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Canberra’s public transport system is huge. With over 60 bus services and an ever-expanding light-rail network, it has never been easier to explore events around the city. There’s only one thing that could make it even better—between September and November 2024, you can travel for free.
Read on to find out why and check out our suggestions for the trendiest places you can roll up to without spending a cent.
The details
How do I catch a free ride?
Whether you’re seeking international masterpieces or something more local, the National Gallery of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery will have you inspired. These visionary spaces are located next to each other in the beautiful Parkes Precinct by Lake Burley Griffin.
Trade paints for flowers with a stroll over to the rose gardens at Old Parliament House before checking out the Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize at the National Archives of Australia.
Entry: Free
Getting there: Bus routes 2 and 6, hop off on Parkes Place East outside the John Gorton Building
Spend a Sunday morning at the Old Bus Depot Markets where quirky stall holders sell their wares in an airy, colourful setting. Next door, catch a free tour of the historic Canberra Glassworks, before heading down to Eastlake Parade to people-watch along the busy waterfront.
If you have a group, hiring a GoBoat is a fun, affordable way to see a different side of Canberra (if you don’t mind getting a little bit wet)!
Getting there: Bus routes 2 ,6, 56 and 182—get off on Wentworth Avenue right outside the Old Bus Depot Markets
Canberra’s free public transport initiative arrives just in time for Australia’s biggest celebration of spring. Floriade returns for its 37th year, offering activities such as cultural celebrations, horticultural workshops, live entertainment and market stalls. Centrally located in Commonwealth Park, Floriade is one of the easiest places to travel to on Canberra’s public transport system.
Entry: Free
Getting there: Bus routes 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 57, 58, 180 and 181, get off on Commonwealth Avenue at Regatta Point
For the metropolitan-minded, fill your day with window shopping on Lonsdale Street in the trendy Braddon Precinct. Upmarket boutiques are interwoven with busy bakeries and ultra-cool coffee places along this strip. If you’re around on a weekend, sample the best from Canberra’s foodies and farmers at the Haig Park Village Market.
Getting there: Bus route 31, jump off at Torrens Street outside Haig Park or catch light rail route 1 and get off at Elouera Street
If you’re up for a challenge, make the climb to the summit of Mount Ainslie and be rewarded with some wonderful views. The trail begins on Treloar Crescent just behind the Australian War Memorial, which offers some incredible sights of its own.
Getting there: Bus route 54, hop off on Limestone Avenue next to the Australian War Memorial
For a full list of routes and timetables, check out Transport Canberra’s website.
Learn more about study options at UC and start your international study journey.
E international@canberra.edu.au
P +61 2 6201 5342
UC acknowledges the Ngunnawal people, traditional custodians of the lands where Bruce campus is situated. We wish to acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of Canberra and the region. We also acknowledge all other First Nations Peoples on whose lands we gather.