberra home to some top-notch bars but it also grows and ferments the good stuff right here in the region. There are more than 40 wineries within 35 minutes' drive of the city centre, with the region primarily focussing on grape varietals like riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir, sangiovese, merlot, shiraz and tempranillo. Lerida Estate  in Collector  should be at the top of the list for any wine tour. Get your hands on a bottle of their pinot noir rosé that has sweet wild strawberries on the nose and moreish savoury finish. Red drinkers will find their spiritual home at Clonakilla Vineyard in   Murrumbateman , while the bucolic Pialligo Estate  has fruit orchards to explore and smoked meats to try at their picturesque cellar door. Then there’s the compact Mount Majura Vineyard . Get here in the early afternoon when the sun streams into the glass-fronted tasting room that looks out onto the vines, order a cheese plate, then get stuck into a tasting, which kicks off with their dry Silurian sparkling that’ll cleanse the palate with hints of crunchy apple and lime zest.

Head out on an alpine adventure

Ready for some outdoor fun? Canberra is perfectly placed beside a number of Australian ski resorts, including the Snowy Mountains and its plethora of alpine wilderness, rivers and glacial lakes. Here you’ll be able to find wildflowers and go on horse riding treks in the summer, while winter brings with it great skiing facilities. Popular ski resorts, like nearby Thredbo , Perisher , the more family-friendly Mount Selwyn and Australia’s highest ski resort  Charlotte Pass , are often packed with budding snowboarders, skiers and tobogganers during the ski season, but it’s true when they say these alpine resorts have natural charms all year round. If you’re looking to do some bushwalking in the warmer months, Mount Kosciuszko is a wonder to explore. The 22km Main Range Track is the best way to experience it, beginning and ending at Charlotte Pass and taking you across the Snowy River towards the summit of Kosciuszko itself. You’ll travel above the tree-line and greet glorious nature and plenty of wildflowers along the way.

Seek out sapphire seas on the South Coast

Canberrans have easy access to the wonders of New South Wales’ South Coast, which boast emerald hills, sapphire seas, uncrowded beach coves, epic national parks and several little seaside towns. To get there, get in your car, head east along the Princes Highway from Queanbeyan and don’t stop driving until you reach Batemans Bay . Head further south to find the unspoilt charms of the Sapphire Coast . That name isn’t just for show, either. Explore the beachside on foot before taking in the forests and mountains that frame the coastline.  Next, head towards the Shoalhaven coast. Here you can try your hand at surfing in Mollymook , fill up your belly with fresh seafood in the gorgeous, ocean-facing restaurant  Rick Stein at Bannisters ,  or pretend to be Lara Croft by climbing, swinging and jumping through the jungle at Trees Adventure in Nowra .

Explore the Southern Tablelands

The inland areas on the outskirts of the ACT are known as the Southern Tablelands. It’s here that you’ll find charming country towns (all with excellent country bakeries) that make you long to become a tree changer, ditching the big smoke for fresh, farm-to-table produce, award-winning wineries and enough outdoor experiences to make you say “Blue Mountains, who?” Head west to discover the Yass Valley, which is rich in cultural heritage, colonial-style buildings and colourful annual festivals. If you fancy driving through wine country, head east through Queanbeyan to visit the historic towns of Braidwood and Bungendore to find antique stores, galleries and classic old-school pubs. Head north and you’ll find the Upper Lachlan region known for the remarkable Wombeyan Caves, which are estimated to be between 400 and 430 million years old. Just west of there, you’ll find the Hilltops region, which is known for its wine and local produce (think pick-your-own experiences and farm gate exploring), as well as events such as the National Cherry Festival.

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📍16 Best Day Trips From Canberra Within 3 Hours Drive From A Road Trip Enthusiast. (2024.)

WONDERING WHAT THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM CANBERRA ARE?

While Canberra may be Australia’s capital and political epicentre , the meticulously designed showpiece of the nation doesn’t get nearly as much love from travellers looking to explore the country as many other destinations due to its unfortunate unofficial status as not being the most exciting place to visit.

However, while it has plenty of outstanding attractions which aren’t Parliament House that people can visit, such as the poignant Australian War Memorial , the breathtaking observation deck atop the Telstra Tower , and the quirky miniatures at Cockington Green , don’t just stick to the city as there are many phenomenal places to visit within 3 hours drive of the CBD well worth visiting.

Whether it’s roaming the modern-day charred ruins of space-age technology , learning about one of the greatest engineering wonders of the world , exploring the continent’s only alpine wilderness and going underground to visit subterranean worlds , here are my favourite places to take scenic day trips from Canberra that I discovered while travelling extensively throughout the ACT and the South East Tablelands region of New South Wales.

👉 My top 3 picks for the best Canberra Day Trips:

• Within An Hour: Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.
• Within 2 Hours: Cooma & Wagabilla NP.
• Within 3 Hours: Kosciuszko National Park.

Planning Your Trip? Use My Favourite Resources!

Tours/Experiences: I recommend Viator . Accommodation: I recommend Booking.com . Flights: I recommend Aviasales . Car Rental: I recommend economybookings.

Best Day Trips In Canberra Within 1 Hour Drive.

If you’d rather spend more time exploring the sites than driving to get there, these fantastic day trip destinations are all within an hour’s drive from the CBD, meaning you’ll discover all these places have to offer in no time. What’s also great about these locations is that because they don’t take long to reach, you won’t need to leave at the crack of dawn to make the most out of it. You can start much later in the day, which is a guaranteed way not to annoy the other people in your party, who may or may not be as excited to lose out on sleep as you are.

1. Cotter Precinct.

The Cotter Precinct is one of the capital’s most beloved nature escapes . Part of the Murrumbidgee River Corridor, the beautiful and popular recreation area is less than half an hour’s drive west of the CBD and sits just downstream of Cotter Dam , the last and lowest of the ACT’s three interconnected lakes that collect snowmelt from Australia’s only alpine mountain range.

Cotter Avenue is the main visitor area with gorgeous views looking up at the dam wall from the end of the car park. But an even better location to see it is from the short Cotter Dam Discovery Trail , which has a suspension bridge and a 16-metre long, amphitheatre-style observation deck overlooking the structure along with information panels detailing notable aspects about its construction.

The precinct is also a favourite for wild swimming . And that’s where Cotter Bend and Casurina Sands shine. These beautiful spots downstream of the dam wall have beautiful sandy golden beaches with gentle slopes that make getting in and out of the water a breeze, and with its typically shallow depth and gentle flow, it is the perfect place to visit for family adventures on hot summer days when all you want to do is cool down.

What’s also great about these places is that scattered across all three are plenty of grassy areas, sheltered tables, free electric BBQ and playground equipment for enjoying a relaxing outdoor picnic and get-together with friends and relatives. Furthermore, the nearby Lower Cotter Catchment Reserve is home to a network of stunning walking trails leading to several spectacular viewpoints overlooking the picturesque lake from the surrounding hilltops.

And if that wasn’t all, the Cotter Precinct also has a campground ( book online ), meaning it’s not just one of the capital’s best nearby day trip destinations, but also among its best weekend escapes. And that’s before telling you it has hot showers too!

• Distance From Canberra CBD: 24km.
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 24min.
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Mt Stromlo Observatory & Stromlo Forest Bike Park.

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2. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. – $.

One of the best day trips from Canberra for couples and families who love natural landscapes, native animals and cultural heritage sites is easily Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. This expansive 54.5km2 protected area that lies 48km southwest of the city showcases all three along its 20+ marked tracks ranging from grade 1-5 and other easy-to-access attractions that sit right next to their respective parking lots

Discover stunning viewpoints overlooking the state’s highest peaks, bask at picturesque cascading waterfalls , explore Aboriginal rite of passage gathering sites where “boys became men”, and marvel at the architectural beauty of the region’s pioneer homesteads .

Along with preserving the state’s natural and cultural heritage, Tidbinbilla was also established to safeguard the flora and, more delightfully, the fauna. Kids will especially love seeing all the endemic animals that call these places home. The ponds at the Sanctuary were where I saw the notoriously elusive platypus for the first time while the resident swan was calmly sitting on its nest incubating her eggs next to the walkway.

Meanwhile, at Flint’s , a rare and uniquely white pigment-less kangaroo stood out from the rest of her large regularly-coloured gang, and seeing her was a truly unforgettable experience! I was told she’s also local so there’s a good chance you can see her too. There are also dedicated spacious enclosures for specific species of animals such as the Eucalypt Forest for the endangered koalas and Barayngu Murawung for the critically endangered southern brush-tailed rock wallaby, but I had no such luck seeing any.

The nature reserve also has three dedicated picnic areas nestled amongst the trees that have free gas, electric and woodfire BBQs and plenty of grassy areas and covered tables, so while you’re out exploring the many trails and attractions, you can take some time out and enjoy a romantic outdoor lunch with your significant other or BBQ get-together with family and friends, where those with young kids will love Sheedys, which has the Nature Discovery Playground for them to run wild on, making this place a fantastic all-round day trip destination.

Note: Tidbinbilla is paid entry per. However, because of work needing to be done on the Visitor Information Centre, fees are currently waived. Check the website to see if it’s still applicable or if they have done the repairs and it’s back to business as usual.

• Distance From Canberra CBD: 48km.
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 48min.
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Mt Stromlo Observatory & Stromlo Forest Bike Park, Cotter Precinct, Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex.

Namadgi National Park.

When it comes to outdoor experiences close to Canberra, no place is more magnificent and full of natural beauty than Namadgi National Park . Although it occupies a significant portion of the ACT, this massive wilderness area, covering over 1061 km2 , is easily the capital’s most severely underrated gem.

What makes it so spectacular is that not only does it have some incredible geographical landmarks and numerous Aboriginal and early European heritage sites , but this breathtaking national park is also part of the Australian Alps , the country’s only alpine region, home to the nation’s highest summits, including Mt Kosciuszko , and the only place is that receives consistent annual snowfall, making it worthy of many visits.

3. Southern Expanse.

The southern part of Namadgi National Park is the most accessible and visitable section of this expansive wilderness area, covering the entire lower half of the ACT. Getting there involves a beautiful scenic drive through the capital’s most gorgeous terrain and discovering its epic walking trails, which is unequivocally Canberra’s best day trip destination.

Of the many phenomenal options, the two of my favourites doable in a day include Booroomba Rocks , a short but challenging 2.5km return walk to the top of a magnificent exposed granite cliff face that overlooks the national park’s northern expanse, Yerrabi Walking Track , another challenging 4km return hike that goes through several microclimates to the exposed granite slab peering down to the impressive Boboyan Trig boulder.

As for heritage sites, the easy 6km return Yankee Hat trail leads to ancient Aboriginal artwork of pre-colonial life depicted by the Ngunnawal people, the traditional owners of the land, and the 6 or 9km Settlers Route track at the very tip of the national park, near the Mt Clear campground, goes to several pioneers homesteads that early European Settlers resides in while working the land are also highly recommended.

Note: The Yankee Hat trail is still closed after the 2019/2020 bushfires as of March 2024.

4. Western Expanse.

Along the western border of the ACT lies Namadgi National Park’s less frequented but equally magnificent wilderness zone. One of the best trails for scenery is Mt Aggie which has nothing but panoramic views of the pristine mountain wilderness, while the challenging 14.5km return Mt Gingera trail is a superb day-trek adventure for quick hikers looking for a spectacular visual reward.

As for heritage, the Mt Franklin walk goes to the burnt out ruins of the Mt Franklin Chalet, the oldest club-built ski lodge on mainland Australia, accompanied by a large corrugated iron interpretive shelter recalling the areas bygone days as a ski resort, before going up a ski run to the top of the summit, where an old ski tow and a lovely view of the landscape awaits while the Bendora Arboretum track goes to conifers planted in the 1900s for research purposes.

You can also visit Canberra’s highest dam, Bendora Dam, however, like the other alpine lakes in the ACT, you can only observe it and not enjoy water activities in it.

Other Places To Visit En Route: Cotter Precinct. Other Areas Of Namagi National Park: Corin Dam.

5. Googong Reservoir.

Although the ACT is home to four lakes , only one is available for recreational use: Lake Burleigh Griffin, the ornamental water body Canberra was meticulously created around. The other three, Bendora Dam, Corin Dam and Cotter Dam, don’t allow any water access to preserve their alpine purity, which provides residents of the nation’s capital with some of the cleanest drinking water in the country.

But if you’d like to do some aquatic activities away from the city in the serenity of nature, Googong Reservoir , also a water source for the ACT in neighbouring NSW, is the perfect day drive destination.

Googong’s Northern Foreshore , 29km from the city centre, is the closest of the two public day-use areas and has boat launching facilities that permit the use of sailing boats, canoes, kayaks and boats with electric motors for exploring the lake from the water. It also has several beautiful walking trails leading to the Dam Wall Lookout and into a river gorge known as the Cascades .

Meanwhile, the Southern Foreshore , 15km away, is fantastic for discovering local heritage sites, such as the historic London Bridge Homestead and woolshed and shearer’s quarter s in addition to stunning natural landmarks like the natural London Bridge Arch . The 19.7km Western Foreshore through-trail connects the two areas and makes a fantastic full-day hike or half-day cycle.

• Distance From Canberra CBD To North Googong, To South Googong: 29km, 42km.
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 34min, 50min.
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Queanbeyan Museum, Queanbeyan Drive-In Movie Theatre.

Best Day Trips Within 2 Hours From Canberra.

Those looking for places to visit near Canberra within a 2-hour drive are spoilt for choice for day trip destinations. From the picturesque Snowy Monaro and Yass Valley countryside to the breathtaking Sapphire Coast, there are so many beautiful places in New South Wales’ spectacular South East Tablelands region to explore that it’s hard to know which direction to go.

If it’s a town you’re looking to spend the day exploring, Cooma, 117km south along the Monaro Highway, is easily the best place to visit near Canberra. Home to the unmissable Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre , it offers a deep dive into the ambitious engineering feat of the Snowy Mountains Scheme. This historical project not only showcases the innovative spirit behind the monumental task of interconnecting 16 dams across the country’s only alpine region but also sheds light on its role in shaping Australia’s identity as a multicultural nation thanks to the tireless contribution of wartorn migrants coming from over 30 countries to work on this project.

Another place well worth visiting is the Corrective Services NSW  Crime Through Time Museum , an informative attraction filled with intriguing gaol memorabilia from different eras of imprisonment, providing a fascinating insight into the region’s convict past and the change from corporal punishment to reformation. What makes it so unique is how it is run: with working prison guards assisted by current minimum-security inmates , the only place in Australia to do so! You can even purchase a souvenir made by one of them and my favourite, pull the level on the old gallow .

Cooma also has some beautiful lookouts that are fantastic to visit at sunrise or sunset. Two of the highlights are Nanny Goat Hill in town which overlooks the picturesque urban centre and Mount Gladstone , just off the highway en route to Jindabyne, which has lovely views facing westward across the countryside. The latter is also home to the local Mountain Bike Park , a fantastic way to jam-pack in some adrenaline-pumping thrills into a day out at the Capital Of The Snowy Mountains for those who like to tear up the terrain on two wheels.

• Distance From Canberra CBD To Cooma: 117km.
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 1hr 24min.
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Bunyan Railway Station.

7. Wadbilliga National Park.

If you don’t think spending time in Cooma will be enough to fill the day and want to discover more of what the natural landscape nearby has to offer, then visiting Wadgabilla National Park, 41km away, is a must, especially since it only has two main attractions that are easily doable between sunrise and sunset for people of moderate fitness level.

The first is the Cascades Walking Track , the shor t 0.8km grade 3 return walk to a picturesque viewing platform that overlooks the stunning Tuross River tumbling into the serene rockpool , which forms the perfect wild swimming hole . While that’s a gorgeous sight, the longer and more challenging Tuross Fall Walking Track (4km, grade 4 return) is well worth the hike as it leads to another observation deck that overlooks the impressive waterfall of the same name as it plunges down a 190m cliff face .

If you have a 4WD, mountain bike, or registered motorbike, Wadgabilla is even more inviting as it has a 35km stretch of diverse offroad terrain . It cuts through the middle of the national park, going through various environments such as high river valley catchments, coastal forest foothills, rainforests and heathlands, providing fantastic opportunities for rugged outdoor adventures, especially for those seeking an alternative to get to the ocean towns.

• Distance From Canberra CBD To Wadbillig a NP: 158km.
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 2hr 7min
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Bunyan Railway Station, Cooma.

8. Yass & Lake Burrunjuck.

If you want to explore what there is to offer in the other direction, Yass is a picturesque town with some incredible heritage attractions well worth seeking out. The most notable is Cooma Cottage , the former home of Australia’s first native-born explorer, Hamilton Hume , who, along with British-born sea captain William Hovell, led an expedition where they famously discovered a route between Sydney and Melbourne, most of which subsequently became the Hume Highway.

You can also walk some of the original Hovell To Hume trail that didn’t become a national highway nearby and even see his burial site, where he rests alongside his wife, Elizabeth, in the Yass General Cemetery .

Then make your way to Lake Burrinjuck , a scenic 40-minute drive west of Yass along the Hume Highway (M31) and Burrinjuck Road, where you can indulge in various water activities like swimming, kayaking, boating, jet skiing and more. It’s also great for picnics, BBQs and walks. However, access to the water is only by utilizing the caravan park’s facilities , where a day-use fee applies.

• Distance From Canberra CBD To Yass, To Lake Burrinjuck: 58km, 116km.
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 1hr, 1hr 40min.
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Carolls Creek Waterfall.

9. Wee Jasper.

For those looking for the ultimate secluded nature escape for you and your significant other within an hour’s drive, you don’t need to look any further than Wee Jasper, as there is no better contender for romantic day trips from Canberra than this one. Wee Jasper is an incredibly picturesque and secluded village in the rolling foothills around Lake Burrinjuck’s southernmost tip, creating a dreamy backdrop for a romantic self-sufficient getaway.

It has several stunning reserves featuring beautiful creeks, waterfalls and walking trails . And because it’s way out back and beyond, it also has excellent stargazing and camping opportunities, making it a fantastic place to get to know one another better.

However, one place to visit before nightfall with incredible ecological beauty is Careys Cave , a breathtaking 400 million-year-old limestone cave with stalagmites and stalactites formed by ancient corals. The guy who runs a private tour of it is a bit of a divisive character who went way overtime with what was supposed to be a one-hour tour and has mixed reviews, so just a major heads up that he does talk a lot which many people online who were on the same tour as me didn’t appreciate (a significant amount of time was him talking to us outside before even going inside the cave).

