The 12 best Canberra hotels by neighbourhood

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Looking for accommodation in Canberra? Start by figuring out which of the city’s unique neighbourhoods suits you.

Canberra accommodation is plentiful, whether you’re heading in with an RV and want a relaxing caravan park experience or the home-away-from-home feel of a great Airbnb. Still, a luxurious stay is hard to go past – but with so many modern hotels, how will you choose?

Instead of perusing long lists, consider the neighbourhood that suits your trip. Want proximity to the Parliamentary Zone? Barton is your best bet. Keen to get out and experience some of Canberra’s best restaurants? You can’t go past Braddon.

Below, find our guide to Canberra’s best neighbourhoods – and the top hotels worth considering.

Jump ahead to the neighbourhood:

Canberra City
Braddon
Barton and Parkes
Kingston

Canberra City

With City Hill at its centre and a host of excellent restaurants and museums at your doorstep, a stay in central Canberra is often the most convenient choice.

an aerial view of Canberra City
Stay at the heart of Canberra.

1. Ovolo Nishi

Ovolo Nishi  is one of the most stylish Canberra hotels with moody, creative interiors focusing on art and design.

an elegant grand stair at Ovolo Nishi, Canberra
The Grand Stairs at Ovolo Nishi make for a memorable entry point. (Image: VisitCanberra)

The mini bar snacks and drinks are free, one of Canberra’s best fine dining restaurants, Monster, is just downstairs, and you’re within walking distance to shopping and several attractions such as the National Film and Sound Archive.

a relaxing nook at Ovolo Nishi
Curl up with a book on the relaxing nook at Ovolo Nishi. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: 25 Edinburgh Ave, Canberra, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6287 6287

2. A By Adina

A newer addition to Canberra’s accommodation offerings, A By Adina  brings together the best of serviced apartment ease and hotel luxury. Rooms feature kitchenettes and ample space for working (or lounging); the downstairs cafe ARC has some of the best coffee you’ll find in the city, and you’re close to popular Canberra restaurants like Such and Such, as well as walking distance from Lake Burley Griffin and the excitement of Floriade during spring.

the suite at A By Adina, Canberra
A By Adina has ample space for working. (Image: Visit Canberra)

Address: 1 Constitution Ave, Canberra, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 5134 6444

3. QT Canberra

QT’s quirkiness comes through in its Canberra offering – the hotel is focused on fun, making it a great choice for weekends away to explore the city and its nightlife. Rooms are quiet and spacious, with Kevin Murphy amenities and Chromecast TVs.

the state suite at QT Canberra
The spacious rooms at QT Canberra are furnished with soothing neutral colours throughout.

Plus, you’re in the heart of Canberra, just a short drive from all the top attractions.

the QT lounge at QT Canberra
In stark contrast to its rooms, the QT lounge gives off a vibrant, eclectic vibe.

Address: 1 London Cct, Canberra, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6247 6244

4. Crowne Plaza

Looking for a relaxing Canberra stay? The Crowne Plaza  is next to Glebe Park, on the quieter side of the CBD.

a bedroom with windows at Crowne Plaza, Canberra
Take in the sights of Canberra from your suite at Crowne Plaza.

You’re still close to the restaurant and cafe scene, as well as most attractions – but have the option of scenic park views outside your hotel window.

Address: 1 Binara St, Canberra, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6274 5500

Braddon

Easily the coolest precinct in Canberra, Braddon is a hive of activity. Expect exceptional coffee everywhere you turn, unique dining experiences and a young, vibrant atmosphere.

a family admiring the Braddon street art, Canberra
The street art in Braddon is in sync with the overall vibrant aesthetic of the neighbourhood. (Image: Lightbulb for VisitCanberra)

5. Midnight Hotel

Part of the Autograph Hotel collection, Midnight is about elevated style in the heart of Canberra’s fashion, food and design hub of Braddon.

an elegant bedroom suite at Midnight Hotel, Canberra
The rooms at Midnight Hotel combine elegance and style.

Designed by Australian architects Fender Katsalidis, rooms feature walk-in rain showers, black and gold interiors and custom artwork.

the lap pool and sauna at Midnight Hotel, Canberra
Relax by the lap pool and sauna.

