Explore Australia's Capital – Rich in History, Culture, and Natural Beauty
Canberra, Australia's purpose-built capital city, masterfully blends political significance with breathtaking scenic beauty and world-class cultural attractions. Nestled between Sydney and Melbourne, this sophisticated city offers visitors an unforgettable journey through Australia's democratic heart, rich military history, and vibrant arts scene.
When you explore Canberra with Cooee Tours, you'll discover why this planned city has become one of Australia's most captivating destinations. From the architectural marvel of Parliament House perched atop Capital Hill to the moving tribute of the Australian War Memorial, from the serene waters of Lake Burley Griffin to the internationally acclaimed collections at the National Gallery of Australia, every corner of Canberra tells a compelling story.
Our Canberra tours provide more than just sightseeing – we offer immersive experiences led by passionate local guides who bring Australia's capital to life. Travel in comfort aboard our luxury vehicles, enjoy seamless door-to-door service from Sydney and other locations, and benefit from expert commentary that reveals the fascinating stories behind Canberra's iconic landmarks. With over 15 years of experience, we're your trusted partner for exploring the nation's capital.
Questacon offers interactive science experiences for all ages
One of the world's most recognizable democratic buildings, Parliament House sits majestically atop Capital Hill, its distinctive 81-metre flagmast visible from across the city. This architectural masterpiece, opened in 1988 at a cost of $1.1 billion, features over 4,500 rooms and houses Australia's federal government. Our guided tours take you through the public galleries, the stunning marble foyer featuring a 48-tonne marquetry of native flora, and provides insights into Australia's democratic processes and political history. Learn about the building's innovative design, which incorporates the natural landscape with grass-covered roofs, and discover artworks worth over $6 million displayed throughout the building.
Consistently ranked among the world's finest military museums, the Australian War Memorial serves as both a shrine and a comprehensive museum documenting Australia's military history from the Sudan conflict to contemporary peacekeeping operations. The daily Last Post Ceremony at 5pm offers a deeply moving tribute to fallen service members, featuring the playing of the Last Post bugle call and the laying of wreaths. Explore extensive galleries showcasing artifacts from conflicts spanning over a century, including the famous Lancaster bomber "G for George," Japanese midget submarine, and personal stories from Australian service personnel. The Memorial's collection includes over 150,000 items, making it one of the most significant military heritage repositories in the world.
Old Parliament House now houses the Museum of Australian Democracy
Housing the nation's premier art collection, the National Gallery showcases over 166,000 works spanning Indigenous Australian art, European masters, Asian art, and contemporary pieces. Highlights include the world's largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art with over 7,500 works, Jackson Pollock's iconic "Blue Poles" (purchased for $1.3 million in 1973, now valued at over $350 million), and the stunning 19th-century Sculpture Garden featuring works by Rodin, Henry Moore, and other masters. The gallery frequently hosts blockbuster international exhibitions, making each visit unique. Free general admission makes it accessible to all visitors.
Named after Canberra's visionary American architect Walter Burley Griffin, this 664-hectare artificial lake forms the city's geographical and aesthetic centrepiece. Created by damming the Molonglo River in 1963, the lake took three years to fill and holds 33 billion litres of water. The 35-kilometre shoreline offers walking and cycling paths with spectacular views of national institutions including Parliament House, the National Gallery, and National Museum of Australia. Don't miss the Captain Cook Memorial Water Jet, which shoots water 147 metres into the air (operating between 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm daily, conditions permitting), and the National Carillon's 55 bells that chime melodiously over the lake on Sundays and public holidays.
Whether you're seeking a comprehensive full-day experience or a focused half-day tour, Cooee Tours offers flexible options to suit every traveller's schedule and interests. All tours include expert guides, luxury transport, and carefully curated itineraries.
Comprehensive tour covering Parliament House, War Memorial, National Gallery, Lake Burley Griffin, and Old Parliament House. Experience the best of Canberra's political heritage and cultural treasures.