• Distance From Canberra CBD: 84km.
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 1hr 15min.
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Yass. (Loop.)

Best Day Trip Destinations Under 3 Hours Drive.

For those who don’t mind leaving before the crack of dawn and making the most of the 24 hours they have, here are the ultimate day drives from Canberra within 3 hours that have no shortage of outstanding natural beauty and cultural heritage to explore, from alpine peaks , underground caves , abandoned gold mining towns and prisoner of war sites .

10. Jindabyne.

One of Canberra’s best day trip destinations further afield is Jindabyne. Located just over 2 hours from the nation’s capital and 63km west of the Cooma, the Capital Of The Snowy Mountains, this gateway to Australia’s Alpine Playground is a stunning place to visit year-round.

The lake it sits on the shores of is no ordinary impounded dam. Lake Jindabyne is one of the 16 interconnected lakes of the landmark engineering feat, the Snowy Mountains Scheme , created to provide a sustainable water source for residents in the Murrumbidgee and Murray River basins and to generate renewable hydroelectricity for a significant portion of the states by moving water between dams.

On it, you can enjoy relaxing activities like swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing or something more adrenaline-pumping, like boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, or tubing . Meanwhile at the Visitor Information Centre , you can get a brief overview of what it took to complete one of the most technologically advanced accomplishments in the world in harsh and challenging alpine conditions. (You can learn even more about it at Cooma’s Snowy Discover Centre en route to Jindabyne.)

More things to do in Jindabyne include heading to Australia’s highest brewery, the Banjo Paterson Pub and drinking their signature beer Kosciuszko Pale Ale , named after the nation’s tallest mountain, Mt Kosciuszko, which is just a 42km drive and a 9km walk west of town.

Speaking of the landscapes surrounding Jindabyne, one of the most breathtaking ways to appreciate this spectacular alpine region is to fork out for a scenic helicopter ride , which has incredible options to enjoy an unforgettable aerial perspective of the t own’s famous lake , the country’s highest peaks , including Mt Kosciuszko or key locations of the expansive Snowy Mountain Scheme , which is magical year-round, but is especially so in the middle of the year when heavy snow cover turns the rugged terrain into a magical winter wonderland.

• Distance From Canberra CBD: 180km.
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 2hr 10min.
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Cooma & Lake Eucumbene.

Kosciuszko National Park.

Neighbouring the ACT’s Namadgi National Park, Kosciuszko National Park forms the entire NSW contingent of the Australian Alps . With its seasonally snow-capped mountains and outstanding natural beauty, the state’s largest national park has no shortage of incredible things to do and places to discover year-round, such as skiing amongst the country’s highest mountains, walking along crystal clear rivers, past the many alpine lakes, inside million-year-old caves, and amongst intriguing heritage sites and so much more, make it one of the most elite day trips from Canberra for couples, families, and solo travellers seeking phenomenal outdoor adventures. You’ll definitely want to start early for these ones.

11. Ski Resorts.

If you’re visiting Canberra in winter, one of the best places to visit for a day trip is, unquestionably, one of Kosciuszko’s ski resorts. Home to two of the country’s most famous ski villages, Thredbo and Perisher Valley along with several other smaller ones such as Charlottes Pass , Smiggin Holes , Blue Cow and Guthega , there is no shortage of incredible runs to ski or snowboard down in Australia’s rooftop.

There are heaps of green, blue and black trails for beginners hitting the trails for the first time, intermediates for those with more experience and experts levelling up their skills, making it an excellent outing for families having their first time at the snow, couples looking to do something fun, engaging, adventurous and romantic, and solo travellers seeking some elite alone time in the mountains.

Note: If driving there yourself, you will have to use or carry ski chains between June and the October long weekend.

• Distance From Canberra CBD To Thredbo, To Perisher: 212km, 211km.
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 2hr 35min, 2hr, 34min.
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Cooma, Jindabyne.

12. Hiking.

Something else Koscoisuzko has an abundance of is hiking trails. Scattered across the expansive national park are some of the country’s most beautiful hikes and a dream for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. 

The hike to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko is the clear favourite as a day hike as at 2226m high, it is Australia’s highest peak and a great mountain to say you’ve conquered. The shortest route starts from the end of Kosciuszko Road and is an easy 18km return journey and full of breathtaking uninterrupted panoramic views of nothing but a sea of mountains from start to finish. 

Another fantastic, but much shorter alpine walk I also highly recommend doing is Mt Stillwell . The easy 4.1km return trail that also starts from Kosciuszko Road also has incredible unhindered views of some of the nation’s tallest peaks for a significant length of its track as well as lovely views looking down at the remote ski village of Charlottes and the river that flows away from it. For a super short walk just to appreciate the rooftop of Australia, Main Range Lookout & Charlotte’s Pass Lookout at the end of the Snow Gums Boardwalk are absolute must-visits.

Meanwhile, away from Charlotte’s Pass, Porcupine Rocks , which starts near the Perisher Valley Ski Resort is another excellent trail with gorgeous scenery and shard-like rocks to enjoy. 

Note:  While it’s not advisable to do any of the trails if they are blanketed in the snow unless you’re experienced in remote alpine exploration, doing it during the transitionary months when there is still a reasonable amount on the upper peaks still gives off that magical winter wonderland vibe.

However, even though it wasn’t snowing when I went after an unseasonable snowfall in late November, the weather is known for changing dramatically . Ensure you know what the conditions are supposed to be like before starting any walks and be prepared if does suddenly change, especially if doing a longer hike, such as the Mt Kosciuszko walk. Someone had to unexpectedly stay overnight in Seamans Hut because the weather turned on them, and when I was coming back from my overnight walk, the conditions were rapidly deteriorating. 

• Distance From Canberra CBD: 219km
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 2hr 44min.

13. Yarrangobilly Caves.

Another phenomenal place to visit in Kosciuszko National Park is the Yarrangobilly Caves. These spectacular limestone karst caves date back millions of years and showcase incredible subterranean formations such as stalactites and stalagmites, flowstone, coralloids and crystals through their three caves open year-round to the public.

South Glory Cave is self-guided with massive caverns and narrow passages, while the other two, Jersey Cave , which looks like something out of Dungeons and Dragons complete with crystal and dragon (not really, but there is a formation that looks like one at the end) and Jillabenan , the oldest cave here, is with a guided tour only. However, they do often open more during the school holidays.

The caves aren’t the only attractions to see here, as surrounding them are several scenic trails perfect for breathing in fresh air after spending time underground. Castle Walk is particularly picturesque, but one of the most unique places to visit is the naturally heated human-dug thermal pool . Be warned, though, it’s not as warm as the name implies, and I could only spend a few minutes in it. But there is something incredibly romantic about bathing in nature amongst the trees after exploring the underworld that makes the Yarrangobilly Caves one of the best places for a couple’s day trip from Canberra within 3 hour’s drive.

• Distance From Canberra CBD: 173km
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 2hr 46min.
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Adambinby Museums & Big Trout, Kiandra (Abandoned Gold Mining Town.)

With its poignant ties to World War II , one of the best towns to see places of historical significance north of Canberra is Cowra, which has one of the most unique attractions because of what transpired at the POW Camp which subsequently became Australia’s largest prisoner breakout of its kind.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the nationally recognised heritage site where the daring escape took place and resulted in the deaths of 231 Japanese detainees and 4 Australian guards on August 5, 1944, and learn about the event on signboards scattered throughout the level-out ruins. You can also visit their graves in the dedicated cemeteries on the outskirts of town.

Since the tragedy, Cowra became  Australia’s home of reconciliation  and now has a World Peace Bell installed in the main street crafted from the melted-down coins of 106 United Nations countries to symbolise peace. Acknowledging its status as the town’s longest longstanding contribution to this, the town hosts the annual  Festival Of International Understanding  which aims to advocate for those values by forging stronger friendships with other countries, choosing a  different nation  to celebrate their culture through parades, music, shows, activities, fireworks and more, making it easily one of the best times to visit. 

Another fantastic time of year to head out this way is mid-August to late-September when the canola fields bloom. These colour the landscape a brilliant yellow, which is viewable driving in and around town but is particularly gorgeous to see from the boulders of Bellevue Hill Lookout. 

• Distance From Canberra CBD: 196km.
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 2hr 21min.
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Yass.

15. Nimmitabel & Bombala.

Two other towns worth the long drive to visit are Nimmitabel and Bombala. Heading 37km south past Cooma along the picturesque Snowy Mountains Highway (B72), you’ll reach Nimmitabel, a charming place with lovely attractions. Stroll down the lovely main street and discover the quirky Nimmity Bell , a symbolic monument earmarking the town’s transition from its old sawmilling roots to a historic tourist pit stop with a play on the town’s hard-to-pronounce name. 

Speaking of its sawmill days, just around the corner on Clark and Boyd Street lies the incredibly rare Geldmachers Mill , one of two remaining pioneer windmills that started as a flour mill for 13 years until 1885 then for a brief stint, became a sawmill, before being left abandoned for many years. 

Lake Williams on the highway just south of town is a lovely last stop before leaving to head 52km further south to Bombala. This is platypus country , and a fantastic place to try spotting these famously unique and elusive aquatic animals is at the dedicated Platypus Reserve , a short distance away. 

Here, they have a dedicated viewing platform overlooking the Bombala River. But you’ll have to be quiet and observe the water’s surface for slight disturbances to spot them, as they aren’t fond of noise and when they do surface, it is typically only for a split second!  Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to spot any, but numerous reviewers on Wiki Camps and Google said they were able to see some in the middle of the day. However, early morning provides the best opportunities, so be sure to head out super early to increase your chances (and drive slowly at night and during sunrise to avoid hitting land animals, as that is when they are more active.)

Speaking of sunrise, a fantastic place to enjoy the early morning atmosphere before heading to the reserve is the Bombala Lookout , which has beautiful views from a rocky outcrop overlooking the countryside.

• Distance From Canberra CBD To Nimmitabel, To Bombala: 152km, 203km.
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 1hr 47min, 2hr 22min.
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Cooma.

16. Batemans Bay.

For those seeking a coastal escape, there’s no better day trip destination than Batemans Bay. Located 2 hours southwest of Canberra, you’ll want to leave early to make the most of this breathtaking seaside gem which offers a perfect blend of nature, relaxation and adventure .

Explore its renowned beauty from one of the many walking trails and lookouts lining the river, bay and coastline, such as Burrewarra Point, Banskia Walk, Big Bit Lookout, Observation Point, North Head Lookout and swim at one of its many gorgeous golden beaches, such as the popular Corrigans Beach and the small but incredibly picturesque McKenzies Beach . As for those who prefer exploring the marine environments that lie beneath the surface, Guerilla Bay is a top-notch snorkelling spot.

There are also plenty of cruises to see Batemans Bay from the water, but with such incredible kayaking opportunities, joining one of the guided tours offering paddling alongside whales during their annual migration or past the incredible cliffs of Square Rocks and through the incredible caves of the Clyde River, they are the ultimate way to experience this renowned destination.

• Distance From Canberra CBD To Batemans Bay: 150km.
• Minimum Time To Traverse: 2hr.
• Other Places To Visit En Route: Lake George, Bedervale Historic Homestead.

Accommodation: Where To Stay In Canberra.

• Budget: Garden City Hotel, Best Western Signature Collection .
• Mid-Range: Mercure Canberra Belconnen .
• Luxury: Meriton Suites Canberra .

Conclusion: Best Canberra Day Trips.

Whether it’s escaping into nature, discovering local heritage or learning about landmark engineering technology, there is no shortage of excellent day trips from Canberra for road trippers to explore within 3 hour’s drive, such as the beautiful Cotter Precinct on the Murrumbidgee River Corridor, the home and burial site of Australia’s first native-born explorer in Yass or the many lakes of the monumental Snowy Mountains Scheme .

If you are planning to visit Canberra & surrounds, consider looking at these other posts.

📍14 Best Things To Do In Yass Valley, NSW. (Activities & Attractions 2024.)

📍35 Best Fun Things To Do In Canberra, Australia. (Attractions & Activities.) From A Road Trip Enthusiast. (2024.)

📍14 Best Things To Do In Jindabyne, New South Wales Throughout The Year. (2024.)

📍13 Best Weekend Getaways From Canberra From A Road Trip Enthusiast. (2024.)

📍8 Best Canberra Lookouts In The City & Countryside. (2024.)

Ibis Styles Canberra In-Depth Review Of The Narrabundah Hotel.

Belinda Antonenko is the founder of Journey.Discover., a travel website primarily dedicated to showcasing Australia. She lives in South East Queensland and loves nothing more than road trips, adventure, camping, photographing everything and finding unique and exhilarating experiences.

10 Day Trips From Canberra That You Will Enjoy

Michela Australia Destinations Australia Road Trips , Canberra 1

Canberra is an exciting city with incredible sights and attractions and a thriving dining and café scene. While there is plenty to do in the city, getting out of the city for the day to explore the scenic countryside is also worthwhile.

Table of Contents

Canberra is lucky to be surrounded by an abundance of exciting destinations, all within an easy drive from the city, so you can still stay in the Canberra city centre and venture out there. If you haven’t booked your hotel yet, here is what we recommend:

Best Places to Stay in Canberra ➡️ Mercure Belconnen ➡️ Ovolo Nishi ➡️ Sebel Campbellì

Day Trips from Canberra

Here are some excellent day trips from Canberra that you will enjoy.

Visit the historic village of Gundaroo

Located across the border in New South Wales but just a 35-minute drive north of Canberra, Gundaroo is a cute little historic village dating back to the gold rush days in the 1800s. Visit the Gundaroo Colonial Inn for a beer or a pub lunch while enjoying the atmosphere of this charming 1872 pub. Down the road, Grazing Restaurant, located in the 1865 Royal Hotel building, gets rave reviews for its fantastic food. There are also several cellar doors in town where you can taste wines from the local region.

A day trip to the wine region of Murrambateman

The wine region of Murrambateman is the east of Gundaroo. If you’re a wine lover, a day trip to this excellent wine region is a must. Cool climate wines do well, such as Riesling and Pinot Noir, and some of the best vineyards near Canberra are located here, including Eden Roads Wines, Four Winds Vineyard and Shaw Vineyard Estate.

The weekend is the best time to go as more cellar doors are open, and you can make a day of it. Enjoy a day of wine tasting and indulge in a lovely lunch at one of the vineyards.

A day of skiing at the Snowy Mountains

Canberra is located in Australia’s high country, and it is close enough to New South Wales ski resorts that you can hit the snow for the day in the winter.

Head off early, and in two and a half hours, you can reach Perisher or Thredbo for a day of skiing and play in the snow. The Snowy Mountains are well worth visiting at any time of the year, though, and Kosciusko National Park is a great spot to do some hiking or mountain biking. At the same time, the towns of Jindabyne and Cooma are beautiful places near Canberra, where you can stop and explore.

Visit the heritage-listed Braidwood

You can reach Braidwood in just over an hour’s drive east of Canberra. This charming heritage-listed town is full of history. Walk the streets lined with old historic buildings and visit the Braidwood Museum . There are some excellent cafes and places to eat, such as TorPeas or The Albion, along with boutique shops and antique stores to explore. Don’t miss the superb bakery, Dojo Bread. Admire the old theatre across the street and enjoy one of their fantastic pies.

Drive to the Lanyon Homestead

To get a taste of farm life in the 1800s, visit Lanyon Homestead , half an hour’s drive south of Canberra. This historic homestead is full of history, dating back to 1835.

The stunning main home of the property was built in 1859, and you can enjoy a tour of the house to learn about its history and admire its charming old-world features. Enjoy tea and scones at the café, sitting inside the historic building or at one of the outside tables on the lawn.

Take a dip at the Cotter Reserve.

The Murrumbidgee River is where Canberrans go on the weekend to swim and escape the city during summer. There are several right spots to take a dip, but Cotter Reserve is one of the most popular, located on the tributary, the Cotter River.

This scenic spot is just half an hour’s drive west of Canberra, but you will feel a world away from the city. Enjoy a picnic on the river with forest and tranquillity all around. Take a refreshing dip at one of the swimming holes on the river, visit Cotter Dam or take the kids to the fun-filled playground at Cotter Avenue.

Drive to the ocean and visit Batemans Bay

Canberra might be an inland city, but it is actually not that far from the east coast , so you can still enjoy a beach day trip from the city. Batemans Bay is the top spot that Canberrans go to when they want to visit the ocean, located just a two-hour drive down Kings Highway.

This charming seaside town has plenty to offer, with some excellent cafes for lunch, Crumb and Espresso Yourself. When you’ve recharged with some great food, there are a ton of water activities to enjoy. For many, it is best to spend the day on one of the fantastic beaches located just outside of town.

Visit the historic town of Bungendore

If you’re heading to Batemans Bay, or want to enjoy a day trip within a short drive of the city, stop in at the historic town of Bungendore. This little town is just a half hour’s drive east of Canberra and is full of little gems that will draw you in.

Visit the historic Bungendore Royal Hotel for a beer or eat at one of the charming small cafes. The Bungendore Wood Works Gallery is well worth checking out for its excellent local handmade wooden art pieces, furniture and other household items.

Go to the Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex

To the west of Canberra is a NASA funded series of substantial deep space satellite dishes used to examine space, right here in Australia’s capital. The complex is impressive to view, and the attached visitor centre makes visiting the Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex a good day trip from the city.

Stop at the Gibraltar Falls

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve i s an excellent spot to head to for the day to escape the city and get back to nature. The highlight is a visit to the scenic Gibraltar Falls , which tumbles 50 metres down into Gibraltar Creek. This lovely spot is located just west of the Canberra Deep Space Communications Centre, so you could even combine the two into one big day trip.

There are so many beautiful places around Canberra that you could never get bored. Whether you want to get back to nature for the day, visit a country town, or even go to the beach, all this is possible on a day trip from Canberra.

How to organise your day trips from Canberra

The best way to organise your day trips from Canberra is to hire a car if you prefer to go on a self-driving day trip from Sydney or an extended weekend tour.

Find the best deals: ➡️ Car Rentals

Guided Activities and Tours From Canberra

If you are on a tight schedule, you may want to combine a guided day tour with public transport trips from any city; here below is a top selection of guided day tours.

