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Canberra, the capital of Australia
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Canberra

Canberra is Australia's capital city and the largest population centre in the Australian Capital Territory. Built in the northern quadrant of the ACT with stunning mountain views, it's a vibrant destination blending government heritage with modern attractions.

Photo: The 3B's (CC BY 2.0)

Quick facts

Population
466,566 (city, 2023)
Currency
Australian dollar (AUD)
Language
English
Timezone
AEST (UTC+10)
Local time now
07:19:17

Hotels in Canberra

Canberra offers a range of accommodation options for visitors to Australia's capital city. From the upmarket Hyatt Hotel Canberra to contemporary properties like Ovolo Nishi and Peppers Gallery Hotel, travellers can find suitable lodging across the city's districts. See all hotels →

Airports in Canberra

Canberra Airport is the primary aviation hub serving Australia's capital city. Located in Hall, the airport connects Canberra to major domestic and international destinations. See all airports →

Canberra Airport
8.3 km from centre
Hall
17.8 km from centre

Car Hire in Canberra

Canberra offers a range of car hire options through established rental companies like Hertz, Avis, Budget, Thrifty, and ACT Car Rentals. Whether you're exploring the capital's attractions or venturing further afield, renting a car provides flexibility and convenience for your visit. See all car hire →

ACT Car Rentals
6.4 km from centre
Thrifty
8.1 km from centre
Hertz
8.1 km from centre
Budget
8.1 km from centre

Things to Do in Canberra

Canberra offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors, including historical sites like Hobday's Cottage and the SievX Memorial, as well as outdoor destinations such as Westlake and Sri Chinmoy. Whether you're interested in exploring Australia's heritage or enjoying the city's natural spaces, there's plenty to experience in the capital. See all things to do →

Sri Chinmoy
440 m from centre
Former Australian Forestry School
906 m from centre
Hobday’s Cottage
930 m from centre
SievX Memorial
1.1 km from centre
Westlake
1.2 km from centre
Early Acton Memorial
1.6 km from centre

Restaurants in Canberra

Canberra offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste. From The Deck and Cape Cod to Iori Plus and Deakin Thai Cuisine, the city's restaurant scene includes both casual and refined establishments, with Fellows Bar providing a relaxed atmosphere for drinks and socialising. See all restaurants →

The Deck
1.4 km from centre
Iori Plus
japanese · 1.9 km from centre
Deakin Thai Cuisine
thai · 2.0 km from centre

Swimming Pools in Canberra

Canberra offers a variety of swimming pools for residents and visitors, including facilities such as Club Lime Pool, Kings Swimming Pool, and Manuka Pool. Whether you're looking for recreational swimming or aquatic activities, these pools provide access to water-based fitness and leisure options throughout the city. See all swimming pools →

Spas in Canberra

We're still gathering spas listings for Canberra — check back soon.

Nightlife in Canberra

Canberra offers a vibrant nightlife scene with venues like Cube providing entertainment options for visitors and locals alike. Whether you're looking for a night out in the capital, there are various bars and entertainment venues to explore. See all nightlife →

Cube
3.4 km from centre

Bars in Canberra

Canberra's bar scene offers a diverse range of venues for every taste. From casual cafes to lively nightspots, establishments like Fellows Bar & Cafe, Hijinks, Badger & Co, 88 mph, and The Jetty provide popular gathering places throughout the city. See all bars →

Fellows Bar & Cafe
2.1 km from centre
Hijinks
2.5 km from centre
Badger & Co
2.8 km from centre

Cafes in Canberra

Canberra's cafe scene offers a diverse range of venues perfect for coffee lovers and casual diners. From established favourites like Beess & Co and Snapper and Co to unique spaces such as The Yarralumla Gallery and Yarralumla Play Station Cafe, the capital's cafes provide welcoming atmospheres for breakfast, brunch, and quality beverages. See all cafes →

The Yarralumla Gallery and The Oaks Brasserie
928 m from centre
Beess & Co
1.1 km from centre
Yarralumla Play Station Cafe
1.1 km from centre

Shopping in Canberra

Canberra offers a range of shopping experiences at premier destinations including Myer, David Jones, and the Canberra Centre. Whether you're looking for department stores or modern shopping facilities, the city provides diverse retail options for visitors and locals. See all shopping →

Nature & Wildlife in Canberra

Canberra offers diverse natural spaces for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. From the scenic Yarralumla Bay District Park and Black Mountain Peninsula District Park to peaceful areas like Weston Park and the English Garden, visitors can enjoy the city's parks and natural beauty. See all nature & wildlife →

Spinnaker Island
554 m from centre
Yarralumla Bay District Park
682 m from centre
Black Mountain Peninsula District Park
975 m from centre
Weston Park
989 m from centre
English Garden
1.0 km from centre
Stirling Park
1.2 km from centre

Climate snapshot

Canberra experiences distinct seasons with mild to warm summers and cool winters. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, making them ideal times to explore the city's outdoor attractions and natural surroundings.

Interesting Facts About Canberra — Weird & Wonderful

  • Canberra is Australia's largest inland city, set apart from coastal population centres.
  • The city borders the state of New South Wales to the northwest, northeast and southeast.
  • The Brindabellas mountain range, located south and west of Canberra, form the northern part of the Australian Alps, the country's highest mountain range.
  • Canberra occupies most of the northern quadrant of the Australian Capital Territory.

Frequently Asked Questions About Canberra

What is Canberra's population?

Canberra has an estimated population of 484,630 as of 2025, making it Australia's eighth-largest city by population.

What currency is used in Canberra?

Australian dollars (AUD) are the official currency used throughout Canberra.

What language is spoken in Canberra?

English is the primary language spoken in Canberra, as it is throughout Australia.

What is the Australian Capital Territory?

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is a federal territory of Australia, with Canberra as its largest population centre and capital city.

Are there mountains near Canberra?

Yes, the Brindabellas mountain range is located south and west of Canberra and forms the northern part of the Australian Alps.

Is Canberra a coastal city?

No, Canberra is Australia's largest inland city, located away from the coast.

Map of Canberra

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