Canberra is often overlooked as a travel destination, but there’s more to this city than meets the eye. This picturesque Australian capital is surrounded by many green spaces and nature reserves, and is full of cultural attractions.
Surrounded Lake Burley Griffin, the city is divided into a number of districts. Each offers something a little different to travelers, so finding the best place to stay can be difficult.
With our guide on where to stay in Canberra, you’ll be able to find the ideal location for your travel style. Whether you’re staying long-term or just passing through, we’ve got somewhere for you.
So, let’s get into it!
Not looking for a specific place to say? These are our top overall picks for accommodation in Canberra.
Luxury 2 Bedroom Apartment | Best Airbnb in Canberra
Featuring two double bedrooms and an onsite pool, this luxurious apartment in Kingston is ideal for families or groups visiting Canberra. It’s modern and stylishly decorated, with plenty of natural light. Staying here, you’ll be very close to some of Canberra’s coolest pubs, bars, and eateries.
East Hotel Canberra | Best Hotel in Canberra
This modern and well-equipped hotel is ideal for groups and families looking for a stress-free stay in Canberra. There’s a bar and restaurant on-site, but you’ll also be located close to a number of Canberra’s most popular dining options.
Canberra City YHA | Best Hostel in Canberra
As one of the only hostels in Canberra, this place is a hub for budget backpackers. Spotlessly clean and stylishly decorated, this hostel includes an indoor pool and hot tub, and a rooftop hangout with amazing views. Breakfast can be purchased at the cafe, and there’s a large communal kitchen to prepare your own meals.
Canberra Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Canberra
City Centre
Canberra City Centre – aka Civic, Civic Centre, CBD, or simply ‘City’ – is the heart of the Australian Capital. Properly established in 1927, the centre of town is a series of geometric road shapes lined by grand, early 20th-century edifices and plumes of green trees.
Acton
Bordering the west of Canberra’s City Centre is the district of Acton. Also situated on the meandering banks of Lake Burley Griffin, Acton is largely taken up by buildings and departments of The National Australian University, which means you can expect a young, student vibe here.
Woden Valley
Comprising a collection of Canberra suburbs that date to the 1960s, Woden Valley is a sprawling area that stretches south from the Parliament House. The first satellite city to be built, it’s now part of Canberra proper, but doesn’t feel very much like a city at all.
Braddon
The tiny area of Braddon lies north of Canberra City Centre. This is one of the city’s oldest suburbs, which was settled in 1922, and as such features quite a few examples of early 20th-century architecture.
Kingston
Kingston is also home to the vibrant Kingston Foreshore, an area where entertainment, dining, and lake views merge into one charming area of this vibrant Canberra suburb.
Canberra is the picturesque capital of Australia. Often downplayed by visitors in favor of Sydney or Melbourne, there’s a lot more to the city than administrative buildings.
An entirely planned city, Canberra’s road system is unusually formed of many circles and hexagons and, influenced by the garden city movement, features many green spaces and vegetation. Thanks to all these roads and public transport, you’ll be able to explore the whole city with ease.
If you’re visiting Canberra for the first time, the City Center is the best place to stay. Also referred to simply as Civic, or CBD (Central Business District), it’s home to historical buildings, parks, and shopping malls.
Acton sits to the west of the City Center and is the best place to stay if you’re traveling on a budget. It’s home to the Australian National University, it’s got more affordable prices for food and accommodation.
Much further south of the lake is Woden Valley, a collection of leafy suburbs with a laid-back atmosphere. It’s the perfect location for a relaxing city escape.
Braddon is officially the oldest suburb of Canberra, boasting several examples of heritage buildings that feature classic 1920s architecture. Its unique and charming atmosphere makes it the coolest place to stay in the city.
Finally, Kingston is our top pick for where to stay in Canberra for families. It’s a chilled lakeside area with cool cafes and heritage buildings, but is close enough to all the attractions of the city centre.
