Best places to stay in Canberra
Canberra is inland from the southeast coast of Australia. With its plush forestry and farmland, it definitely earns the nickname “Bush Capital.” While it might be away from the ocean, it does have Lake Burley Griffin, where you can glide out onto the water with a sailboat or kayak and enjoy the lakeshore views of the Parliament House, local museums and more. Canberra is a unique gem, because it offers some of the most fascinating indigenous art collections of the country, which is why it is a top spot for art collectors.
Acton
Acton is close to the city centre and also home to the Australian National University. A short drive from Acton, you have the Australian National Botanic Gardens and Black Mountain (Kalkajaka) National Park. Stay at the NewActon Hotel Hotel on Marcus Clarke Street and you will be in the centre of it all.
Canberra Central
Canberra Central spreads out in a circular shape and includes the London Circuit. In the centre of the city, you have plenty of attractions, hotels and you are a short walk from Commonwealth Park. Hotels in the city centre range from 5-star accommodations to budget-friendly places to stay. Try the Crowne Plaza Canberra on Binara Street. You also have the contemporary Novotel Canberra Hotel and the more economical BreakFree Capital Tower.
Chinatown
Chinatown is in the Dickson area of the city and home to Cantonese and Chinese restaurants. In Chinatown, the Asian food markets are open with fresh produce and unique gifts to take home. Hotels in Chinatown are affordable compared to the city centre. Two good options worth considering are the Aria Hotel and The Tradies Quality Hotel Dickson.
North Canberra
In North Canberra, you have O’Conner and the Northbourne Avenue areas. Budget lodging and most other hotels are in the North Canberra district. You also have youth hostels throughout the neighbourhood. The city has some amazing shopping centres, bars and public houses. In North Canberra, you will also find exceptional Asian and Turkish eateries. For hotels in Canberra in the northern area, try the Dickson Parklands or the Pavilion on Northbourne.
South Canberra
South Canberra is well known for its street café culture. The city has plenty of shopping malls, antique shops, fashion boutiques, and lots more to discover. It is also home to the inner suburbs of the city, including Kingston and Manuka where you find affordable hotels and stylish, boutique-like inns. The Novotel Canberra Hotel is located in the southern district and strategically placed so you do not need public transportation to reach most of the attractions.
Tuggeranong
On the southern side of the city you have Tuggeranong, where you will find friendly cafes, inexpensive venues and the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. This famous reserve has the largest concentration of walking trails and wildlife in the area. Stay at the Abode Hotel Narrabundah, which features flat-style hotel rooms.
Cheap hotels in Canberra
Find accommodations in Canberra that will not deplete your travel budget too quickly. As a capital city, there are plenty of budget-friendly hotels and hostels to choose from. Try the Tall Trees Canberra with its affordable rates and newly renovated rooms. You also have the Mantra on Northbourne, which offers a comfortable stay for families and business travellers. Peppers Gallery Hotel is in the contemporary area of New Acton and sits among other 5-star hotels in the area. The Capital Executive Apartment Hotel is a value hotel with a 24-hour reception desk and is a short walk from the CBD.