A long layover in Canberra is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Canberra International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of CBR:
- Can you legally enter Australia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by Bus Route R3, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the AUD. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
How to Get Into Canberra
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus Route R3 | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Bus Route R3 is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Canberra layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What’s Worth Seeing in Canberra
If you head into Canberra, here are two things worth checking out:
Australian War Memorial is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You can see the main features in a short visit.
Parliament House is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CBR, check out Qantas Club Lounge or Virgin Australia Lounge to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Canberra Layover
For food in Canberra, local travelers recommend Akiba. If you have time for a second stop, Bentspoke Brewing Co. is another popular pick.
Back at CBR, City Edge Cafe & Bar is the go-to. Roll’d Canberra Airport rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at CBR may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Canberra’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CBR is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Canberra and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Need a Nap? Options at CBR
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CBR, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Canberra with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Canberra may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.