Includes: Lunch, morning tea, all entry fees
From $189 per person
Book NowPerfect for time-conscious travellers. Visit key attractions including Parliament House, the War Memorial, and drive past major landmarks in a compact 5-hour experience.
Includes: Morning tea, all entry fees
From $109 per person
Book NowDepart from Sydney and explore the nation's capital in one incredible day. Travel in luxury along the scenic Hume Highway with convenient hotel pickup and return.
Includes: Return transport from Sydney, lunch, all entry fees
From $249 per person
Book NowVisiting Sydney from Canberra? Experience iconic sights including the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, and The Rocks with return transport to Canberra.
Includes: Return transport to Canberra, harbour cruise, lunch
From $259 per person
Book NowExplore Canberra's stunning botanical treasures including the National Arboretum with 94 forests, Australian National Botanic Gardens, and seasonal wildflower displays.
Includes: Morning tea, entry fees, expert botanist guide
From $145 per person
Book NowDeep dive into Canberra's world-class museums and galleries, including the National Museum of Australia, National Library, National Portrait Gallery, and Questacon.
Includes: Lunch, all entry fees, guided museum tours
From $165 per person
Book NowBook two or more tours and save 10%! Group bookings of 8+ people receive 15% discount. Contact us for private tour options and custom itineraries. Corporate packages available for team building and client entertainment.
Canberra experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique appeal for visitors. The city enjoys crisp, cold winters with occasional snowfall on nearby peaks, spectacular autumns with golden foliage throughout its tree-lined streets, vibrant springs bursting with floral displays, and warm, dry summers perfect for outdoor exploration. Understanding seasonal variations helps you plan the perfect visit.
Spring (September - November): Arguably the most beautiful time to visit Canberra, with the famous Floriade festival transforming Commonwealth Park into a riot of colour with over one million blooms during September and October. Average temperatures range from 6°C to 19°C, with crisp mornings and pleasant afternoons. This is peak touring season, so booking 4-6 weeks in advance is recommended. Spring also brings the Enlighten Festival in March, featuring spectacular light installations across the Parliamentary Triangle.
Summer (December - February): Warm and dry with temperatures between 12°C and 28°C, occasionally reaching 35°C+. Perfect for exploring Lake Burley Griffin's waterfront, enjoying outdoor dining, and visiting the National Zoo & Aquarium. The Summernats Car Festival in January attracts automotive enthusiasts from across Australia. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and stay hydrated – Canberra's higher altitude means stronger UV exposure.
Autumn (March - May): Spectacular fall colours throughout the city's parks and gardens, particularly stunning along the streets of inner suburbs. Comfortable temperatures from 7°C to 20°C make this ideal for sightseeing and outdoor photography. The National Multicultural Festival in February celebrates Canberra's diversity with food stalls, performances, and cultural exhibitions. Less crowded than spring, autumn offers excellent value and pleasant touring conditions.
Winter (June - August): Cool to cold (1°C to 12°C) with frosty mornings and occasional light snow flurries (though settling snow is rare in the city itself). Nearby ski resorts like Perisher and Thredbo are just 2-3 hours drive away. Fewer crowds and cozy indoor attractions like museums and galleries make winter perfect for culture enthusiasts seeking a quieter experience. Winter is also budget-friendly, with accommodation and tour prices typically 20-30% lower than peak season.
Floriade (September - October): Australia's largest celebration of spring, featuring over one million flowers in spectacular displays across Commonwealth Park. The month-long festival includes NightFest with illuminated gardens, live music stages, gourmet food markets, and horticultural workshops. Free general admission makes it accessible to all, though some premium experiences require tickets.
Enlighten Festival (March): An annual autumn celebration illuminating Canberra's national attractions with spectacular light installations, projection mapping, outdoor cinema, and food experiences. The festival transforms the Parliamentary Triangle into an after-dark wonderland, with special extended opening hours at major institutions. The popular Balloon Spectacular runs concurrently, with hot air balloons floating over the city each morning.
