FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Canberra

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

⚠️ Caution💰 Budget: AUD 150/day🚇 Good Transit☀️ Best: Mar, Apr, Oct

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Canberra

1

Civic

Mid-range

The bustling heart of Canberra, offering a mix of government, commercial, and cultural attractions.

first-timersculturefoodiesnightlife
  • +Central location with most attractions accessible
  • +Wide range of dining and entertainment options
  • +Good public transport links
  • -Can feel very quiet on weekends and evenings outside main hubs
  • -Less residential charm compared to other areas
🏨 Ovolo Nishi🏨 Hyatt Hotel Canberra🏨 QT Canberra
2

Barton

Luxury

Home to many government departments and embassies, offering a quiet and leafy environment.

culturefirst-timersdigital nomads
  • +Proximity to major national institutions
  • +Peaceful and green surroundings
  • +Easy access to the lake
  • -Limited dining and nightlife options
  • -Can feel deserted outside of business hours
🏨 Hyatt Hotel Canberra🏨 The Barton Studios
3

Braddon

Mid-range

A trendy and vibrant inner-city suburb known for its eclectic mix of cafes, bars, boutiques, and street art.

foodiesnightlifecouplessolo travelers
  • +Excellent dining and bar scene
  • +Lively atmosphere with street art
  • +Independent boutiques and shops
  • -Can be noisy, especially on weekends
  • -Parking can be challenging
🏨 Midnight Hotel🏨 Avenue Hotel Canberra🏨 Adina Apartment Hotel Canberra
4

Acton

Mid-range

Home to the Australian National University and a cluster of national institutions, it's a hub for education and culture.

culturefirst-timersdigital nomads
  • +Close to major cultural attractions
  • +Scenic lakeside location
  • +Academic and intellectual atmosphere
  • -Limited dining and entertainment options
  • -Can feel very quiet outside of university hours
🏨 University House🏨 Lakeside Hotel Canberra

Daily Budget (Budget)

AUD 150/day

YHA Canberra City dorm bedAUD 45
Sandwich and coffee from a local bakery (e.g. Eighty Six)AUD 25
MyWay Card top-up for bus travelAUD 15
Explore Parliament House (free entry) and walk around Lake Burley GriffinAUD 0
Visit the National Museum of Australia (free general admission)AUD 0
Dinner at Brodburger King O'Malley'sAUD 30
Stroll through the Australian National Botanic GardensAUD 0
Snacks and water from a supermarketAUD 10
Return MyWay Card travel to attractionsAUD 20
National Portrait Gallery (free entry)AUD 0
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Canberra

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🛍️

Paddy's Market

FREE

For a taste of local life and some great bargains, head to Paddy's Market. You'll find a diverse range of goods, from fresh produce and clothing to unique crafts and souvenirs, often with a vibrant atmosphere.

marketCivic
🍜

The Italian Place

This cozy spot is a local favorite for authentic Italian food, especially their wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta. It's a relaxed setting perfect for a delicious and casual meal away from the main tourist hubs.

foodBarton
⚠️

1 area to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Canberra

More Canberra Guides

Full Canberra guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers