Although not having been lucky to stay there yet, my favourite Canberra accommodation is Hotel Hotel. A striking architectural building with layers of interest for the eyes and fitted out like the interior of one of the 1970s James Bond homes, it is a feast for those into architecture and interiors. Set in the newest and very trendy suburb of Canberra of New Acton, it is surrounded by restaurants, café's and bars all designed beautifully with a range of food influences.
Also with a gorgeous re-fit is the Peppers Gallery Hotel also in New Acton.
We have generally stayed at the Novotel with close proximity to the city centre, New Acton and Braddon all within walking distance, it is great for exploring the city with children.
Also with a gorgeous re-fit is the Peppers Gallery Hotel also in New Acton.
We have generally stayed at the Novotel with close proximity to the city centre, New Acton and Braddon all within walking distance, it is great for exploring the city with children.
The surprising thing about Canberra is the FOOD! Amazing restaurants with spaces that you want to hang out in for hours....where to start....
Jamie Oliver's Italian I must admit is one of our favourites in Sydney and also pleases in Canberra. Great family atmosphere,pleasant service and pasta to die for. If you love italian but want a something a little bit special Mezzalira is the place for you. With its formal dining experience and food that makes my husband groan, Mezzalira is a must visit.
Bentspoke Brewery was a great place to sit in the sunshine for a long lunch. While the boys tasted their samples, the kids and I scoffed down bowls of tasty fries.
Jamie Oliver's Italian I must admit is one of our favourites in Sydney and also pleases in Canberra. Great family atmosphere,pleasant service and pasta to die for. If you love italian but want a something a little bit special Mezzalira is the place for you. With its formal dining experience and food that makes my husband groan, Mezzalira is a must visit.
Bentspoke Brewery was a great place to sit in the sunshine for a long lunch. While the boys tasted their samples, the kids and I scoffed down bowls of tasty fries.

Best Coffee in Canberra was from Lonsdale Street Roasters...and by the line up I'm guessing its a large part of Canberra's populations favourite coffee as well. Braddon is a trendy section of Canberra filled with camping shops, hip creative businesses and delicious cafe's.
Our most amazing dining experience was the dim sum asian fusion restaurant called Akiba. New on the scene, with a gorgeous interior, wonderful service and cool atmosphere , just the experience could be enough. But the real treat was the drinks and food. A great range of new cocktails , which complement the range of fusion delights. Little plates which with each bite tell a story....there was a party in my mouth!!! The only down side was the menu was a little limited for my 11 year old non eater but for the 8 year old foodie, she was also in heaven!
Our most amazing dining experience was the dim sum asian fusion restaurant called Akiba. New on the scene, with a gorgeous interior, wonderful service and cool atmosphere , just the experience could be enough. But the real treat was the drinks and food. A great range of new cocktails , which complement the range of fusion delights. Little plates which with each bite tell a story....there was a party in my mouth!!! The only down side was the menu was a little limited for my 11 year old non eater but for the 8 year old foodie, she was also in heaven!
If you venture out of the CBD to Manuka, make sure you drop in to Public Bar for a drink and a meal. A little surprise food tip ...when you drop into Parliament House ...try the cutlets at the restaurant inside....best cutlets ever!!
Our favourite part of Canberra is definitely the Art Galleries..The National Gallery of Australia and The National Portrait Gallery are beautiful buildings, with amazing art works and at the end awesome shopping (of course shopping...I am obsessed!) .But you don't need to even go in the galleries, with lots of artwork in the public areas of Canberra. The family also really enjoyed Old Parliament House and The Museum of Australian Democracy. With lots of hands on exhibitions for the kids and access to the behind the scenes parts of the building, it was well worth the small entrance fee.
Canberra has long been seen as the boring cousin of the other capital cities but I have to stay we have holidayed there twice in recent years and thoroughly enjoyed our selves. Great food and shopping, mixed with beautifully planned public spaces...what's not to love! The below photo, is of the girls enjoying one of the public art works...their not bored....just pretending! I promise!