Still not sure where to stay in Canberra? Read on for more detailed guides on each of these areas, and the best accommodation in each!
Canberra’s 5 Best Areas to Stay In
Backpackers in Australia don’t always consider Canberra, but it’s got a variety of unique places to discover.
1. City Centre – Where to Stay in Canberra for your First Visit
Canberra City Centre – aka Civic, Civic Centre, CBD, or simply ‘City’ – is the heart of the Australian Capital. Properly established in 1927, the centre of town is a series of geometric road shapes lined by grand, early 20th-century edifices and plumes of green trees.
Filled with polished urban areas, trendy cafes, and ample sightseeing opportunities, the City Centre is the best place to get to know Canberra. It’s also conveniently connected to the surrounding areas by public transport.
Capital Executive Apartment Hotel | Best Hotel in City Centre
This apartment hotel in Canberra makes for a convenient stay in the Australian capital. Rooms are large and each comes with a kitchen, so you can save money making home-cooked meals. There’s an onsite spa and gym, and top attractions are a short walk away.
Avenue Hotel Canberra | Best Hotel in City Centre
This chic and stylish hotel offers convenient and luxurious accommodation in the city centre. Each room contains modern furnishings, with a kitchenette and dining area. Amenities include room service, an onsite bar, and a free airport shuttle.
City Studio Apartment | Best Airbnb in City Centre
This central studio in Canberra is ideal for couples or solo travelers. There’s a full kitchen and laundry facilities in the apartment, and an onsite gym for guest use. The Airbnb is surrounded by shops, cafes and restaurants, and there are plenty of public transport connections nearby.
Canberra City YHA | Best Hostel in City Centre
Whether you’re on a Sydney-Melbourne stopover or plan on staying long-term, the Canberra City YHA is the ideal place to base yourself. This budget-friendly hostel features a large communal kitchen and rooftop terrace, and there’s even an underground bar onsite. It’s within walking distance of Canberra’s top attractions, so you won’t have to spend any money on public transport.
Things to See and Do in City Centre:
- Head to City Walk for a spot of retail therapy and some lunch al fresco.
- Stroll around the relaxed Glebe Park.
- And for even more shopping, head to the shopping haven of Canberra Centre.
- Grab a coffee and people-watch at The Cupping Room.
- Admire the architecture at Civic Square.
- Eat at the highly rated Iori Japanese Restaurant.
- Wander around the Canberra Museum & Gallery.
- Go for a swim at the Canberra Olympic Pool.
- Take yourself to Commonwealth Park for a lovely waterside walk.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Acton – Where to Stay in Canberra on a Budget
Situated on the meandering banks of Lake Burley Griffin, Acton is largely taken up by buildings and departments of The National Australian University. As a result, you can expect a young, student vibe here.
There’s also an abundance of nature to explore in and around the Acton area. You’ll also save money on public transport, as many of Canberra’s top attractions are an easy walk away.
Stunning 1 Bed Apartment | Best Apartment in Acton
Enjoy some of the best views over the Black Mountain and the Bush. The apartment can sleep up to four guests, and comes equipped with a full kitchen. Cooking basics are provided, as well as wifi and laundry facilities. Staying here, you’ll be close to Lake Burley Griffin, as well as various shops and restaurants.
Luxury Two Bedroom Apartment | Best Airbnb in Acton
This stunning two bedroom apartment in central Canberra sleeps up to four guests. It’s modern and bright, and contains all modern amenities. The Airbnb is a ten minute walk from top city attractions, and guests can enjoy views over Mount Ainslie. For an extra spot of luxury, visitors have unlimited access to the onsite gym and sauna!
Accommodate Canberra | Best Hotel in Acton
Stay in the heart of the city with all the comforts of home! All apartments come with a separate bedroom, kitchen and laundry facilities, so you’ll have everything you need for the duration of your stay. The Australian Academy of Science and National Museum of Australia are within walking distance, and you’ll be surrounded by trendy cafes and restaurants.
