Canberra is a city that surprises with its commercial offerings, a surprising mix of large shopping malls, vibrant markets, and unique design boutiques.
The Australian capital has developed a distinctive identity in shopping, where local talent and artisanal excellence meet major international brands. In this guide, we will explore the best areas, must-visit markets, and design stores that make Canberra an intriguing destination for shopping enthusiasts.
The Major Shopping Malls
Canberra Centre: The Heart of Shopping in the City
The Canberra Centre is the main shopping center of the capital and a landmark for shopping in the city . Located in the heart of the Civic shopping district, this center boasts over 200 stores, including department stores, international brands, and Australian boutiques . It is the ideal place for those seeking a complete and varied shopping experience. The center also hosts Tiger Lane, a food precinct with authentic Asian cuisine restaurants, perfect for a break during a shopping day .
Canberra Outlet Centre: Brands at Discounted Prices
For those looking for deals and affordable prices, the Canberra Outlet Centre in Fyshwick is the right destination . Here you can find clothing and accessory brands at discounted prices, in a modern and easily accessible environment.
Westfield Belconnen and Woden: Ceiling Centers
For those staying in the suburbs, the shopping centers Westfield Belconnen and Westfield Woden are two important commercial hubs serving their respective areas. With hundreds of shops, restaurants, and services, they are popular destinations for everyday shopping.
The Design Shopping Districts
Braddon: The Trendy Design and Fashion District
Braddon, just a short walk from the center, is the trendiest shopping area in Canberra . Its main street, Lonsdale Street, is lined with independent boutiques, art galleries, and design shops. Among the must-visit places are :
Hive Braddon: A curated store selling design items, handmade jewelry, ceramics, and sustainable accessories, a true treasure trove of local finds .
Pink Inc Braddon: Considered one of the best fashion boutiques in Canberra, it offers a curated selection of pieces from Australian and international designers .
KIN Gallery: A jewelry store showcasing unique pieces made by local artisans .
The Green Vine Plants: A shop specializing in rare and unique plants, perfect for those who love greenery .
Braddon is also the ideal place for a coffee break: the Lonsdale Street Roasters is an institution for specialty coffee lovers .
Kingston: Vintage, Crafts, and Markets
The neighborhood of Kingston, and in particular its lakeside, is another hub of creative shopping. The Designer Op Shop Emporium is a paradise for vintage and luxury second-hand lovers . Just a few steps away, Material Pleasures offers designer clothing from recent seasons at affordable prices . Don't miss the Canberra Glassworks, an art glass studio where you can admire and purchase unique glass works .
NewActon: Creativity and Contemporary Design
The neighborhood of NewActon is a cultural and creative hub, with boutiques that celebrate originality and contemporary design . The Ovolo Nishi, an iconic hotel in the area, is an example of local craftsmanship and often hosts events and markets showcasing the region's talent .
Fyshwick and Dairy Road: The New Creative Hub
Fyshwick, once an industrial area, is transforming into a vibrant creative hub. The neighborhood of Dairy Road is an example of successful urban redevelopment, with repurposed warehouses housing art galleries, artisanal chocolate shops, breweries, and design stores . Here you can find boutiques like Jasper + Myrtle for artisanal chocolates and 42Lines for handmade stationery .
The Canberra Markets
The markets are an experience not to be missed in Canberra, where you can breathe in the authentic atmosphere of the city and purchase fresh produce and local crafts .
Old Bus Depot Markets: The Sunday Market par Excellence
With over 180 stalls, the Old Bus Depot Markets in Kingston are the most famous and beloved markets in Canberra . They are held every Sunday in a charming industrial building and offer an extraordinary variety of products: clothing, jewelry, art, home goods, and a wide selection of gourmet food .
Capital Region Farmers Market: The Producers' Market
Every Saturday morning, the Exhibition Park (EPIC) hosts the Capital Region Farmers Market, the largest producers' market in the region . With over 100 stalls, it is the ideal place to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, artisan bread, cheeses, honey, and local products directly from the growers .
The Little Burley Market: Gourmet Market by the Lake
On the first Saturday of every month, the shores of Lake Burley Griffin come alive with the Little Burley Market, a gourmet market offering high-quality food and artisanal products in a breathtaking setting . It is the perfect place for breakfast or lunch with a view of the lake.
Other Markets to Explore
Haig Park Village Markets: Every Sunday in Braddon, a lively market with fresh produce, street food, and live music in a tree-lined park .
Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets: Open from Thursday to Sunday, an indoor market for fresh food shopping and gourmet specialties .
Handmade Market: A seasonal market (four times a year) with over 200 exhibitors of Australian crafts, fashion, and design . It also offers an hour of "low sensory" shopping for people with mobility difficulties or sensory sensitivities .
Shopping in Museums
The museums in Canberra offer curated shops with unique and high-quality items . The shop of the National Gallery of Australia is renowned for its designer products and limited editions . Also Questacon, the Royal Australian Mint and the National Arboretum have well-stocked shops with themed items .
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Shopping in Canberra
What are the best areas for shopping in Canberra?
The best areas are the city center (Civic) with the Canberra Centre, the trendy neighborhood of Braddon for independent boutiques, Kingston for vintage and crafts, and the new creative hub of Dairy Road in Fyshwick.
When are the main markets held in Canberra?
The main markets are held on the weekend. The Capital Region Farmers Market is on Saturday morning at EPIC . The Old Bus Depot Markets and the Haig Park Village Markets are held on Sunday .
Where can I find local crafts and design in Canberra?
In Braddon, in shops like Hive and KIN Gallery; in NewActon; and in Kingston at the Old Bus Depot markets .
Are there indoor shopping malls in Canberra?
Yes, the main one is the Canberra Centre in the heart of the city . There are also the shopping centers of Belconnen and Woden in the suburbs .
Are there quality second-hand markets in Canberra?
Yes, the Designer Op Shop Emporium in Fyshwick offers a wide selection of vintage and second-hand clothing . Also, Material Pleasures specializes in designer clothing from recent seasons .
Which fashion stores are recommended in Canberra?
Pink Inc Braddon is a highly regarded boutique for its curated selection of Australian and international fashion . The shops in Braddon also offer many options.
Is it possible to shop for souvenirs in Canberra?
Yes, the Canberra Centre has many souvenir shops, and stores like POP Canberra in Braddon specialize in locally themed gifts .
Shopping in Canberra
Shopping in Canberra is an experience that reflects the soul of the city: creative, curated, and surprising. From large shopping centers like the Canberra Centre, where you can find all the most well-known brands, to vibrant markets like the Old Bus Depot Markets, where local crafts and fresh products take center stage, to trendy neighborhoods like Braddon and the new Dairy Road hub, the capital offers a range of possibilities for all tastes. Each area has its own personality, and shopping in Canberra also means exploring its most authentic neighborhoods. The focus on design, local products, and unique experiences makes shopping in the capital a pleasant and rewarding activity, leaving room for the discovery of talents and authentic flavors.
To best organize every aspect of your trip to Canberra, from discovering the best neighborhoods to planning your museum visits, consult our Complete Guide for Holidays in Canberra. You will find all the information to have an unforgettable experience in the Australian capital.
Review date: March 15, 2026