Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is a destination often overlooked by many travelers, but it has so much to offer. From its scenic landscapes and fascinating museums to its peaceful lakes and vibrant food scene, it’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway. As someone who has visited Canberra numerous times, I can assure you that it’s possible to enjoy a relaxing weekend with minimal stress. In this guide, I’ll take you through how to make the most of your weekend in Canberra, offering tips and suggestions on where to stay, what to do, and how to enjoy the city’s best experiences at a leisurely pace.
Discover new places and experiences
1. Start with a Relaxing Breakfast at One of Canberra’s Cafes
Canberra is known for its thriving café culture, and there’s no better way to begin your stress-free weekend than with a laid-back breakfast. My favorite spot is Lonsdale Street Roasters in Braddon. The café is not only known for its excellent coffee but also for its cozy atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind, sip on a flat white, and plan the day ahead. The staff is always friendly, and the breakfast menu is filled with local favorites like avocado on sourdough and freshly baked pastries.
Another great option is The Cupping Room in the city center, offering a unique coffee experience along with delicious breakfast options. Don’t forget to try their eggs benedict or the acai bowl for a healthy, energizing start to your day.
If you’re looking to explore more cafes, I highly recommend using Zomato or Tripadvisor to check out the local café reviews and find the hidden gems in the city.
2. Take a Scenic Stroll Around Lake Burley Griffin
After breakfast, take a leisurely walk around Lake Burley Griffin, the heart of Canberra. This beautiful lake offers stunning views of the city’s landmarks and is surrounded by parks, museums, and monuments. The 5.2 km walk around the lake is easy and can be done at your own pace. You can stop along the way to admire the views, take photos, or simply relax on one of the many benches.
The walk offers an incredible view of the Australian National Museum and the National Carillon, a bell tower that rings every hour. If you’re feeling more energetic, you can rent a bike or even a kayak from the local rental stations near the lake. The peaceful surroundings will allow you to take in the fresh air and enjoy the serene beauty of Canberra.
3. Explore the National Gallery of Australia
If you’re a fan of art, the National Gallery of Australia is a must-visit. It’s one of the finest art museums in the country, showcasing over 160,000 works of art, including pieces from Australia’s indigenous culture, European masters, and modern art. The museum’s layout is spacious, so you won’t feel rushed, and you can take your time to explore the various exhibits.
I particularly love the Australian Indigenous Art section, which provides an insight into the rich cultural history of the nation. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions, so it’s worth checking the schedule before you visit. You can also enjoy the beautiful Sculpture Garden located outside the gallery.
Entry to the gallery is free, making it a perfect stress-free activity that you can enjoy at your own pace. For up-to-date information on exhibitions, check out the National Gallery’s website.
4. Take a Peaceful Drive to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Located just 40 minutes from the city center, it’s a sanctuary of natural beauty and wildlife. The reserve offers easy walking trails, picnic areas, and the chance to spot kangaroos, koalas, and emus in their natural habitat.
One of my favorite walks is the Rock Valley Track, which is a relatively short and easy trail that offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking for a peaceful break from the city. You can also visit the Tidbinbilla Visitor Centre to get more information about the wildlife and activities available.
The entry fee to the reserve is modest (around AUD 10), but the experience is priceless, offering a wonderful chance to reconnect with nature.
5. Visit the Australian War Memorial
For those interested in Australian history, the Australian War Memorial is a must-see. It’s both a museum and a memorial, paying tribute to those who served in Australia’s armed forces. I was moved by the respectful atmosphere and the exhibits that cover Australia’s military history from World War I to the present.
One of the most striking parts of the memorial is the Hall of Memory, which features the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Last Post Ceremony is held every evening at 5 pm, and it’s a moving tribute to fallen soldiers. It’s one of the most touching experiences in Canberra.
Entry is free, but I recommend giving yourself at least an hour or two to explore and reflect. It’s a great way to experience a more solemn but educational part of Canberra.
6. Savour Local Wine and Food at the Canberra Region’s Vineyards
Canberra is surrounded by vineyards and wineries that are just a short drive away from the city. The Canberra District Wine Region is known for its cool-climate wines, particularly its Shiraz and Viognier varieties. Take a short drive to Murrumbateman or Hall, where you can visit the various cellar doors and enjoy tastings.
One of my favorite wineries is Clonakilla, which is renowned for its reds. Pair your wine with a cheese platter, and you’ll have the perfect relaxing afternoon. You can even book a tour that includes transportation to and from the vineyards, ensuring that you don’t have to worry about navigating.
Wineries like Four Winds Vineyard and Lark Hill also offer breathtaking views, making them great spots for a relaxing lunch or dinner.
For booking tours or wine tastings, consider using platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide to secure the best deals.
7. Explore the National Museum of Australia
If you want to delve deeper into the country’s history, the National Museum of Australia is a great place to visit. The museum’s exhibitions explore the social history, indigenous cultures, and the environment of Australia. What I love about this museum is that it’s interactive, with a variety of exhibits that engage visitors of all ages.
I highly recommend the First Australians Gallery, which highlights the diverse cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It’s a perfect opportunity to learn about Australia’s rich heritage and gain insight into its past.
Entry is free, and there are plenty of places to sit and relax within the museum if you need a break. You can also grab a coffee at the museum café and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
8. Stroll Through the Canberra Botanical Gardens
If you’re looking for a more tranquil activity, head to the Australian National Botanic Gardens. The gardens are located at the foot of Black Mountain, and they showcase Australia’s diverse plant life. Whether you’re a plant enthusiast or just someone looking to relax, this is a beautiful spot to wander through.
There are various walking trails within the gardens, and I highly recommend the Rainforest Gully, which is a lush, green area that feels like an escape from the city. The gardens also offer guided tours, which are great for learning more about the native plants.
9. Relax at the National Arboretum Canberra
Another stunning outdoor space in Canberra is the National Arboretum, a 250-hectare site dedicated to preserving and showcasing the diversity of trees from around the world. It’s a wonderful place for a picnic, a walk, or just some quiet reflection in nature. The Forest Walk is one of my favorite paths, where you can see an impressive variety of trees from all over Australia and the world.
The Village Centre Café within the Arboretum offers delicious meals and drinks, perfect for a relaxed lunch with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The views from the Margaret Whitlam Pavilion are breathtaking and perfect for an afternoon of relaxation.
10. Indulge in Canberra’s Culinary Scene
Finally, no weekend in Canberra would be complete without indulging in some of the fantastic food that the city has to offer. From modern Australian cuisine to international flavors, Canberra’s dining scene has something for everyone. I recommend visiting The Boat House for a riverside dining experience or Pulp Kitchen for contemporary Australian dishes. For casual bites, Hellenic Bakery in Braddon offers amazing pastries and sandwiches that you can take with you to enjoy in one of the many scenic parks.
For easy access to restaurant reservations, I use platforms like TheFork (thefork.com.au) or OpenTable (opentable.com.au) to find available tables at some of Canberra’s best eateries.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Canberra offers so much to explore and enjoy. With its peaceful natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant food scene, you can easily spend a weekend here without feeling rushed. By following these tips, you’ll experience the best of what the city has to offer, all while keeping stress at bay.
