Where to Stay in Canberra
Premium neighborhoods, five-star hotels, and fine dining areas
Best Neighborhoods for Luxury Travellers
Ranked by relevance for luxury travellers visiting Canberra
Barton
LuxuryHome to many government departments and embassies, offering a quiet and leafy environment.
- +Proximity to major national institutions
- +Peaceful and green surroundings
- +Easy access to the lake
- -Limited dining and nightlife options
- -Can feel deserted outside of business hours
Civic
Mid-rangeThe bustling heart of Canberra, offering a mix of government, commercial, and cultural attractions.
- +Central location with most attractions accessible
- +Wide range of dining and entertainment options
- +Good public transport links
- -Can feel very quiet on weekends and evenings outside main hubs
- -Less residential charm compared to other areas
Braddon
Mid-rangeA trendy and vibrant inner-city suburb known for its eclectic mix of cafes, bars, boutiques, and street art.
- +Excellent dining and bar scene
- +Lively atmosphere with street art
- +Independent boutiques and shops
- -Can be noisy, especially on weekends
- -Parking can be challenging
Acton
Mid-rangeHome to the Australian National University and a cluster of national institutions, it's a hub for education and culture.
- +Close to major cultural attractions
- +Scenic lakeside location
- +Academic and intellectual atmosphere
- -Limited dining and entertainment options
- -Can feel very quiet outside of university hours
Daily Budget (Luxury)
AUD 600/day
Hidden Gems in Canberra
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Mount Ainslie Lookout
FREEWhile not entirely unknown, many tourists miss the drive or walk to the summit for panoramic views of Canberra's layout. From here, you can see the alignment of the War Memorial, ANZAC Parade, Lake Burley Griffin, and Parliament House.
The Italian Place
This cozy spot is a local favorite for authentic Italian food, especially their wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta. It's a relaxed setting perfect for a delicious and casual meal away from the main tourist hubs.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Canberra