Address: 1 Elouera St, Braddon, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6220 0000

6. Rex Hotel

A landmark in Canberra since the 1950s, when it was built as a luxury hotel catering to royalty and foreign dignitaries, the Rex Hotel  still stands strong today.

the rooftop bar of Howling Moon, Canberra
Take in the views of the city at the Howling Moon rooftop bar at Rex Hotel. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Rooms are now a little more contemporary, with signature Rex ‘Cloud’ beds and minimalist interiors, plus luxury rooms with balconies. Walk out the door, and you’ll be greeted with the bustling Braddon cafe and restaurant scene.

cocktails from Howling Moon, Canberra
Spice up your stay with a round or two of cocktails at the hotel bar. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: 150 Northbourne Ave, Braddon, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6248 5311

7. Avenue Hotel

Perfectly placed on the corner of Cooyong Street, Avenue Hotel  has various accommodation options, from king rooms to two-bedroom apartments for group travel. There is free wi-fi, an on-site gym and 24-hour room service, plus every room has a private balcony you can enjoy your morning coffee from.

Address: 80 Northbourne Ave, Braddon, ACT
Phone Number: 1800 828 000

Barton and Parkes

History buffs will thrive in Barton and Parkes, where the Parliamentary Zone is found and many of Canberra’s most famous museums, such as the National Portrait Gallery and Old Parliament House. Plus, these precincts are seeing real growth in the foodie scene, with plenty of cosy restaurants and wine bars to enjoy.

a mother and daughter exploring the National Portrait Gallery, Canberra
The National Portrait Gallery is one of the many attractions easily accessed from Barton and Parkes. (Image: Crux for VisitCanberra)

8. Little National Hotel

The Little National Hotel group makes some of the most elegant boutique accommodations in Australia. Its Canberra iteration is both luxurious and well-placed in Barton, near the Parliamentary Zone.

the lobby at Little National Hotel
Little National Hotel is modern and spacious.

Expect super king beds, Apelles Apothecary amenities and a huge feature window wall to wake up to.

a bed with a view at Little National Hotel, Canberra
Fall asleep to a view of the city lights below.

Address: 21 National Cct, Barton, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6185 1988

9. Rydges Hotel

A classic Canberra hotel that’s accommodated both politicians and tourists in its time, Rydges Hotel  is situated close to Parliament House while also being near Manuka with its cafes and boutique shopping. There is an on-site swimming pool and gymnasium, plus a restaurant and bar.

Address: 17 Canberra Ave, Barton, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6295 3144

10. Hotel Realm

Part of the luxurious Doma Group, Hotel Realm prides itself on five-star service and premium accommodations. Custom king beds, Nespresso coffee machines and, in some rooms, gas fireplaces make Realm the place to stay if you want a relaxing retreat near the Parliamentary Zone.

a bedroom with sunset views at Hotel Realm
Catch the sunset from your room at Hotel Realm. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: 18 National Cct, Barton, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6163 1888

Kingston

Situated on the banks of Lake Burley Griffin, Kingston is a beautiful precinct filled with heritage architecture and a quieter ambience for those seeking a relaxing haven after busy days of activity.

a family enjoying coffee on the Kingston Foreshore
Fuel up with coffee at Kingston Foreshore. (Image: Richard Poulton for VisitCanberra)

11. East Hotel

The Italian heritage of East Hotel’s founders comes through as soon as you walk in the door – enjoy authentic Italian fare at Agostinis Italian restaurant after aperitivo hour at Joe’s bar, then return to your king bed studio room.

an elegant dining interior at Agostinis Italian restaurant
Spend a romantic date night at Agostinis Italian restaurant.

Those with kids will love the Kids Cubby rooms, which feature bunk beds and an Xbox One for maximum entertainment.

a close-up shot of the bed at East Hotel, Canberra
Bed down at East Hotel.

Address: 69 Canberra Ave, Kingston, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6295 6925

12. Abode

Abode Group is known for self-contained accommodation that feels equal parts homely and stylish, and their Kingston property is perfectly located in the heart of Canberra’s inner south. Each room has everything you need – a washer/dryer, kitchenette, TV casting options and ample space. There are even pet-friendly rooms for a fee.

