Capital Connections: A Thrilling 3-Day Canberra Adventure

Discover family fun in Australia's capital city, Canberra.

19 July 2023

A family trip to Canberra, Australia promises a perfect blend of education and entertainment. Explore the iconic Parliament House, Australian War Memorial, and National Museum to ignite curiosity in kids. Take advantage of numerous parks, playgrounds, and interactive exhibits, ensuring a memorable and engaging trip for the entire family.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Capital

  • Check into the funky Avenue Hotel, Canberra's sleekest boutique hotel, with quirky artwork, comfy beds, and complimentary bikes for exploring.
  • Start your day at The National Portrait Gallery and get up close and personal with famous Aussies, from politicians to pop stars.
  • Take a leisurely bike ride around Lake Burley Griffin, soak up the scenic views, and stop for a picnic at Commonwealth Park.
  • Swing by Old Bus Depot Markets to browse unique arts and crafts, sample local delicacies, and maybe even find a vintage treasure.
  • Satisfy your cravings at Akiba, a vibrant Asian fusion restaurant with mouthwatering bao buns and refreshing cocktails.
  • End your day with a trip up to Mount Ainslie Lookout, where you'll soak in panoramic views of Canberra as the sun sets.
Day 2

Cultural Delights

  • Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at Pâtissez, known for their indulgent FreakShakes and scrumptious pastries.
  • Immerse yourself in art and culture at the National Gallery of Australia, housing an impressive collection of Australian and international works.
  • Dive into the world of science and technology at Questacon, where interactive exhibits will captivate both kids and adults.
  • Enjoy a riverside stroll through the beautiful Australian National Botanic Gardens and discover a vast array of stunning native plants.
  • Grab a bite at Brodburger, a legendary burger joint housed in a retro airstream trailer, known for their juicy, mouthwatering creations.
  • Unwind in the evening at Lonsdale Street Roasters, a trendy coffee spot serving up expertly crafted brews and delicious eats.
Day 3

Nature Escape

  • Venture out to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, where you can encounter koalas, kangaroos, and emus in their natural habitat.
  • Join a guided tour at the Australian War Memorial and gain a deeper understanding of Australia's military history.
  • Enjoy a leisurely bike ride or stroll along the picturesque Lake Burley Griffin, stopping to admire iconic landmarks like Parliament House.
  • Treat yourself to a delicious brunch at Teddy Picker's, a hip cafe with an eclectic menu featuring inventive dishes and mouthwatering drinks.
  • Explore the charming streets of the Kingston Foreshore, lined with trendy bars and restaurants, perfect for a relaxed evening meal.
  • If you're up for a spooky adventure, take a nighttime Ghost Tour at the National Film and Sound Archive and discover Canberra's dark side.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Canberra, Australia by plane is to fly into Canberra Airport which has regular flights from major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide.

Car

Driving is a great way to explore Australia's scenic countryside while traveling to Canberra. The major highway, Hume Highway, connects Sydney and Canberra, while the Princes Highway links Canberra to Melbourne. There are also several car rental services available at the Sydney and Canberra airports.

Train

While there is no direct train service to Canberra, you can take a train to the nearby city of Queanbeyan and then catch a local bus to Canberra. However, flying into Canberra Airport is a much more convenient option.

Boat

As Canberra is located inland, there are no direct boat options available. However, you can take a cruise along the nearby Murray River, which is around a 3-4 hour drive from Canberra.

Bus

Taking a Greyhound or a Murrays bus is a good option to reach Canberra. Both services offer regular trips from Sydney and Melbourne to Canberra.

More travel plans

Canberra on a Budget: 2 Days of Fun

A budget trip to Canberra, Australia would involve exploring the city's numerous free attractions such as the Australian War Memorial, National Portrait Gallery and National Museum of Australia, all of which offer free admission. Opting for budget accommodation options like hostels or shared apartments and preparing your own meals at grocery stores instead of dining out can also help cut costs. For an affordable and convenient mode of transportation, the ACTION bus service and bike rentals are available within the city.

Romantic Day Trip: Canberra's Art & Nature Trail

A romantic trip to Canberra, Australia offers a serene and picturesque experience amidst the bustling city life. Tour the Australian National Botanic Gardens and enjoy a romantic picnic in the lush gardens. A visit to the National Gallery of Australia, showcasing some of Australia's finest art, is sure to add to the intimate experience.

Canberra Unleashed: A Fun-Filled 3-Day Adventure

A trip to Canberra on a limited budget can be an affordable way to experience Australia's capital city. Visitors can explore the city's many free museums, galleries, and historical landmarks, such as the National Museum of Australia, Australian War Memorial, and the Parliament House. For affordable accommodations, there are several backpacker hostels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as a range of inexpensive dining options available throughout the city.

Canberra: Budget-Friendly Day Tripping Fun!

Exploring Australia’s capital city of Canberra on a budget is entirely possible. Free activities include visits to the Australian War Memorial, the National Portrait Gallery, and the National Museum of Australia. Additionally, nature lovers can explore the National Arboretum Canberra and enjoy the scenic hiking trails.