02 August 2023
7 mins Read
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
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.
Stay at the heart of Canberra.
Ovolo Nishi is one of the most stylish Canberra hotels with moody, creative interiors focusing on art and design.
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.
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
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.
A By Adina has ample space for working. (Image: Visit Canberra)
Address: 1 Constitution Ave, Canberra, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 5134 6444
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 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.
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
Looking for a relaxing Canberra stay? The Crowne Plaza is next to Glebe Park, on the quieter side of the CBD.
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
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.
The street art in Braddon is in sync with the overall vibrant aesthetic of the neighbourhood. (Image: Lightbulb for VisitCanberra)
Part of the Autograph Hotel collection, Midnight is about elevated style in the heart of Canberra’s fashion, food and design hub of Braddon.
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.
Relax by the lap pool and sauna.
Address: 1 Elouera St, Braddon, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6220 0000
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.
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.
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
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
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.
The National Portrait Gallery is one of the many attractions easily accessed from Barton and Parkes. (Image: Crux for VisitCanberra)
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.
Little National Hotel is modern and spacious.
Expect super king beds, Apelles Apothecary amenities and a huge feature window wall to wake up to.
Fall asleep to a view of the city lights below.
Address: 21 National Cct, Barton, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6185 1988
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
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.
Catch the sunset from your room at Hotel Realm. (Image: VisitCanberra)
Address: 18 National Cct, Barton, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6163 1888
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.
Fuel up with coffee at Kingston Foreshore. (Image: Richard Poulton for VisitCanberra)
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.
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.
Bed down at East Hotel.
Address: 69 Canberra Ave, Kingston, ACT
Phone Number: (02) 6295 6925
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
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