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More Posts about Day Trips from Australian Cities

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See All Australia Destinations

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Flickr Photo Credits: Gundaroo Murrambateman Snowy Mountains Lanyon Homestead Batesman Bay Deep Space Communication Complex

First published in 2017, last updated in March 202 4

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Agness October 25, 2017 @ 8:15 pm

Canberra seems like an awesome travel destination and going there would be a dream come true for me! When’s the best time of the year to explore it?

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The Best Day Trips From Canberra

One of the best things about Canberra is its proximity to so many beautiful places. Whenever I have a friend who has moved to Canberra and still feels dubious about the city, I tell them to take these day trips. They dispel the common misconception that the Canberra region is boring – there is so much nature, culture, and history to explore. One look at Namadgi National Park from the summit of Booroomba Rocks is bound to make anyone fall in love with the Canberra region.

Without further ado, here’s my list of some of the best day trips from Canberra. We live in a beautiful place, and the ability to make these short, amazing trips proves it! I’ve ordered the list by proximity to Canberra’s CBD, so you can pick one that works for you. 

Namadgi National Park

Namadgi is the only national park in the ACT, and it’s only a 40-minute drive from the city. Whenever I have family visit from overseas, I make sure to take them there. The sight of blue-grey mountain ranges, as far as the eye can see, is one of the most quintessential Australian vistas imaginable and never fails to impress. 

The Ngunnawal people named Namadgi after their word for mountain. It encompasses 106,00 hectares of alpine, sub-alpine, and mountain areas. Namadgi serves as a precious habitat for 15 endangered species, 40 rare species, and 700 species of plants. I’m always stunned that it’s possible to find such seclusion in nature so close to Australia’s capital city. It really puts the Bush in ‘Bush Capital’.

There’s something for everyone to do in Namadgi, including 21 walking trails and more than 400km of mountain bike trails. My personal favourite hike to do in Namadgi is Booroomba Rocks – it’s relatively easy (4km and 1.5 hours), and the view is unparalleled!

Honeysuckle Creek

There are also plenty of heritage sights to see if you don’t feel like embarking on a big bushwalk, the most notable being Honeysuckle Creek. It was once home to the Honeysuckle Creek Tracking Station, which played a crucial role in the Apollo Moon missions. This is where the first images of Neil Armstrong walking on the Moon were received and broadcasted to the world in 1969. Today, you can explore the remains of the tracking station and learn about its contributions to space exploration. It’s a must-visit if your kids are going through an astronaut phase!

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is one of the ACT’s most well-known gems, and for good reason! It’s only 45 minutes from Canberra and offers the chance to see Australian wildlife in its natural habitat along the bushy walking trails. This includes koalas, kangaroos, emus, and the endangered brush-tailed rock wallaby. Tidbinbilla is renowned all over Australia for the role it plays in protecting these species and their habitats through its leading conservation programs. The fact that it’s open to the public is amazing – it’s a wonderful opportunity to appreciate Australia’s unique wildlife and learn about what we can do to preserve it.

There are 24 marked trails at Tidbinbilla, ranging from short walks to full-day hikes. There are also plenty of BBQs, playgrounds, and picnic spots, making it the perfect place for a family day out. If you’re looking for something educational, Tidbinbilla also runs school holiday programs and ranger-guided activities!

There are also plenty of opportunities to learn about Aboriginal culture and history. Tidbinbilla has been a sacred historical place for the indigenous Ngunnawal people for tens of thousands of years. The name ‘Tidbinbilla’ comes from the Ngunnawal word ‘Jedbinbilla’, which means ‘where boys become men’. This highlights the special relationship Ngunnawal men have with the valley and its use for ceremonies and passing on traditional customary men’s lore/law.

Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex

Just a short drive (8 kilometres) from Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve lies the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex, which is a vital part of NASA’s Deep Space Network. It’s one of only three Deep Space Network stations around the world.

This facility plays a crucial role in communicating with space missions, including interplanetary spacecraft and orbiting satellites. It’s home to several large antennas, including the impressive 70-meter dish, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. The visitor centre offers exhibits on space missions, the science of space communication, and the history of the complex.

Gibraltar Falls

Gibraltar Falls is a stunning natural waterfall located just over 45 kilometres away from Canberra. The falls cascade over a 50-meter granite rock face, creating a mesmerizing display of water. Visitors can easily reach a viewing platform via a short, accessible path from the nearby parking area. The platform offers a safe spot to enjoy the full beauty of the falls.

If you love nature and photography, this is the place for you, especially after rainfall when the water flow is at its peak. There are also nearby picnic areas and information signs that provide insight into the geological history of the area and its surrounding environment.

While the water is beautiful, it’s important to note that it’s not safe to swim in because of unsafe conditions. As of March 2024, Gibraltar Falls is closed to the public, while more safety fences are being built after two falling deaths last year.

Brindabella Mountain Ranges

The Brindabella Mountain Ranges, or the Brindies as locals call them, are a mountain range that saddles the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales border. You can often see its snow-topped peaks from Canberra in the colder months. This range is part of the Australian Alps and is home to rolling hills, dense forests, and clear mountain streams.

It’s only 1 hour and 20 minutes from Canberra via a scenic drive through the countryside and is the perfect setting for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and camping. The Brindabellas are also rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot kangaroos, wombats, and 80 bird species in their natural habitat.

For hiking enthusiasts, the range has challenging trails and the reward of panoramic views from the higher peaks. The highest peak in the Brindabellas is Mount Coree, with an altitude of 1421m. To hike to the top, it’s a steep 5.6km, but you can also drive right to the summit if you choose! The road condition isn’t the best though, so practice caution in wet weather.

Bungendore & Braidwood

Bungendore and Braidwood are two quaint historical towns just east of Canberra. Bungendore is the closest, just under a 40-minute drive from Canberra. Bungendore is known for its well-preserved colonial buildings, thriving arts scene, and craftsmanship. The town’s Wood Works Gallery is one of its biggest attractions, with fine wood art and contemporary furniture crafted by local artisans. There are also some lovely wineries, cafes and restaurants to stop in at.

The best time to visit Bungendore is during winter because it’s truffle season! Turalla Truffles is a farm in Bungendore that cultivates black truffles, and it offers truffle hunting tours with its specially trained Jack Russels truffle-finding dogs.

Keep driving another 30 minutes to get to Braidwood, one of the prettiest towns in all of New South Wales. It’s known for its colonial buildings, beautiful deciduous trees, and rustic beauty. It’s so pretty that it’s served as the backdrop for iconic Australian movies like Ned Kelly. Browse through the many antique stores and have a pie at the famous Braidwood Bakery. Finish off your visit with a pint at the Braidwood Hotel, a classic Gregorian-style pub. I recommend visiting Braidwood just as the leaves start to fall – it’s breathtaking.

Kosciuszko National Park

Kosciuszko National Park is three hours’ drive from Canberra and home to the Snowy Mountains, picturesque towns like Crackenback and Jindabyne, as well as Australia’s tallest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. Climbing the peak is a 13km return hike that reaches an elevation of 2,228 metres.

In the winter months,  Kosciuszko turns into a winter wonderland and a massive hub for snow sports at ski resorts like Thredbo and Perisher. The ski season runs from June to October, with the best snow in July and August.  People come from all over Australia for the world-class slopes. It’s still beautiful in the warm months, though (and less crowded) – visitors can hike, fish, and bike. It’s also the best time to climb Mount Kosciuszko!

You can explore the caves through either guided and self-guided tours to learn about the cave’s unique geology and history. One of the highlights of the caves is the Thermal Pool, which is fed by a natural spring at a constant temperature of 27 degrees, making it perfect for a relaxing swim after a day of exploration. 

Canberra District Wine Region

Canberra’s cool climate makes it perfect for wine, especially  Shiraz, Riesling, and Pinot Noir. There are 140 vineyards and more than 40 wineries near Canberra, all within a 35-minute drive of the city. Most of the vineyards are near Murrumbateman, Lake George, and surrounding areas, but there are even some neighbouring Canberra Airport. 

Any one of them would make a perfect day trip, but there are a few that really stand out. Eden Road Wines and Four Winds Vineyard near Murrumbateman are some of the most popular.

I recommend booking one of the many available cellar door tours so you can see a few in one day and not have to worry about driving! These tours give you the opportunity to learn about the wine-making process and the specifics of cool-climate viticulture. Many wineries also feature gourmet restaurants that pair local wines with fresh regional produce, providing a complete culinary experience.

The Southern Highlands

The Southern Highlands is a region known for its picturesque towns, lush landscapes, and cooler climate. It’s just a two-hour drive from Canberra and offers plenty of natural beauty, history, and culture. The Southern Highlands are famed for its well-preserved historic villages like Bowral, Berrima, and Moss Vale. These towns are chockablock with antique shops, boutiques, and gourmet cafes.

Bowral, the largest town in the Highlands, hosts the annual Tulip Time Festival, one of Australia’s oldest and best-loved floral festivals. The festival draws thousands of people every year, eager to see the vibrant display of tulips at Corbett Gardens.

If you’ve got a green thumb, you’ll find lots to love. The Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens showcases plants that thrive in the cooler climate. There are also several national parks and nature reserves ideal for bushwalking and birdwatching.

The Southern Highlands is also becoming known for its cool-climate wines, with several vineyards and cellars offering tastings and sales.

Kangaroo Valley

Kangaroo Valley, located between the Southern Highlands and the South Coast, is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and rural charm. This lush valley is encased by mountains and has the Kangaroo River flowing through it, making it a prime location for outdoor activities like kayaking, canoeing, and bushwalking.

One of Kangaroo Valley’s main attractions is the Hampden Bridge, Australia’s oldest suspension bridge still in use. The Kangaroo Valley village itself is quaint – you’ll find a main street lined with cafes, galleries, and shops selling local crafts and produce.

Kangaroo Valley is also a hub for wildlife, offering visitors the chance to see native Australian animals in their natural habitat, including kangaroos, wombats, and birds unique to the region. If you’re interested in history, the Pioneer Village Museum can teach you all about when the valley was settled in the 19th century.

The South Coast

The South Coast is a slice of paradise with its expansive sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, only a couple of hours’ drive from Canberra. The region stretches from Wollongong down to the Victorian border and is dotted with vibrant coastal towns like Batemans Bay, Jervis Bay, Narooma, and Merimbula.

Batemans Bay is a hotspot for seafood lovers and beachgoers, with ample opportunities for boating and fishing. Narooma is a gateway to Montague Island, known for its snorkelling sites and a resident seal colony. No matter where I’m going on the South Coast, I always stop in to say hi to the seal colony. It’s so special to be able to see seals that close.

If you want to see even more marine wildlife, Merimbula and Tathra shine during whale-watching season. They offer tours that provide close encounters with these gentle giants. Paying for a tour isn’t a requirement to see the whales, though – sit on the historic Tathra Wharf for long enough during whale-watching season, and you’re bound to spot one.

Which Day Trip Will You Be Taking?

This list goes to show that Canberra is perfectly placed for exploring. From the wild landscapes of Namadgi National Park to the charming streets of Bungendore and Braidwood, there’s a day trip for everyone. Whether you’re up for a mountain hike, keen to taste local food and wine, or looking to delve into history, there are so many great experiences at your fingertips in Canberra!

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Things to Do in Canberra: 3-Day Itinerary

by Lisa Bull | Last updated May 5, 2022 | A.C.T.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more details.

If you’re looking for a cultural weekend trip in Australia, you’ll find plenty of interesting things to do in Canberra, the capital of Australia.

Located between Sydney and Melbourne, Canberra makes a great drive stop on a Sydney to Melbourne road trip , or a top weekend getaway from either city.

This 3-day Canberra itinerary can be enjoyed by foot or car and includes the top places to visit in Canberra. Read on to plan your visit, or watch my YouTube video below.

Day 1 Morning Itinerary: National Museum of Australia

If you’re hoping to visit some interesting museums in Canberra, make sure you pencil in the National Museum of Australia. It’s one of my top recommended places to see in Canberra.

It’s a flat and easy 30-minute walk to the National Museum of Australia on the Acton Peninsula from Canberra city; most of it is along the edge of Lake Burley Griffin, so quite scenic.

The National Museum is huge and extremely well laid out, with clear themes and lots to read and look at. I’d allow at least two hours inside if this sounds like your sort of thing.

I didn’t think I was a museum person, but there was so much information about the European settlers and Australian wildlife, as well as Australia’s indigenous people and the stolen generation, that I found it fascinating and very moving.

The building is a work of art in itself, and there’s also a nice cafe if you want to stay for lunch. If you’ve packed a picnic you can sit and eat outside in the Garden of Australian Dreams.

Day 1 Afternoon Itinerary: Canberra Botanic Gardens

Canberra Botanic Gardens are also located on the western side of Canberra city centre, so you can walk from the National Museum of Australia to the botanic gardens in the same day.

Here you’ll find the world’s most diverse collection of Australian plants, with over 6,000 different species growing.

You can pick up a map from the visitor centre on arrival, and also visit the lovely Pollen Café if you need a refresher. The meals are on the pricier side (around $17 upwards for breakfast), but the food is lovely.

There are lots of different sections at Canberra Botanic Gardens, including eucalypt lawns, a rainforest gully, and the very vibrant Red Centre Garden. I’d give yourself at least an hour to explore.

Optional Extra Canberra Attraction: Hike up Black Mountain to Telstra Tower

Behind the Red Centre Garden is a walking track leading up Canberra’s Black Mountain (you’ll see the signs) which takes you all the way to Telstra Tower .

I didn’t realise this walk existed until I arrived, but even though I had a cold and felt a bit rubbish, I decided to drag myself up to the top since I’d walked all that way already!

The sign says it takes 1 hour 10 minutes to get to Telstra Tower from the gate, but it only took me 30 minutes there and 20 minutes back down. And I walked very slowly and stopped a lot to take photos!

It is all uphill, but only the last five or ten minutes is particularly steep. I wouldn’t fancy doing it in the summer heat, but it wasn’t too hard in winter.

It costs $7.50 to go inside Telstra Tower and up to the viewing platform, but it’s well worth it as the 360-degree views of Canberra and the surrounding countryside are amazing!

You can’t actually see much from the base of the tower as trees obscure the view, so if you’re going to hike up there you may as well go inside.

Day 2 Morning Itinerary: Australian War Memorial & Canberra Museum and Gallery

One of the top free things to do in Canberra is visit the Australian War Memorial, which was built to commemorate the sacrifice of Australian people who’d died at war.

The Australian War Memorial is only a 20-minute walk from Canberra city centre. It’s worth taking a wander down Anzac Parade too, which has lots of war monuments dotted along the edges, as well as views all the way to Parliament House.

Once again, Canberra delivered so much more than I was expecting! The Australian War Memorial is a beautiful building, and much bigger than I’d anticipated. It really is one of the best places to go in Canberra.

Inside the Australian War Memorial, you can circle around the Pool of Reflection and the Eternal Flame in the Commemorative Courtyard, as well as stroll along the poppy-laden Roll of Honour, where the names of over 102,000 Australians who died at war have been inscribed in bronze on the wall.

My favourite area was the peaceful Hall of Memory, which holds the tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier. The mosaic walls, domed ceiling and stained-glass windows are absolutely beautiful.

I had no idea the Australian War Memorial also has quite a large museum inside! The are interesting exhibitions covering Australia’s involvement in each major conflict.

If you want to look around properly I’d allow two hours at the Australian War Memorial. The large Poppy Café next to it is also lovely if you want to stay for lunch or a coffee.

Optional Extra Canberra Activity: Hike up to Mount Ainslie Summit

I didn’t have time for this, but you can do a 4km-return hike up to Mount Ainslie summit from the Australian War Memorial. Here you’ll find one of the best lookouts in Canberra, with views across to Parliament House and beyond.

Day 2 Afternoon Itinerary: Canberra Museum & Gallery

Back in the city, Canberra Museum and Gallery is a small space on the corner of London Circle and City Square that takes about half an hour to look around.

There was an amazing exhibition on called Unfinished Business when I visited, by a Sydney-based artist called Belinda Mason. It tells the stories of 30 people with disabilities from Torres Strait Islander and Australian Aboriginal communities.

You can’t tell from the picture below, but the lenticular backlit photographs actually look 3D and are really amazing to see up close.

Day 3 Morning Itinerary: Parliamentary Triangle: Parliament House, Portrait Gallery & National Gallery

If you look on a map of Canberra you’ll see the huge State Circle and Capital Circle just south of Lake Burley Griffin. In the centre of these lies Australian Parliament House.

If you’re wondering what to see in Canberra in one day, I’d add Parliament House to your day trip itinerary. It’s one of the most well known Canberra attractions.

The area directly northeast of Parliament House, bound by Commonwealth Avenue and King Avenue, is Parliamentary Triangle, (aka Parliament Zone), where you’ll find lots of interesting Canberra attractions including two art galleries.

I’d allow at least two hours in this area, or more if you want to visit Questacon or go on a Segway tour. Here are some of the things to see in Canberra’s Parliamentary Triangle:

Australian Parliament House

It takes about 40 minutes to walk to Australian Parliament House from Canberra city centre. This modern-looking building is free to enter, and contains lots of information boards explaining the structure of Australian parliament and how bills are passed etc.

You can even watch Parliament in action from the public galleries in the House of Representatives and the Senate if you visit at the right time!

There’s also a café with a large terrace, and a viewing area on the roof. Most of the roof was closed for restructuring when I visited in 2018 though.

The National Science and Technology Centre, Questacon , is also located in Parliamentary Triangle. I hadn’t actually heard of this place until I passed it on the way back, but it looks like a fun way to learn about science, particularly if you have children!

Entry prices are $23 for adults, $17.50 for concessions and children between 4-16, $70 for a family of 2 adults and 3 children, and free for kids under 4.

Old Parliament House

Old Parliament House is a big, grand white building with surrounding gardens. You’ll pass it if you’re walking to Parliament House from the city. You can explore inside for a $2 donation.

National Gallery of Australia

I’d allow about an hour in Canberra’s National Gallery of Australia if you’re an art lover. It’s free to enter and has many different exhibitions on.

National Portrait Gallery

The nearby National Portrait Gallery is also free to enter, with lots of different styles of paintings to enjoy.

