After delving into the diverse things to do in Canberra, from exploring its national museums and galleries to enjoying its lush parks and outdoor activities, day trips from Canberra invite you to discover the natural beauty and historical sites of the Australian Capital Territory and beyond. These excursions offer a seamless blend of cultural exploration and natural wonders, extending your adventure into the surrounding regions.
Venturing outside Canberra, you’re met with the vast array of things to do in Australia, where national parks, historic towns, and wineries are just a short drive away. Each journey outside the city limits not only broadens your Australian experience but also showcases the rich tapestry of landscapes and lifestyles that the country has to offer.
Deciding where to stay in Canberra is crucial for travelers looking to maximize their exploration of the city and its surroundings. The right accommodation serves as a comfortable base for both urban discoveries and rural adventures, ensuring you have a restful retreat after a day of exploration.
Discover Best Day Trips from Canberra, Australia
1. Batemans Bay, New South Wales
Batemans Bay, a charming coastal town, is known for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and the nearby Murramarang National Park. Enjoy activities like fishing, kayaking, and exploring the pristine natural surroundings.
Distance: Approximately 150 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Beautiful beaches, Murramarang National Park, Clyde River
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Murramarang National Park: Free
- Kayak Rentals: $20-$50
Budget: Approximately $30-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Pebbly Beach, Durras Lake, Clyde River National Park
Travel Tip: Visit the Clyde River National Park for some of the best kayaking and fishing experiences in the region.
2. Snowy Mountains, New South Wales
The Snowy Mountains, Australia’s premier alpine region, offer year-round activities like skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking and mountain biking in summer. The area is also home to the famous Snowy River and Kosciuszko National Park.
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Skiing, hiking, Kosciuszko National Park, Snowy River
Best Time to Visit: Year-round (ski season in winter, hiking in summer)
Entrance Fees:
- Kosciuszko National Park: $17 per vehicle
- Ski Lift Pass: $50-$100
Budget: Approximately $50-$150 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mount Kosciuszko, Thredbo Village, Snowy River
Travel Tip: In summer, take the chairlift to Mount Kosciuszko’s summit walk for breathtaking views.
3. Bungendore, New South Wales
Bungendore is a quaint country village, known for its heritage-listed buildings, local wineries, and art galleries. The town is perfect for those looking to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and explore local crafts and culinary delights.
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Heritage-listed buildings, local wineries, art galleries
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Bungendore Wood Works Gallery: Free
- Wine Tastings: $5-$15
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lake George, Bungendore Park, local vineyards
Travel Tip: Don’t miss visiting the Bungendore Wood Works Gallery for exquisite wood art and crafts.
4. Goulburn, New South Wales
Goulburn, Australia’s first inland city, is steeped in history with its well-preserved colonial architecture. Key attractions include the Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre and the iconic Big Merino, a tribute to the region’s wool industry.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Colonial architecture, Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre, Big Merino
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre: $10
- Big Merino: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Belmore Park, St. Saviour’s Cathedral, Goulburn Historic Waterworks
Travel Tip: Explore the Goulburn Historic Waterworks Museum to see the only complete steam-powered municipal water supply left in its original location in Australia.
5. Kangaroo Valley, New South Wales
Kangaroo Valley, known for its stunning natural beauty and lush rainforests, offers a peaceful retreat with activities like canoeing, horse riding, and hiking. The historic Hampden Bridge and the nearby Fitzroy Falls are major attractions.
Distance: Approximately 160 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Canoeing, horse riding, hiking, Hampden Bridge
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Canoe Rentals: $30-$60
- Fitzroy Falls: Free
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Fitzroy Falls, Cambewarra Mountain Lookout, Hampden Bridge
Travel Tip: Try the local produce and dairy products available at the various farms and markets in the valley.
6. Bowral, New South Wales
Bowral, in the heart of the Southern Highlands, is famous for its boutiques, antique stores, and lush gardens, especially during the Tulip Time Festival in spring. The town was also the childhood home of legendary cricketer Sir Donald Bradman.
Distance: Approximately 120 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Boutiques, antique stores, Bradman Museum, Tulip Time Festival
Best Time to Visit: Spring (for Tulip Time Festival)
Entrance Fees:
- Bradman Museum: $20
- Tulip Time Festival: $10
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Corbett Gardens, Mount Gibraltar, Bowral Lookout
Travel Tip: Visit the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame for an interesting glimpse into the history of cricket.
7. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, New South Wales
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, located near the Tidbinbilla mountain ranges, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the chance to see kangaroos, koalas, emus, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Australian wildlife, walking trails, Tidbinbilla mountain ranges
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: $10 per vehicle
Budget: Approximately $10-$30 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Sanctuary Loop, Koala Path, Gibraltar Peak
Travel Tip: Take one of the many walking trails for close encounters with Australian wildlife and stunning natural scenery.
8. Murrumbateman, New South Wales
Murrumbateman, part of the Canberra wine region, is renowned for its cool-climate wines. The village is surrounded by vineyards and offers wine tastings, gourmet food, and charming rural landscapes.
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Cool-climate wines, wine tastings, gourmet food
Best Time to Visit: Year-round (especially during food and wine festivals)
Entrance Fees:
- Wine Tastings: $5-$15
- Food and Wine Festivals: $10-$20
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Local vineyards, rural landscapes, Murrumbateman Village
Travel Tip: Plan your visit during one of the many food and wine festivals the region hosts throughout the year for a truly indulgent experience.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Canberra, Australia
What are some recommended day trips from Canberra?
Recommended day trips from Canberra include the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, the historic town of Gundaroo, Murrumbateman for its wineries, and the Snowy Mountains for outdoor adventures.
Is the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve worth visiting?
Absolutely! Tidbinbilla offers a chance to see Australian wildlife in their natural habitat, including kangaroos, koalas, and a variety of birds. It’s also a great place for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
Can I visit the Snowy Mountains from Canberra?
Yes, the Snowy Mountains are accessible for a day trip from Canberra, especially during the winter for skiing or summer for hiking and mountain biking. It’s a beautiful region with breathtaking landscapes.
Are there any wine tours available near Canberra?
Yes, the Canberra District is known for its cool-climate wines. There are several wineries in Murrumbateman and surrounding areas offering wine tasting tours, showcasing regional specialties like Shiraz and Riesling.
What historical sites can I visit near Canberra?
Nearby historical sites include the town of Gundaroo, with its heritage-listed buildings and charming 19th-century streetscape, and the Lanyon Homestead, offering a glimpse into Australia’s colonial past.
Is a day trip to Batemans Bay recommended?
Definitely! Batemans Bay on the NSW South Coast offers beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and the chance to explore the Clyde River National Park. It’s perfect for a relaxing day out or adventure activities like kayaking.
Can I explore the Australian Alps from Canberra?
Yes, the Australian Alps are within reach for a day trip, offering stunning alpine landscapes, national parks, and outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and, in winter, snow sports.
Are there any botanical gardens or parks near Canberra for a day visit?
The Australian National Botanic Gardens in Canberra itself and the Cockington Green Gardens in Gold Creek Village are excellent day trip destinations for those interested in plants, gardens, and outdoor leisure.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/canberra-l1880?activity_type=dayTrip
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