Car Rental in Canberra

Why rent a car in Canberra?

The capital of Australia, Canberra is usually thought of as a political center instead of a travel destination. But, despite its location in the country’s interior and lower tourist profile, the city has a surprising amount of things to see and do such as interesting museums, governmental buildings, and scenic views from the surrounding hills. Getting a rental car will also give you access to some of the nature preserves that are a relatively short drive from Canberra.

Top ways to enter Canberra

• Canberra Airport. The main airport of the Australian Capital Territory and the eighth-busiest in the country, it handles more than three million travelers every year. In addition to flights to all of the other large Australian cities, there are also direct flights to and from Qatar, offering convenient connections with tens of destinations in the Middle East and Europe.
• Sydney Airport. Located about a three-hour drive away, but much bigger than the one serving Canberra, the Sydney Airport welcomes over 40 million visitors each year and is especially popular with foreign travelers entering Australia from abroad. There are many rental car companies offering the option of picking up a car at this airport and dropping it off in Canberra.

Top sights and activities

• Parliamentary Triangle. This is the area home to Australia’s Parliament House, High Court, and other important legislative and judicial institutions. While some of these buildings can only be viewed from outside, others offer tours — for example, the old parliament house has been turned into the Museum of Australian Democracy. This area of the city is also home to the National Gallery of Australia, National Portrait Gallery, Questacon science and technology center, and other attractions.
• National Film & Sound Archive. One of the most interesting cultural institutions in the country, this museum hosts an impressive amount of TV, radio, cinema, gaming, and digital art recordings. While it’s impossible to get familiar with all of the stored material — that would literally take millennia — going on a self-guided tour is a fun experience. The archive also frequently hosts exhibitions and film screenings. 
• Australian National Botanic Gardens. While Canberra is near a number of nature reserves and national parks, nature can also be enjoyed without leaving the capital city at the National Botanic Gardens. Home to the world’s largest collection of living Australian flora, the gardens are a great place to enjoy a day among the greenery or visit one of the events or concerts that take place there. Other interesting nature-related attractions in Canberra include the National Arboretum, National Zoo and Aquarium, and Canberra Reptile Zoo.

Traffic and parking

• One of the largest road hazards in Australia is wildlife. Take extra caution when driving in bad weather or after dark as this is when most of the collisions with wildlife take place.
• Mobile coverage is very rarely available outside of major highways and population centers, so take extra caution when traveling in rural areas.
• Another great risk when traveling outside of main highways is the heat. The temperatures can reach extremes very easily, especially during the summer months and in inland areas. Always stay properly hydrated and plan your route in advance to be able to supplement your water supplies.
• Proof of insurance and the car’s documentation need to be in the car whenever you’re driving.
• When driving, you need to have your passport or ID card with you at all times.
• The primary, nationwide emergency number in Australia is 000. 

Ideas for day trips

• Namadgi National Park. One of the several national parks surrounding the Australian capital, Namadgi is known for its impressive peaks, eucalyptus growths, and highland meadows and fens. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife like several species of kangaroos and wombats, as well as various birds. Unfortunately, during the last few years, the area has experienced several wildfires, so make sure to look up a forecast if you’re visiting during the warmer months of the year (roughly from December to March). The drive from the center of Canberra to Namagdi takes about an hour.
• Snowy Mountains. Home to the highest peaks of mainland Australia, the Snowies are the best place in the country to get on skis or a snowboard and enjoy a wild ride down the slope. The Australian winter lasts roughly from June to October; in warmer weather, the area is a prime hiking destination. The drive from Canberra takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, so while it is possible to visit the area on a day trip, set aside two or three days if you can.
• Batemans Bay. Unlike most other large Australian cities, Canberra is not on the coast, but its inland location doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the ocean during your visit. The closest beach town is Batemans Bay, a small and cozy place known for its scenic beaches, many water sports opportunities, and access to the neighboring Clyde River, Deua, and Monga National parks. The drive from Canberra takes about two hours.

Car rental prices in Canberra

• Small cars - from $68 per day
• Medium cars - from $45 per day
• Large cars - from $38 per day
• SUVs - from $44 per day
• Vans - from $49 per day
• Station wagons - from $191 per day
• Premium cars - from $160 per day