Car Rental Canberra Airport

Arrive in Canberra and you’ll soon discover a fascinating blend of art, nature and Australia’s rich, diverse narrative woven here. Whether you’ve flown in for work, history or politics, to wander through the distinguished galleries and museums, or simply to play – your hire car will help you explore the many great sights in and around the national capital, plus daytrip beyond its territory.

If you’re ready for lift-off, board a hot air balloon and float over the city and beautiful Lake Burley Griffin. See the hills, valleys and forests surrounding the ‘bush capital’ captured from this lofty vantage point. 

Some may regard both the current monumental seat of government and the former Old Parliament House as the main drawcards of the ACT (Australian Capital Territory). But you’ll also find a wealth of other iconic attractions in Canberra to visit, from the Royal Australian Mint to a treasure trove of outstanding national collections. You won’t want to miss the Australian War Memorial, the world-class exhibitions of international, local and indigenous art at the National Gallery of Australia, the National Museum, the National Library and the National Portrait Gallery. And that’s just a short list of big-ticket institutions to get lost in. 

Canberra is so much more than a sweeping array of significant historical and cultural sites. You’ll be delighted to uncover the hidden gems and lively venues that make up the social life of this compact capital city. Your smart decision to book a hire car from Canberra Airport will reveal a score of surprising finds.

Discover the beauty of Canberra and surrounds in a hire car

Refresh yourself in the tranquil air around the capital’s centrepiece, Lake Burley Griffin – easily enjoyed as you walk, sail, paddle or ride around its dazzling shores. Spend some time at Lennox Gardens on the foreshore, home to the Beijing Gardens and Nara Peace Park – where cherry blossoms and pavilions honour Canberra’s two sister cities. Eat and drink or stop for a coffee at a wide range of waterfront venues while you’re there. 

Canberra expresses its love of nature in so many beautiful ways. There’s the famous Floriade Festival that celebrates spring in all its blooming glory through an abundant display of flowers, sculptures and artistry at Commonwealth Park. Plant lovers can get their fill of green spaces – including forests, landscaped gardens, rare trees, lookouts and more – at the National Arboretum Canberra, just 6km outside the city.

We also recommend a trip to Mount Ainslie to take in the capital views and surrounding mountain ranges. Drive, cycle or walk to the lookout for perfect vistas, particularly at sunrise or sunset. Also a refuge to endangered plants and animals, the abundance of birds and native wildlife in this ancient landscape will enhance your visit.

For a more remote experience, the Namadgi National Park offers both biodiversity and history in the south-western pocket of the ACT, 40km from Canberra’s centre. This heritage-listed wilderness is a protected area of cultural significance, with evidence of habitation by local indigenous people 21 000 years ago. While camping, trekking, fishing, mountain biking and horse-riding are permitted here – visitors are advised to keep to the designated trails and walking tracks, streams, huts and campgrounds, to enjoy unique memories of the Australian bush.

While you’re in the area, we also recommend taking some easy drives to the charming towns and various rural landscapes around Canberra. Why not explore nearby Hall; or Yass for a slice of colonial history and bushranger lore; while the Southern Tablelands is a great place to recharge and sample Goulburn, Australia’s first inland city.

The compact Capital makes everything accessible in a hire car 

Clearly Canberra loves its arts, history and culture – but shopping, food and entertainment are all firmly on the agenda too. Head to Braddon and NewActon for a flourishing style and design scene favoured by the creative set. Besides boutiques and hip hangouts, there’s excellent eats to be had here too. Other precincts to check out include Dickson and Fyshwick, where you can browse the emporiums for vintage finds and hand-made crafts.

Canberra’s reputation as a foodie haven is growing, with an abundance of fresh produce on offer. Cool cafes and excellent restaurants compete in a vibrant culinary scene. Fine dining mingles with cheap and tasty bites – all washed down with a roasted coffee, a local brew or cool-climate wine. Round off your trip to Canberra with a visit to the rolling hills and rich soils of the local wine region. Be there in around 30 minutes and dine among the vineyards, or buy at the cellar doors. If you’re tempted to have a tipple, just remember to make sure you have a designated driver on hand.