Australian Capital Territory · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Exploring the Heart of Australia: Australian Capital Territory

Discover the Australian Capital Territory: a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions in the heart of Australia.

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is a unique and vibrant region, home to the nation's capital, Canberra. This compact territory offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and contemporary attractions. From the iconic Parliament House to the expansive National Gallery of Australia, visitors will find plenty to explore and experience. Nature lovers will enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Namadgi National Park, where bushwalking, wildlife spotting, and stunning views await. Lake Burley Griffin, the centerpiece of Canberra, offers serene waters perfect for sailing, kayaking, or simply enjoying a picnic by the shore. The ACT is also a hub for cultural activities. The Australian War Memorial provides a moving tribute to the nation's history, while the National Museum of Australia presents engaging exhibits that tell the story of the country's diverse heritage. In addition, the region hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, ensuring there's always something exciting happening. Food and wine enthusiasts will appreciate the local culinary scene, featuring fresh produce and fine wines from the surrounding vineyards. With its blend of urban sophistication and natural charm, the Australian Capital Territory is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a well-rounded and enriching experience.

Parkes

National Gallery of Australia

Discover the Australian Capital Territory: a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions in the heart of Australia.

National Arboretum Canberra

Discover the Australian Capital Territory: a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions in the heart of Australia.

Acton

National Museum of Australia

Discover the Australian Capital Territory: a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions in the heart of Australia.

Parkes

Old Parliament House

Discover the Australian Capital Territory: a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions in the heart of Australia.

Acton

Australian National Botanic Gardens

Discover the Australian Capital Territory: a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions in the heart of Australia.

Parkes

Questacon - National Science and Technology Centre

Discover the Australian Capital Territory: a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions in the heart of Australia.

Parkes

National Carillon

Discover the Australian Capital Territory: a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions in the heart of Australia.

Canberra

National Rock Garden

Discover the Australian Capital Territory: a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions in the heart of Australia.

Parkes

James Turrell Within without Skyspace

Discover the Australian Capital Territory: a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions in the heart of Australia.

When is the best time to go to Australian Capital Territory?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsDec–Feb
Longest daylightNov–Feb
Driest periodFeb–Sep

Explore places in Australian Capital Territory

    See all →

    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Australian Capital Territory sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    National Museum of Australia

    Discover Australia's stories and cultural heritage at the National Museum of Australia in Acton, a captivating destination for every traveler.

    National Museum of Australia

    National Arboretum Canberra

    Explore the vast beauty of the National Arboretum Canberra, a unique nature preserve filled with diverse tree species and stunning landscapes.

    National Arboretum Canberra

    Questacon - National Science and Technology Centre

    Discover the wonders of science and technology at Questacon, Australia's premier interactive science museum in Canberra, perfect for families and curious minds.

    Questacon - National Science and Technology Centre

    National Gallery of Australia

    Discover the National Gallery of Australia, a premier destination showcasing a vast collection of art from Australia and around the world.

    National Gallery of Australia

    Old Parliament House

    Discover the historical significance of Old Parliament House, a museum showcasing Australia's political journey and rich heritage for all visitors.

    Old Parliament House

    Australian National Botanic Gardens

    Discover the breathtaking beauty of native flora at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, a serene escape in Canberra's natural paradise.

    Australian National Botanic Gardens

    National Carillon

    Discover the National Carillon: a unique musical landmark in Canberra offering stunning views and regular bell concerts.

    National Carillon

    National Rock Garden

    Explore Australia's ancient geological heritage at the National Rock Garden in Canberra's National Arboretum.

    National Rock Garden

    James Turrell Within without Skyspace

    Experience the enchanting interplay of light and sky at James Turrell's 'Within Without', a breathtaking Skyspace in the National Gallery of Australia.

    James Turrell Within without Skyspace

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Canberra Centre

    Discover Canberra Centre: A premier shopping destination with over 200 stores, diverse dining options, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Australia.

    Canberra Centre

    Westfield Belconnen

    Discover Westfield Belconnen: A premier shopping hub with diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options in the heart of Belconnen.

    Westfield Belconnen

    Westfield Woden

    Explore Westfield Woden, a premier shopping destination in Phillip, offering diverse shops, delicious dining, and exciting entertainment for all visitors.

    Westfield Woden

    Canberra Outlet

    Shop till you drop at Canberra Outlet, where unbeatable prices meet a vibrant shopping experience in the heart of Fyshwick.

    Canberra Outlet

    Quizzic Alley - Canberra

    Explore the enchanting Quizzic Alley in Canberra, a must-visit gift shop for Harry Potter fans, offering a magical shopping experience!

    Quizzic Alley - Canberra

    Harris Scarfe Fyshwick (Homewares, Manchester & Apparel)

    Discover a diverse shopping experience at Harris Scarfe Fyshwick, your one-stop destination for homewares, clothing, and appliances in Canberra.

    Harris Scarfe Fyshwick (Homewares, Manchester & Apparel)

    POP Canberra

    Explore POP Canberra, a boutique haven showcasing local art and unique treasures in the heart of Braddon. Perfect for memorable shopping experiences.

    POP Canberra

    Australian Choice

    Discover authentic Australian souvenirs at Australian Choice, where local craftsmanship and culture come together in the heart of Canberra.

    Australian Choice

    Designer Op Shop Emporium

    Explore the Designer Op Shop Emporium for vintage clothing, antiques, and unique homewares in the heart of Fyshwick, a must-visit for every traveler.

    Designer Op Shop Emporium

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    File:Sydney opera house side view.jpg - Wikipedia
    Destination guide

    More about Australia

    Discover the endless wonders of Australia, where stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage await every traveler.

    Tell me more about Australia
    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    Explore Australian Capital Territory in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Platinum Jubilee- Parliament House.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Australian War Memorial front view panorama 1.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:NGA Canberra-01JAC.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Fireworks above Lake Burley Griffin (3332101724).jpg - Wikimedia  Commons
    File:National Museum of Australia (3435541957).jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Canberra panorama from Mount Ainslie.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Questacon.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Old Parliament House, Canberra front entrance.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Building of the National Library of Australia, Canberra, 2022, 11.jpg  - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Kookaburra Sits In The Old Gum Tree.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.