Where is the capital of Australia? Which city is it? Many people might blurt out: Sydney! However, although Sydney is Australia's largest city by area and population, it is not the capital of Australia! In fact, the capital of Australia is Canberra!!!
More than 100 years ago, Canberra was still a barren land, and it was not until 1840 that it gradually developed into a small town. In 1901, the Australian federal government was established, and they faced a dilemma: should the capital be Sydney or Melbourne? Consequently... Sydney and Melbourne argued endlessly over this.
The federal government, unable to tolerate the situation any longer, decided to cut the Gordian knot: they would establish a new capital between the two cities in a place with favorable weather and beautiful natural scenery! That place is Canberra.
Today, Canberra is surrounded by mountains and water, with various green spaces and diverse wildlife, resembling a large garden. At the very center of Canberra lies Parliament House. Australia's Parliament House is one of the few in the world open to the public, where visitors can explore the fine art collections inside. The National Museum, the National Gallery, and the National Library are also located here, offering a feast of art.
The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is one of the city's grandest festivals. Canberra is one of the few cities that allows hot air balloons to fly so close to government buildings; therefore, taking a hot air balloon ride has become a unique way to tour the Australian capital.
Rows of colorful hot air balloons of various shapes drift from the lawn in front of Parliament House into the dawn sky. You can overlook iconic national buildings from above, drift over the sparkling waters of Lake Burley Griffin, and watch the city's parks framed by rows of autumn trees, taking in the picturesque scenery.
Every March, the entire city of Canberra is illuminated, allowing you to enjoy beautiful scenery and delicious food in a vibrant, colorful world.
Whether you enjoy seeking excitement in bars, beer gardens, or clubs; exploring art in museums, libraries, and galleries; tasting delicacies in cafes and eateries; or getting close to nature in parks, lawns, and forests... Canberra has it all arranged for you.