7 Days in Australian Capital Territory Itinerary: A Perfect Week-Long

Are you planning a trip to the Australian Capital Territory and wondering how to make the most of your time there? Look no further than this 7-day itinerary that will take you to some of the most iconic and must-see destinations in the region.

From the historic landmarks of Canberra to the breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, this itinerary has something for everyone.

You’ll explore some of the most popular museums, galleries, and attractions in the area, as well as discover hidden gems that many tourists miss.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of the Australian Capital Territory in just one week. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Day 1: Exploring Canberra

Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is the perfect place to start your 7-day itinerary in the Australian Capital Territory. The city is home to a number of iconic landmarks and attractions, including the Australian War Memorial, Parliament House, and the National Gallery of Australia.

Start your day by visiting the Australian War Memorial, which is a tribute to the country’s military history. The memorial includes a museum, a research center, and a commemorative area that honors the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers.

Next, head to Parliament House, which is the home of the Australian government. You can take a guided tour of the building and learn about the country’s political history. The building is also home to a number of art installations and exhibitions.

After visiting Parliament House, head to the National Gallery of Australia, which is located nearby. The gallery houses a large collection of Australian and international art, including works by Jackson Pollock, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol.

In the evening, head to one of Canberra’s many restaurants and enjoy a delicious meal. The city is known for its diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from fine dining to casual cafes.

Day 2: Exploring Canberra’s Cultural and Historical Sites

Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is home to various cultural and historical sites that are worth exploring.

• Parliament House: Start your day by visiting the Parliament House, which is the meeting place of the Australian Parliament. You can join a guided tour to explore the building and learn about the country’s political history.
• Australian War Memorial: Next, head to the Australian War Memorial, which is a museum and shrine dedicated to the country’s military history. You can explore the galleries, exhibitions, and memorials, and pay your respects to the fallen soldiers.
• National Gallery of Australia: After lunch, visit the National Gallery of Australia, which is home to a vast collection of Australian and international art. You can admire the artworks, attend a guided tour, or participate in a workshop or event.

If you have time, you can also visit other cultural and historical sites, such as the National Museum of Australia, the Australian National Botanic Gardens, or the Old Parliament House.

Alternatively, you can spend some time outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of the city, such as Lake Burley Griffin, Mount Ainslie, or the Australian Alps.

Day 3: Exploring the Australian War Memorial and National Gallery of Australia

This national memorial commemorates the sacrifice of Australian soldiers who have died in wars since the federation of Australia.

After the Australian War Memorial, head over to the National Gallery of Australia, which is just a short walk away. The gallery is home to more than 160,000 works of art, including an impressive collection of Australian and Indigenous art.

If you’re feeling peckish, stop by the gallery’s café, which offers a range of light meals and snacks. Alternatively, head to one of the nearby restaurants, such as the popular Italian eatery, Mezzalira.

After lunch, you can continue your exploration of the National Gallery of Australia or head back to your accommodation for some rest and relaxation. In the evening, consider catching a show at the Canberra Theatre Centre or heading to one of the city’s many bars or pubs for a drink.

Day 4

Start your day by visiting the Australian War Memorial, which is a tribute to the Australian soldiers who have served in various wars.

Next, head to the National Gallery of Australia, which is home to an impressive collection of Australian and international art. You can spend hours admiring the works of famous artists like Jackson Pollock, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol.

After lunch, visit the Parliament House, which is the seat of the Australian government. You can take a guided tour of the building and learn about the history of Australian politics. Don’t forget to take a photo in front of the iconic flagpole, which is one of the largest in the world.

Finally, end your day by visiting the National Museum of Australia, which showcases the history and culture of Australia. You can explore various exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the country’s indigenous people, European settlement, and modern society.

Day 5: Exploring the Australian National Botanic Gardens and Lake Burley Griffin

Australian National Botanic Gardens, boasts a collection of over 6,000 species of plants. Take a stroll through the gardens and admire the beautiful landscapes, including the rainforest gully, rock garden, and red centre garden. Don’t miss the iconic ‘Living Collection’ of rare and endangered plants, which is a must-see for all plant lovers.

After exploring the gardens, head over to Lake Burley Griffin, which is a popular spot for water sports and outdoor activities. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the lake’s scenic bike paths.

For lunch, head to the nearby Kingston Foreshore, which offers a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants.

In the afternoon, visit the National Gallery of Australia, which houses a vast collection of Australian and international art. Don’t miss the iconic ‘Blue Poles’ by Jackson Pollock, one of the gallery’s most famous works. Alternatively, head to the nearby National Portrait Gallery, which showcases portraits of prominent Australians and other notable figures.

Day 6: Exploring the Outdoors of Australian Capital Territory

On day 6 of your 7-day itinerary in the Australian Capital Territory, you will be exploring the great outdoors of this beautiful region. From hiking to wildlife spotting, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy.

Start your day with a visit to the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, located just outside of Canberra. This reserve is home to a variety of Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and koalas. Take a guided tour or hike one of the many trails to see these animals up close in their natural habitat.

Namadgi National Park is known for its stunning views and hiking trails that take you through the rugged wilderness of the Australian Alps. Take a picnic lunch and enjoy the scenery before continuing on your hike.

For those looking for a more leisurely outdoor experience, head to the Australian National Botanic Gardens. This 100-acre garden is home to over 6,000 species of plants, including many rare and endangered species. Take a guided tour or stroll through the gardens at your own pace.

End your day with a visit to the Mount Ainslie Lookout. This lookout provides panoramic views of Canberra and the surrounding area.

Overall, day 6 of your 7-day itinerary in the Australian Capital Territory is all about getting back to nature and exploring the great outdoors. With so many activities to choose from, you’re sure to have a memorable day.

Day 7: Canberra

Start your day with a visit to the Australian War Memorial, which commemorates the sacrifices of Australian soldiers in various wars. The museum has an extensive collection of exhibits, including military equipment, photographs, and personal stories of soldiers.

Next, head to the National Gallery of Australia, which houses an impressive collection of Australian and international art. The gallery has over 160,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Be sure to check out the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art collection, which showcases the art of Indigenous Australians.

After lunch, visit the Parliament House, which is the seat of the Australian government. Take a guided tour of the building to learn about Australia’s political system and history. You can also watch the proceedings of the House of Representatives and the Senate from the public galleries.

End your day with a visit to the Mount Ainslie Lookout, which offers panoramic views of Canberra and the surrounding countryside. The lookout is located in the Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve, which has several walking trails that you can explore if you have the time.