10 Dreamy Airbnbs in Canberra to Try Now

The Airbnb Canberra scene is dominated by apartments, putting you at the city’s heart while allowing you the freedom to cook and lounge in a homely space.

Accommodation in Canberra is plentiful – this is a city where you could throw a stone, and it would land at the feet of a luxury hotel with great reviews. However, if you’re looking for something with more creature comforts, try an Airbnb in Canberra. You’ll quickly notice how many are on offer – much like its hotel scene, Australia’s capital city has Airbnb options ranging from ultra-luxe to budget accommodation for the money-conscious, all situated close to Canberra’s best restaurants, its cafe culture and major events like Floriade.

Angle your search a little further outside of the city’s boundaries, and you’ll also find relaxing Airbnbs in Canberra’s up-and-coming wine regions and farm stays among its picturesque countryside. Here are our favourite Airbnb picks in Canberra.

1. Luxurious Waterfront, Kingston

Best for: Those who want a relaxing retreat in the heart of the city

This Airbnb in Canberra is set apart due to its stunning views over the Kingston foreshore.

the balcony of an apartment at Luxurious Waterfront, Kingston — Relax on the balcony fronting Lake Burley Griffin at Luxurious Waterfront in Kingston.

Both the bedroom and lounge overlook Lake Burley Griffin toward the suburb of Russell, making this breezy apartment for two a welcome retreat from the city’s high-rise while still being within walking distance of some of Canberra’s best restaurants and cafes.

the living room interior of Luxurious Waterfront, Kingston — Settle in for a cosy evening after a night on the town.

2. Boutique Luxe Warehouse, Kingston

Best for: Friends looking for a luxury getaway

Ultra-cool with its moody industrial-style interiors, this warehouse-inspired Airbnb oozes Canberran style. Furnishings align well with the deconstructed feel of the space, with owners using leather and natural fabrics throughout – like soft, 100 per cent French linen bedding.

the interior of Boutique Luxe Warehouse Airbnb in Kingston — The Boutique Luxe Warehouse encapsulates the Canberra vibe.

The fully stocked kitchen allows for fun nights in, but you’re also situated in the suburb of Kingston near the heart of Canberra’s nightlife.

floral bedding at Boutique Luxe Warehouse, Kingston — The space hits the right balance between warm soft furnishings and industrial style.

3. Two Bedroom On Lonsdale Street, Braddon

Best for: Feeling like a local

Braddon is the place to be for Canberra’s best coffee and cafe culture and is easily the coolest neighbourhood in Canberra right now, so staying at this Lonsdale Street Airbnb will have you right in the thick of it, feeling like a local. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly Canberra Airbnb, this is also a great choice – the owners allow up to two pets as long as they are house-trained.

a chic and cosy Airbnb, Two Bedroom On Lonsdale Street, Braddon — Plant yourself in Canberra’s coolest neighbourhood at this Airbnb.

4. Heart of The City, Reid

Best for: Getting around via public transport

Light-filled and bright, this Canberra Airbnb is situated right in the centre of Canberra’s CBD, so you’re close to all attractions via public transport – very handy if you didn’t drive into town! For those nights you’d prefer to stay in, the full kitchen, high-speed internet and selection of streaming services will see you set.

a light-filled Airbnb interior at Heart of The City, Reid — This light-filled Airbnb in the CBD has splashes of pink and earthy tones throughout.

5. The Kindred, Braddon

Best for: Creative types with a love for detail

Tucked away in a garden-filled complex, The Kindred is a cosy haven for those with a penchant for interior design.

the bedroom at The Kindred, Braddon — The lush interior of The Kindred is rich in colour and understated pieces.

Everything has been considered in this beautiful condo, from the vintage Danish dining table to the local art and ceramics adorning the walls and pantry.

the dining table at The Kindred, Braddon — The vintage Danish dining table reinforces the nature-inspired colour palette.

A highlight is the two vintage-style bikes for guest use – take them for a tour around the Ainslie parkland, or use them to get around the city.

a garden-themed interior at The Kindred, Braddon — The Kindred is a garden-themed hideaway with plenty of nooks to relax in.

