Capital City
Canberra is the Capital city of the Australian Capital Territory (state) and Australia. This is where the seat of Australia’s federal government and the Parliament House is situated, along with much of the public service. Because of this, Canberra has often had a reputation as being a bit dull. Yet Canberra is anything but dull. It is rich in festivals and cultural events, galleries, museums, theatres, art, markets and sporting events.
One of the first things that I notice about Canberra whenever I’m there, is how spacious and spread out it is. To me, it has the feel of a large country town, with the sophistication of a city. You don’t feel the hustle and bustle like most other major cities, which I find refreshing. What also makes Canberra unique, is the different areas and suburbs are quite far apart and joined by wide, highway-like roads. They really do feel like distinct separate areas.
Below is the video of my most recent visit.
City Centre
This leafy, cosy city centre has an abundance of shops, cafés, bars and restaurants. The city centre is also called civic and the thing I appreciated the most was the large trees. They not only offer shade for the majority of the central area, which I was most grateful for, as it was 34 ( F), they also make the place so pretty. Notice the images below.
There are loads of murals, paintings and other interesting features to spot while walking around the city centre.
The Canberra Centre
The Canberra Centre is a large shopping centre (mall) in the heart of the city centre, which encompasses three buildings joined by covered walkways and overpasses. With over 250 stores, including major brands and local boutiques, you’ll find everything you need and more.
Lake Burley Griffin
Canberra’s serene centrepiece. Spanning over 11 kilometres and 6.64 km², this man-made lake offers a picturesque setting for picnics, cycling, or leisurely walks along the waterfront. Rent a sailboat, kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake’s tranquil waters, or simply relax and admire the stunning views of the surrounding parks and iconic landmarks. As someone who enjoys walking, circling the lake was one of the highlights of my trip.
Call me old-fashioned, but I was tempted to strap on my rollerblades and glide along the lake’s perimeter during my visit. Now that’s something that hasn’t crossed my mind in years! It would be the ideal location : )
Arts and Culture
Melbourne is considered the centre of art and culture in Australia but don’t overlook Canberra. Canberra is rich in art, theatre and culture. Walking around the city’s centre, you’ll notice an abundance of sculptures, artwork and creativity.
Parliament House
Australia Parliament House is positioned on Capital Hill with a flag pole (81 metres / 266 ft) that stretches high in the air and is visible for miles. It was designed to resemble two boomerangs embracing, the building of modern architecture.
The mosaic displayed in front of the Parliament Building is a beautiful expanse of Aboriginal design by Mr Jagamara. Mr Jagamara said ‘My painting for the mosaic in the Forecourt of Parliament House represents all the Indigenous people in this land, the wider Australia.’
Note the symmetry and alignment in the view towards the Old Parliament House. This is a perfect example of the deliberate planning of this city.
Old Parliament House
After parliament moved from Melbourne, Old Parliament House became the seat of parliament from 1927 to 1988. It is now the Museum of Australian Democracy where the Senate Chambers, the Prime Minister Suite, the House of Representatives Chambers, the Speakers Suite and more can be viewed.
An array of exhibitions such as the Annual Exhibition of Cartooning, Paintings showing the impact of mining on the community culture and country are on display at any one time. Even if you don’t venture inside, a walk around the building offers impressive views towards Capital Hill, a pretty rose garden a bar for refreshments.
It is free to visit and is open from 9.00 to 17.00 daily.
The War Memorial
A solemn yet essential stop in Canberra is the Australian War Memorial, a tribute to the nation’s military history and fallen heroes. The memorial’s striking architecture and extensive exhibitions honour the sacrifices made during conflicts, from World War I to the present day. Take a moment to reflect at the Roll of Honour, visit the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier, and witness the moving Last Post ceremony held daily.
National Gallery of Australia
The National Gallery of Australia houses an extensive collection of Australian and international art, showcasing masterpieces ranging from Indigenous artworks to contemporary installations. The gallery’s diverse exhibitions, feature works by renowned artists such as Sidney Nolan, Emily Kame Kngwarreye, and Jackson Pollock.
During this trip, I was unable to fit in a visit to the Gallery, which I was slightly gutted about, but I have had multiple visits in the past when I was an art student. If you’re interested in art at all, this is a stop you won’t regret.
Getting to Canberra
As mentioned earlier, Canberra is positioned between Sydney and Melbourne, so if you have the time, you might enjoy a road trip from one of those cities. Sydney is the closest and will take about three hours to drive, while Melbourne will take you approximately seven hours. Alternatively, there are coach companies such as Greyhound and Murrays which have depots on the main road Northbourne Avenue, near the city centre.
If time is limited, a flight from Sydney takes approximately 20 min and from Melbourne, it will take just over an hour.
Events held in Canberra
- Lights on the Lake: A stunning display of light and colour projected onto two enormous water screens, along with a laser light display and soundtrack – all for free! Held in January.
- National Multicultural Festival: Sights, sounds and tastes of food from all corners of the world. Includes more than 170 unique nationalities. Held in February.
- Floriade Spring Flower Festival: A month-long event which features hundreds of thousands of flowers in bloom, workshops, gnome painting, live music, and food. This event also includes Night Floriade which has artistic lighting and a range of entertainment. Held in September.
- Enlighten Festival: A celebration of the culture and creativity in Canberra. Installations, music, film, and delicious food every Autumn (Fall).
- Balloon Spectacular: event, where dozens of hot air balloons grace the skies at sunrise.
- Royal Canberra Show: Run by the Royal National Capital Agricultural Society, celebrates agriculture and livestock, amusement rides, educational exhibitions, entertainment and food vendors.
- Writers Festival: talks, panels, discussions, and other events with literary talent from Canberra, Australia and around the globe.
Additional Highlights
- Mount Ainslie Lookout: The views from the top of Mount Ainslie offer great views and a nice overview of the city’s layout. If you’re feeling keen, consider parking at the base and hiking to the summit.
- National Museum of Australia
- National Portrait Gallery
- Questacon National Science and Technology
- National Zoo and Aquarium
- Australian Botanic Gardens
- Royal Australian Mint
- Cockington Green Gardens