National Library of Australia

There are also events, guided tours and exhibitions on at the National Library of Australia , which you’ll pass before crossing the river on your way back to the city

Guided Segway Tour of Canberra

I saw lots of people on guided segway tours of Canberra with Seg Glide Ride around Parliament Zone. It looked like a fun way to explore Canberra!

Day 3 Afternoon Itinerary: Explore Canberra City Centre

If you’re looking for things to do in Canberra city centre, you’ll find plenty of shops and cafes to peruse. Head to Bunda St to look around The Canberra Centre shopping mall, which also has a Dendy Cinema inside if you fancy watching a movie.

For coffee or lunch in Canberra city, Dobinsons on Bunda St is reasonably priced and has a lovely colourful outdoor area.

Further Things to Do in Canberra

If you have more time in ACT, here are some alternative things to do in Canberra that I didn’t have time for.

• You could head down to the Royal Australian Mint and explore the sole supplier of Australia’s circulating coinage. 
• To get back to nature, the Canberra National Arboretum in Weston Creek has 94 forests of rare, endangered and symbolic trees from Australia and around the world.
• With dedicated cycle lanes on its main roads as well as around Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra is a very bike-friendly city. Check out the Visit Canberra website for more details on bike hire and routes.

Canberra Accommodation

To find the best deals on accommodation in Canberra, have a browse on Canberra accommodation on Hotels Combined . They compare prices across the major hotel comparison sites to ensure you find the best price. Here are some of your options.

Jamala Wildlife Lodge (Canberra Zoo Hotel)

The most unique accommodation in Canberra has to be the Jamala Wildlife Lodge ! These luxury lodges at the National Zoo and Aquarium include lavish king-size beds, bespoke African fixtures and decor plus premium amenities. The room rate includes all food and drinks and exclusive tours.

You can choose from three types of lodge:

• suites and rooms with a shark tank, pool, spa and gardens;
• treehouses overlooking the Molonglo River with giraffes, deer and alpaca directly outside;
• jungle bungalows looking straight out onto a variety of animal enclosures.

Crowne Plaza Canberra

With an outdoor pool, onsite gym and sauna, the 4.5* Crowne Plaza Canberra has plenty of facilities to keep you occupied when you’re not out exploring Canberra’s attractions.

The hotel is situated in the heart of Canberra, just 3km from Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial, and has an onsite restaurant and bar and even Tesla electric car charging points.

Pacific Suites Canberra

If you prefer more amenities than a hotel room has to offer, Pacific Suites Canberra has self-contained apartments, each with a full kitchen, laundry and a lounge and dining area.

You can walk to bars and restaurants in Canberra CBD from Pacific Suites, and the complex also has a pool and fitness centre.

Canberra City YHA

I stayed at Canberra City YHA , which I’d highly recommend if you’re looking for budget accommodation in Canberra. It’s centrally located and has great facilities; even a small indoor pool, spa and sauna!

Canberra YHA also has TV rooms, sofas, a decent kitchen, café, bar (yet no noise from it) and recycling bins inside the dorms, which I’ve never come across before!

The roof terrace would be great in summer. And they hold barbecues once a week so you can socialise, as well as other daily activities.

How to Get to Canberra from Sydney

Canberra is just close enough to Sydney to make it worth visiting for three or four days. The drive time from Melbourne to Canberra takes over six hours though, so it’s a bit far to go unless you’re flying or planning a longer trip.

Sydney to Canberra By Car

The distance from Sydney to Canberra is 287km along the M31, which takes about three hours to drive. Check out my guide on what to do in the Southern Highlands if you want to stop off in one of the cute country towns along the way.

If you’re on a Melbourne to Sydney road trip , you could take the inland route via Canberra instead of the coastal route, or cut up from the coast halfway along your journey. Particularly if you have a wet week ahead and can’t do much at the seaside towns.

Sydney to Canberra by Train

I travelled from Sydney to Canberra by train, as I fancied a break from driving.

A direct train from Sydney to Canberra takes just over four hours , and costs around $28 economy , or $40 first class at most times of day.

The trip has to be booked in advance on NSW TrainLink , as once the seats are all allocated they don’t sell anymore tickets (unlike in the UK where they will cram people on standing up and charge about four times this price!).

The train was full when I tried to book one day in advance, so I used my Opal card to get from Sydney to Moss Vale , which only cost about $6 , and stayed in an Airbnb overnight. Then Moss Vale to Canberra the following morning took 2 hours 20 minutes and cost $15 .

I couldn’t believe how great the facilities were on the train !

While it looked a bit dated inside, it had air-con, reclining seats, foot rests, fold-down tables, curtains, brochures with a bio of the staff and destination guides, net pockets for your stuff, a buffet serving hot meals and a huge amount of leg room!

Rather than ask to see your ticket the attendant comes around with a register and ticks you off! The scenery was lovely too. The picture above is a bit blurry, but there are actually about 50 kangaroos bounding across the grass!

The train station in Canberra is around 6km outside of the city , which is a bit of a pain. To get the bus to the city cross Mildura Road directly opposite the station and catch the number 80 . This cost me $4.90 in cash, but it does only run once an hour.

Canberra Weather

Note that Canberra weather is very different to the weather in Sydney! While the summers are hot, the winters are much colder . It was about 13 degrees in the day when I visited in July, and often dropped below zero at night.

It was extremely sunny though, so walking around was a constant cycle of whipping off my hat, gloves and coat in the sun because I felt boiling, then quickly putting them back on again when the wind blew or it was shady!

It’s also extremely dry in Canberra, although there is a severe drought at the moment. The grass was totally brown and frazzled, and even the leaves on the trees looked dead. I’ll admit I was struck with an overwhelming urge to leave on the first day, as the grey buildings and lack of greenery looked so depressing compared to Sydney!

Canberra did grow on me though; there’s so much cultural stuff to do, and it looks quite pretty from up in the mountains. I met some great people in the YHA too.

That’s it for my recommended things to do in Canberra, Australia’s capital city. Have a great time exploring Oz, and let me know in the comments what you thought of Canberra and if you have any further recommendations!

Lisa Bull, founder of Dreaming of Down Under, has been living in Australia as a British expat since 2015. After travelling to every state and territory in Australia and living in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney, Lisa knows from first-hand experience the best destinations to visit in Australia and the best budget travel tips. Her guides on this blog have been read by over 700k readers and helped thousands of people achieve their dream of living in or travelling Australia.

Thank you for sharing your journey to Canberra. I’m from Phils and planning to go to Sydney. And want to go to another city, which is better Canberra or Melbourne.

No problem. Canberra is great for museums etc and also has surrounding bushland for hiking. Personally I would choose Melbourne out of the two though. It’s much bigger and has a really interesting city centre with great old architecture, lots of cafes and beaches too.

Fantastic article of Canberra Thank you for sharing

Thanks Ria!

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Hi, I'm Lisa, a British expat living in Sydney. I've travelled almost the whole Australian coastline and love sharing detailed travel and migration guides to inspire other adventurous souls to travel or move to Australia. Read more about me!

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Balloons over Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © EventsACT

3 days in Canberra

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Canberra makes for a perfect short break full of food, culture, history and outdoor activity.

By Leah Dobihal

The must-do experiences

Learn about Australian history, politics and culture at some of the best museums and galleries in the country

Get outdoors to explore nearby national parks and Lake Burley Griffin

Explore a sophisticated dining scene and cool-climate wines

Day 1: Lake Burley Griffin and NewActon

The heart of Canberra is Lake Burley Griffin, so get your bearings by spending the day on and around the water.

Where to stay in Canberra

Brazen, bright new architecture meets grand Art Deco design in the nation's capital.

Read time • 4min

Day 2: Canberra’s icons

As the nation’s capital city, Canberra has no shortage of must-visit icons. Art lovers and history buffs will love spending the day at the city’s best museums, memorials and galleries.

Did you know?

Canberra makes for a great stopping point on a road trip from Sydney to Melbourne .

Day 3: National Arboretum and Braddon

Spend your final day in Canberra seeking out more of the outdoors, joining a cultural tour and digging into the suburban food scene.

Canberra suburb guide

With its landmark cultural institutions, a blossoming culinary scene and outdoor activities aplenty, Australia’s capital city is big on attractions, easily reached from its central ‘hoods.

Read time • 7min

Explore more nearby

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15 Canberra day trips to escape the city

From the Snowy Mountains to the stunning NSW South Coast, Canberra is situated in one of the best locations for a fun day trip. Here are 15 trips to take for when you feel like escaping the capital city, whatever the season.

Spring/Summer

Life’s a beach.

The beach is never far away for Canberrans wishing to visit the NSW South Coast. Drive to Batemans Bay to enjoy the picturesque beachside town or visit the popular Sapphire Coast. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous and have some time up your sleeve, Mollymook might be calling your name, or with its white sand beaches and bushwalking trails, Jervis Bay is always worth the visit.

Go wine tasting

Canberra is surrounded by wine regions with 140 vineyards located within around 30 minutes’ drive from the city. Just moments from Canberra Airport, still in the ACT, you’ll find Mount Majura Vineyards and Pialligo Estate Vineyard . Right on the ACT-NSW border at Hall, you’ll find Capital Wines right in the village, or turn off the Barton Highway onto Wallaroo Road to explore Brindabella Hills Winery, Surveyors Hill Vineyards, Wallaroo Wines or Pankhurst Wines. Or turn north off the highway onto Nanima Road to visit Wily Trout Vineyard and Poachers Pantry .

Murrumbateman has several wineries to choose from. Visit Four Winds Vineyard cellar door for delicious wine and food with an Instagram-worthy backdrop or call into Eden Roads Wines to see the organically managed vineyards. Lake George Winery has award winning wines while Gundog Estate Cork Street Cellar Door offers a tasting experience like no other.  Tallagandra Hill , between Murrumbateman and Gundaroo, is another popular choice featuring friendly hosts, great wine and cottage accommodation beside the vineyards.

Explore the Tulip Top Gardens

Something to remember for spring days, Tulip Top Gardens is located 20 minutes away north of Canberra at Sutton NSW. The Gardens are only open during spring but it’s worth the wait to see the colourful displays. Because of COVID restrictions in 2020 and 2021 and for those who weren’t able to leave the house, they offered a Digital Season Pass to tour the gardens from the comfort of your own home.

Follow the trail at the canola fields

In the springtime, the Binalong Canola fields create glorious patchworks of brilliant yellow, making it a beautiful spot to stop and explore the Canola Trail. Two hours away from Canberra, the whole trail can be toured in a day but it also has a variety of accommodation options as you explore the shires of Coolamon, Junee and Temora.

Mountain bike or walk alpine trails

Thredbo is not only beautiful in the winter. Thredbo Mountain Bike Park is Australia’s premier biking destination with the only summer-long chairlift-accessed gravity trails in the country. If bikes aren’t your style, grab some hiking boots and experience the natural beauty of Australia’s highest mountains in summer as you walk the alpine trails. With glacial lakes, unique flora and fauna, and mountains as far as the eye can see, it’s a must do.

Autumn/Winter

Hunt for truffles.

On the edge of Canberra you’ll find the Truffle Farm . Open from late May through to early September each year, the homestead farm comes alive with an onsite restaurant whose chef has graced the kitchen of several Michelin-star restaurants worldwide. Join a hunt and follow the truffle hunting dog as it searches for truffles and learn how the prized fungi are prepared for market. Take the opportunity to try one and buy some products from the farm.

Visit Corin Forest

Located 45 minutes away in the Tidbinbilla Mountain Range, Corin Forest is Canberra’s local winter snow recreation area. For those who don’t have much experience in snow, Corin Forest is perfect for learning how to ski or throw a snowball. Snowplay offers snowman building, tobogganing and snowball fights while the Alpine Slide descends 1.2km through the majestic Mountain Ash forest.

Relax at Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa

Surround yourself with the Snowy Mountains and curl up next to the fire at Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa. The resort offers a range of boutique accommodation, guest activities at no extra cost, unique on and off resort experiences, as well as deep tissue massages, rejuvenating facials and indulgent spa packages.

Ski at Perisher, Thredbo or Charlotte Pass

Perfect for a weekend away, Canberra is a short drive away from several beautiful ski resorts. Perisher is located within the Kosciuszko National Park and can be reached by car or ski tube. There are areas to suit all abilities, a range of on-snow accommodation and numerous pubs, restaurants and cafes.

Situated in the heart of the Snowy Mountains and only 10 minutes away from Perisher, Charlotte Pass is Australia’s highest resort at 1765 metres. Open for skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking in summer, Charlotte Pass receives some of the most consistent snowfalls, offering a unique snow experience.

Along with skiing and snowboarding for all ages, Thredbo offers boutique shops, cafes and restaurants, an indoor swimming centre and even a sled track. For a treat, visit Eagle’s Nest , the highest restaurant in Australia. At 1,937 metres, you can find it perched at the top of the Kosciuszko Express chairlift, offering 270-degree views of the area.

All Year Round

Swim in the yarrangobilly thermal pools.

Three hours away from Canberra in the NSW Snowy Mountains, the spring-fed Yarrangobilly Thermal Pools are mildly mineralised swimming pools that stay a consistent 27 degrees all year. Visit after spending the day skiing at Thredbo or bushwalking in the mountains, pack a picnic to spend a therapeutic afternoon relaxing.

Explore the underground

Within a three hours’ drive from Canberra, an abundance of caves are waiting to be explored . Visit the Yarrangobilly Caves for the day or take a caving tour in some limestone caves at the Wee Jasper Reserve less than an hour away. This area has fantastic exploratory caves, abseiling caves and a show cave with great limestone natural features.

Visit Gibraltar Falls and hike Booroomba Rocks

Drive 45 minutes south of Canberra to visit Gibraltar Falls. Watch the water from the viewing platform, use the picnic shelter and barbecue near the car park, or bushwalk around the area to enjoy the native wildlife and unspoilt environment.

Further down from the waterfall is a popular bushwalking spot at Booroomba Rocks, located at Namadgi National Park. The walk offers stunning views of Canberra and across the Brindabella Ranges, with the shortest walk just 2.5km return.

Visit Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Namadgi National Park

Forty minutes away from Canberra, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is home to a variety of wildlife including birds, kangaroos, wallabies, platypus and koalas. With 21 trails to explore, there’s something for everyone including guided activities, educational activities about Ngunnawal culture and heritage, and exhibitions about rural life in the Tidbinbilla Valley.

Venture further into Namadgi National Park to learn more about the Ngunnawal people and explore the walking trails. While 80 per cent of Namadgi National Park was burnt during the 2020 Orroral Valley bushfire, there are some areas the public can access, just make sure to check before you leave for the day.

Climb Mount Kosciuszko

Set aside a couple of hours and pack some snacks to conquer Australia’s highest mountain. Popular in summer, the mountain offers amazing views of historic huts, weathered snow gums, rock formations and wildflowers. For those who don’t mind the cold, the mountain can be hiked in winter for snowy views. The walk is snowbound between June and October but you can cross-country ski or snowshoe; just be aware no snow poles mark the route. For more information, visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Country escape

Visit some of Canberra’s neighbouring towns in regional NSW for a change of scenery and some fresh country air.

The Yass Valley hosts an array of festivals and workshops year-round while the Upper Lachlan region has the remarkable Wombeyan Caves , which are estimated to be between 400 and 430 million years old.

The Hilltops area has one of the most exciting wine regions, taking in the towns of Boorowa, Harden and Young.

Take a short trip to historic Queanbeyan, visit the charming village of Bungendore or duck into Braidwood to support local speciality shops.

For something special, join the Pie Trail in the Southern Highlands in June and enjoy one or more of the locally made pies from 30 pie outlets around the region. Be sure to check COVID-19 restrictions before visiting.

What are your favourite day trip locations? Tell us in the comments below.

Regional NSW getaways

G etaway: griffith nsw, gem of the riverina, getaway: road trip through central nsw, getaway: sapphire coast sparkles in winter, getaway: go west to wagga wagga, getaway: tallagandra hill winery.

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Lotus Eletre

The best day trips from Canberra [2024]

Lerida Estate, one of the most recommended day trip destinations from Canberra. Photo: Dani Hardgrave.

There’s nothing better than a road trip and we’re pretty lucky in Canberra to have so many great places close enough to visit relatively easily in a day.

From the beaches of Batemans Bay , to the heritage of Braidwood , the canola fields of the Riverina, the Big Merino at Goulburn and the charms of Cooma , there’s plenty to see and do around the Capital region as well as in Canberra itself.

This list of the best day trips from Canberra has been compiled based on the suggestions from the previous post, along with comments from other similar posts.

Whether you’ve just moved to Canberra or you’ve lived here your whole life, there are sure to be a few destinations you’ve never been to, so why not add them to your must-visit list. Please also feel free to let us know if you have any other recommendations and we will incorporate them into any future updates.

Or if you’re after something specifically tailored to wineries , our article on the best wine tours in Canberra may be of interest to you.

Take a trip to one of the region’s vineyards and enjoy cheese, accompaniments and wine. Image: Supplied.

Less than one hour’s drive

• Hall (Approx 15 kms/20 mins): While it’s technically still within the ACT border and barely qualifies for day trip status, the monthly Hartley Hall markets are a treat. Worth a visit for its historical buildings, you can explore Hall with the National Trust’s self-guided heritage walk which takes about 90 minutes, and then refuel at the centrally located 1882 Bar & Grill for lunch.

Enjoy a delicious meal from 1882 Bar & Grill. Photo: Michelle Taylor.

• Gundaroo (Approx 40 kms/35 mins): A small and cute place, Gundaroo is within easy reach for lunch with a visit to the Cork Street Café recommended. Grazings Restaurant is also considered ‘top notch’. Gundaroo is a relatively young wine region but that hasn’t stopped some fabulous cellar doors from springing up. Gundog Estate ’s cellar door is in the old stables behind the Royal Hotel and Grazing.
• Bungendore (Approx 40 kms/40 mins): A beautiful little town within easy reach. Visit the village antiques store, the wood works gallery, the Paul Kowalski photography gallery or take some time out relaxing at Lake George. There are plenty of ways to while away some time in Bungendore , from exploring the beautifully preserved colonial buildings made of stone, timber and brick, enticing galleries and quirky shops to visiting the traditional country markets or nearby wineries .