6. Bunda House, Narrabundah

Best for: Larger groups of friends

Located in stylish Narrabundah, Bunda House is a renovated 1960s home with a spectacular backyard and patio for entertaining.

the outdoor deck of Bunda House, Narrabundah — Soak up the sun on the outdoor deck of Bunda House.

Pick up some fresh produce at the Canberra markets and cook up a storm in its spacious modern kitchen, or head to nearby Manuka for cafes and shopping.

a bedroom with window at Bunda House — Bunda House embraces minimalist style in its rooms.

7. Hackett Gardens House, Turner

Best for: Families with active kids

Stylish and spacious, this property in the suburb of Turner is situated alongside a large park with a playground for the kids to tire themselves on, plus a large backyard and bikes renters can use to get around the city.

a stylish bedroom at Hackett Gardens House — Hackett Gardens House is chic and spacious.

We love the expansive kitchen, which has plenty of space for whipping up meals for the family.

a spacious living room at Hackett Gardens House, Turner — There are multiple living spaces to relax in during your stay.

8. Horseshoe Hideaway, Mullion

Best for: Those seeking solitude

Looking for something a little outside of the busy city centre? Horseshoe Hideaway might be 40 minutes outside of town in Mullion, but it’s well worth the drive if you prefer your holidays on serene farmland.

a private bath in Horseshoe Hideaway, Mullion — Showering is all about the views at Horseshoe Hideaway.

Part of a sheep property, this Canberra Airbnb tiny home is cosy, so ideal for a couple or solo traveller. Take advantage of the incredible outdoor hot tub and stargaze the night away.

a bonfire setup at Horseshoe Hideaway, Mullion — Sitting by the firepit is the perfect end to a day of exploring the city.

9. The Cottage at Petrichor Farm, Gundaroo

Best for: Immersing yourself in the country

Forty minutes outside of Canberra in Gundaroo wine region, you’ll find The Cottage At Petrichor Farm, a relaxing property surrounded by gardens and tastefully decorated with rural-inspired interiors.

the property exterior of The Cottage at Petrichor Farm, Gundaroo — The Cottage at Petrichor Farm is surrounded by lush greenery.

You can visit local wineries and providores, but make sure you block out an afternoon to soak in the picturesque outdoor bathtub, too.

an outdoor bathtub at The Cottage at Petrichor Farm, Gundaroo — Take a morning dip in the outdoor tub.

10. Luxurious Country Estate, Springrange

Best for: Winery touring with friends and family

This country Airbnb near Canberra is right in the heart of the Murrumbateman wine region, and with space for up to 12 people across six bedrooms, it can accommodate large groups with ease.

a dining space with glass walls at Luxurious Country Estate, Springrange — Set up an intimate family brunch at the Luxurious Country Estate.

Gather with friends or family around the indoor fireplace during winter, or enjoy alfresco dining on the deck overlooking paddocks in summer. There is even a dam on the property for swimming and fishing.

a telescope at Luxurious Country Estate, Springrange — Make use of the telescope of an evening.

For more recommendations on where to stay, read our guide to Canberra accommodation for everything from hotels to camping.

Discover vibrant culture and creativity, gorgeous nature spots and more in lively Newcastle.

Newcastle/Muloobinba has a lot going for it beyond its big skies and beautiful beaches. The city’s creative types are now heading downtown, taking over and transforming warehouses and terraces to offer a more alternative vibe. From its nightlife to secret swimming spots, art to architecture, here’s our insider’s guide to Newcastle in New South Wales.

1. Learn to sail on Newcastle Harbour

The harbour has always shaped Newcastle, so it seems like the most obvious place to start your weekend. Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club offers a range of programs that provide instruction for both novice and experienced sailors. This is an inspired classroom that sets off past the Honeysuckle Foreshore up the Hunter River, with views towards a seemingly infinite vista of blue stretching to the horizon. It’s the perfect way to savour your time by the sea. Other water activities include surfing, swimming in one of the secret ocean baths or whale-watching with CoastXP .

