Tucked between NSW and the Snowy Mountains, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is proof that small can seriously impress. Home to Canberra, the ACT blends big national stories with easy access to nature. Think world-class museums by day, cool-climate wineries by afternoon, and mountain trails just minutes from the city. It's polished but easy-going, cultured without the crowds, and perfect for travellers who like their city breaks with a side of fresh air and flavour.

Purpose built as the nation's capital by Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin, they planned what a perfect capital city might look like, with examples of geometric design featured across the city. Canberra is regularly voted as one of the most liveable cities, with abundant green space, lakes views and a true feeling of space which most capital cities cannot offer!
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Canberra & Surrounds

Canberra offers the best of both worlds - easy to explore, small capital feel, combined with world-class institutions such as the Australian War Memorial, Parliament House and National Gallery.

Highlights of Canberra and surrounds

  • Sunrise balloon flight over Canberra: clients can ascend in a colorful balloon and take in the views over the ACT from over 3000ft. The experience is completed with a glass of champagne once back on terra firma and the opportunity for a delicious buffet breakfast. A truly unmissable way to start the day.
  • Step beyond Canberra’s polished surface and uncover the stories that once lived quietly in the shadows. Guided by a passionate local queer host, this immersive walk reveals the places where LGBTQIA+ Canberrans shaped history. From the site of the city’s first Pride Festival to the first privately (and female) owned gay club, and the park that became a safe meeting place when visibility wasn’t an option. Each stop brings a powerful chapter of Canberra’s queer story to life, celebrating the courage, resilience, and community spirit that helped change the social fabric of Australia’s capital.
  • Clients can step inside Parliament House and discover the powerful stories of Australia’s First Peoples at the heart of the nation’s democracy. This guided experience brings to life the voices of Indigenous parliamentarians, explores the deeper history of the site, and reveals how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continue to shape Australia’s political story today. Along the way, guests encounter standout works from the Parliament House Art Collection, from the iconic Barunga Statement and Yirrkala Bark Petitions to striking contemporary portraits and major textile works in the Great Hall. It’s a thoughtful, eye-opening journey that connects art, history, and living culture in one of Australia’s most significant places.
  • Ovolo Nishi: an accommodation with serious personality. Blending eco-conscious design with modern luxury, every room feels curated, creative, and effortlessly comfortable. Expect sustainable materials, bold artistic touches, and a stay that’s as stylish as it is thoughtful. Add in a gym, relaxed lounge spaces, and on-site dining that champions both local flavours and global inspiration, and you’ve got a hotel that feels perfectly at home in Canberra’s culture-forward, design-savvy scene.

     

Perfect for

  • Culture seekers: from musuems, galleries and exhibits, clients who truly want to get under the skin and history of Australia will feel right at home here.
  • Repeat visitors to Australia: clients may already have ticked off the big hitters such as Melbourne and Sydney, and want a more understated (and also underrated!) destination. Canberra offers all the hallmarks of a great city break: great culinary options, day trip experiences and compact CBD, without the crowds.
Acton, ACT (credit to Tourism Australia)

Practical Information for Agents

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Driving Tips

As Australia's smallest state, driving distances here are a fraction of what they are in other states. It is super easy to get around Canberra CBD by car, but why not let clients experience it on foot or by bike to get a true taste of the city? 

Canberra Airport → Canberra CBD: 10 minutes

Canberra CBD → Parliament House: 7 minutes 

Canberra → Sydney: 3 hours

Canberra → Melbourne: 7 hours

 

ACT (credit to Tourism Australia)

Need To Know

At only 2,358 km², Canberra's compact size is a huge advantage. It is also nicknamed the Bush Capital due to its proximity to nature - travellers are rarely 10-15 minutes from the nearest bushland or nature reserve.

Things to do 

It is also one of Australia's most bike friendly cities, so perfect for clients wanting a more car-free Australian holiday, whilst still reaping all the benefits of a buzzy city.

Canberra is home a huge number of musuems and art attractions, and most of them are free to enter! A great draw for families.

Booking Advice

Canberra shines as a 2–4 night stay or a smart add-on between Sydney or regional NSW. Package it as a long weekend or a culture stopover for clients in NSW, and the chance to experience a different, less travelled side to Australia.

parliament house act - credit to Tourism Australia

When To Travel

Peak Season
December to February

Summer in Canberra brings warm days, long evenings, and a relaxed outdoor vibe. It’s ideal for lake activities, alfresco dining, festivals, and easy day trips to nearby wine regions and national parks. While days can be hot, crowds are lighter than other capital cities, making it a good-value option for travellers who enjoy space and flexibility.


Shoulder
March to May & September to November 


Autumn and spring are Canberra at its absolute best. Days are mild, skies are clear, and the city shows off with colourful foliage in autumn and world-famous blooms in spring. It’s prime time for outdoor exploring, cultural attractions, lake walks, winery visits, and events like Floriade. Comfortable temperatures and low humidity make sightseeing easy and enjoyable.


Off-peak
June to August


Winter delivers crisp mornings, blue skies, and a cosy atmosphere across the capital. It’s the perfect season for museums, galleries, Parliament House visits, and indulgent dining experiences. Fewer visitors mean better availability and value, while nearby snowfields add the option of winter adventures just a few hours away.

 

Parliament Building Canberra - credit to Tourism Australia

Unique Selling Points

Intellectual and cultural heritage: Travellers gain context, not just sightseeing. Parliament House, national institutions, and curated storytelling experiences offer depth other states can’t replicate. It is also the only state that combines political, social and national storytelling in one compact location - a pretty good reason to visit!

Compact diversity: Over half of the ACT is protected land, meaning clients can get out and about in nature whilst still in touching distance of the city and all its attractions, restaurants and galleries - win win!

Perfectly positioned: Canberra is ideally located to act as a great stopover from Sydney on the way to Melbourne. It's an easy 2-4 day add on to elevate any Aussie itinerary.

Why work with ozsidekick?

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If you're a travel agent looking for the best Australian experience for your clients, you're in the right place! We at ozsidekick cater to travel agents from all over the world and make sure your customers get the best possible experience.

Joining us means you'll get access to a wide range of touring products and a support team of Australia-based sidekicks. Moreover, our system is designed to make it easy for travel agents to sell touring holidays. On ozsidekick, you can search, quote, and book from our huge range of itineraries or request a bespoke tour. We're confident your clients will love them, and we're here to make you look awesome!

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At ozsidekick, we proudly belong to the Australian Tourism Export Council, showcasing our dedication to excellence in the tourism industry. Our team members are certified through the Aussie Specialist Program, providing them with expert insights into Australia’s diverse destinations and unique experiences

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