Canberra , Australia

Highlights of Canberra Full Day Tour

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About this experience

Witness the wonderful views of Canberra and the region from the top of Mount Ainslie. Visit NCA Exhibition Centre. Be guided through the corridors of power at Australia’s Parliament House. Survey the Parliamentary Triangle & its National Institutions. Explore the Australian War Memorial and experience the moving Last Post Ceremony. All fees included. Personally guided throughout.

Available options

Highlights of Canberra Full Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Transport in comfortable tour vehicle

Pickup at major hotel & motel chains

Expert Local Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

One of Canberra’s most beautiful vantage points at the top of Mount Ainslie. From the lookout, your guide will explain the growth of a young city, the two-tiered colonial and capital city history and point out places of interest and key attractions, all while you survey the tremendous design of Canberra’s architect, Walter Burley Griffin.

Expect a drive through the grounds of the Royal Military College Duntroon - Australian Army's officer training establishment and perhaps to Mount Pleasant where you’ll be delighted to an alternative aspect overlooking central Canberra.

Discover some further history of Canberra along with a up close look of Lake Burley Griffin & the Captain Cook Memorial.

After a journey through the Parliamentary Triangle, we head to the Old Parliament House - home to the 'Museum of Australian Democracy" where you’ll enjoy our own short guided tour to key parts of this magnificent building showcasing more than 50 years of Australia’s political history.

Stop 5

From the Old to the New, it’s then just a short journey up the Hill to New Parliament House. Get a guided tour through Great Hall, Senate, and House of Representatives Chambers.

We usually break for lunch at the Queens Terrace Café, a café with a variety of food options, sure to satisfy even the most diverse tastes.

As mid-afternoon rolls around, we’ll leave New Parliament House for a drive through Canberra’s diplomatic district - first passing by "The Lodge" - the primary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia.

We continue the drive through Canberra’s diplomatic district where you can spot the embassies of different countries represented in Australia.

Stop 7

We’ll guide you around the central part of the AWM before you’ll have some free time to observe some of the many galleries dedicated to showing Australia’s roll in conflict.

The final part of the tour is the Memorial’s Last Post Ceremony where a dedication is made to those who have fallen in service for Australia. It often leaves no dry eye.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

118 reviews

5★

106

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

272 reviews

5★

255

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Canberra

Canberra is Australia's capital city, known for its planned design, abundant green spaces, and rich cultural institutions. It offers a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for visitors.

Top Attractions

Australian War Memorial

A significant memorial dedicated to the members of its armed forces and a shrine containing the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier.

Historical 2-3 hours Free

Parliament House

The meeting place of the Parliament of Australia and a significant landmark in Canberra.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Lake Burley Griffin

A large artificial lake in the center of Canberra, offering scenic views and recreational activities.

Nature Varies Free

National Gallery of Australia

The national art gallery of Australia, featuring a vast collection of Australian, Aboriginal, and international art.

Museum 1-2 hours Free (some exhibitions may have fees)

Mount Ainslie Lookout

A scenic lookout offering panoramic views of Canberra and its surroundings.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lemon Myrtle Panna Cotta

A creamy panna cotta infused with the unique flavor of lemon myrtle, a native Australian plant.

Dessert Contains dairy, can be made gluten-free

Kangaroo Fillet

A lean and flavorful meat, often served with native Australian spices and sauces.

Main Course Gluten-free, high in protein

Lamington

A classic Australian dessert made of sponge cake coated in chocolate and desiccated coconut.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Skiing Kayaking Picnicking Wine tasting Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and vibrant natural landscapes. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (UTC+10) or AEDT (UTC+11) during daylight saving time

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Canberra is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Canberra Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Canberra Station

By bus

Jolimont Centre

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is efficient and covers most parts of Canberra. MyWay cards are used for fare payment.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Civic Braddon Manuka Kingston Tuggeranong

Day trips

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

40 km from Canberra • Half day to full day

A nature reserve offering walking trails, wildlife spotting, and picnic areas.

Bungendore

35 km from Canberra • Half day

A charming historic village known for its antique shops, galleries, and wineries.

Snowy Mountains

150 km from Canberra • Full day to overnight

A mountainous region offering skiing, hiking, and scenic views.

Festivals

Floriade • September to October National Multicultural Festival • February Enlightened Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Australian War Memorial for a moving and educational experience
Explore the city's green spaces and parks, such as Lake Burley Griffin and the National Arboretum
Take a guided tour of Parliament House to learn about Australia's political history and culture
Try local and native Australian cuisine at one of Canberra's many restaurants and cafes
Attend a major event or festival, such as Floriade or the National Multicultural Festival, for a unique and memorable experience