• Murrumbateman (Approx 40 kms/40 mins): This is one for the wine-lovers, with so many Murrumbateman wineries to choose from. Recommendations include the Four Winds Vineyard for its wood-fired pizzas, the Shaw Vineyard Estate for its lovely setting, Eden Roads Wines for its knowledgeable staff, Gallagher Wines for its friendly staff and Flint in the Vines for a long leisurely lunch. The local pub also received a mention, as did the Murrumbateman Field Days.

Lerida Estate, one of Canberra’s most recommended wineries. Photo: Lerida Estate.

• Collector (Approx 60 kms/45 mins): Collector’s main claim to fame is its colourful history, with The Bushranger Hotel in the main street the site where a member of bushranger Ben Hall’s gang shot the local police constable after holding up the publican back in 1865. The Bushranger Hotel is a great pub with an excellent café/bistro, and Some Café is popular spot with the locals. There are also some nice wineries nearby, including the town’s own, Collector Wines . And, be sure to check out one of the region’s most acclaimed wine makers, Lerida Estate . As a day trip destination, Lerida Estate’s glorious vineyards offer more than simply breathtaking views. Perfectly poised amongst the vines is their winery, a Glenn Murcutt designed architectural masterpiece. The winery’s Café Lerida boasts modern Australian fare, and some wonderful accompaniments to their wines.

1-2 hour drive

• Yass (Approx 60 kms/1 hr) : An old town rich with history , which was (and may still be) home to some ‘big money’ families with farms in the area. Cooma Cottage is a great example of architectural evolution and there are a lot of sites of great significance to the various Aboriginal peoples who have called the region home. The Peter Crisp Galleries are well worth a visit with amazing glasswares and beautiful gardens. And you can’t go past the Valley’s wonderful wine region .

Yass buzzing as creative energy transforms the town's 'sleepy' image Yass is often dubbed a sleepy town, but it's starting to wake up – with food, shopping and a creative energy that's casting a new light on the community. Posted by The Riotact on Saturday, May 15, 2021

• Captains Flat (Approx 60 kms/1 hr): A quirky old mining town with an old pub that boasts about previously having the longest running bar in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Gunning (Approx 70 kms/1 hr): Pay a visit to the local pub the Telegraph Hotel or enjoy the monthly Gunning Market.
• Braidwood (Approx 85 kms/Just over 1 hr): This heritage listed town is one of the few left in Australia to retain its original Georgian town plan. Make sure you visit the old-fashioned lolly shop and the Dojo bakery with bread to die for!

• Goulburn (Approx 90 kms/Just over 1 hr): This relatively large regional city has a charm about it and you can tell that historically there was plenty of wool money there evidenced by some nice architecture. If you haven’t already met the Big Merino it’s almost a rite of passage for every visitor to Goulburn.

• Wee Jasper (Approx 90 kms/1.5 hrs): While Wee Jasper received some mixed reviews because there isn’t a town centre as such, you may find it an interesting place with some good camping/picnic/bushwalking spots beside the river.
• Crookwell (Approx 115 kms/1.5 hrs): Crookwell is an experience with rolling green hills and some really nice B&Bs and self-contained accommodation. It’s also well worth driving on a little further to the Pub of The Mill in Laggan.
• Cooma (Approx 115 kms/1.5 hrs): There’s plenty to choose from in Cooma in its location enroute to the snowfields. The Lott was recommended for a great feed.
• Jugiong (Approx 120 kms/1.5 hrs): This tiny village delivers more than you expect. There’s The Quirky Crow with its lovely pottery and gallery, the Sir George pub , an historic stone cottage , and a monument to Richie Benaud, as well as a fabulous café serving homemade organic jams and sauces for sale and a great fruit and veg store.

• Taralga (Approx 135 kms/just over 1.5 hrs): A gorgeous place an the Taralga Hotel is definitely worth a visit.

• Southern Highlands (Approx 160 kms/Just under 2 hrs): So many great towns to visit in the district including Bowral, Mittagong, Moss Vale, Berrima and Bundanoon among other smaller towns. A must-do trip for those who have never been.

• Gundagai (Approx 160 kms/Just under 2 hrs): Gundagai is small but cute. There is a café with wooden booths that has gone unchanged since the 50s and a big park with an old wooden bridge.
• Batemans Bay (Approx 150 kms/2 hrs): Batemans Bay is a charming seaside town with plenty to do. It is also well worth driving on a little further to Mogo where there are some great crafty shops, bike trails and a world-class wildlife park . Only downside is that traffic can tend to build when it’s time to head home. Maybe you should stay the night! Corrigans Cove Resort is the perfect place to settle in.

Corrigans Cove Resort, Batemans Bay. Photo: Corrigans Cove Resort.

• Young (Approx 160kms/2 hrs): Boasts some great eateries and apparently, the car museum in Binalong is worth a stop on the way back. Visit the Hilltops region in cherry season and enjoy all things cherry !

More than a 2 hour drive

• Moruya (Approx 175 kms/Just over 2 hrs): The best of country life near the beach. Enjoy lunch at The River Restaurant, browse the quirky shops or kick back on the riverbank.
• Cowra (Approx 190kms/Just over 2 hrs): Cowra isn’t too far away and the Japanese Gardens are worth a look. Don’t miss the diorama at the Cowra Visitor Information Centre.
• Kangaroo Valley (Approx 200 kms/2.5 hrs): Definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a touch of nature, with Fitzroy Falls, Carrington Falls and Belmore Falls all noted as highlights.
• Yarrangobilly caves (Approx 170 kms/2.5 hrs)

Yarrangobilly thermal pool near Talbingo. Photo: Visit NSW.

• Wombeyan caves (Approx 170 kms/Just over 2 hrs)
• Nowra (Approx 190 kms/2.5 hrs): Beautiful beaches and, if you have time, drive another 40 minutes to Jervis Bay and its spectacular beaches.
• Kosciuszko National Park (Approx 200 kms/2.5 hrs): A beautiful natural environment, home to the Thredbo Ski Resort and the towns of Crackenback and Jindabyne.
• Bundawang National Park (Approx 200 kms/2.5 hours): Offers spectacular day hikes.
• Temora (Approx 200 kms/2.5 hours): The Aviation Museum received a few mentions.
• Tumut (Approx 200 kms/2.5 hrs): A typical but great country town.
• Picton (Approx 215 kms/2.5 hrs)
• Ulladulla (Approx 200 kms/Just over 2.5 hrs): Not only is Ulladulla’s coastline stunning, so is the countryside. Be sure to visit to Cupitt’s Winery and enjoy a delicious lunch with a breathtaking view.

Cupitt’s Winery in Ulladulla has stunning views. Photo: File.

• Canowindra (Approx 220 kms/Just over 2.5 hrs): Great for foodies, with the Spanokopita from a place called The Shed receiving an honourable mention.
• Narooma (Approx 220 kms/3 hrs)

Beautiful mountain walks in the Snowy Mountain. Photo: Supplied.

If you’re looking for more information on travelling around Canberra and its regions, check out our articles on the best beaches near Canberra , best hotels and resorts on the South Coast , best restaurants and bars on the South Coast and 10 things to do on the South Coast . Or if you’re interested in places to visit whilst you’re in Canberra, check out our list of the top 10 Canberra places to take visiting family and friends , the best wine tours and the best tours in Canberra .

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perfect get away on a weekend . Beautiful spot

When you visit Fitzroy and/or Carrington Falls, Belmore Falls are also in the same area, near Robertson, and well worth a look.

There is a lot around; Yarrangobilly caves or maybe Wombeyan if you got up early and got back late. Temora is fun when the planes are flying. If you like your motor racing, Wakefield Park is only an hour away just out of Goulburn. Old Berrima is nice too. There may be some gold still in the ground at places like at Araluen or Majors Creek.

MERC600 said :

You could wander over to Temora. Its not to far away. Just slip out of Yass, go a little way along the Hume, then throw a righty onto a reasonable country highway. Temora has a exceptional aviation museum , and a rural museum that is very good. You could then wander back through Cootamundra where Sir Donald Bradman was born , and have a squiz at his home.

If you are going to Temora, the Barmedman Mineral Pool is not far away. http://www.big4.com.au/caravan-parks/nsw/riverina/deniliquin-holiday-park/see-and-do/barmedman-mineral-pool-9115850 I used to be taken there as a child. In those days the pool bottom was dirt. It was free. Don’t know if it is now.

You could wander over to Temora. Its not to far away. Just slip out of Yass, go a little way along the Hume, then throw a righty onto a reasonable country highway.

Temora has a exceptional aviation museum , and a rural museum that is very good.

You could then wander back through Cootamundra where Sir Donald Bradman was born , and have a squiz at his home.

I didn’t know about Carrington Falls but it looks amazing. Might have to make the day trip on the weekend! I’ve heard that there are some pretty spectacular day hikes in the Budawangs on the way to the south coast too, which I’d like to try too.

Flint in the Vines in Murrumbateman is my pick for a long leisurely lunch just outside of Canberra. A really lovely spot with great food.

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16 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Canberra

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 28, 2023

Crammed with cultural treasures, Canberra, in the ACT (Australian Capital Territory), is the carefully crafted capital of Australia. It's no accident that the city lies between Sydney and Melbourne . The site of the capital was chosen as a compromise between these two rival cities in 1908. American architects, Walter Burley Griffin and his wife, Marion Mahony Griffin, won an international competition for the city's design, which incorporates vast greenbelts and geometric shapes.

Lake Burley Griffin , in the city center, is Canberra's sparkling jewel. Many of the city's top tourist attractions and things to do lie along its shores, including the National Gallery of Australia, Questacon, and the National Library. The parliament buildings, as well as some of the city's other top tourist attractions, lie within the Parliamentary Triangle, formed by Kings Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue, and Lake Burley Griffin.

Canberra is also known for its fantastic festivals, including the famous Floriade, a celebration of the city's many spring blooms. Find out more about the best places to visit in Australia's dynamic capital with our list of the top attractions and things to do in and around Canberra.

Australian War Memorial

New parliament house, museum of australian democracy at old parliament house, stroll around lake burley griffin, find inspiration at the national gallery of australia, questacon: the national science and technology centre, national portrait gallery of australia, national library of australia, admire the views from mount ainslie lookout, wander through the australian national botanic gardens, national zoo and aquarium, national museum of australia, national carillon, hike the trails at black mountain nature park, royal australian mint, jerrabomberra wetland, canberra, australia - climate chart, day trips from canberra, snowy mountains, tidbinbilla, lanyon homestead, cockington green, map of attractions & things to do in canberra.

The Australian War Memorial is Canberra's most poignant attraction. Inaugurated in the middle of WWII, the massive Byzantine-style monument commemorates Australia's war fatalities. But it's more than just a war memorial. The site combines an excellent museum, archives, art gallery, and library.

The Commemorative Courtyard at the entrance to the memorial is a haunting introduction. Inscribed in bronze on the walls of the colonnades are the names of every Australian who has died in war since 1885, and the length of the list is spine chilling.

Beyond the entrance, different galleries retrace the stories of Australia's armed conflicts from colonial days to the present. The exhibits are constantly evolving, but highlights include the collection of old aircraft and the child-friendly Discovery Zone packed with interactive displays.

If possible, you should set aside several hours to appreciate this thought-provoking memorial, and if you're visiting near the end of the day, try to stay for the Last Post , a moving tribute to the fallen played at 4:55pm daily. Visiting the memorial is one of the best free things to do in Canberra, and the 90-minute tours are highly recommended.

Address: Treloar Crescent (top of ANZAC Parade), Campbell

Official site: https://www.awm.gov.au/

The final fulfillment of architect Walter Burley Griffin's vision for Canberra in 1912, New Parliament House is a marvel of modern architecture. The boomerang-shaped structure nestles comfortably into Capital Hill and was designed to replace the Provisional Parliament House at the base of the hill, now known as Old Parliament House .

A New York-based architect won an international competition for the design of the new building, and on May 9, 1988, the Queen officially opened Parliament House. The date in May was chosen to commemorate the first meeting of Federal Parliament in Melbourne in 1901 and the first meeting of Parliament in the Old Parliament House in 1927.

From the expansive grassed walkway, which forms the roof, you can enjoy panoramic views of Canberra and see how Parliament forms the central focus of the city's street layout.

Architectural highlights of the building include the two huge circular walls, composed of granite, which mirror the curves of the hill; the towering 81-meter flagpole; and the Ceremonial Pool. In the foyer, 48 columns of illuminated greenish-gray marble create the impression of a eucalyptus forest. Throughout the public spaces, exhibits display important documents (the Magna Carta is a highlight) and retrace important events in Australian history.

From the gallery running around the first floor, you can gain admission to the public galleries of the green-hued House of Representatives, and the Senate, traditionally dressed in red. A visit during sitting times is a great way to view first-hand how parliament functions, and the free guided tours offer fascinating details about the building.

After visiting, you can take the 3.5-kilometer Parliament House Walk to the city center and learn about the Parliamentary Triangle along the way through interpretive signs.

Address: Parliament House, Canberra

Official site: http://www.aph.gov.au/

A short walk from New Parliament House at the base of Capital Hill, Old Parliament House is now home to the Museum of Australian Democracy. Not only can you soak up the history of this National Heritage-listed building, you can also learn about the important foundations of Australia's government.

Opened by the Duke of York (later King George VI) in 1927, the building is designed in the "stripped classical" style and was occupied by the Australian Parliament until 1988, when New Parliament House was officially opened. It was formerly called Provisional Parliament House, and was only standing in until a permanent structure could be designed and built – a feat finally realized 61 years later.

The museum is like a time capsule. You can learn about past Australian Prime Ministers; sit in the old Prime Minister's Office, a relatively humble affair; visit the Press Room; and read important historical documents. The chambers of the House of Representatives and the Senate are modeled on the British House of Commons and House of Lords with paneling and furnishings made of Australian woods, and wall hangings displaying Australian flora. Parents will appreciate the child-friendly exhibits and free daily craft activities.

After a visit to the building, you stroll among the National Rose Gardens . Free, guided tours help you get the most out of your time here, and you can also take a fascinating Indigenous Experiences of Democracy tour.

Address: 18 King George Terrace, Parkes

Official site: http://moadoph.gov.au/

Beautiful Lake Burley Griffin is the centerpiece of Canberra. Named for the city's architect, this artificial lake was included in his original plan of 1912, but didn't come to fruition until 1958. Today, it's a picturesque setting for all kinds of outdoor activities.

Tourists and locals alike come here to bike and stroll along the waterfront paths; picnic along its park-fringed shores; and fish, sail, or paddle the glistening waters. Looking for things to do in Canberra at night? Book a dinner cruise on the MV Southern Cross and see the twinkling lights of the city as you glide around the lake feasting on gourmet food.

Six islands lie at its center, the largest of which is Aspen Island , home to the National Carillon, a gift from the British government with 55 bronze bells .

Sprinkled around the lake are some of Canberra's top things to see and do, including the National Gallery, National Library, Questacon, and National Museum.

Standing on the shores of the central basin, you can see the Captain Cook Memorial Jet , a 147-meter-high fountain inaugurated in 1970 on the 200th anniversary of Cook's discovery of Australia. A globe sculpture depicting the path of Cook's voyages lies on the shores of the lake at Regatta Point.

On the north side of the lake, Commonwealth Park is a great place to visit with children. Here, you'll find play areas, paddling pools, waterfalls, an amphitheater, and a path round the park.

In spring, the park is the venue for the famous Floriade festival, a celebration of spring, when more than a million flowers are in bloom.

On the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, the National Gallery of Australia contains Australia's largest collection of art . The cubic concrete structure was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in October 1982 and consists of 11 main galleries on three levels, as well as a large Sculpture Garden laid out according to the four seasons and a Fern Garden.

The purchase of the extensive collection began in 1968 and includes works from Australia, Asia, Europe, America, and the Pacific, as well as the largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art in the world . Among the museum's collection is Jackson Pollock's Blue Poles , purchased in 1973 and now one of the gallery's most famous paintings.

Mediums range from oil paintings and watercolors, to sculpture, decorative art, drawings, book illustrations, sketchbooks, photographs, films, ceramics, costumes, and textiles. Locals and tourists alike will also enjoy the many special exhibitions.

After exploring the gallery, you can visit the adjoining High Court of Australia , with graceful fountains, Carrara marble-paved floors, and murals.

Address: Parkes Place, Parkes

Official site: http://nga.gov.au/Default.cfm

Traveling with kids? Questacon is one of the top Canberra attractions for families. Between the High Court and the National Library on Lake Burley Griffin, it's an interactive National Science and Technology Centre with all kinds of hands-on science displays and do-it-yourself experiments designed to delight and inspire.

The exhibits seek to promote understanding of the importance of science and technology in everyday life. Science shows, special events, and guest lectures complement the 200 hands-on exhibits .

In the Technology Learning Centre, budding innovators can participate in workshops and build and play with technology. Highlights of the permanent exhibits include the H2O-Soak up the Science room with water-related fun, the Free Fall slide, and Earthquake House. No wonder this is one of the top things to do in Canberra for families.

Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes

Official site: http://www.questacon.edu.au/

Near the High Court of Australia and the National Gallery , the National Portrait Gallery of Australia displays some 400 portraits of the nation's most influential people. You can easily spend an hour or two coming face to face with Australia's movers and shakers, brought to life through paintings, photography, and sculpture.

Multimedia presentations divulge fascinating details about the lives of the people who helped shape the nation, and special exhibitions provide new things to see. Visiting the gallery is a breeze: parking is free, and the popular café and bookshop are a great way to top off a tour.

Official site: http://www.portrait.gov.au/

Opened in 1968, the National Library of Australia is a treasure trove of Australian books, manuscripts, newspapers, historic documents, oral history, music, and pictures. Its most valuable possessions are Captain Cook's journal (1768-71) and Wills' diary of his expedition with Burke in 1860-61.

Architecturally, the building is a dramatic contrast from the National Gallery and High Court. Built in the style of a Greek temple, its classical effect is underscored by the lavish use of marble and travertine on the columns and walls. Marble from Greece, Italy, and Australia was also used in the decoration of the interior.

In the foyer are superb stained-glass windows by Leonard French and three Aubusson tapestries woven from Australian wool.

On the lower floor, the Treasures Gallery displays highlights from the library's collection, and the Exhibitions Gallery hosts special visiting displays, which often require advance booking.

Official site: http://www.nla.gov.au/

To really appreciate the layout of this carefully planned capital, head to the lookout of 843-meter Mount Ainslie. It's one of the city's most popular vantage points. A well-paved walking/biking trail winds for just over two kilometers from the rear of the Australian War Memorial . Along the way, you can pause at the commemorative plaques to learn about historic Australian battles, and you might even see some kangaroos, as well as an array of beautiful birds.