Canberra Balloon Spectacular (March): For nine magical days each March, dozens of hot air balloons soar over Lake Burley Griffin at dawn, creating breathtaking photo opportunities against the backdrop of Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial. Free to watch from various vantage points around the lake, or book a balloon flight for an unforgettable aerial perspective of the capital.
National Multicultural Festival (February): Celebrating Canberra's diversity with over 200,000 attendees enjoying food stalls representing 80+ cuisines, music and dance performances on seven stages, cultural exhibitions, and a vibrant parade. The three-day festival centers around Civic Square and surrounding streets, showcasing the best of multicultural Australia.
Canberra Day (March): The city's birthday celebration with free events, concerts, family activities, and fireworks across the capital. Many national institutions offer special programs and extended hours. The Canberra Times Fun Run attracts thousands of participants for a scenic course around the Parliamentary Triangle.
National Gallery Tours & Exhibitions: The National Gallery hosts rotating blockbuster international exhibitions throughout the year. Recent highlights have included works from the Louvre, Versailles, and major retrospectives of renowned artists. Check their calendar when planning your visit.
Canberra is conveniently accessible from major Australian cities, making it an excellent day trip or weekend getaway destination. Located strategically between Australia's two largest cities, the capital offers multiple transport options to suit different preferences and budgets.
By Air: Canberra Airport (CBR) serves domestic flights from all major Australian capitals, with flight times of approximately 1 hour from Sydney, 1 hour 10 minutes from Melbourne, 2.5 hours from Brisbane, and 3.5 hours from Perth. Airlines including Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Rex provide multiple daily services. The airport is just 8km from the city center, with taxis, rideshare, and shuttle bus services available.
From Sydney by Road (280km): The most popular route, taking approximately 3 hours via the Hume Highway (M31) and Federal Highway. Cooee Tours offers premium Sydney to Canberra day trips with return transport included, departing from CBD and major Sydney hotels. Regular coach services also operate daily via Greyhound and Murrays Coaches.
From Melbourne by Road (660km): Approximately 7 hours drive via the Hume Highway, making it better suited for overnight trips. Consider breaking the journey with a stop in historic Beechworth or the alpine town of Jindabyne.
Scenic Alternative Routes: The Kings Highway from Sydney offers beautiful mountain and countryside views through the Southern Tablelands, passing through charming villages like Braidwood. Allow an extra 30-45 minutes for this route. From Melbourne, the coastal route via Batemans Bay provides stunning ocean views before heading inland to Canberra.
Self-Drive Benefits: Having your own vehicle provides flexibility to explore outer attractions like Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, the Deep Space Communication Complex, and nearby wineries in the Canberra Wine District. However, parking in the Parliamentary Triangle can be limited during peak times.
Every Cooee Tours Canberra experience includes premium features designed for your comfort, enjoyment, and peace of mind. We believe in transparent pricing with no hidden costs or surprise extras.
Modern, air-conditioned coaches with comfortable reclining seats, panoramic windows for optimal sightseeing, USB charging ports, and onboard restrooms on full-day tours
Passionate, accredited guides with extensive knowledge of Canberra's history, politics, culture, and hidden gems. Our guides bring stories to life with engaging commentary
Admission to Parliament House guided tours, Australian War Memorial, and other ticketed attractions included in your package price – no need for separate bookings
Complimentary morning tea, quality lunch at selected local restaurants (full-day tours), and bottled water throughout your journey. Dietary requirements accommodated
Convenient pickup and drop-off from selected Sydney hotels and CBD locations for our Sydney-Canberra tours. Meet points clearly communicated in advance
Maximum 24 passengers per tour ensures personalized attention, easy communication with your guide, and a more intimate experience at attractions
Additional Benefits: Comprehensive pre-tour information pack, suggested itineraries for free time, photography tips and best vantage points, flexible booking with free date changes up to 7 days before departure, and 24/7 customer support. All tours are fully insured and operated by qualified, professional drivers with impeccable safety records.
Best Views of Parliament House: From the Australian War Memorial's steps at sunset, or from across Lake Burley Griffin near the National Library. The rooftop grass area of Parliament House itself offers 360-degree views.
