Travel around Canberra with Bobby
Day 1A Scenic Start by the Lake
As I stepped into Canberra, the first thing that struck me was how serene and well-planned the city felt, with Lake Burley Griffin at its core, radiating calm. After checking into Hotel Realm, a sleek and modern hotel perfectly situated just minutes from Parliament House, I was eager to dive into the city’s political heartbeat. The Parliament House tour didn’t disappoint, offering a fascinating look into Australia’s democratic system. The architecture alone is impressive, but the views from the roof, looking out across the city, were simply stunning. I spent the rest of the afternoon strolling along Lake Burley Griffin, soaking in the open air, water views, and scenic pathways. Lunch at The Boat House, a restaurant perched on the lakeshore, was a perfect break, with fresh Barramundi on the menu and a view that couldn’t be beat.
As the day started to wind down, I made my way to Commonwealth Park to catch the sunset. The park itself is a lovely green space, ideal for families, joggers, and anyone looking to relax by the lake. Watching the sky change colors over the water was the perfect way to cap off my first day in Canberra. I already felt a deep connection with the city’s balance of nature and urban planning. If you’re visiting, make sure your first day includes a walk around Lake Burley Griffin to fully absorb the calm and beauty that this city has to offer.
Lake Burley Griffin is the best way to ease into your Canberra experience. Whether you walk or bike around it, the views and fresh air will set the right tone for the days ahead.
Day 2A Deep Dive into History and Heroes
Day two was all about history, and no place in Canberra embodies that more than the Australian War Memorial. I’ve visited many war memorials around the world, but there’s something uniquely powerful about this one. Walking through the galleries, which are packed with personal stories, artifacts, and recreations of battle scenes, I was reminded of the immense sacrifices made by so many. The Roll of Honour and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier were particularly moving. After spending hours exploring the exhibits, I headed to Poppy’s Café, located just outside the memorial. It offered a peaceful spot to reflect over lunch, with views of the memorial gardens providing a moment of quiet after the intensity of the exhibits.
In the afternoon, I felt like I needed to see Canberra from a new perspective, so I made my way up to Mount Ainslie Lookout. Whether you decide to hike or drive, the lookout offers panoramic views of the entire city, from the expansive Lake Burley Griffin to the perfectly aligned Parliamentary Triangle. I lingered here for a while, just soaking in the view, before heading back into town for dinner at Aubergine. This fine dining spot is known for its seasonal menus, and it lived up to the hype with perfectly balanced flavors and a sophisticated atmosphere. A fitting end to a day filled with both reflection and inspiration.
Lunch at Poppy’s Café was simple yet delicious, with fresh ingredients and a serene view of the memorial gardens. The relaxed environment was a perfect complement to the solemn atmosphere of the Australian War Memorial.
Food
Hotel Realm continued to impress on the second night with its luxurious feel and peaceful ambiance. The spacious rooms and helpful staff made for a very comfortable stay.
Accomodation
The Australian War Memorial was deeply moving, offering a comprehensive look at Australia’s military history through artifacts and stories. The emotional weight of the exhibits, coupled with the stunning Mount Ainslie lookout later in the day, made this an unforgettable experience.
Activity
The War Memorial is an emotional yet essential visit, especially if you're a history buff. For stunning views, the Mount Ainslie hike is a must, and make sure to have a good camera with you!
Day 3A Day of Art and Science
I began my third day with a visit to Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre, and honestly, it was one of the most enjoyable museum experiences I’ve had in a long time. This isn’t just a place for kids; it’s packed with hands-on exhibits that make learning about science fun for everyone. From earthquake simulators to interactive robotics, the morning flew by as I explored the center’s various galleries. Afterward, I hopped over to Monster Kitchen and Bar for lunch. The trendy NewActon area is known for its cool design and creative vibe, and Monster didn’t disappoint with its relaxed atmosphere and eclectic menu.