It's also possible to drive up to the lookout. Thanks to Walter Burley Griffin's vision, the lookout aligns perfectly with Anzac Parade, Lake Burley Griffin, Old Parliament House, and, in the background, the sleek lines of New Parliament House. On breezy days, be sure to bring a jacket.

Other popular lookout points include Red Hill , to the south of here, and Black Hill , to the west.

Address: Mount Ainslie Drive, Canberra

About a kilometer west of the city center, the 50-hectare National Botanic Gardens are a must-visit for green thumbs. Spread across the slopes of Black Mountain, these carefully tended collections display a range of different habitats and present all the important species of Australian flora. Kids will also love to run wild here.

The Rain Forest Gully is particularly impressive. Look for water dragons among the lush foliage. Other highlights include the Red Centre garden, with deep red earth and a spinifex grassland, as well as the Children's Discovery Walk . The gardens are also a haven for birds and butterflies.

From the gardens, you can access Black Mountain Nature Park and hike to the summit for glorious city views.

Wondering about other Canberra gardens to visit? You'll also enjoy exploring the National Arboretum Canberra , about a six-minute drive away. This 250-hectare nature area encompasses forests of rare native and exotic trees, the National Bonsai and Penjing collection, a Gallery of Gardens, picnic areas with panoramic viewpoints, and a fantastic children's playground.

If you're looking for cheap things to do in Canberra, this is an excellent option. Entry to the gardens is free, but you'll pay a small fee to park at the on-site parking lot.

Address: Clunies Ross Street, Acton

Official site: http://www.anbg.gov.au/gardens/index.html

Australia's only combined zoo and aquarium, this privately owned venture is a hit with families and anyone who loves animals. It's only five minutes from the city center.

The National Aquarium displays a wide range of marine life, from the tiny denizens of the reefs to huge sharks.

In the neighboring zoo, you can view all the important species of Australian fauna, as well as exotic species as such as lions, tigers, cheetahs, bears, and more. The animal encounters are extremely popular and allow visitors to go behind the scenes and interact with a range of exotic creatures. You can meet a meerkat and get up close with cheetahs, giraffes, sun bears, and rhinos, among other animals at this popular Canberra zoo.

Address: 999 Lady Denman Drive, Western Creek, Yarralumla

Official site: http://www.nationalzoo.com.au/

On a peninsular jutting into Lake Burley Griffin, the National Museum of Australia spotlights the nation's social history. The contemporary building itself is a conversation piece, with beautiful lake views. Inspired by a jigsaw, it was intended to underscore the interconnected stories that helped shape the nation.

A major theme of the exhibits is the cultural history of Indigenous Australians. Other highlights include exhibits on the Gold Rush, Australian industry, clothing, and migration. Children will also find a few interactive displays to keep them busy.

Address: Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula

Official site: http://www.nma.gov.au/

On Aspen Island in Lake Burley Griffin, the white Carillon Tower was a gift from the British government on Canberra's 50th birthday in 1963. The 50-meter-high tower incorporates three sleek columns clad in opal chip and quartz. Within the towers are 55 bronze bells ranging from seven kilograms to six metric tons.

You can bring a picnic and relax on the surrounding lawns. Better still, visit during a recital (Wednesdays and Sundays from 12:30 to 1:20pm), when the music of the bells wafts across the lake. The tower looks especially beautiful when it's lit at night.

Location: Kings Park, Aspen Island, Canberra

Black Mountain Nature Park is a great wilderness experience to combine with a visit to the adjacent Australian National Botanic Gardens . It lies just west of the city center.

Walking trails wind through the bushland, where you can see many species of native birds and other wildlife, including wallabies. The Black Mountain Summit Trail is a popular 2.7-kilometer (one-way) trail , which takes you to Telstra Tower , where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

At the foot of Black Mountain, the Australian Institute of Sport is the training center for Australia's top sportsmen and women, with a swimming stadium and tennis center.

Address: Black Mountain Drive, Acton

The Royal Australian Mint is a great place to spend an hour or so and learn about the heritage of Australia's currency. All Australian coins are minted here.

You can watch the manufacture of coins from a gallery, learn about the history of Australian coins through a video presentation and multimedia displays, and discover some of Australia's rarest coins. Looking for unique things to do in Canberra? Try minting your own $1 coin. You can also meet Titan, the mint's money-making robot.

Take advantage of the free tour at 11am and 2pm Monday through Friday. In the foyer of the Mint is a small museum with a souvenir shop.

Address: Denison Street, Deakin

Official site: http://www.ramint.gov.au/

Craving a nature fix while you're in the city? Drive eight minutes from the city center to Jerrabomberra Wetland, and you can be wandering through tranquil wetlands listening to the sounds of nature.

Ironically, this bird-rich wetland was created when Lake Burley Griffin was filled, causing the water table to rise on the Molonglo River floodplain.

If you're an avid birder, you're in luck. You'll find more than 170 different species here, including the purple swamphen, black swans, eastern rosellas, and yellow-tailed black cockatoos. Bird hides make it easy to spot some of the more skittish species.

Boardwalks, walking tracks, and signs make it easy to explore this urban oasis, and bird-watching tours and other specialist talks enhance a visit. You can also explore three different trails and learn more about the unique features of the wetland by downloading a free app.

Address: Dairy Road, Fyshwick ACT

Official site: https://www.jerrabomberrawetlands.org.au/

Wondering about places to visit near Canberra in winter? You can ski the slopes of some of Australia's best ski resorts about a two-hour drive south of Canberra. Rising to a height of 2,228 meters, the rugged Snowy Mountains host top resorts, including Perisher, Thredbo, Smiggin Holes, Charlotte Pass, Guthega, and Mount Blue Cow.

But you'll find plenty of things to do in the Snowy Mountains year-round. In the summer, the region offers fabulous hiking, horseback riding, water sports, and fishing.

At Tidbinbilla, about an hour's drive from Canberra, you can learn about Australia's role in space exploration at the Canberra Space Center in the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex, one of only three in the world . Budding astronauts can see the largest antenna complex in the Southern Hemisphere , explore models of different spacecraft, and learn about the foods astronauts eat on the space shuttle.

Just south of here, the excellent Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is a great place to see wildlife such as grey kangaroos, rock wallabies, emus, koalas, and the elusive platypus. Hiking trails weave throughout the reserve, allowing you to soak up all the natural beauty and spot animals along the way.

Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex

• Address: Paddy's River, Tidbinbilla, 421 Discovery Dr, Paddys River ACT
• http://www.cdscc.nasa.gov/

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

• Address: Paddys River Road, Paddys River ACT
• https://www.tidbinbilla.act.gov.au/

About 40 kilometers south of Canberra, the historic homestead of Lanyon is a lovely spot to spend a morning or afternoon. Set in attractive parkland on the Murrumbidgee River, the homestead recalls 19th-century rural life and is still a working farm with sheep, cattle, and horses.

You can step back in time and tour some of the homestead's rooms, filled with antique treasures, or stroll through the beautiful gardens. After exploring the grounds, the café is a great place to enjoy a snack.

Address: Tharwa Drive, Tharwa

Official site: http://www.historicplaces.com.au/lanyon-homestead

About an hour's drive from Canberra, Goulburn is the center of a wealthy farming district at the junction of the Wollondilly and Mulwarry Rivers. The discovery of gold at Braidwood, 87 kilometers south, brought the town wealth. Today, many handsome buildings bear witness to the town's prosperity in the 1870s. Of particular interest are Riversdale Historic Homestead , the town hall, courthouse, and St. Saviour's Cathedral .

Rocky Hill Lookout offers great views over town, and you can visit a WWI memorial here. On the western outskirts of town is the Big Merino , a 15-meter concrete tribute to Australia's wool industry, with a small shop and museum. Train buffs will enjoy the Rail Heritage Centre .

The little settlement of Berrima was founded around 1830 and is one of Australia's best-preserved Georgian towns. In the last few decades, the beauty of the Georgian buildings has been rediscovered, and the town is now protected as a national monument.

Many artists and potters have settled here. It's worthwhile spending a few hours browsing the art galleries and shops and relaxing at the cafés. In addition to a number of old inns, you can explore the historic buildings on the Berrima Historic Walk .

Cockington Green, about nine kilometers north of the city, is a favorite place to visit for families. Set amid pretty gardens and sprawling lawns, it's a picturesque English village in miniature, as well as a display of tiny buildings from around the world. Hop aboard the miniature steam train , explore the Waverley Dollhouse, and admire the tiny castles and cottages.

Address: 11 Gold Creek Road, Nichols

Official site: http://www.cockingtongreen.com.au/

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Places to Visit near Canberra : Feel like embracing winter and carving up some slopes? Less than a three-hour drive away from Canberra, you'll find some of Australia's top ski resorts . Visiting in the summer? You can explore The Kosciuszko Walk, one of the Australia's top hikes . If you need help deciding what other things to see and do during your visit Down Under, see our article on top Australian itineraries .

More on Australia

The Best Day Trips from Canberra

The city of Canberra is an exciting mix of cultural and natural delights. The city center is home to many prized artworks, Parliament, and various markets and festivals. The surrounding country offers pristine nature and world-class institutions. Whether you want to explore natural landscapes, wine regions, or historic sites, these are not far from the capital city.

Canberra is rich in nature, history, and culture. There is so much to see and do within a short drive of Canberra that you could easily spend weeks travelling around the region.

So here are some of our favourite day trips from Canberra:

TRAVEL TIP:  Make sure your things are safe before you go on an adventure in Canberra. Check out mindmybag.com and the different places in Canberra where they store bags.

Lanyon Homestead

Gibraltar falls, yass valley, captain flat, yarrangobilly thermal pools.

• 7. Namadgi National Park

Lake Burley Griffin

Canberra’s national zoo and aquarium, batemans bay, tidbinbilla nature reserve, boorowa – farming village, murrumbateman, cotter reserve, cockington green gardens, eurobodalla national park, tuross head, binalong bay, mount stromlo observatory, canberra deep space communications complex, kosciuszko national park.

For a day trip from the city, visit the historic homestead of the Brindabella Ranges. The homestead is the centerpiece of this landmark property, set in stunning gardens.

Visitors can experience life as it was during colonial times, as well as marvel at the magnificent gardens. The grounds are also a great place to enjoy a picnic and take in the sights. There are even special events held here from time to time.

The city is bursting with contrasts. The city center is home to Australia’s Parliament, prized artworks, and various markets and festivals. Yet, it is only a short drive to stunning natural beauty and national historic sites.

Day trips from Canberra to Lanyon homestead are sure to be a highlight of your visit to Australia’s capital city. There are several things to do in the region, including visiting the Lanyon homestead and other nearby attractions.

Another great day trip from Canberra to Lanyon Homestead is a visit to the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. This parkland is located about 40 kilometers south of the city. It has plenty of scenic trails and wildlife, including platypus. Visiting the parkland here is an excellent way to unwind after a long day in the city. Once you’re done exploring this park, you can even stop for high tea at the five-star Hyatt Hotel Canberra.

If you’re in the mood for an outdoor adventure, you can’t go past the gushing Gibraltar Falls.

Located in the heart of Canberra’s natural landscape, this waterfall has long been a secret spot. Just 15 minutes walk from the nearest car park, you’ll find yourself in a natural wonderland. The waterfall itself is so impressive that you’ll most likely find yourself alone in the beauty.

The waterfall is not only spectacular – it’s free! You can take your time at Gibraltar Falls, and you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view. This is a perfect spot for a picnic and doesn’t cost a cent. To make it even better, you’ll be able to spend more time here than you’d think. Visiting Gibraltar Falls is one of the best day trips from Canberra – and it’s definitely worth the trip!

The falls are located in Namadgi National Park, which covers 262,166.5 acres and 106,095 hectares. From the car park, you can walk along the gravel track to the waterfall. Depending on the season, the area might be a little muddy. However, it’s worth noting that this natural attraction is managed by local Aboriginal people. This waterfall is also accessible by car, and it’s free to drive and park.

If you’re looking for something different to do on your Gibraltar Falls day trip from Canberra, check out nearby Namadgi National Park and Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Both places are well worth a visit, and the nature reserve is an excellent escape from the bustling city. The Gibraltar Falls are also nearby and have an excellent viewing platform and picnic shelter. Afterward, you can bushwalk around the area to take in the magnificent views.

A day trip from Canberra to the Yass Valley is a great way to enjoy the beautiful countryside while visiting the nation’s capital. The Yass Valley is about an hour and a half drive from Canberra, and it’s a charming country town, home to some of Australia’s most celebrated wineries.

In town, you can visit the four Winds Vineyard or visit the charming village of Murrumbateman to sample the wines and sample some delicious food. You can also enjoy wine pairings at a family-owned 33-acre vineyard, Sekoranja Winery.

If you’re planning to visit the area, make sure to take the Federal Highway, Barton Highway, or Hume Hwy. These highways link the city of Canberra to Melbourne, and both of these highways travel through the Yass Valley. Once you’re in the valley, head east towards Gundaroo and stop in at the historic Clementine Bakery. The bakers there specialize in six types of sourdough bread, croissants, and Danish pastries. They use local and seasonal ingredients whenever possible.

If you’re interested in hiking or mountain biking in the Yass Valley, there are several trails and roads to consider. One of the best trails is the Wee Jasper Road, which connects to Long Rail Gully Road. The Wee Jasper Road is a 5% grade, and it’s a scenic drive. This road is not recommended for wet or muddy conditions. From the village of Murrumbateman, you’ll eventually reach the pristine waters of the Yass River.

Day trips from Canberra to Yass valley are a great way to experience the beautiful countryside that surrounds the city. You can enjoy beautiful beach towns nearby, as well as the rich history of the city. You can also spend the day shopping in Huskisson, a charming beach town.

There are also some great cafes and vintage stores, so you’ll have no trouble finding a place to have lunch.

A Captains Flat day trip from Canberra will allow you to experience the quaint, old mining town. This ride begins in the morning and ends at the quaint town of Captains Flat. You can ride the full loop or extend your trip to more than 200 km on dirt roads.

Begin at Lanyon Shopping Centre, then continue through Angles Crossing and Captains Flat. Be sure to plan and book a room before you go. The Captain’s Flat Hotel is only open three days a week.

To start your trip, pick up a Captain’s Flat Tourist Information Sheet. This guide provides a map of the town and detailed descriptions of its attractions. The map also provides helpful information about where to buy wine. After you arrive at Captains Flat, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the area. While you’re there, don’t forget to take photos!

If you’re planning a day trip from the capital, consider heading out to Captains Flat. The town is located just over an hour’s drive from Canberra. You’ll find several interesting historic buildings in this charming town. It was once populated by the ngarigo aborigines and developed into a bustling mining community during the late 1800s. The local football field and historic buildings are well worth exploring.

A Captains Flat day trip from Canberra includes the renowned Tallaganda National Park.

During your trip, don’t skip your daily exercise routine. Try to find hotels with gyms and fitness centers. Working out reduces stress, promotes deeper sleep, and is good for your overall health. You’ll feel lighter and less stressed after a trip to this picturesque town. You’ll also find plenty of art, antique stores, and cafes to enjoy along the way.

Day trips from Canberra to the Tablelands can be done for cultural, recreational, and family reasons. This inland area contains many charming country towns, as well as cultural heritage and buzzing art scenes.

Visitors can also enjoy award-winning wineries and old-school pubs.

Day trips to the Tablelands can include stops at the Bakery at Marulan, where you can get the best vanilla slice in the city, or the Young Berry Farm, where you can take the kids berry-picking.

You can explore the surrounding regions of Australia through day trips from Canberra. There are several natural wonders to discover. The beautiful sweeping plains of Victoria, the Big Merino on the Goulburn River, and the charming hamlets of Cooma are only a few examples of places you can visit from Canberra. You’ll find plenty to do and see in the area, and there’s even an art festival that is held here every year.

In the surrounding region, you can go wine tasting. The Canberra region boasts over 30 wineries within 35 minutes of the city center. While many producers focus on pinot noir and chardonnay, you can also try riesling, merlot, and Sangiovese. You can also try a delicious pinot noir rose at Lerida Estate. The winery’s renowned chef is credited for the creation of this delicious, refreshing, and fragrant wine.

If you’re looking for a day trip from Canberra, you can easily reach Yarrangobilly Thermal Pools from the Capital Region.

A short seven-hour drive from the city will get you there, and the drive will be breathtaking. The thermal pool sits in the beautiful Rules Creek Valley, surrounded by eucalyptus trees. The walk itself is fairly easy and there are picnic tables and wheelie bins.

From the city, you can take a day trip to the Yarrangobilly Caves and Thermal Pools. The caves are 440 million years old and are home to stunning karst systems of stalagmites and stalactites. There are scenic walking trails around the Yarrangobilly River that take you through the beautiful scenery. And once you’re finished exploring the caves, you can relax in the thermal pool and enjoy a picnic along the river.

The Yarrangobilly caves thermal pool is a local sensation. Set amid lush greenery, the thermal pools are surrounded by aquamarine waters. This natural hot spring is a short drive from Canberra and is part of the Kosciuszko National Park. It contains two pools, the larger one that’s heated year-round, and a smaller one for children, which spills into the larger one.

Namadgi National Park – burnt during 2020 Orroral Valley bushfire

If you love the beauty of the Australian Alps and don’t want to leave the city, consider taking a day trip to Namadgi National Park.

Located about 45 minutes north of the capital, this park offers stunning views of the surrounding bushland and mountains. It also has an interesting history – the area was once home to the Yerrabi Tracks and pastoralists. Today, the park is a great place for hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking.

Near the national park, visit Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, a vast expanse of protected bushland. Home to a variety of birdlife, wallabies, kangaroos, and koalas, Tidbinbilla offers 21 walking trails and is wheelchair accessible. While you’re at the park, be sure to visit the Ngunnawal tribe, which has lived in this area for over 21,000 years.

Namadgi National Park is home to the tallest mountain in Australia, Mount Lofty. Visitors to this park will be rewarded with breathtaking views, historical huts, rock formations, and wildflowers. Alternatively, you can hike to the summit and see the region’s snow-covered peaks. It is best to start your trip in June or July for stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty.