Things to See and Do in Acton:
- Stroll through the International Sculpture Park.
- Learn about the country’s history at the waterfront National Museum of Australia…
- … And have a bite to eat at The Museum Cafe, complete with beautiful lake views.
- Walk through the sprawling and tranquil Australian National Botanic Gardens.
- Take a trip around the fascinating National Film and Sound Archive of Australia.
- Explore the walking tracks that crisscross Black Mountain Nature Reserve, Australia’s most diverse nature park.
- Grab a takeout coffee and watch the world go by at Sullivans Creek.
3. Woden Valley – Where to Stay in Canberra for Ultimate Relaxation
Comprising a collection of Canberra suburbs that date to the 1960s, Woden Valley is a sprawling area that stretches south from the Parliament House.
Woden Valley is home to hundreds of parks and several nature reserves. If you’re looking for a weekend city break in Canberra, this is the best place for it.
Photo: Simon Yeo (Flickr)
1BR Apartment in Quiet Uptown Area | Best Airbnb in Woden Valley
This Canberra Airbnb is bright, spacious, and full of modern furnishings for a comfortable stay. The apartment benefits from a sunny terrace, and basic essentials are provided. You’ll be within walking distance of the Woden Westfield and bus interchange, so you can easily explore further afield.
Studio Apartment | Best Private Room in Woden Valley
This one bed studio in Woden Valley sleeps two guests, making it ideal for couples or solo travelers visiting the area. Amenities include wifi, laundry facilities and that all-important A/C, and you’ll be within walking distance of parks and public transport. There’s no kitchen here and accommodation is pretty basic, but it’s perfect for a budget stay in the city.
Statesmen Hotel | Best Hotel in Woden Valley
Amongst the action and close to shops and trendy bistros, this hotel offers budget accommodation and excellent value. Rooms are basic but clean, and a refrigerator is provided in each. Best of all – there’s free breakfast!
Abode Woden | Best Hotel in Woden Valley
This hotel has spacious and peaceful rooms with modern furnishings. There’s an onsite restaurant, and plenty of popular bars nearby. A kitchen and laundry facilities are also provided, so you enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay.
Things to See and Do in Woden Valley:
- Take a tour around the Royal Australian Mint.
- Spot kangaroos at Oaky Hill Nature Reserve in Lyons.
- Stroll around Edison Park.
- Take a walk around Phillip and choose from one of its many cafes for a breather.
- Shop ‘til you drop at the massive Westfield Woden.
- Appreciate the view from the top of Red Hill Nature Reserve.
- Eat at the modern tapas restaurant Onred, complete with city views.
- Explore the Mount Mugga Mugga Nature Reserve.
- Brunch at the rustic cafe, Fox & Bow, in Farrer.
- Check out the Serbian Orthodox Church of St Sava also in Farrer.
- Put on your hiking boots and enjoy a bit of hill-walking at Farrer Ridge Nature Reserve.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Braddon – Coolest Place to Stay in Canberra
The tiny area of Braddon lies north of Canberra City Centre. This is one of the city’s oldest suburbs, and as such features quite a few examples of early 20th-century architecture.
There is a concentration of cool cafes and restaurants in this hip area. Combined with pockets of interesting architecture, Braddon is the perfect place for wandering around and checking out the sights!
Mercure Canberra | Best Hotel in Braddon
Set in manicured gardens with a courtyard, this budget hotel fills the gap for hostels in this trendy area. All rooms have ensuite bathrooms, and there’s a bar and fitness centre on-site. Many of the city sights are within walking distance from here, and there is a bus stop on the same street.
Mantra | Best Hotel in Braddon
Situated not far from the Australian War Memorial and Anzac Parade, Mantra provides guests with a comfortable base in the city centre. There’s. a bar and swimming pool on-site, and family rooms are available.
