The capital of the ACT, and of the entire country, Canberra is a famously purpose-built city, designed by Walter Burley Griffin and home to more than 345,000 residents. Not just the seat of Australia’s government, the city holds numerous unique attractions, good restaurants, interesting neighbourhoods and an array of events that drive surging tourism. The region experiences hot, dry summers, very cold winters and it’s even been known to snow within the CBD itself. The city is divided into eight districts, with many of the suburbs and streets named after famous Australians, PMs or early settlers. It’s surrounded by national parks, is close to several ski fields, is home to the Australian Institute of Sport and various national monuments and institutions, and has a burgeoning wine region on its doorstep. 

Transport:

Canberra International Airport is compact and just 6km (15min) east of Canberra’s hub, called Civic. Qantas, Virgin Blue, Tiger Airways and Brindabella Airlines (which offers daily direct flights to Albury, Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Brisbane) all service Canberra. Taxis (around $14-$17 to hotels, 13 22 27) and the Airliner Shuttle Bus ($7, 02 6299 3722) are right outside. Key car rental companies are represented. Taxis are handiest for reaching cbd locations, but the city has an extensive bus system (13 17 10). Many visitors drive from Sydney (280km, 3.5hrs).