Cool, Calm City Break in Canberra, Australia
Why I Chose Canberra
Canberra, Australia’s planned capital city, felt like the perfect tranquil and laid-back escape for me. Unlike the bustling cities of Sydney and Melbourne (which I still love), Canberra offers spacious surroundings, a slower pace, and a calming atmosphere that I found ideal as a neurodivergent traveler.
Planned City Design and Quality of Life
As a planned city, Canberra is thoughtfully organized with plenty of green spaces and nature all around. There are no towering skyscrapers, and its ample walking paths create a welcoming, open environment. I was fascinated to learn that it ranks as one of the top cities globally for quality of life.
Walking and Outdoor Adventures
I loved exploring Canberra’s outdoor attractions, especially the vast Lake Burley Griffin. Whether walking, cycling, or boating, it’s a serene space to enjoy. The wide pathways made it even better—plenty of room to move around without feeling crowded. For city views, I hiked up and Mount Ainslie in the cooler mornings. Don’t worry if hiking isn’t your thing; you can drive (or get a taxi) to the top and enjoy the scenery from there.
One highlight for me was a walking tour with She Shapes History, a women-run company. I joined their “Spies in the Capitol: Women in Espionage” tour, which focused on fascinating stories about women who operated as spies. They offer several unique tours that I’d highly recommend.
Gardens and Nature
Nature is a big part of Canberra’s charm. I spent nearly a whole day at the Australian Botanical Garden, which features plant species from across the country. It’s divided into sections like a lush rainforest area and a red desert-inspired zone. Another favorite spot was the Old Parliament House Gardens, where I had a delightful chat with the head gardener.
Dining and Local Vibes
During my stay in the Braddon neighborhood, I discovered its vibrant mix of cafes and restaurants. While I mostly cooked at home (I was housesitting), I couldn’t resist indulging in Canberra’s excellent coffee. If you’re visiting in early January, the Summernats Classic Car Festival adds a touch of excitement to this otherwise peaceful area.
Travel and Accessibility
Getting around Canberra was straightforward. I walked a lot, and occasionally treated myself to an Uber ride back after a long day. Traveling to Canberra was just as easy. I took a scenic four-hour train ride from Sydney, which was comfortable and efficient. Domestic flights in Australia were another highlight—easy security, relaxed about bringing liquids, and stress-free boarding made the process seem easy compared to Europe and the United States.
Why Canberra Worked for Me
Canberra’s calm environment, organized layout, and nature-focused attractions made it an ideal destination for me as a neurodivergent traveler. I appreciated how easy it was to plan my days, explore at my own pace, and relax without feeling overstimulated.
If you enjoyed this guide, explore more of my content on YouTube: Better Neurodivergent Travel!