Flat with a Convenient Location | Best Airbnb in Braddon
With all the comforts of home, this airy apartment is a perfect base for couples or solo travelers visiting Canberra. The unit is surrounded by shops and cafes, and a short walk from some of the best things to see in the city. You’ll have a kitchen with all the basics included, as well as laundry machines and free wifi.
Cozy Room in the heart of Braddon | Best Private Room in Braddon
Situated ten minutes from the city centre and a short walk from local supermarkets, this private room is conveniently situated for an affordable stay in Canberra. You’ll be sharing the apartment with other guests so the kitchen and bathroom are shared, but that’s standard for budget-accommodation.
Things to See and Do in Braddon:
- Visit the heritage building of the Salvation Army Hall.
- Snap some photos of the historic Ainslie Arts Centre.
- Stroll through Haig Park.
- Check out the retro housing at Alt Crescent.
- Go for a drink at the Civic Pub.
- Explore the trendy neighborhood of Lonsdale Street with its boutiques and designer stores, cafes, and bars.
5. Kingston – Best Area in Canberra with Families
Kingston is a cool waterfront area on the southeast shore of Lake Burley Griffin. The suburb is a densely packed and historic area of the city, that is all about regeneration and repurposing old buildings.
Kingston is also home to the vibrant Kingston Foreshore, an area where entertainment, dining, and lake views merge into one charming area. We reckon it’s the best place to stay in Canberra for families, thanks to its location and small-town charm.
Luxury 2 Bedroom Apartment | Best Airbnb in Kingston
This stylish apartment in Kingston comfortably sleeps four guests, and is ideal for groups or older families. The apartment is modern and contains a full kitchen and two bathrooms, and there’s a pool and free parking onsite. You’ll be surrounded by pubs and restaurants, and be situated right on the waterfront.
Finest of the Foreshore | Best Private Room in Kingston
This private room in Canberra is close to numerous attractions, including Parliament House and other National Buildings. You’ll also be within walking distance of the lake, shops, and cafes. Guests will have their own bathroom, and the rest of the apartment is shared with the owner.
Knightsbridge Canberra | Best Hotel in Kingston
This hotel is one of the cheapest accommodation options in the Kingston area. The hotel staff are extremely helpful with any questions and the location is ideal, with plenty of restaurants nearby.
Rooms come with a modern, clean kitchen so you can enjoy home-cooked meals if you prefer. Laundry facilities are also provided.
East Hotel Canberra | Best Hotel in Kingston
Rooms are styled on self-catering apartments, making it ideal for families visiting Canberra. The hotel has been recently refurbished and provides clean and comfortable accommodation.
Things to See and Do in Kingston:
- Check out the selection of cool cafes between Eyre and Giles Street, particularly Silo Bakery and Cafe and Penny University.
- Take a walk around the picturesque Norgrove Park.
- Explore the rich waterways of the Jerrabomberra Wetlands Nature Reserve.
- Visit the former power plant of Kingston Powerhouse.
- Check out Canberra Glassworks that are now housed in this historic building.
- Browse the various sights, sounds, and tastes of the Old Bus Depot Markets, a Sunday institution!
- See what’s on at the historic Causeway Hall, now an event space.
- Snap a photo of Canberra Baptist Church, a fine example of the inter-war gothic style.
- Stroll along Kingston Foreshore, admiring the lake views and window shopping.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Canberra
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Canberra and where to stay.
What To Pack For Canberra
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Canberra
Canberra is often overshadowed by other travel destinations in Australia, but the unique and quirky capital has a lot to offer. From impressive architecture and parliament buildings to serene greenery and nature reserves, there’s so much to explore.
If you’re still unsure where to stay in Canberra, you can always rely on the Canberra City YHA. It’s close to main attractions, and offers stunning social spaces to seal the deal.
If a hostel doesn’t quite cut it, then you can’t go wrong at East Hotel Canberra. Each room comes with a private bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen, so you’ll have everything you could need to hand.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Australia.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Australia.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Australia instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Canberra to plan your trip.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Oceania backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
