Canberra on a Budget: A 4-Day Adventure

Explore Canberra's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Canberra is a great destination for budget travelers who want to explore Australia's capital city without spending too much money. The city offers a range of free activities, including visiting the National Gallery of Australia, the Australian War Memorial, and the Australian National Botanic Gardens. Additionally, there are many affordable accommodation options, budget-friendly restaurants, and public transportation is easy to use and reasonably priced.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check into the affordable YHA Canberra hostel
  • Start your day with a visit to the Australian War Memorial
  • Have lunch at The Cupping Room, a charming cafe with delicious brunch
  • Explore the National Museum of Australia and its interactive exhibits
  • Take a stroll around the tranquil Lake Burley Griffin
  • Dine at Mocan & Green Grout, a trendy cafe known for its organic offerings
Day 2

Art and History

  • Begin at the National Gallery of Australia, home to a phenomenal collection of Australian and international art
  • Check out the Parliament House and its impressive architecture
  • Have lunch at Gus' Place, a casual diner with great American-style burgers
  • Get educated with a trip to the Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre
  • Spend the evening relaxing with a movie at the Old Bus Depot Markets outdoor cinema
Day 3

Nature and Wildlife

  • Take a drive to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and explore the stunning wildlife and scenic hiking trails
  • Have lunch at Contentious Character Winery, for a relaxing wine and cheese meal
  • In the afternoon, visit the Australian National Botanic Gardens and admire its diverse plant life
  • Continue the day by visiting the Australian Institute of Sport to learn more about sports history
  • Wind down by enjoying a drink at the popular Kokomo's Bar
Day 4

Local Markets and Foodie Delights

  • Start the day with breakfast at one of the popular cafes at the Canberra Farmers Market
  • Spend the afternoon at the Old Bus Depot Markets, a vibrant local market with unique products
  • Have a late lunch at Pialligo Estate, a charming restaurant with an excellent view of the countryside
  • Stop by The Hamlet, a bustling food fest with a wide selection of cuisines
  • End the day by exploring the colourful street art of Lonsdale Street Roasters

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Canberra, Australia by plane is to fly into Canberra Airport which has regular flights from major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide.

Car

Driving is a great way to explore Australia's scenic countryside while traveling to Canberra. The major highway, Hume Highway, connects Sydney and Canberra, while the Princes Highway links Canberra to Melbourne. There are also several car rental services available at the Sydney and Canberra airports.

Train

While there is no direct train service to Canberra, you can take a train to the nearby city of Queanbeyan and then catch a local bus to Canberra. However, flying into Canberra Airport is a much more convenient option.

Boat

As Canberra is located inland, there are no direct boat options available. However, you can take a cruise along the nearby Murray River, which is around a 3-4 hour drive from Canberra.

Bus

Taking a Greyhound or a Murrays bus is a good option to reach Canberra. Both services offer regular trips from Sydney and Melbourne to Canberra.

Destination

Canberra

Welcome to a city that is so confusing, it even has a roundabout with five exits. But don't worry, it's not just the street layout that will leave you feeling dazed and bewildered.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Escape to Canberra: A 2-Day Nature Adventure.

A romantic trip to Canberra, Australia promises a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation. Take a stroll through the stunning National Arboretum, indulge in a wine tasting tour in the surrounding countryside, and dine at some of the city's top-rated restaurants. End the day with a romantic stroll along the shoreline of Lake Burley Griffin and bask in the serene atmosphere.

Canberra on a Budget: 2 Days of Fun

A budget trip to Canberra, Australia would involve exploring the city's numerous free attractions such as the Australian War Memorial, National Portrait Gallery and National Museum of Australia, all of which offer free admission. Opting for budget accommodation options like hostels or shared apartments and preparing your own meals at grocery stores instead of dining out can also help cut costs. For an affordable and convenient mode of transportation, the ACTION bus service and bike rentals are available within the city.

Canberra Adventure: Family Fun, Nature, Culture, and More!

A family friendly trip to Canberra, Australia offers an enriching and educational experience for all ages. Explore the National Museum of Australia, where interactive exhibits and displays bring history and culture to life. Enjoy the outdoors at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, where children can learn about native plants and even spot some unique wildlife. Additionally, a visit to the Questacon Science and Technology museum will engage and entertain the entire family with its hands-on exhibits and exciting experiments.

Discover Canberra in 3 Days: A Capital Adventure

Visiting Canberra, the capital city of Australia, offers a unique tourist experience. Highlights include the Australian War Memorial, Parliament House, the National Museum of Australia, along with numerous art galleries and cultural exhibits. The city also offers outdoor enthusiasts access to incredible hiking trails, nature reserves, and outdoor markets.