When you visit Namadgi National Park, it’s important to note the park’s strict rules regarding dog-friendly activities. Dogs are not permitted in the park itself, but they’re allowed in the rest of the national park. You can camp at Namadgi or enjoy a picnic along the roadside.

If you plan to visit Namadgi National Park on a day trip from Canberra, be sure to purchase a map and guide at the park’s Visitor Centre. You’ll need to have a copy of the park’s rules and regulations for bushwalking.

Visiting Canberra on a day trip is a great way to experience the capital city’s most beautiful lake. It offers wonderful cycling and walking trails that make the lake a great place to take your family.

If you are travelling to Canberra by bus, the nearest stop is Lennox crossing. From here, you can head to Lake Burley Griffin. Visiting this lake during autumn is especially beautiful. You should make sure you allocate a couple of hours to explore this stunning lake.

Canberra is also a popular destination for water sports, and lake burley griffin is no exception. This man-made lake covers 664 hectares in the heart of the city. You can take a swim or go stand-up paddleboarding, and you can even take up sup yoga on the lake.

Those with little experience can join a SUP board lesson by SupCbr. If you’re more confident, you can rent a board and take it for a ride. Joga Yoga has also started offering SUP yoga classes at Lake Burley Griffin, which is a great way to enjoy the lake.

If you have the time, you can also stop at the National Carillon, which was given to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the capital. The National Carillon plays at noon on Wednesdays and Sundays. After that, you can explore the area’s memorials. Each memorial has a unique story to tell, and you will certainly learn a lot during your day out on the lake. There are also many other places of interest on Lake Burley Griffin.

The National Aquarium is Australia’s only inland saltwater aquarium, while the National Zoo is a combination zoo and aquarium. Spread out over 47 acres, the National Zoo & Aquarium features native and exotic animals from around the world.

It also contains the largest inland saltwater tank in the country. No other place in Australia offers such an experience. You can experience unique animal encounters in the Giraffe Treehouse and Ushaka Lodge, where you can feed and hold animals.

The National Zoo and Aquarium is privately owned by businessman Richard Tindale and is primarily a family-run enterprise. They receive no government support and rely on public admission fees and a large number of volunteer recruits.

Visitors can enjoy the largest collection of big cats in Australia and can learn about the animal breeding programs that are underway. In addition, it has an impressive array of other species to view. Getting a close-up view of the lions, tigers, sun bears, and other animals in the zoo will be an unforgettable experience.

You may be wondering what to do on day trips from Canberra to Batemans Bay. You may want to see the untouched coastal landscape, or you might want to visit a wildlife sanctuary. No matter your preferences, many activities are available on day trips from Canberra to Batemans Bay.

The town of Batemans Bay is about 150km from the capital and is a perfect destination for long weekends.

There are many activities and attractions to enjoy in this coastal city, including the Kings Highway, the Batemans Bay cycleway, Timbertops Horse Riding, and the historic Old Mogo Town.

You can also enjoy the beautiful beaches and spend the day at a nearby beach. Alternatively, you can take a scenic cruise on the MV Merinda, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding region.

Day trips from Canberra to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve can be a great way to experience nature in its full glory. There is even a wildlife hospital on site for emergencies.

There are 22 hiking paths in the park, and you can also look for platypus, wallabies, and birds. You can also enjoy a picnic and barbecue at the picnic areas, or sign up for guided tours.

In summer, you can visit Mount Lofty Mountain, Australia’s highest peak, and hike through the surrounding bush to enjoy the breathtaking view. Other activities include tobogganing and building snowmen. You can also go sledding, and try the Alpine Slide, which plunges 1.2km through the Mountain Ash forest. The resort has boutique accommodations, and even rejuvenating spa packages. To complete your day trip, you can visit the mountain’s nearby Corin Forest.

While you’re in Tidbinbilla, consider bushwalking.

In addition to the sand dunes and waterfalls, you can also take part in the park’s many activities. If you’re looking for a more adventurous adventure, try a bungee jump or an equestrian ride. The park is located about 40km from the city, so a day trip is worth considering.

Heading east from Canberra, the Kings Highway leads you to the heritage-listed town of Braidwood. This town is full of old churches, galleries, craft shops, and antique stores. There are also several heritage buildings, restaurants, and cafes, as well as some fantastic sweet treats.

A day trip from Canberra to Braidwood is a great way to see both enchanting locations. Here, you can learn more about the gold rush history of the town, as well as enjoy its local produce.

From Canberra, take the line 3 bus to the Canberra airport. You can also walk from the airport to Braidwood. The airport is an hour away and has regular shuttle services. If you prefer flying, you can go to Chicago O’Hare and take a shuttle to Braidwood. You can also drive to Huskisson and Tidbinbilla. Then, take a taxi or rent a car.

If you’re planning a day trip from Canberra, you should consider a stop at the bountiful Farming Village of Boorowa. The town is only a short drive from Canberra, around 90 minutes away. Accommodation options range from riverside camping and caravanning to farm stays and country pubs.

Boorowa is an Australian farming town with a population of 1,211. It’s located in a valley about two-and-a-half hours from the capital. It sits in the Ngunnawal Country and is brimming with antique shops and local berry jams and scones. Boorowa has a long history of settlement, extending back to the mid-1800s Gold Rush.

A visit to Boorowa will allow you to see the town’s famous platypuses. You may also be interested in the Bradman Museum, a cricket museum. There’s also an Irish history trail to complete your day trip to Boorowa. But if you have more time, you might want to explore Boorowa’s other attractions, such as the Shamrock Heritage Trail.

If you’re looking for a fun day trip from the city, consider heading to Murrumbateman, a village in the Yass Valley, a region that’s famous for its cool climate boutique wineries. A great way to spend a day in the country is to visit one of the many cellar doors located in this village or take a drive down the Barton Highway.

If you’re travelling by bus, you’ll need to purchase a bus ticket. Transborder Express operates buses from Murrumbateman, NSW, to Canberra, ACT. The ride should take about forty minutes. If you’re staying in a hotel, you can take a break by the solar-heated swimming pool and take a dip in the nearby RSL club.

Another option is to visit a local vineyard, such as Careys Cave, which has limestone formations that are 400 million years old.

A pint-sized town, Gundaroo is situated 35 minutes north of the city and is home to a historic pub and a country-style restaurant. The Colonial Inn, a restored 1830s pub, is located in Gundaroo. While dining, you should try the ash-dusted kangaroo fillet served with cassoulet beans and garden beets at the Grazing Restaurant.

If you’re visiting Murrumbateman, you’ll find several wineries along Gundaroo Road, including Eden Road Wines, Four Winds Vineyard, and Poachers Pantry.

If you have never been to Cotter Reserve before, you’re in for a treat. Just 25 minutes south of the CBD, this area is home to a series of reserves along the Murrumbidgee River. There are picnic areas, playgrounds, and free BBQs, which are popular among Canberra locals. The location also has little to no phone reception, so you might want to plan your trip accordingly.

There are numerous attractions in the area, including the Cotter Dam Discovery Trail and modern adventure playland. The campground features barbecues, toilets, and ample parking.

During the summer, you can also visit the nearby Tharwa Village and Cotter Dam. During your stay, you can visit the Micalong Creek Reserve, which features overhanging willow trees and bubbling creeks.

You can also spend the day at the Lanyon Homestead, which is located around 30 minutes south of the city. The early settlers built the homestead using convict labour, and it was later purchased by the Cunningham family, who remodeled it and turned it into a stately home.

You can also tour convict-built storage buildings, and eat delicious food at the Eating House or Barracks Espresso Bar.

If you are looking for a fun day trip from the capital, consider heading to Cockington Green Gardens, a 15-minute drive from the city. The miniaturized buildings and people are a tribute to everything English. You can also take a ride on the miniature train and explore the miniature Stonehedge. T

his place is great for families and is easily accessible from the city center. It is open every day except December 25 and 26, although there are occasions when the gardens are closed due to poor weather conditions.

To get a taste of the country’s lifestyle, you may want to head to the countryside. The countryside is lined with old limestone caves and national parks. You can also visit Careys Cave, which has 400 million-year-old limestone formations.

Afterwards, stop for lunch at the Loaded Dog Tarago Hotel and sample some great local cuisine. In the evening, you might want to head to the Blue Frog Truffle Farm for an eight-week truffle hunt.

There are many reasons why you should take day trips from Canberra to Bungendore, from its picturesque country setting to its proximity to the national capital.

Whether you want to spend time on the Stockman steam train, explore a vineyard, or explore a historical inn, Bungendore is a wonderful place to visit. Day trips from Canberra to Bungendore are popular, and there is a great range of activities available for the whole family.

If you love history, you may want to explore the heritage-listed town of Braidwood. It features numerous historic buildings, antique shops, boutiques, and cafes. Don’t miss the Dojo Bread bakery, which is a delight for the senses. And if you love wine, be sure to visit the Lanyon Homestead. Its ambiance will inspire your senses and make you want to return.

The town is home to the Binalong Canola fields, which create vibrant yellow patches during the spring. This area is less than two hours drive from Canberra. You can easily explore the region on your own and find lodging at several local properties.

Also, on Saturday mornings, you may peruse the wares at the farmer’s market, where you can find all manner of fresh food and gourmet delicacies grew right in the area. Local cheeses, bread, and other goodies can be sampled at the Bungendore Farmers Market every Saturday morning.

Bungendore, a historic town in southwest New South Wales, is a gorgeous rural hideaway. This district in Canberra is famed for its farmer’s markets, cool-climate wineries, colonial architecture, and art.

If you’re looking for a day trip that’s close enough to Canberra, you might consider exploring the coastal town of Batemans Bay. This town sits on the Clyde River and is surrounded by quiet hiking trails and wildlife. Nearby Eurobodalla National Park, which features over 100 species of native birds, is also worth a visit. Getting to Narooma from Canberra is easy, too.

For a breathtaking view of the coastline, visit the Bar Rock Lookout. This small lookout is reached via a short, but steep, staircase, and offers a panoramic view of the Eurobodalla Coast and Wagonga Inlet. Although the early morning sun may produce a glare, you can also check out the symmetrical rock wall formations in the Wagonga Inlet.

If you want to explore the surrounding area on your own, you can also visit Namadgi National Park, which features protected bushland. You can also walk through Birrigai Time Trail, which includes a visit to Birrigai Rock Shelter, where Ngunawal Aboriginal people lived during the last ice age.

Lastly, if you’re looking for a more challenging hike, head up to Gibraltar Peak. This eight-kilometre hike gives you amazing panoramic views.

If you are looking for a day trip from the capital city, try taking a tour from Kianga. Kianga is located on the South Coast of New South Wales, north of Narooma. The population of Kianga is approximately 738 people, according to the 2011 census.

This small town relies on the surrounding towns for its facilities. Day trips from Canberra to Kianga will allow you to see the town’s many sights and attractions. Day trips from Canberra to Kianga are usually one to two days in duration.

If you are interested in seeing more of the ACT, try taking a trip up the Telstra Tower. For $7.50, this observation deck offers panoramic views of Canberra. You can also enjoy lunch at the nearby Loaded Dog Tarago Hotel.

You can also visit the Telstra Heritage Exhibition, which follows the history of Australian telecommunication. There is also a theater that shows videos about the tower construction.

A Day trip from Canberra to Tuross Head can give you the best of both worlds. The coastal town is known for its gorgeous views, long beaches, and leisurely atmosphere.

It’s also known for its fine food and great wine.

Mount Lofty Mountain, Australia’s tallest peak, is a popular day trip for those who enjoy hiking. You can hike the trail to get spectacular views, weathered snow gums, and rock formations, or simply sit on the rocks and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area. If you’d rather hike in winter, there’s a snowy option, but the walk is not marked by snow poles.

If you’re planning a day trip from Canberra to Moruya, you’ll have plenty of reasons to choose this route.

For one, it’s only 119 miles away! The bus service to Moruya departs from Jolimont Centre, and you can catch a return trip for around $30. While you’ll spend about three hours in the air, you won’t be subjected to traffic or the heat. If you have a group of people to travel with, you’ll want to find a cheap bus to take you there.

If you’re looking for an adventure, try whale watching or surfing at Moruya Heads, which are both located a short distance away. There are also some amazing surf beaches and lookouts for fantastic views of the coastline.

In summer, the surf beach is patrolled by lifeguards.

In winter, you can spend some quality time on the nearby beaches, which are largely unspoiled by tourists.

There is a wide variety of things to do in Moruya. Visit the Moruya Heads lookout to see the Moruya River’s mouth and, if you’re lucky, a migrating whale. Among the many beautiful beaches in the area is Shelly Beach.

If you’re looking for a day trip from the capital, consider heading to Nelligen, a charming town located about 285 km south of Sydney. This small town is 9 km upriver from Batemans Bay and sits on the edge of the Kings Highway between the capital and the coast. Although there’s no definitive answer as to how to pronounce the town’s name, locals are fond of telling their stories about how it began as a small fishing village.

It’s not that hard to imagine a tribal community living here before the first European settlers arrived. Captain Cook drew a map of the region in 1770 and noted that the town was a port and a haven for fishermen.

While most of the town’s history dates back to the 1850s, Nelligen’s first brick building was the Commercial Hotel. In 1861, the town was also home to an alluvial gold discovery.

The town’s first national school was opened in 1865, and it later had a church. The town’s first electric telegraph station was built in 1878. In 1934, the town’s population numbered only 353 residents.

One of the best ways to spend your day in the region is to take a trip to Binalong Bay. The pristine coastline of this coastal town is ideal for relaxing walks on its white sand beaches.

You can even spot whales and dolphins swimming near the shore. There are also many local birds to observe. If you’d prefer to stay indoors, you can also opt for glamping accommodations.

Day trips from Canberra to Binalong Bay include a trip to Yarrangobilly Caves, about three hours’ drive away. You can also check out Wee Jasper Reserve, a nearby cave with abseiling opportunities and limestone natural features. Gibraltar Falls, 45 minutes drive from the city, is another great destination for hiking and viewing the falls. There is also a picnic shelter and a viewing platform in the area.

The Bay of Fires is a natural paradise with pristine white sand and crystal-clear water. The orange lichen covering granite boulders in the bay makes it unique and beautiful. Locals and visitors love the bay, which also offers secluded coves and a diverse range of marine life. The Bay of Fires is also home to the national park’s Mount William National Park.

Binalong Bay, a beachfront community with friendly residents, is a great base for exploring the Bay of Fires. This area is known for its clear azure sea, white sand beaches, and orange lichen-covered granite boulders.

It’s possible to plan a weekend gate trip from Canberra to Jervis Bay, Australia, from Sydney.

In October, whales are in season in Jervis Bay, which is 3.5 hours from Sydney. Driving from Canberra to Sydney’s CBD can be an experience, especially if you don’t know how to drive in Australia. You can take the Grand Pacific drive to get to Jervis Bay, where you can relax in a cafe while watching dolphins and whales play in the water.

If you’re looking for something a little more active, the Blue Mountains are the perfect destination for a day trip to Jervis Bay. Just 3.5 hours away from Sydney, this stunning region offers endless outdoor adventure, from hiking and bushwalking to shopping and sightseeing. There’s no shortage of scenic views, and you can even spot the famous Three Sisters pillars. The view from the summit is worth the trip alone!

The world’s whitest sand beach may be found in Jervis Bay, which is only a three-hour drive from Sydney. There is a fantastic walk along the beachfront that the whole family will love; you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the Maldives.

A visit to Mount Stromlo is a must for all stargazers. It’s just 21 minutes from Canberra and home to Australia’s largest optical telescope, which is used by scientists seeking planets around other stars.

It’s also a great place for stargazing on your own, with free entry and tours available seven days a week (you’ll need to book in advance). Its popularity with tourists means that you might have to queue for the best views—but this is worth it!

If you’re travelling with kids, don’t miss the chance to learn about how telescopes work through hands-on learning at their interactive Discovery Centre or grab some lunch at their cafe (they do great pizza!).

You may take in the breathtaking scenery of Mount Stromlo and the city of Canberra while learning about the area’s fascinating past and present. Walking the entire trail will take you about 30 minutes.

The city of Canberra, which serves as the capital of Australia, is home to a collection of strong deep space satellite dishes that are supported by NASA and utilized for astronomical research.

Because of its spectacular design and the nearby tourist center, the Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex is well worth the time it takes to take a day trip there from the city.

Your time at the Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex may be between one and two hours. The museum may be modest, but it offers a wide selection of films and yes the entry is free.

Reaching the top of the world’s highest peaks seems to awaken the explorer in all of us. Explorers and mountaineers have been enamored with the prospect of conquering Everest, Mont Blanc, and Aconcagua for decades. However, it is not quite as brave when it comes to ascending Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak at an altitude of 2228 meters. Nonetheless, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try!

Following an unplanned two-month return to travel in Australia, we felt the itch to once again explore our home nation. Since we spend so much time abroad, we never really got the chance to do this on the East Coast. We decided to take a road trip throughout New South Wales, so we rented a car with Economy Bookings and set out.

Our first stop would be the southernmost national park in Australia, Kosciuszko. On day two of our trip, we arrived at the alpine resort town of Jindabyne after a spectacular drive down the coast and a fantastic night camping in a small hamlet named Gundaroo outside Canberra.

The Kosciuszko Express Chairlift in Thredbo is a picturesque way to get to the beginning of the 13-kilometer return Kosciuszko Walk, which may be done in four to five hours. The trail loops over Australia’s tallest lake, Lake Cootapatamba, and is a popular destination for day hikers.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of day trips from Canberra. If you’re looking for an adventure to have some fun in the sun, check out these great options!

The best thing about these day trips is that they’re all within easy reach of Canberra. You won’t have to travel far or spend much time getting there, and you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy yourself once you arrive!

Kate Abroad

2 Days in Canberra Itinerary (2024)

Wondering what to do with 2 days in Canberra? That’s just enough time to see the highlights of Australia’s highly underrated capital city and experience the awesome food scene.

Spending a weekend in Canberra felt like a rite of passage for my partner and me as new(ish) Australians. Finding what to do in Canberra was a little bit harder though.

To save you the trouble, I’ve compiled this complete Canberra 2 day itinerary with everything you need to know about visiting Canberra.

Coming from Sydney, Canberra is a convenient weekend trip. You can easily squeeze in the highlights of Canberra in just two days. 

Canberra is very unique in that, unlike most cities that have grown organically, it was planned from the start by American architect Walter Burley Griffin.

