Bus to Canberra

Discovering Canberra with FlixBus 

Australia’s capital, Canberra, is more than just the nation’s political heart. Nestled between Sydney and Melbourne, this carefully planned city is known for its wide boulevards, surrounding bushland, and striking mix of national monuments and contemporary culture.  

With FlixBus connecting Canberra to other major cities, it’s easy and affordable to include the capital in your journey. Once you arrive, you’ll discover a city that rewards curiosity, whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or outdoor adventure. 

Getting Around Canberra 

Canberra is compact and well designed, making it easy to explore. Many attractions are within short distance of each other, and the city offers a variety of transport options: 

• Buses and light rail – Transport Canberra operates the integrated network. Light rail runs every 5–15 minutes between Gungahlin and the city, with late-night services on weekends. Buses include accessible “Rapid” routes, some equipped with bike racks. Travel is free on Fridays. 
• Red Explorer Loop Bus – A convenient hop-on hop-off service connecting major attractions. Tickets are purchased directly on board. 
• Cycling – Canberra is widely regarded as Australia’s cycling capital, with extensive bike paths and scenic off-road trails. Rentals are widely available. 
• E-scooters – A quick and fun way to zip around the city. Helmets are provided with rentals. 
• Taxis and ride-sharing – Both taxi services and ride-sharing apps operate across the city. With most sights located close together, journeys are short and affordable. 

Things to See and Do in Canberra 

Australia’s capital blends national landmarks with a relaxed outdoor lifestyle, offering a mix of history, culture, and local creativity. Here are some of the city’s highlights: 

1. Parliament House: As the symbolic heart of Australian democracy, Parliament House is both an active seat of government and a striking piece of architecture. Visitors can join guided tours to explore its chambers, admire the impressive art collection, and enjoy panoramic city views from the rooftop terrace. 
2. Australian National Botanic Gardens: Just minutes from the city centre, the Botanic Gardens showcase one-fifth of Australia’s plant diversity in a lush bushland setting. Across 35 hectares you’ll find over 4,300 species, making it the only place in the world where so much of the nation’s flora is represented in one location. Free guided walks, the weekend “Flora Explorer” shuttle, and an on-site café, bookshop, and day spa make it easy to spend several hours here. 
3. National Arboretum Canberra: Spread across 250 hectares, the Arboretum is home to more than 44,000 rare and endangered trees. Its lookout points provide breathtaking panoramas of the city framed by the Brindabella Ranges. It’s both a place of natural beauty and an important centre for conservation, research, and education. 
4. Australian War Memorial: Located in the suburb of Campbell, the War Memorial is a powerful blend of museum and shrine, commemorating the experiences of Australians in conflict. Exhibits, galleries, and memorial spaces tell moving stories, while the daily Last Post Ceremony offers a moment of solemn reflection. 
5. Old Bus Depot Markets: Every Sunday, Kingston comes alive with the Old Bus Depot Markets. With more than 200 stalls, visitors can browse everything from handmade jewellery and clothing to gourmet treats and fresh coffee. After the markets, step next door to the Canberra Glassworks to see glassblowers at work and explore the gallery and gift shop. 
6. Lake Burley Griffin: The city’s central lake is a hub for outdoor activity, whether you prefer walking, cycling, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water. Trails and parklands around the lake provide ideal picnic spots with views of Canberra’s major landmarks. 
7. National Gallery of Australia: Housing more than 150,000 works, the gallery features everything from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art to international masterpieces, including Jackson Pollock’s famous Blue Poles. It’s a cultural highlight for art lovers. 
8. Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre: A family favourite, Questacon turns science into an adventure with interactive exhibits, hands-on experiments, and spectacular demonstrations that entertain as much as they educate. 
9. Mount Ainslie Lookout: A short drive or hike from the city, this lookout is one of Canberra’s best vantage points. Sunrise and sunset are especially rewarding, with sweeping views of the city and its surrounding bushland. 
10. Braddon and Dickson Precincts: Braddon is known for its stylish cafés, boutique shopping, and nightlife, while Dickson is home to some of the best Asian restaurants in the capital. Together, they showcase Canberra’s diverse and growing food scene.