GETTING AROUND

Canberra is a compact, well-planned city that’s easy to navigate—whether you’re on foot, using public transport, or hopping into a rideshare. Many key venues and attractions are within walking distance of QT Canberra, but if you’re keen to explore a bit further, there are plenty of convenient options.
 

Public Transport: Easy, Accessible, and Tap-On Ready

Canberra’s bus and light rail network is modern, efficient, and incredibly easy to use. The City Interchange, just a short walk from QT Canberra, is the central hub for public transport. From here, you can catch:

• Light rail services heading north toward Gungahlin, stopping at places like Dickson, known for its lively dining and nightlife.
• Rapid buses to key districts like Woden, Tuggeranong, Belconnen, and the Parliamentary Triangle.

No ticket needed—just tap your Visa or MasterCard™ when you get on and off. No apps, no accounts required.

💡 Tip: If you’re staying longer or plan to use public transport often, consider registering for a My Way account for cheaper fares ($3 vs. $5 per ride). You’ll need to visit the Civic Service Centre to buy one if you don’t have a local address.

Accessibility

Both buses and light rail are fully accessible, with vehicles that lower to street level for easier boarding. Once you're off, you’ll find that most of central Canberra is flat and easy to navigate on foot or wheels.

🚴‍♀️ Cycling & Scooting Around 🛴

Canberra has an extensive bike path network, making it a great city for cyclists. If you prefer a more relaxed ride, electric scooters and e-bikes are available for hire throughout the city.

• Neuron Mobility is the main e-scooter provider. Download the Neuron app to see available scooters nearby.

Safety first! Helmets are mandatory. Please take care—e-scooters can stop suddenly. (And yes, heels and scooters don’t mix well!)

For short trips—like from QT to Llewellyn Hall—scooters can be a fun and efficient choice!

🚗 Driving and Parking

If you’re using a private car, please be aware that parking near the ANU and city centre is competitive. You’ll be sharing space with university students and city workers.

• Most parking areas accept card payment.
• Some commercial car parks require their own parking app, so check signage carefully.

Pro Tips for Getting Around

• Alinga Street (Civic) is the main terminal for both bus and light rail—just a 10-minute walk from our venue at Llewellyn Hall (ANU Building 100).
• For faster travel across town, look for buses marked with an “R” (Rapid)—e.g. R4 from Tuggeranong, R9 from Belconnen.
• Light rail is super easy for newcomers—one line, no transfers.

Need help on the go? The Transport Canberra website and Google Maps both do a great job of showing routes, real-time arrivals, and trip planning.

PLAY

Canberra may be Australia’s political capital, but it’s also packed with fantastic dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences. Some of the best restaurants and bars are within walking distance of QT Canberra, ensuring a memorable stay.

For a refined dining experience, head to Monster Kitchen and Bar at Ovolo Nishi, which offers creative, plant-based dishes in a stunningly designed space. Raku, an award-winning Japanese restaurant, serves up some of the best sushi in the city. If you’re after a great steak, you can’t go past Marble & Grain, just a short stroll from the city centre.

For a more relaxed vibe, Grease Monkey is famous for its juicy burgers and craft beers. Looking for a café with serious brunch credentials? The Cupping Room, run by the award-winning Ona Coffee team, is a local institution.

Shopping lovers will enjoy a visit to the Canberra Centre, which offers a mix of high-end brands, department stores, and specialty shops. If you’re after something unique, the Old Bus Depot Markets in Kingston (open on Sundays) showcase local artisans, delicious food stalls, and vintage finds.

For outdoor lovers, a walk or bike ride around Lake Burley Griffin is a must. You can hire a kayak or paddleboard to explore the water or simply take in the sights from one of the lakeside parks. The National Arboretum provides a stunning panoramic view of the city, while Mount Ainslie offers a rewarding hike with incredible lookout points.