The level of organisation and intentionality is obvious when walking around the city. The design, centred around Capital Hill, is in many ways reminiscent of Washington DC.

What is also remarkable about Canberra, especially to visitors from big cities, is the amount of space.

Canberra is filled with wide avenues lined with grassy verges and many of the buildings have extensive lawns.

How to get to Canberra 

Getting to Canberra from Sydney is either a short (approximately one hour) flight or a longer 4-5 hour train/bus.

Travelling to Canberra by plane

You can also fly to Canberra from most other major Australian cities or otherwise connect through Sydney or Melbourne . Qantas, Virgin Australia and Rex airlines all fly into Canberra Airport.

Unfortunately, flying to Canberra can be expensive at short notice and when we went the flights weren’t all that regular. With the introduction of new regional and low-cost domestic airlines in Australia, this should hopefully change soon. 

If you arrive for your weekend in Canberra by air then the easiest way to get into the central city is to taxi or Uber. There are local buses available but they aren’t super efficient.

Travelling to Canberra by train

If you aren’t flying, the easiest way to get to Canberra from Sydney is the train from Central station .

For a weekend trip to Canberra, there’s a convenient 5:30 service on Friday nights that you can jump on after work. Tickets are around $40 each way for an adult. There’s a return device on Sunday around 5 pm.

Bus replacements happen from time to time but these can actually be faster than the train.

The train to Canberra is spacious although didn’t offer tables or wifi. What they do have, which is super helpful on a Friday night, is a hot dinner service. 

Read the full guide on how to get from Sydney to Canberra by train

Where to stay in Canberra for 1-2 nights

Canberra has a full range of accommodations from hostels to Airbnb to luxe hotels. You can compare prices easily on Booking.com . I use this site to book all our accommodation because they have the most flexible cancellation policy around.

If you want the best night’s sleep of your life then you can’t go past Little National Hotel . The drawcard of Little National Hotel is the custom super king beds which are ultra cosy. These are hands-down the best hotel bed I have ever slept in! The rooms are definitely small (cosy) but the library and lounge with self-serve bar offer room to work or hang out. 

For a cheaper option close to the CBD, I’d recommend Canberra YHA .  The YHAs are a reputable brand in Australia and this place is only a short walk from the best of Canberra Centre. 

Where to eat for 2 days in Canberra

It’s not hard to find a great brunch in Canberra. In fact, just head to Kingston Foreshore and you’ll find several competitors for the best brunch in Canberra.

Local Press Cafe is great and they have blankets to stay cosy at the outdoor tables on cold mornings. Another great option is Bean and Table .  

The best places to go in Canberra for dinner are around Canberra Centre on the opposite side of Lake Burley Griffin.

The dinner options range from the divine sushi at Raku at the high end to standard chain offerings on the cheap and cheerful side.

At Via Dolce they have affordable pasta and a greenhouse-type setup which is super cute and lets you watch the world go by with some privacy. 

If you’re a real foodie and looking to discover some Canberra artisans then why not try a food tour? Klook has a great Canberra food, wine and distillery day tour .

What to see in 2 days in Canberra

Finally, the sightseeing. When it comes to things to do in Canberra, most options consist of “the National (fill in the blank)”. You’ll find the National Museum, the National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery and even the National bowling green. This is particularly true of the south side of Lake Burleigh Griffin which is filled with government buildings. 

I suggest planning to focus on one side of Lake Burley Griffin, on each day of your Canberra trip.

Day 1 in Canberra

On the first day – or if you only have 1 day in Canberra – check out the National Gallery, Old Parliament Buildings and Questacon on the south side of the lake.

Jokes aside, the National Gallery of Australia really is a national treasure and absolutely one of the must-visit places in Canberra. The permanent collections are free to access and include a Monet (in the basement!) and a Rubens.

There is a great mix of old and new as well as Australian and international artists. As a Kiwi, I was proud to see a McMahon on display – right above the Monet!

On top of that, the National Gallery in Canberra often hosts major international visiting exhibitions such as the Renaissance Masters exhibit that was on display in 2021. Check their website for the latest details. 

From the National Gallery, you can wander along the wide tree-lined roads to Old Parliament House .

Modelled on the American Capitol, Old Parliament House in Canberra is a throwback to colonial Australia and is filled with exhibits on everything from royal visits to beekeeping. They’re a great insight into the Australian system of governance for those of us not from Australia. 

You’ll also see the Aboriginal Embassy, the world’s longest-running protest site, on the front lawn of Canberra’s Old Parliament House.

While these buildings are no longer in active use, you can also go visit the new Parliament Buildings which are open for tours on certain days.

As with the National Gallery and most national facilities in Canberra, you don’t have to pay for entry. You only have to buy a ticket if you want access to certain feature/temporary exhibits.

This makes the galleries and museums the best free activities in Canberra and great options for Canberra on a budget. 

If you have kids or are a big kid at heart then Questacon is a must-visit in Canberra. This science and technology museum is paid entry and does need to be booked in advance, even on quieter weekends.

Questacon tickets are $24.50 for adults and $18.90 for kids over 4, and under 4s are free. Many of Questacon’s exhibits are hands-on and designed to both inform and entertain. 

Day 2 in Canberra

On your second day in Canberra, move on to the Canberra Centre area on the north shore, lakeside walks and the National Museum.

Lake Burley Griffin, which could easily be confused for a river, runs through the centre of Canberra. Cycling or cruising the lake is a great way to see most of Canberra and admire monuments like the National War Memorial.

You can now hire your own small electric boat for a private lake cruise.

You can hire bikes, boats or Segways at kiosks near Questacon on the south side. Or, do as we did and rent an escooter. Canberra is filled with them and it’s an easy and fast way to get around Canberra. 

Following the shoreline, you’ll find the Old Bus Depot Markets which, barring COVID, are usually going off on a Sunday morning. 

A bit further out on the Acton Peninsula, the National Museum of Australia is a true landmark. Designed by Howard Raggatt it’s set on the edge of the lake on the western edge of the city. You can learn a lot about Australia’s Aboriginal history from a visit here.

Once you’re done viewing the exhibits take some time to walk around the grounds and enjoy this peaceful end of the lake. 

1 Day trips from Canberra

If you’ve got a car or something and want to book a day trip, there’s also lots to do around Canberra.

There are wineries galore in the Canberra District and great walks around the National Arboretum and up to the Mount Ainslie Summit.

You could easily fill a trip to Canberra without any museums or ‘national’ anything! 

Canberra day tours

If you don’t want to organise things yourself or don’t have a car available then consider booking a day tour like a winery tour to the Canberra Hills region or a snow tour to the nearby ski resorts of Thredbo and Perisher.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Canberra

How many days do you need in canberra.

Canberra isn’t a very big city compared to Sydney and Melbourne so you don’t need as much time to see it. Two days or a long weekend is plenty of time to see the city.

If you want to do any day trips outside the city and see the Canberra wine region then consider staying 3-4 days all up.

Is Canberra safe for solo female travellers?

Canberra is a very safe city on the whole. Given all the embassies and government buildings, you can imagine there’s a lot of security!

As with anywhere, it’s best to stick to busy areas if you’re out at night (the south side of the lake can be very empty on weekends and feel a bit spooky). You can find more tips on solo traveller safety in Australia in my Australia travel guide .

Do you need a car when visiting Canberra?

Canberra is quite spread out for a small city so a car would be helpful. However, Uber and buses are available so the lack of a car shouldn’t stop you. We did a mix of walking, scooters (app-based hire) and Ubers.

Whatever your style, a Canberra weekend trip is definitely something every Australian and visitor to Australia should put on their Australia bucket list. 

Happy travelling!

Australia Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find awesome day tours on Viator and Get Your Guide
• Save on Sydney attractions with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your Australian dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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The ultimate guide to a weekend in spring in Canberra

We've found eight things to make a weekend in the capital unforgettable, and there's one you simply can't miss. 

Don't miss out on the headlines from Lifestyle. Followed categories will be added to My News.

Prior to my recent Canberra getaway, I had visited our capital city twice. The most notable time, for Year 5 school camp, where we stayed at the Best Western and I sleepwalked into the next room.

Fast forward 13 years on a girls weekend away and I found our capital city brimming with florals, gin and culture. Looking for a short break? Here’s how to plan the ultimate spring getaway to Canberra . 

1. Stay at the QT Canberra

This trendy hotel is located within walking distance to Canberra’s top attractions. We stayed in a spacious twin room with a large balcony overlooking the city, stocked with Kevin Murphy amenities and a pumping bar and restaurant to dine in. Read our full review here .

2. Visit Floriade

The shining star of spring in Canberra, you couldn’t miss Floriade if you tried. This is Australia’s biggest celebration of spring, and the festival has over one million flowers in full bloom (seen even better from the ferris wheel). Make a beeline for the Underground Spirits gin garden where you can sip Lady Floriade gin from teapots in a floral-adorned courtyard of white domes and pastel parisoles. 

3. Have high tea at The Marion

The ultimate girls weekend experience is high tea at The Marion. The glass encased venue overlooks Lake Burley Griffin with the National Gallery of Australia staring back at us over the lake. A three-tier cake stand, topped with artistic desserts, finger sandwiches and scones arrived with a flourish by a charming Frenchman, and it took me a moment to realise I wasn’t in an episode of Emily In Paris. 

4. Hire peddle boats on Lake Burley Griffin

On the sunny Saturday morning we headed out on the Canberran waters, peddle boating seemed like a token activity that would be good for a laugh and some Instagram videos. The wind had other ideas. Not only was this a cracking leg workout, it offered us a stunning view of the city from the lake’s perspective. I never would have categorised peddle boating, with its kick-back seats and royal blue canopy shading you from the sun, as an adrenaline sport, but it may have just come close that day. 

5. Soak up the nightlife

If there’s one thing Canberra does well, it’s wining and dining. We visited the hottest new venue on the block, Ballyhoo, found in the National Rose Gardens. Private and unassuming from the outside, it has a warm, chic atmosphere and a menu that includes Sydney rock oysters with margarita granita; duck liver parfait with orange marmalade and puff bread, and roast brussels sprouts with nduja crumb, but it was the basque cheesecake with poached cumquat that we were dreaming of for days afterward. 

6. Visit the National Gallery of Australia

Home to some of Australia’s most iconic exhibits, the National Gallery of Australia is not to be missed. Planted conveniently by the waters’ edge, this was an easy stop for us while walking the iconic bridge-to-bridge loop around Lake Burley Griffin. With expansive gallery rooms, and names like Da Vinci and Piet Mondrian, the gallery has plenty to explore and it’s only a question of how much time you have. 

7. Explore Braddon 

What was once the industrial pocket of Canberra has since blossomed into a grungy and very trendy little strip that’s well worth a visit. We enjoyed breakfast at the Danish-inspired Rye cafe, (creators of a melt–in-your-mouth dark rye porridge with poached pear that now lives rent-free in my head.) Next was a stop at POP Canberra, a gift shop full of Canberra-inspired gifts you actually want to buy (goodbye, tacky T-shirts, hello, locally-distilled gin.) Then, a stroll through the Haig Park Village Markets, where you can pick up fresh flowers and spray-free strawberries at a decent price. The delightfully grungy, hole-in-the-wall coffee shop, Barrio was the last stop of the weekend, and was the perfect pick-me-up for the easy three-hour drive back to Sydney.

This writer was a guest of Visit Canberra . 

Originally published as The ultimate guide to a weekend in spring in Canberra

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Jim Chalmers is on a mission in Beijing to bring some stability to Australia’s economic relationship with China, but a major move by the country’s military is weighing heavy on talks.

A day before Mr Chalmers was set to be the first Australian treasurer to visit China in seven years, Beijing tested an intercontinental ballistic missile fitted with a with a dummy warhead, sparking regional apprehension and condemnation from Australia.

Mr Chalmers said on Friday he had conveyed Canberra’s concerns to Chinese government officials.

“Australia, like other countries in our region and around the world has a lot at stake when it comes to a stable, secure, peaceful and prosperous region,” he told reporters in Beijing.

“I was able to reiterate in the meetings yesterday afternoon our expectations of safe and professional conduct of all militaries operating in our region.

“Obviously, I’m aware of the reports about the testing … and I was able to raise that in the conversation yesterday afternoon.”

Australian and New Zealand naval vessels on Thursday sailed through the Taiwan Strait, which separates the island of Taiwan from China.

China claims the democratically self-governed island as well as vast areas of the strait, which is considered international waters.

Mr Chalmers said it was “not unusual for navies to conduct the kind of exercises” Australia and New Zealand did.

“These are routine activities, and they’re conducted in accordance with international law,” he said.

China’s self-described “routine” missile launch was the first of its kind in more than 40 years.

The Chinese military said it was “not directed at any country”, but ICBMs are primarily used as a delivery system for nuclear weapons, hence the concern.

Beijing has always maintained its nuclear arsenal, which is dwarfed by the US and Russia’s, is purely for deterrence.

Mr Chalmers’ visit comes as Canberra attempts fortify Australia’s economic relationship with its largest trade partner while also taking strategic steps broadly seen as curbing China’s growing ambitions in the Indo-Pacific.

Defence Minister Richard Marles met with his US and UK counterparts in London on Thursday (local time) for AUKUS talks.

Out of the latest meeting came pledges to sign a new bilateral treaty between Australia and the UK legally binding them to the security pact.

Australia will get at least eight nuclear powered submarines as part of the AUKUS agreement.

“We meet at a time of significant moment around the world where the rules-based order is under pressure, under threat,” Mr Marles told a joint press conference in London.

“And our three countries share strategic alignment, we share values, we stand in support of the maintenance of the rules-based order, be that in Eastern Europe, be that in the Indo-Pacific and we are very grateful to have old, close, reliable partners such as the United Kingdom and the United States.”

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A major move from China is overshadowing federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ visit to Australia’s biggest trade partner.

The Treasurer will be travelling to China for two days following concerns China’s slumping economy could have a dire effect on Australia.

South Korea has put its foot down following the disturbing North Korean trash balloon saga, warning Kim Jong-un of serious retaliatory measures.

GREENS ANNOUNCE AMBITIOUS PLAN FOR CANBERRA-WIDE BIKE NETWORK

The ACT Greens have today announced an ambitious plan to ensure cycling is an accessible, affordable and realistic option for people to choose to get around the city. 

“The ACT Greens want walking and bike riding to be a genuine, appealing option for more Canberrans,” said ACT Greens MLA for Ginninderra Jo Clay. 

“We know that many more Canberrans would like to ride or scoot to school, local shops or work but the reality is that many parts of our city are just not set up for it.

“Canberra has been built for cars and lacks the city-wide infrastructure that would make riding a genuine option for more people. 

“Riding may not be an option for everyone, but without making it safe and easy by building and maintaining more paths, it risks not being a viable option for anyone in our city. 

The Greens plan would see a city-wide off-road bike network delivered by 2030, based on the cycling network plan in the ACT Government's Active travel plan. 

“Many who ride around Canberra at the moment have to ride on the road and rely on the thin, painted bike lanes. 

“Paint is not infrastructure and these lines provide little to no real safety. The danger of riding on the road discourages many from getting on the bike, particularly women and children. 

“That’s why our plan focuses on off-road bike paths, giving real safety for anyone who wants to cycle. 

Recontesting Greens MLA for Brindabella Laura Nuttall said that the plan to provide $500 rebates for electric and cargo bikes would be a particularly helpful boost for young people and renters. 

“Young people overwhelmingly tell me they want to be able to afford to get around Canberra”, Miss Nuttall said.

“Often, sustainability is considered a luxury for those with money, and it actually shouldn’t be. At the moment, financial support for sustainability is overwhelmingly going to homeowners and people who drive, and not towards renters and those who walk or ride. 

The Greens plan would establish a $5 million fund to provide up to 10,000 rebates of $500 to help purchase e-bikes in the ACT. 

“Along with more safe and well maintained paths, having the financial support to be able to buy an e-bike could help more Canberrans get around Canberra easily, sustainably and efficiently. 

Ms Nuttall also noted that to make bike riding a realistic commuting option for more Canberrans there needed to be a drastic increase in bike parking and storage. 

“Before I had a car, I really wanted to ride to work, but I needed to know I had somewhere to put my bike and come back to it at the end of the day. 

The Greens bike parking plan will see all ACT Government workplaces with more than 20 regular employees have modern end-of-trip facilities and secure bike storage.

“I’m really excited about this aspect of the policy, because for many who are up for a ride to work this could be the deciding factor which actually lets them do it. 

“I’m also thrilled that we’re going to make sure that schools have bike storage facilities equivalent to one third of the maximum enrolled students, at the very least”, said Miss Nuttall, who is also the ACT Greens education spokesperson. 

“Along with our range of safety measures and programs like the bike bus, this will be a massive help in encouraging kids to ride to school where they can. 

The plan will also increase overall bike parking facilities around the city in places such as town centres and bus stops. 

“This plan will allow people to ride to bus stops, the local shops or to cafes to meet a friend. In other words, this will make cycling a real way to get around Canberra”, said Miss Nuttall. 

Ms Clay and Ms Nuttall announced the new bike policy with the Lyneham Bike Bus crew, which helps kids in Lyneham ride to school safely with supervising adults.

Among the volunteers who run the Bike Bus are Paris Lord and Kate Bradney, founder of Canberra by Bike, who welcomed the Greens new policy. 

“We are pleased that some political parties and candidates have policies and ideas about how to end car dependence and give people transport options,” said Canberra by Bike founder, Paris Lord, who runs the Lyneham Primary Bike Bus with Kate Bradney from Walk Cycle Lyneham and Beyond.

“Grassroots actions like the Lyneham bike bus involve local parents and carers who ensure children arrive at school happy, energised, and ready to learn, while developing their independence.

“We’re sure other parts of Canberra want their own bike bus because they’re a wave of joy which also eases local traffic congestion. The next government can encourage them by calming our streets, and working with local communities who know where the missing links are, and how to fuse them.”

“So many kids and parents want to walk or ride to school, it’s brilliant to see community initiatives ensuring it’s safe to do so,” said Ms Clay. 

“The volunteer work of everyone involved in the program is simply phenomenal and the Greens have been more than happy to do what we can to help out. 

“Better and safer  paths and bike storage could go a long way to encouraging more kids to safely ride to school. 

The ACT Greens full bike policy can be found here .