Experience the best of Canberra and the ACT

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The small-yet mighty capital of Canberra is a city that punches far above its weight. Canberra is surrounded by forests and mountains and famous for the picturesque Lake Burley Griffin as well as home to well-known museums and historical sites. Dig a little deeper to find bustling brewpubs, hidden gems, quiet nature and family-friendly attractions. Head just outside the city to relax and unwind in a scenic cool-climate wine region that produces some stellar drops.

A Tale of Two Weekends: Spring Escapes in Canberra

Canberra in October is a city in full bloom—literally. With the final flourish of Floriade, the cultural treasures of Windows to the World , and the cool-climate charm of the Canberra District Wine Region, the capital is calling for a weekend (or two) of colour, culture, and connection.

Whether you're chasing tulip-lined paths, exploring hidden embassy gems, or sipping Shiraz among the vines, here’s your perfect guide to two unforgettable weekends in Canberra – the perfect way to extend your stay around AIEC 2025.

Weekend One: Floriade’s Grand Finale

11–12 October 2025

Saturday Morning
Start your day lakeside at Commonwealth Park, where Floriade—Australia’s biggest celebration of spring—is in its final days. Wander through a sea of over a million blooms, snap Insta-worthy shots under the Ferris wheel, and soak up live music, roving performers, and garden workshops.

Saturday Afternoon
Make an easy stroll to the city centre for lunch at one of Canberra’s stylish eateries. Try Lazy Su for bold Asian fusion or Grease Monkey for burgers and shakes with attitude. Then, head to the National Gallery of Australia or relax in the tranquil and thought provoking Sculpture Garden.

Saturday Evening
As the sun sets, take a twilight walk around Lake Burley Griffin or book a table at Rebel Rebel in NewActon for a seasonal menu that celebrates local produce.

Sunday
Fuel up with brunch at The Cupping Room, then take a short drive to the Canberra District Wine Region. With over 50 wineries within 35 minutes of the city, you can sip your way through cool-climate favourites like Riesling, Shiraz, and Tempranillo. Visit cellar doors like Shaw Wines, Four Winds Vineyard, or Lerida Estate, and meet the makers behind the vintages.

On your way back, stop at the Australian National Botanic Gardens for a peaceful stroll through native flora. Cap off the day with a sunset view from Mount Ainslie Lookout — a perfect panorama of the city you’ve just explored.

Weekend Two: Windows to the World

18–19 October 2025

Saturday Morning
Step into a world of discovery as Windows to the World opens the doors to Canberra’s embassies and high commissions. From the architecture of Austria to the flavours of Thailand, this rare event offers a passport-free journey through global cultures—all within the leafy streets of Yarralumla.

Saturday Afternoon
Grab a bite from one of the international food stalls or picnic in Weston Park. Then, head to the National Museum of Australia to dive deeper into the stories that shape our nation.

Saturday Evening
Celebrate your cultural adventure with dinner at Akiba, where Asian street food meets Canberra cool. Keep your eyes peeled for what’s showing at Canberra Theatre – there’s a performance bound to make you laugh, cry, think – or likely all three.

Sunday
Continue your global tour with more embassy visits or explore Canberra’s own cultural icons like Questacon, Parliament House, or the National Portrait Gallery. For a final flourish, take in the sweeping views from Mount Ainslie lookout—a fitting end to a weekend of discovery.

Reconnect with Nature

Approximately 70% of the ACT is dedicated to nature parks and home to some famous native animals. Take a visit to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve or even take a walk up Mount Ainslie, Mount Parker or Black Mountain to enjoy scenic views over the city.

Museums and National Icons

From the ancient Indigenous past and colonial history to the modern multicultural country of today, unearth the treasures of our nation at the national attractions in Canberra. Explore one of the world’s most architecturally acclaimed buildings, Parliament House, and see the nation’s most popular and important objects – from the Holden Prototype No. 1 to bark paintings and ochre used by Aboriginal artists more than 50,000 years ago – at the National Museum of Australia.

Uncover new knowledge from over 10 million items at the National Library of Australia or place a poppy on the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial. Discover more history and heritage at Canberra’s other iconic museums and attractions.

Wineries and Breweries

Canberra’s three cool-climate wine regions offer a spectacular range of experiences, fine wine-tasting and fine dining to truffle hunting. Traditionally, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir and Shiraz varieties have thrived here at the 140 vineyards and 40 wineries within 35 minutes’ drive of the capital.

Beer lovers can’t go past a cold brew from Braddon brewpub BentSpoke Brewing Co who took out top spot in the GABS hottest 100 craft beers for two years in a row. Cheers your mates with a specialty brew in the spacious beer garden at Capital Brewing Co in Fyshwick.

Art Galleries

Canberra is home to an extensive number of gallery and exhibition spaces, showcasing everything from international masterpieces to talented local artists. Head to the National Gallery of Australia to marvel at the largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art of the world. Be inspired to understand the Australian people through portraiture at the National Portrait Gallery.

The National Arboretum Canberra

The National Arboretum Canberra is a mosaic of living forest and garden offering breathtaking view, unique experiences and a world-class entertainment and events hub including the award-winning Margaret Whitlam Pavilion and the popular Village Centre. With over 44,000 rare and endangered trees across a 250-hectare site, the Arboretum is a place of beauty, conservation, science research, education, tourism and recreation.

Visitor Information Centre

Visit the Canberra and Region Visitor Information Centre at:

National Capital Exhibition
Regatta Point, Ngunnawal Country, Barrine Drive, Parkes ACT 2600
Open 9am to 5pm weekdays
Open 9am to 4pm weekends and public holidays
Phone: 1300 554 114

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Key dates

11 February - Call for proposals opens

14 March - Call for proposals closes

May - Registration open

mid-June - Program released

31 July - Super early bird registration closes

12 September - Early bird registration closes

14–17 October – AIEC 2025