The afternoon was dedicated to the National Gallery of Australia, which houses one of the most impressive collections of art in the country. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art collections were the standout for me, showcasing Australia’s deep cultural roots. The gallery itself is a work of art, with its modern architecture and carefully curated exhibits. As night fell, I made my way to Hippo Co, a cozy little whiskey bar in the city, where live jazz set the perfect tone for a chilled evening. I sipped on a well-crafted cocktail, enjoying the music and reflecting on the cultural experiences of the day.
Lunch at Monster Kitchen and Bar was a creative and flavorful experience. The trendy NewActon vibe was the perfect backdrop for its eclectic menu, with dishes that were both innovative and satisfying.
Food
My room at Hotel Realm remained the epitome of comfort, and I appreciated how close it was to the city’s cultural hotspots, making it easy to explore without needing much transport. The staff were always friendly and helpful.
Accomodation
Questacon was pure fun, filled with interactive exhibits that entertained and educated. The National Gallery of Australia in the afternoon provided a quieter, reflective counterpoint, with its impressive Aboriginal art collection standing out.
Activity
Questacon is hands-down the most fun you’ll have learning about science, and the National Gallery is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Australia’s artistic culture. End your day with live jazz at Hippo Co for a relaxed, classy vibe.
Day 4Nature and Hidden Gems
On my final day in Canberra, I decided to explore some of the city’s lesser-known treasures. The morning began with a peaceful visit to the National Arboretum, a vast space home to rare and endangered tree species from around the world. Walking through its expansive gardens, I felt connected to nature in a way that only wide, open spaces can offer. The views from the Arboretum across the city were breathtaking, and the tranquility made it easy to spend a few hours just wandering. Next, I headed to the Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets for a light lunch and to experience a slice of local life. The bustling market atmosphere, filled with the sights and smells of fresh produce, was a nice change of pace from the quieter morning.
The afternoon was spent at the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, one of my favorite parts of the trip. Here, I got the chance to see kangaroos, koalas, and emus in their natural habitat while enjoying scenic bushwalks. Tidbinbilla feels like a world away from the city, even though it’s just a short drive out of town. It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers. I wrapped up my final evening at Eightysix in Braddon, a hip restaurant with a lively atmosphere and innovative Australian cuisine. The modern, creative dishes were the perfect way to end my Canberra adventure.
Lunch at Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets was a nice break from the busier tourist areas, with local food stalls offering fresh and tasty bites. It was a casual but authentic experience, giving me a real taste of Canberra’s local culture.
Food
After four nights at Hotel Realm, I can confidently say this is one of Canberra’s top places to stay. Its luxurious amenities, central location, and overall atmosphere make it a top choice for travelers seeking both comfort and convenience.
Accomodation
The morning at the National Arboretum was peaceful and beautiful, and the afternoon at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve was the highlight of the day, with wildlife sightings and natural beauty that felt miles away from the city. Both activities provided a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
Activity
Tidbinbilla is a must for nature lovers, with incredible wildlife and walking trails. If you want to wind down your trip with some excellent food, Eightysix will not disappoint.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Overall, my experience in Canberra was both enriching and enjoyable, as the city offers a unique combination of history, culture, and nature. Whether you’re visiting iconic landmarks, enjoying the local food scene, or simply taking in the natural beauty, Canberra delivers a well-rounded travel experience. Here’s my breakdown of the city across 10 categories based on my four-day visit.
Lunch at The Boat House was a standout, with fresh Barramundi cooked to perfection and served with a stunning view of Lake Burley Griffin. The flavors were well-balanced, and the atmosphere was both elegant and relaxed, making it a great first meal in the city.
Food
I stayed at Hotel Realm, a modern and sleek hotel offering comfortable rooms and excellent service. The location is perfect, just minutes from Parliament House, and the amenities like the spa and gym were top-notch.
Accomodation
Exploring Parliament House was both fascinating and insightful, especially with the guided tour that provided a deep dive into Australia’s political history. The views from the roof added an extra layer of beauty to the experience.
Activity