Canberra

Canberra
The Bush Capital

Operating Days: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun

Departure: 07:30

Estimated Tour End: 19:30 (07:30 pm)

Founded following the federation of the colonies as the seat of government for the new nation, Canberra has a unique purpose, setting, character and symbolism. Shaped around a man‑made lake, surrounded by the bush, and set in an amphitheatre of hills, the nation’s capital is an exciting meeting point of world‑class art, museums, politics, and diplomacy. Three hours’ drive from Sydney, this private journey offers an introduction to the capital’s landscape and identity. A panoramic lookout reveals its thoughtful geometry before the day continues at a venue of your choice — a memorial, museum, gallery, or science centre — allowing the experience to follow your personal interests. Enjoy time for lunch in Canberra’s civic heart before continuing through the diplomatic precinct, where embassies and high commissions express their nations through architecture. A guided visit inside the Parliament of Australia offers a fitting finale to the capital experience.

Itinerary

Depart Sydney in the early morning and travel through the Southern Highlands, where scenic roads pass quiet townships and open pastures. Glimpses of wild kangaroos or wallabies may appear on grassy slopes as the landscape shifts. After a brief pause to refresh, continue toward the border between New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory—where a day of legacy, culture, and diplomacy begins.

Lake George

Stop for a picture of the mysterious Lake George, an ephemeral water body that fills and empties of its own volition. One of the most studied lakes in Australia inspiring scientists, artists, birdwatchers, and historians. It can be full of water but there are times when the dry lakebed is used for grazing.

Mount Ainslie Lookout

Looking from Mount Ainslie you can instantly grasp geometric features of the city designer Walter Burley Griffin after whom the man-made lake carries its name. Within the cordon of hill is the triangle formed by three significant points, the Australian War Memorial, Parliament House, and commercial Civic Centre.

(Option 1) Australian War Memorial

Bringing together a world-class museum, a place of remembrance, and an extensive archive, the Australian War Memorial honours those who have served, and continue to serve the nation - in war, conflict, and peacekeeping. From the spirit of ANZAC to modern operations, each gallery echoes courage, sacrifice, and quiet resilience. Wander at your own pace through stirring exhibitions, evocative artworks, and monumental technology, where memory is held with grace and gravity.

(Option 2) National Museum of Australia

A striking postmodern structure housing 6,600 square metres of exhibition space, the museum unfolds like a jigsaw—each piece forming a semicircle around the Garden of Australian Dreams. Step inside to trace the threads of Australia’s story through collections that illuminate key moments, people, and places in the nation’s cultural tapestry.

(Option 3) National Gallery of Australia

The National Gallery’s evolving collection of over 155,000 works, created by more than 15,000 artists, includes the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. Each piece speaks across time and culture, inviting you into a contemplative journey through ancient tradition, bold expression, and the shifting currents of contemporary creativity.

(Option 4) Questacon

The National Science and Technology Centre, where science and technology come alive in a hands-on experience for all ages to inspire your imagination with the wonders of discovery. Step inside and feel the spark of curiosity ignite across interactive galleries, kinetic sculptures, and mind-bending illusions. (entry at own expense)

Civic Square

At the heart of Canberra’s civic precinct stand two architectural twins—the Sydney and Melbourne Buildings—designed in the 1920s and named after Australia’s enduring rivals. Stroll through Garema Place and along City Walk, where cafés and eateries spill onto the pavement, offering a moment to pause, savour, and choose your own midday indulgence. (lunch at own expense)

Embassies and High Commissions

Canberra’s diplomatic heart beats gently through the leafy avenues of Yarralumla, home to over 110 missions from around the world. Each residence—whether palatial or minimalist—offers a glimpse into national identity, expressed through architecture and tradition. It’s a drive not just through a suburb, but across continents.

Parliament House

Chosen from 329 entries in an international design competition, the vision for Capital Hill rose into reality and was officially opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1988. From the soaring flagpole to the Great Hall Tapestry, Parliament House invites you to explore its layered symbolism, architectural grace, and the living theatre of democracy unfolding within its chambers, galleries, and ceremonial spaces.

Goulburn and the Big Merino

Australia’s first inland city and fine wool capital, Goulburn blends grand heritage with quiet country charm. On its fringe stands the Big Merino - a towering tribute to the region’s pastoral pride. Pause for a moment, stretch your legs, and capture a photo with one of Australia’s beloved “big things” before the road draws you onward to Sydney.

Inclusions

• Private luxury transportation, Wi-fi connection
• Complimentary pickup at CBD (downtown) hotels
• Live commentary by professional driver guide in English, Czech, German
• Bottled water and small refreshment on board
• General admission to Memorial / Museum / Gallery (self-exploring)
• Parliament House guided tour

Exclusions

• Meals
• Tips
• Questacon Entry

Useful Information

• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Low to Intermediate level of fitness required
• Finish tour back at your accommodation or at convenient point in the city

Private signature tours are managed through a live booking system and remain available for purchase until 17:00 (5:00 pm) AEST, two days prior to departure.