Aerial view of Newcastle Harbour. — Join Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club’s programs. (Image: City of Newcastle)

2. Underground jazz scene

Follow the lively sound of the saxophone bubbling up to find The Underground . The popular basement-level bar, with its dim lighting and speakeasy aesthetic, schedules live jazz performances every Tuesday and Thursday. Newcastle is known around the country for supporting live music and this late-night New York-style jazz bar is, like the city itself, both approachable and sophisticated. For fans of live music, Queen’s Wharf Hotel , King Street Newcastle , Mad Poet and The Lucky Hotel are all popular pubs for their roster of live music.

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3. The city as a canvas

The streets of Newcastle present like an outdoor art gallery , adding beauty to the everyday with large-scale works by artists such as Fintan Magee, Inari Meyers, Tom Henderson and Sophia Flegg. Hire a Flash E-bike and pedal around the streets to find treasures such as Bronte Naylor’s Mirror Ocean in Civic Square or Sky & Ocean at South Newcastle Beach Skate Park. You can also join Newy Tour Co.’s Discover Newcastle tour to explore city highlights, architectural gems and street art with an expert guide.

Friends take in Newcastle Street Art. — Admire stunning works of art displayed all around you. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. An artist’s view of Newcastle

There’s a real sense of optimism around Newcastle, stemming from its many grassroots art galleries and organisations. The city is home to an eclectic array of artists who gravitate toward different mediums; see their works on show at independent galleries such as The Lock-Up , which operated as a police station from 1861 until 1982, and Lighthouse Arts Newcastle in the light-filled cottages on Nobbys Head/Whibayganba. Stop by The Creator Incubator to see the Little and Big gallery spaces. Newcastle Art Gallery will soon reopen after a recent expansion, so keep an eye out.

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5. Newcastle after dark

The small bars confetti’d around Newcastle are a sign of the times. Visitors to the compact city will find a concentration of bars within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail. The after-dark experience, which includes theatre and live music, is designed for visitors who are in search of the offbeat and want to celebrate the city’s creativity. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, the bars that dot most neighbourhoods will tempt you with everything from happy hour to their alt attitude.

A bartender expertly crafting a drink, with a stunning library of spirits in the background. — Enjoy a night out at a lively bar. (Image: City of Newcastle)

6. Indulge in great gastronomy

Newcastle’s proximity to the Hunter Valley has helped establish it as a sophisticated getaway for gourmands with a passion for provenance. Dining options in the city are diverse, with everything from casual cafes to cantina-style Mexican eateries such as Antojitos , through to fine diners such as Flotilla and Jana Restaurant & Bar at QT Newcastle . Visit during Newcastle Food Month to get a snapshot of the local culinary scene – you can take note of the many world-class restaurants and cafes that warrant a return visit. Humbug , Peregrin and Bistro Penny should also be on your radar.

The dining area at Flotilla in Newcastle NSW. — Savour a world-class dining experience at Flotilla. (Image: Flotilla)

7. Crystalbrook Kingsley

Crystalbrook Kingsley is another great example of Newcastle’s new wow factor. Staying at the hotel – in the heart of the cultural centre – makes exploring a breeze, with vintage bikes for guests who want to check out the city streets on two wheels. The design-savvy Crystalbrook Collection reimagined the Roundhouse building while adhering to its ethos of sustainable luxury. The hotel is also a magnet for foodies, with the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant and cocktail bar, Romberg’s, two of the best spots in the city for wining and dining.

The Roundhouse by Crystalbrook Collection. — Step into the reworked Roundhouse by Crystalbrook. (Image: Crystalbrook Kingsley)

8. Newcastle’s creative side on show

Save the date for New Annual , a festival of art, music and ideas from 26 September – 5 October. The program is jam-packed with 10 days of art, culture and creativity. This year’s festival will celebrate the power art has to connect people. Expect to see a diverse program including music, theatre, workshops, and performances in iconic Newcastle locations. Visitors will find a concentration of events within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail.

Dancers performing gracefully, accompanied by a live orchestra. — Celebrate migration, community and belonging at New Annual.

Plan your next trip to offbeat Newcastle.

10 dreamy Airbnbs in Canberra to try now