Address: 14 Kennedy St, Kingston, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6108 4760

Keep reading our ultimate guide for more Canberra accommodation tips.
Melissa Mason
Melissa Mason is a freelance journalist who loves road tripping and car snacks. Previously holding Editor roles at ELLE, marie claire, Broadsheet and Pedestrian.TV, she now writes travel and lifestyle content for a wealth of Australian titles like SMH, Mamamia and Urban List, as well as copywriting for international brands. Outside of writing, she loves walks with her dog Ted, a great Sunday afternoon with friends, and op shopping. If she could be anywhere right now it would be lounging on a hammock at a tropical resort with a great romantic fantasy book.
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Incredible day spas and hot springs to visit in Victoria

From geothermal pools and luxury spa sanctuaries, Victoria’s mineral-rich waters and restorative landscapes offer total renewal.

I pass waving coastal spear-grass and coast saltbush as I follow the curving path through 15 hectares of thoughtfully curated gardens at the Mornington Peninsula’s Alba Thermal Springs & Spa . I hang my robe at the entrance and slip into the first sunken geothermal pool I find – feeling the tension from the 90-minute drive from Melbourne melt away as I watch steam dance across the surface in the late afternoon light. There are 31 pools, a mix of geothermal, cold plunge and botanical, that range in temperature and design, spread over six regions.

a woman relaxing at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa on the Mornington Peninsula
Alba Thermal Springs & Spa on the Mornington Peninsula. (Image: Visit Victoria)

I gravitate toward The Hemisphere, with its dry sauna, steam room, cold plunge and dreamy open-air pool called The Hide. But it’s Alba’s brand-new Sanctuary that really elevates the experience. The five luxurious stand-alone villas and two additional studio rooms opened in June 2025 and feature an indoor fireplace, oversized bathtub with views across the bay, a deck and extensive all-inclusive (minus the cocktails) mini-bar.

After dining at Alba’s Thyme restaurant, I return to my villa, content to fall asleep early listening to the fire crackle, feeling thoroughly restored. While Alba is one of the newest in the region, it’s certainly not the only place to enjoy a soothing soak. Here are others to book for a wellness weekend.

Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

A woman bathes in the new Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa private bathing room with marble tiled walls
The marble private bathing room is one of five new designs. (Image: Supplied)

Nestled in the Daylesford region, Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa has been welcoming guests to its historic bathhouse for 130 years. With a $1.7 million renovation now complete (part of the 21st season of Channel 9’s The Block), find five new private bathing rooms, an apothecary experience where guests blend a custom body scrub and all-new spa treatment menu.

There are three bathing areas: Bathhouse for communal bathing for all ages, adults-only Sanctuary and a private bathing space for a personalised experience – try the skin-softening Mineral Milk Bath.

Lake House Daylesford

the pool at Lake House Daylesford
The main pool at Lake House Daylesford. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Inciting deep exhales, the spa at Alla Wolf-Tasker’s iconic Lake House has long been a beacon of wellness in the region. Tucked into the cottage gardens that wind down to the lake’s edge, the spa is beautifully and deliberately cloistered away from guests and diners visiting the celebrated on-site restaurant.

From Ayurvedic facials and hydrotherapy that makes use of Daylesford’s mineral waters, to cocooning thermal rituals and massage, treatments here promote tranquillity. While a day spa experience is delightful on its own, staying on the property adds a luxe layer to your corporeal renewal, especially if you’re in your own private spa villa.

Metung Hot Springs

the Metung Hot Springs' glamping tents by the river
Glamping tents at Metung Hot Springs. (Image: Emily Godfrey)

Imagine immersing yourself in a barrel overflowing with geothermal water, all while taking in views of Gippsland Lakes. It’s one of several unique bathing experiences available at Metung Hot Springs .

There’s also a floating sauna and a Reflexology Walk constructed with carefully placed stones designed to stimulate the acupressure points in your feet as you walk. The 12-hectare site opened in 2022 with three bathing areas – Bathing Ridge, Lagoon Precinct and Hilltop Escarpment – and premium glamping tents that feature king-size beds and private bathing barrels.

Four more blissful day spas to visit

Lon Retreat & Spa is an award-winning, adults-only retreat on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs features sensory caves and cleansing waterfalls in Warrnambool.

Peninsula Hot Springs renews with 70 bathing and wellness experiences.

The Benev is an indulgent spa and luxury accommodation in Beechworth.

the Peninsula Hot Springs
Bathe in beautiful surroundings at Peninsula Hot Springs. (Image: Tourism Australia/Harry Pope/Two Palms)