Sunrise at Lake Burley Griffin: The eastern shore near Regatta Point provides stunning reflections of the National Carillon and city skyline. During Balloon Spectacular, arrive by 6:30am for the best shots.
Autumn Colors: The streets around the Australian National University campus offer spectacular golden tree-lined avenues in April-May. Grey Street in Deakin is particularly photogenic.
Book Parliament House Tours in Advance: Question Time sessions during sitting weeks are highly sought-after and require advance booking through the Parliament House website. Free general admission tours don't require booking but arrive early during peak season.
Comfortable Walking Shoes Essential: Many attractions involve considerable walking. The War Memorial alone spans three levels and can take 2-3 hours to explore properly. Parliament House tours involve walking up to 2km through corridors and chambers.
Most Museums Offer Free Entry: The National Gallery, National Museum, National Portrait Gallery, National Library, and others offer free general admission, though special exhibitions may charge fees. This makes Canberra exceptionally budget-friendly for culture enthusiasts.
Plan for Altitude & Weather: At 577m above sea level, Canberra sits higher than most Australian cities. The thinner air means stronger UV rays – sunscreen SPF50+ is essential year-round. Temperatures can vary significantly between morning and afternoon, so layered clothing is recommended.
Parking & Transport: Parking near major attractions is free but can be limited during peak times. The ACTION bus network provides good coverage of tourist areas. Consider the convenient hop-on-hop-off tourist bus for independent exploration.
Wednesday Afternoons: Many government offices and some institutions have reduced hours or close early on Wednesdays. Plan your itinerary accordingly.
The National Arboretum offers spectacular panoramic views across Canberra and features 94 forests from around the world
While Parliament House and the War Memorial rightfully claim top billing, Canberra offers numerous other world-class attractions worth exploring. Many visitors are surprised by the depth and breadth of experiences available in Australia's capital.
Journey through Australia's social history via innovative exhibitions exploring the nation's diverse stories, from ancient Indigenous culture to contemporary life. The museum's striking architecture on the Acton Peninsula provides a stunning backdrop. Highlights include the First Australians gallery with the world's largest collection of Aboriginal bark paintings and stone tools, interactive exhibits about Australian identity, and the iconic Holden prototype car. Free admission makes this a must-visit for understanding modern Australia.
Showcasing the world's most comprehensive living collection of Australian native plants across 35 hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens on the slopes of Black Mountain. Explore themed gardens including the Rainforest Gully (with its own microclimate), the Rock Garden featuring alpine species, and the Sydney Region garden. The Gardens house over 6,000 species and offer free guided walks daily at 11am and 2pm. The Aboriginal Plant Use Walk provides fascinating insights into Indigenous botanical knowledge spanning 60,000 years.
A unique combined facility offering close encounters with native and exotic animals, including big cats, bears, giraffes, and rare species. The National Zoo is privately owned and offers premium experiences like Zooventure tours where you can hand-feed giraffes, meet cheetahs, and interact with meerkats. The facility plays a crucial role in conservation breeding programs for endangered species.
The National Science and Technology Centre delights visitors of all ages with over 200 interactive exhibits exploring scientific principles through hands-on experiences. Highlights include the earthquake simulator, lightning shows every hour, the 6-metre freefall slide (experiencing gravity firsthand), and special exhibitions that change quarterly. Perfect for families and anyone curious about science, with engaging presenters conducting live demonstrations throughout the day.
Spanning 250 hectares, this living collection features 94 forests from around the world, each representing significant tree species. The Arboretum rose from the ashes of the devastating 2003 Canberra bushfires and now offers stunning panoramic views across the capital. Don't miss the award-winning Pod Playground (Australia's largest nature-based playground), the Village Centre with its architectural cork-clad design, and the Himalayan Cedar forest. The site includes 100km of trails for walking and cycling.
The seat of Australian federal government from 1927 to 1988, Old Parliament House now operates as a museum exploring Australian democracy, political history, and social movements. Sit in the original House of Representatives and Senate chambers where pivotal decisions shaped modern Australia. The museum's exhibitions cover voting rights, protest movements, and the evolution of Australian democracy. The building itself is a heritage-listed Art Deco masterpiece.
