Australia’s capital city and political heartland, Canberra has several feathers in its cap. While boasting prowess in business and commerce, the city’s country charm is no less impressive. You will never get bored of taking long strolls on the sprawling shores of Lake Burley Griffin or get enough of bush driving, picnicking, museum-hopping, and kangaroo-spotting. Although, if you’re a local, you might often find yourself having no time to enjoy all that your own city has to offer. Hence, plan a staycation and unplug from the daily hustle and bustle. This way, you can rediscover the wonders of the city and have a relaxing time exploring it. This article lists some of the top hotel accommodations where you can plan one of the best staycations in Canberra, Australia.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 28, 2025.
1. Novotel Canberra (from USD 105)
The 4-star hotel, Novotel Canberra, offers 286 well-appointed guest rooms. Some of these accommodations feature a private balcony so you can relish superb city views from the comfort of your room itself. The hotel also offers a selection of studio suites that are ideal for hosting up to three guests (two adults and one child).
You can either relax in your private accommodation or step down to indulge in a refreshing swimming session in the indoor heated pool. Alternatively, consider planning a spa or sauna session to destress. Fitness enthusiasts need not break their workout routine while on this staycation and can head to the hotel’s on-site gymnasium. Once hungry, you may step into the on-site First Edition restaurant to try some excellent Australian fare.
The hotel is located in the city centre, so it will be a convenient choice for locals living in any part of the city.
Novotel Canberra This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 65 Northbourne Avenue
1.81 km (1.2 mi) from Australian War Memorial
2. Crowne Plaza Canberra, an IHG Hotel (from USD 121)
Delicious and varied buffet breakfast, with options for specialty coffee, though some guests found the restaurant menu limited and prices high.
Reasonable pricing, especially when booking in advance or as part of a package deal.
Centrally located near shopping, restaurants, and city attractions, with easy access to public transport and major landmarks.
Convenient location, clean rooms, friendly and accommodating staff, and a variety of facilities such as pools, games room, and children's activities.
The comfortable Crowne Plaza Canberra is a good option for those looking to plan a staycation in the Central Business District (CBD). You can opt for a guest room or suite. You will also find rooms specially designed for guests with mobility issues.
Consider lounging in the fenced outdoor pool or relaxing on the sun loungers beside it. After a nice swim, you can go for a hearty meal at the on-site RedSalt Restaurant, which offers some amazing Australian and international fares.
Crowne Plaza Canberra by IHG This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 1 Binara Street
1.27 km (0.8 mi) from Australian War Memorial
3. QT Canberra (from USD 174)
Staying at QT Canberra will be an experience worth remembering as this tastefully decorated hotel overlooks Lake Burley Griffin. Both guest rooms and suites are available here, some offering access to a private balcony. These accommodations are equipped with top-notch amenities such as complimentary Kevin Murphy toiletries and Google Chromecast-enabled televisions, among others, so you can indulge in some luxurious in-room relaxation.
Once you’re ready for a meal, consider heading down to the on-site Capitol Bar & Grill. This farm-to-table restaurant is known for cooking up a gastronomical storm, so don’t miss out on the experience.
QT Canberra This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: London Circuit
2.07 km (1.3 mi) from Australian War Memorial
4. BreakFree Capital Tower Apartments (from USD 162)
Convenient location for eateries, kitchen facilities could be better, nearby expensive convenience store
Affordable pricing, good value for money, additional parking fee
Close to downtown, landmarks, and botanical gardens, convenient for city center and waterfront
Spacious, well-equipped, convenient laundry facilities, secure parking
Consider spending your staycation checked into one of the self-contained units at BreakFree Capital Tower Apartments. Apartments of various sizes are available here and most of them feature private balconies with exquisite views of Lake Burley Griffin. After spending a relaxing time in your comfortable room, head out to make use of one of the several shared facilities.
You can break a sweat in the gym and then head into the sauna to destress. Feel free to plunge into the heated outdoor pool for a refreshing swimming session. You can also squeeze in a game of tennis or squash on the courts on site.
BreakFree Capital Tower Apartments This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 2 Marcus Clarke St
2.12 km (1.4 mi) from Australian War Memorial
5. AAC Apartments - Manhattan
AAC Apartments - Manhattan is a neat property that offers equipped one- and two-bedroom apartment units, tastefully designed with a combination of muted and bright colours. Each of these self-contained units features a private balcony, so you can start your day by soaking in Canberra’s sunshine and call it a night admiring the twinkling skyline.
There is an outdoor swimming pool in the common area, so you can practice a few strokes. Alternatively, try out one of the refreshing therapies at the spa on site. Those who enjoy sweating it out can also make use of the fitness centre.
AAC Apartments - Manhattan
Address: 240 Bunda Street (Corner of Bunda Street and Akuna Street)
1.29 km (0.9 mi) from Australian War Memorial
6. Ovolo Nishi (from USD 133)
For a stay that’s truly memorable and one-of-a-kind, check out Ovolo Nishi, a boutique eco-hotel. Part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ (SLH), the hotel is uniquely designed with restored retro furniture and original artworks to give it a rustic touch. Its rooms also offer views of the city or Canberra’s lake and bushlands, so you get to wake and start the day with a gorgeous view. All rooms are also equipped with modern conveniences, including a smart TV, complimentary WiFi, and a minibar for late-night drinks.
Aside from its on-site amenities like the Monster Kitchen & Bar, Ovolo Nishi brings you near Canberra’s must-see attractions. Visit the National Museum of Australia, take a breather at Commonwealth Park, or see the exhibits at the Australian War Memorial. For panoramic views, head up to Telstra Tower and see the city from a different perspective. The tower is undergoing improvement projects for a better visiting experience, and is set to open in late 2027.
Ovolo Nishi
Address: 25 Edinburgh Avenue
2.51 km (1.6 mi) from Australian War Memorial
Enjoy your staycation in Canberra
Staycations are a great way to take short breaks without worrying about too much travel or planning. You need not take leaves from work or leave chores behind but still manage to allow some time to yourselves to destress and unwind. Some of the best hotels in Canberra offering top-notch facilities have been listed in this article. Check into one and enjoy an amazing staycation.
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