Surrounded by bush yet resplendent with modern architecture, major art galleries and a burgeoning restaurant scene, Canberra is Australia’s sophisticated yet hip capital city
With Lake Burley Griffin as a centrepiece, endless blue skies and more than 400,000 trees planted over 800 square kilometres, across its public areas, Canberra is beautiful to behold. Kangaroos are easy to spot in city parks and its many nature reserves make it an outdoor paradise. And for city slickers, there are design-forward boutiques, award-winning bars and some of the best restaurants in the country. Drawcards include blockbuster art exhibitions as well as major festivals such as the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, the National Folk Festival and Floriade flower display.
When to go
Canberra has blue skies all year round but the best time to visit is spring (September to November) when the days are a mild 16–25 C° and blossoms abound, and in autumn (March to May) with its spectacular foliage.
How to get around
Canberra’s CBD is compact and very walkable. To see more of the city’s natural beauty, hire a bicycle and enjoy its extensive cycling network, including the 30km Western, Central and Eastern lakeside loops. Buses are also available to take you to sights in the Parliamentary Triangle and the restaurant zones in Manuka, Kingston and NewActon.
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