Canberra's culinary scene has flourished dramatically in recent years, transforming from a "public service dining town" into a destination for food lovers. The city now boasts numerous award-winning restaurants, innovative cafes showcasing local produce, and vibrant farmers' markets celebrating the region's agricultural bounty. Our full-day tours include lunch at carefully selected local venues, but if you're exploring independently or extending your stay, don't miss these highlights:
The trendy waterfront precinct offers diverse dining options from casual lakeside cafes to upscale restaurants. Popular venues include Eighty Six for modern Australian cuisine, The Boat House for waterfront fine dining, and numerous Asian fusion restaurants. The Kingston Hotel offers craft beers and pub meals in a heritage setting.
Canberra's hipster hub features innovative eateries, specialty coffee roasters, craft breweries, and cocktail bars. Monster Kitchen and Bar showcases seasonal menus, while Mork Chocolate Brew House offers unique chocolate-focused dishes. The area comes alive on weekend evenings with a young, vibrant atmosphere.
The Old Bus Depot Markets (Sundays 10am-4pm) showcase local artisan producers, organic vegetables, gourmet foods, handmade crafts, and live music. The Capital Region Farmers Market (Saturdays 7:30am-11:30am at EPIC) connects you directly with regional growers and producers. Perfect for sampling local cheeses, wines, free-range meats, and seasonal produce.
Canberra Centre provides premium shopping with over 240 specialty stores including David Jones, Myer, and international brands. For unique Australian-made gifts, explore the
Extend your Canberra adventure with nearby attractions that showcase the region's natural beauty, wine culture, and space exploration heritage.
The Canberra Wine District encompasses over 140 vineyards producing award-winning cool-climate wines, particularly Riesling, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir. Cellar doors in Hall, Murrumbateman, and Lake George offer tastings with stunning rural views. Popular wineries include Clonakilla (known internationally for Shiraz-Viognier), Mount Majura Vineyard, and Shaw Vineyard Estate. Combine wine tasting with lunch at vineyard restaurants for a perfect day trip from the city.
Just 40 minutes southwest of Canberra, Tidbinbilla offers 54.5 square kilometers of pristine bushland where you can see kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and platypus in their natural habitat. Walking trails range from easy boardwalks to challenging mountain hikes. The Sanctuary showcases native wildlife recovery programs, while the Birrigai Rock Shelter displays ancient Aboriginal rock art dating back thousands of years.
Part of NASA's Deep Space Network, this facility near Tidbinbilla played a crucial role in the Apollo moon landings and continues to communicate with spacecraft exploring our solar system. The visitor center features interactive exhibits, a piece of moon rock, and massive antenna dishes visible from the viewing area. Free admission makes this a fascinating educational experience for space enthusiasts of all ages.
Covering 46% of the ACT's land area, Namadgi offers alpine landscapes, Aboriginal heritage sites, and diverse wildlife. Popular activities include the Yankee Hat Aboriginal rock art walk (2km return), Orroral Valley historic homestead ruins, and scenic drives through mountain terrain. In winter, nearby ski resorts Perisher, Thredbo, and Selwyn are within 2-3 hours' drive.
The proximity between Australia's largest city and its capital creates unique touring opportunities. Whether you're based in Sydney wanting to explore Canberra or staying in Canberra and craving the Harbor City's iconic sights, Cooee Tours makes the journey comfortable, convenient, and memorable.
Our popular Sydney to Canberra full-day tour departs early morning from selected Sydney CBD hotels and suburbs, traveling the scenic route to Australia's capital. Experience the highlights including Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, Lake Burley Griffin, and major cultural institutions – all in one comprehensive day. Return to Sydney by evening with newfound appreciation for Australia's political heart. This tour is perfect for international visitors wanting to see beyond Sydney, or locals who've never properly explored their own capital.
