Canberra is easy to get around. Most of the city’s big attractions are within 15 minutes’ drive of each other, so where you stay mostly comes down to three things: budget, parking and what you’re in town for.
Yes, we’re a hotel in Ainslie, so we’re a little biased. But we’ll be straight with you about the trade-offs.
The short answer: Stay in Canberra City or Braddon if you want to walk to bars at night. Stay in the inner north (around Ainslie and Dickson) for quiet streets, free parking and quick trips to the city, airport and War Memorial. Stay in Barton or Kingston to be next to Parliament House.
Canberra areas compared
| Area | To Canberra City | Great for | The catch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canberra City (Civic) | You’re in it | Shopping, nightlife, ANU | Paid parking, busier and pricier |
| Braddon | Walking distance | Cafés and bars on Lonsdale Street | Can be noisy, limited parking |
| Inner north (Ainslie, Dickson) | About 10 min drive | Value, families, events, work trips, free parking | You’ll drive or bus into the city |
| Barton & Kingston | About 10 min drive | Parliament House, the lake, national institutions | Fewer budget options |
| Belconnen & Bruce | 15–20 min drive | GIO Stadium, University of Canberra | Further from the city and airport |
Why we like the inner north (and not just because we’re here)
- It’s quiet. Ainslie is one of Canberra’s most established inner-north suburbs, so you sleep well without giving up a central location.
- Parking is free and easy. No hunting for spaces or feeding meters like in Civic.
- The airport’s close. Canberra Airport is about 10 minutes away by car.
- Dinner’s sorted. Dickson’s 30+ cafés and restaurants are a short walk away, from dumplings to pub meals.
- Late check-in is simple. At Tall Trees Ainslie we send you your door PIN, so arriving after reception closes is no stress.
Travelling with kids?
The inner north works really well for families. You get more space for your money, free parking right on-site and quick drives to Questacon, the National Museum, the National Zoo & Aquarium and the Australian War Memorial. Our Small Family Rooms sleep 3, Medium Family Rooms sleep 4 and Large Family Rooms sleep up to 5 with a bunk bed the kids will fight over.
In town for work?
If you’re heading to Civic, Russell, the Brindabella Business Park near the airport, the Royal Military College Duntroon or Parliament House, Ainslie keeps your commute short. Every room has a desk and free Wi-Fi, our Executive Queen Rooms add a private balcony and an ergonomic workstation, and the Studio Apartment has a kitchenette for longer stays.
About Tall Trees Ainslie Hotel
| Address | 21 Stephen Street, Ainslie ACT 2602 |
| Phone | (02) 6247 9200 |
| To Canberra City | About 10 minutes by car |
| To Canberra Airport | About 10 minutes by car |
| Rooms | Standard Queen, Executive Queen, Small, Medium and Large Family and a Studio Apartment |
| Facilities | Free parking, free Wi-Fi, on-site gym, guest laundry, BBQ area, vending machine, keyless PIN entry, non-smoking |
| Book direct | Code BOOKDIRECT saves 12% |
Ready to book?
Book direct with us for the best rate on your Canberra stay. Use code BOOKDIRECT to save 12%.
Quick answers
What’s the best area to stay in Canberra?
Canberra City and Braddon if you want to walk to bars at night. The inner north (Ainslie, Dickson and surrounds) for quiet streets, free parking and quick access to the city, airport and War Memorial. Barton and Kingston if you want to be right next to Parliament House.
How far is Tall Trees Ainslie Hotel from Canberra City?
About 10 minutes by car to Canberra City (Civic), with the Dickson dining precinct a short walk away.
How far is Tall Trees Ainslie Hotel from Canberra Airport?
About 10 minutes by car. Taxis and rideshare are available at the airport.
Where should I stay in Canberra for Floriade or Summernats?
Somewhere central with free parking. Ainslie is about 10 minutes from Commonwealth Park (Floriade) and a short drive from Exhibition Park (Summernats and the Royal Canberra Show). Book early, as event weekends fill fast.
Can I check in late at Tall Trees Ainslie?
Yes. Rooms use keyless PIN door locks, so we send late arrivals their after-hours check-in instructions and door code before they arrive.
