Top 12 Canberra Hotels by Neighbourhood

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.

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.

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.

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.

Just over an hour from Melbourne, spectacular walking and hiking trails encompass ancient landscapes, forested ridgelines and volcanic peaks.

Just a short drive from the city, the urban sprawl gives way to rolling hills, mineral springs, and lush forests that will have you feeling like you’re in the bucolic countryside of France. Encompassing Daylesford , the Macedon Ranges, Castlemaine and the Central Goldfields, this pocket of Victoria is a region where nature, art, and wellness intertwine. Heritage towns hum with creativity, good food and wine, and welcoming locals. While Daylesford hikes, and those nearby, offer the chance to take a pause and reconnect with nature.

1. Hanging Rock Summit Walk

Etched into folklore, few places in Australia carry as much mystique as Hanging Rock. Rising dramatically from the plains near Woodend, this volcanic mamelon offers a beautiful nature walk. The walk begins at a gentle pace, weaving through shaded woodland before it gets a little steeper as the path starts to climb and twist to the summit. From here, you’ll have views that stretch across the Macedon Ranges. The walk is roughly 1.8 kilometres return, but the real reward lies in standing among the weathered boulders, feeling the age and energy of the earth beneath your feet.

2. Macedon Ranges Walking Trail

Macedon Ranges Walking Trail camel's hump lookout — Walk to Camel’s Hump. (Image: Clair Derwort)

The Macedon Ranges Walking Trail traverses around 19 kilometres of forest and mountain landscapes. The full trail is a six-hour circuit, with most of the walk being a grade three; however, you don’t have to tackle it all at once. There are shorter walks that will take you through the tall mountain ash forests, to tranquil picnic areas, and sweeping views from Camels Hump and the Memorial Cross. The best times of year to head out are autumn, when the mountain turns into a tapestry of crimson and gold, and spring, when wildflowers brighten the trail.

3. Mount Alexander Traverse

Towering above the goldfields near Castlemaine, Mount Alexander is a granite giant that offers some great bushwalking trails. The Mount Alexander Traverse winds along the mountain’s rocky spine through dry eucalypt forest that opens up in sections to reveal beautiful panoramas across Loddon Valley and all the way to the distant Grampians. Once a site of ancient volcanic activity (and later a gathering place for the Dja Dja Wurrung people), the mountain’s granite tors are now quiet and create a beautiful, serene atmosphere for a moment of reflection while walking.

4. Murmuring Walk

Murmuring Walk daylesford hikes — Circle the picturesque Sanatorium Lake.

Located an easy drive from Daylesford, Murmuring Walk offers something a little different. Circling Sanatorium Lake, this free audio-guided walk aims to immerse you in the rhythms of Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country by blending the sounds of nature with a multi-layered soundtrack. There are two routes to explore while you listen: a shorter loop around the lake itself and a longer circuit that extends deeper into the woodland.

5. La Gerche Forest Walk

Located in Creswick, the La Gerche Forest Walk honours the legacy of John La Gerche, a 19th-century forester who championed the regeneration of the then gold-rush-ravaged land. Today, over 100 years later, his replanting efforts have grown into a living cathedral of towering pines, oaks, and native gums. As you meander along the 2.2-kilometre circuit, you’ll find interpretive panels along the way that help tell the story of La Gerche’s vision, so you can learn as you wander.

6. Sailors Falls Loop

Just outside Daylesford, Sailors Falls tumbles through a fern-lined gorge, fed by mineral springs. Thought to be named after the sailors who jumped ship to seek gold in the area during the 1850s gold rush, the loop walk begins at the car park and descends through a cool, shaded gully to the base of the falls. From here, you’ll make the climb back via the mineral springs. It’s a short but enchanting walk – about 1.5 kilometres in total, so make a day of it by packing a picnic to sit by the springs; you’ll feel worlds away from the city.

7. Paddys Ranges Loop Walk

Further north, the Paddys Ranges State Park loop reveals a different side of Victoria’s Heartland – dry forest, golden light and hints of a gold-rush past. This protected reserve is a stronghold of box-ironbark woodland, providing vital refuge for endangered species. In spring, the forest floor is awash with the colour of over 230 species of wildflowers, so a springtime walk is a must-do. As you walk the 4.5-kilometre loop trail, keep an eye out for remnants of old mine shafts and rusted relics from the prospectors who once sought their fortunes here.

8. Mount Franklin Summit Walk

An extinct volcano turned picnic ground, Mount Franklin (known as Lalgambook to the Dja Dja Wurrung people) is one of the region’s quiet marvels. The summit walk follows a narrow, winding path through native forest to the crater’s rim, where you’ll get glimpses of farmland and forest below. It’s a moderate climb – just over an hour return, so it can easily be done if you’re camping in the surrounding reserve for a weekend nature retreat.

The trails of Victoria’s Heartland offer a chance to reconnect with the landscape, local history and yourself. Start planning your next adventure at daylesfordmacedonlife.com.au.

The 12 best Canberra hotels by neighbourhood