Visiting Sydney from Canberra? Our Canberra to Sydney day tour showcases the Harbor City's world-famous landmarks. Experience the Sydney Opera House, climb the Harbour Bridge, relax at Bondi Beach, explore The Rocks historic precinct, and enjoy a spectacular harbor cruise. Perfect for Canberra residents, government workers on assignment, or visitors to the capital wanting a Sydney experience without the hassle of driving or navigating public transport.
For a more leisurely pace, consider our 2-day or 3-day packages that combine Sydney, Canberra, and the Snowy Mountains. These extended tours include accommodation, multiple meals, and the opportunity to explore each destination without rushing. Break up the journey with stops in charming towns like Goulburn (famous for the Big Merino) or Bowral in the Southern Highlands (known for tulip festivals and English-style gardens).
While the Sydney-Canberra route is straightforward, guided tours offer significant advantages: no driver fatigue on the 3-hour journey each way, expert commentary revealing hidden stories and optimal photo stops, guaranteed entry to Parliament House tours (often booked out weeks ahead for independent visitors), skip-the-queue access at popular attractions, and the ability to relax and enjoy scenery rather than navigating. Our luxury coaches provide comfort, onboard refreshments, and professional drivers with impeccable safety records.
Book your Canberra tour with Cooee Tours today and discover why Australia's capital captivates visitors from around the world. Our expert guides, luxury transport, and carefully crafted itineraries ensure an unforgettable experience exploring the nation's political heart, world-class museums, stunning landscapes, and fascinating history.
Choose from our range of tours departing daily:
Questions about our tours? Call us on 1300 COOEE (1300 266 333) or contact us online
✓ Book with confidence: Free date changes up to 7 days before departure | Full COVID-safe protocols | Fully insured tours
"Exceptional tour from start to finish. Our guide Sarah was incredibly knowledgeable about Parliament House and Australian history. The War Memorial was deeply moving. Best day trip from Sydney we've done!"
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— Michael & Jennifer, Sydney
"Visiting from the UK, we wanted to understand Australian government and history. This tour exceeded expectations. Parliament House tour was fascinating, and lunch was delicious. Highly recommend Cooee Tours!"
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— James & Patricia, London
"Perfect family day out. Kids loved Questacon and the National Gallery's sculpture garden. Coach was comfortable for the journey. Our guide kept everyone engaged with interesting stories. Will definitely book again."
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— The Chen Family, Melbourne
Our Sydney to Canberra day tour is approximately 14 hours door-to-door. We depart Sydney around 7:00am and return by 9:00pm. The journey each way takes around 3 hours, leaving 7-8 hours to explore Canberra's major attractions comfortably without rushing.
We recommend: comfortable walking shoes (you'll walk 3-5km throughout the day), sunscreen and hat (UV is strong at Canberra's altitude), light jacket (even in summer, buildings are air-conditioned), camera or smartphone for photos, and any personal medications. Water is provided onboard. For winter tours (June-August), bring warm layers as temperatures can drop below freezing in the morning.
Yes! Our full-day tours include a quality lunch at a selected local restaurant, morning tea, and bottled water throughout the day. Half-day tours include morning tea and water. We cater to dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and religious dietary needs – just let us know when booking.
Absolutely! Visiting during sitting weeks (when Parliament is in session) offers the unique opportunity to see Question Time, parliamentary debates, and the building buzzing with political activity. However, these periods are extremely popular and booking several weeks in advance is essential. Non-sitting periods still offer excellent guided tours of the chambers and building.
Yes, families are welcome on all our Canberra tours. Children find Parliament House, the War Memorial, and especially Questacon (if included) fascinating. The coach journey includes rest stops, and our guides adapt commentary to engage all ages. Children under 3 travel free, ages 3-15 receive discounted pricing. High chairs available at restaurants.
Spring (September-November) is peak season thanks to the Floriade flower festival and perfect weather, but it's also the busiest. Autumn (March-May) offers beautiful fall colors and fewer crowds. Summer provides long daylight hours ideal for outdoor activities. Winter is quietest with significantly lower prices, perfect if you don't mind cooler temperatures and prefer avoiding crowds.
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