Save 10% when you book direct
Plus enjoy complimentary parking and flexible cancellation
Plus enjoy complimentary parking and flexible cancellation
A long weekend is the perfect excuse to slow down, escape the everyday and discover everything Canberra has to offer.
With three days, you'll have plenty of time to experience the city's renowned galleries, enjoy exceptional dining, explore leafy neighbourhoods and take in some of Australia's most iconic landmarks without feeling rushed.
Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to find somewhere new, here's a Canberra long weekend itinerary that makes the most of the nation's capital.
Arrive in Canberra, check into Deco Hotel in Barton and settle into your stay before heading out to explore. Located just a 10 minute drive from the Parliamentary Triangle, the hotel is an ideal base for discovering the city's cultural heart.
Begin your weekend at the National Gallery of Australia, where you'll find one of the country's most impressive collections of Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, alongside internationally acclaimed exhibitions throughout the year.
The current feature exhibition, Arthur Boyd: Tapestries, is well worth adding to your itinerary, bringing together 20 monumental tapestries that celebrate the work of one of Australia's most influential artists.
Image: ‘Arthur Boyd: Tapestries’ exhibit, courtesy of National Gallery of Australia.
From the gallery, take a leisurely walk across to the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Housed in Australia's former Parliament building, it's a fascinating way to learn more about the people, stories and events that have helped shape the nation.
When you're ready for lunch, choose one of the cafés overlooking Lake Burley Griffin or head back towards Barton to enjoy one of the many cafés and restaurants nearby.
Image: Old Parliament House
Return to Deco Hotel and enjoy dinner at Restaurant Two14, where modern Italian-inspired dishes and a welcoming atmosphere provide the perfect end to your first day. Afterwards, unwind with a drink before settling in for a relaxing evening.
Image: Restaurant Two14
Start the day at the Australian War Memorial, one of Canberra's most significant and moving attractions. Take your time exploring the exhibitions before wandering through the surrounding memorial grounds and taking in the impressive views along Anzac Parade.
Head to Mount Ainslie Lookout for one of Canberra's most iconic views. From here, you'll enjoy panoramic vistas across Lake Burley Griffin, the Parliamentary Triangle and the city beyond.
Image: Mount Ainslie Lookout
Afterwards, spend the afternoon exploring Braddon. Browse boutique shops, stop for coffee and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere along Lonsdale Street, one of Canberra's favourite dining and lifestyle precincts.
If you're visiting during spring or autumn, you may prefer an afternoon wandering through the Australian National Botanic Gardens, where native landscapes provide a peaceful escape close to the city.
Braddon is one of Canberra's best places to dine, with everything from casual eateries to award-winning restaurants. If you're hoping to visit favourites like Marble & Grain Restaurant, it's worth booking ahead, particularly over long weekends.
Image: Marble & Grain Restaurant
Alternatively, return to Restaurant Two14 and enjoy another relaxed evening just moments from your room.
If you're visiting on a Sunday, begin your day at the Old Bus Depot Markets in Kingston. Browse local produce, artisan stalls and handmade gifts while enjoying breakfast from one of the market vendors.
Before checking out, take a stroll through the National Gallery's Sculpture Garden or enjoy a peaceful walk along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin.
Image: National Gallery of Australia Sculpture Garden
Before heading home, make one final stop at Black Mountain Nature Reserve to explore the scenic walks and sweeping views across Canberra and the surrounding ranges.
If you're driving back after a Canberra weekend trip from Sydney or Melbourne, consider stopping at Lake George along the Federal Highway. After rainfall, the lake transforms into one of the region's most picturesque landscapes and provides a memorable final stop on your Canberra getaway.
Deco Hotel in Barton is perfectly positioned close to Canberra's cultural attractions, dining precincts and shopping districts.
Image: Deco Hotel lobby
After days filled with galleries, lakeside walks and great food, return to spacious apartment-style accommodation, enjoy dinner at Restaurant Two14 or simply relax before another day of exploring.
Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family getaway or a weekend with friends, Deco Hotel is the perfect base for discovering Canberra at your own pace.
A long weekend is the perfect excuse to slow down, escape the everyday and discover everything Canberra has to offer.
With three days, you'll have plenty of time to experience the city's renowned galleries, enjoy exceptional dining, explore leafy neighbourhoods and take in some of Australia's most iconic landmarks without feeling rushed.
Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to find somewhere new, here's a Canberra long weekend itinerary that makes the most of the nation's capital.
Arrive in Canberra, check into Deco Hotel in Barton and settle into your stay before heading out to explore. Located just a 10 minute drive from the Parliamentary Triangle, the hotel is an ideal base for discovering the city's cultural heart.
Begin your weekend at the National Gallery of Australia, where you'll find one of the country's most impressive collections of Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, alongside internationally acclaimed exhibitions throughout the year.
The current feature exhibition, Arthur Boyd: Tapestries, is well worth adding to your itinerary, bringing together 20 monumental tapestries that celebrate the work of one of Australia's most influential artists.
Image: ‘Arthur Boyd: Tapestries’ exhibit, courtesy of National Gallery of Australia.
From the gallery, take a leisurely walk across to the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Housed in Australia's former Parliament building, it's a fascinating way to learn more about the people, stories and events that have helped shape the nation.
When you're ready for lunch, choose one of the cafés overlooking Lake Burley Griffin or head back towards Barton to enjoy one of the many cafés and restaurants nearby.
Image: Old Parliament House
Return to Deco Hotel and enjoy dinner at Restaurant Two14, where modern Italian-inspired dishes and a welcoming atmosphere provide the perfect end to your first day. Afterwards, unwind with a drink before settling in for a relaxing evening.
Image: Restaurant Two14
Start the day at the Australian War Memorial, one of Canberra's most significant and moving attractions. Take your time exploring the exhibitions before wandering through the surrounding memorial grounds and taking in the impressive views along Anzac Parade.
Head to Mount Ainslie Lookout for one of Canberra's most iconic views. From here, you'll enjoy panoramic vistas across Lake Burley Griffin, the Parliamentary Triangle and the city beyond.
Image: Mount Ainslie Lookout
Afterwards, spend the afternoon exploring Braddon. Browse boutique shops, stop for coffee and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere along Lonsdale Street, one of Canberra's favourite dining and lifestyle precincts.
If you're visiting during spring or autumn, you may prefer an afternoon wandering through the Australian National Botanic Gardens, where native landscapes provide a peaceful escape close to the city.
Braddon is one of Canberra's best places to dine, with everything from casual eateries to award-winning restaurants. If you're hoping to visit favourites like Marble & Grain Restaurant, it's worth booking ahead, particularly over long weekends.
Image: Marble & Grain Restaurant
Alternatively, return to Restaurant Two14 and enjoy another relaxed evening just moments from your room.
If you're visiting on a Sunday, begin your day at the Old Bus Depot Markets in Kingston. Browse local produce, artisan stalls and handmade gifts while enjoying breakfast from one of the market vendors.
Before checking out, take a stroll through the National Gallery's Sculpture Garden or enjoy a peaceful walk along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin.
Image: National Gallery of Australia Sculpture Garden
Before heading home, make one final stop at Black Mountain Nature Reserve to explore the scenic walks and sweeping views across Canberra and the surrounding ranges.
If you're driving back after a Canberra weekend trip from Sydney or Melbourne, consider stopping at Lake George along the Federal Highway. After rainfall, the lake transforms into one of the region's most picturesque landscapes and provides a memorable final stop on your Canberra getaway.
Deco Hotel in Barton is perfectly positioned close to Canberra's cultural attractions, dining precincts and shopping districts.
Image: Deco Hotel lobby
After days filled with galleries, lakeside walks and great food, return to spacious apartment-style accommodation, enjoy dinner at Restaurant Two14 or simply relax before another day of exploring.
Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family getaway or a weekend with friends, Deco Hotel is the perfect base for discovering Canberra at your own pace.
