Una delle prime cose che si notano arrivando a Canberra è la sua natura spaziosa e ordinata, una città progettata per essere vissuta senza lo stress del traffico delle grandi metropoli .
Getting around Canberra is surprisingly easy and offers a range of options that suit every travel style, from the flexibility of a car to the enjoyment of a bicycle, to the efficiency of public transport. This guide will take you through all the alternatives for moving around the Australian capital, helping you choose the one that best fits your needs.
Getting to the City: From the Airport to the Center
Before exploring the city, it is useful to know how to reach the center from the airport. Canberra Airport (CBR) is only 7 km from the bustling heart of the city, a significant advantage for those arriving by flight . Once landed, the options for reaching the center are varied and quick.
Bus: The Rapid 3 line connects the airport to the City Interchange in the city center with departures every 15 minutes on weekdays and every 30 minutes on weekends. The journey takes less than 20 minutes . Payment is possible through the MyWay+ system (with contactless credit card or app) or with paper tickets available from vending machines .
Taxi and Ride Sharing: At the terminal exits, you will find convenient areas dedicated to taxis (like ACT Cabs) and ride-sharing services like Uber, DiDi, and Ola .
Car Rental: All major car rental companies have offices both at the airport and in the city, offering maximum flexibility for those who want to explore Canberra and its surroundings independently .
Getting Around the City: Options Compared
Once settled, you will discover that the compact size of Canberra and its urban planning make every movement enjoyable.
Public Transport: Buses and Light Rail
Canberra's public transport system, managed by Transport Canberra, is modern, expanding, and designed to be accessible to everyone .
Buses: The bus network covers the entire city and all suburbs, with frequent service. The "Rapid" lines are the main ones, ensuring passages at least every 15 minutes during peak hours . The fleet is becoming increasingly electric, in line with the city's sustainability goals .
Light Rail: The current line connects the northern district of Gungahlin to the city center (Civic) along Northbourne Avenue, with frequencies of up to 5 minutes during peak hours . A major new development is the Phase 2A of the light rail, currently under construction, which by 2028 will extend the line to Commonwealth Park and, in the future, to Woden, creating a true north-south axis for the city .
Payment and Tickets: The MyWay+ System
The payment system is unified and simple: MyWay+. To use buses and light rail, you have several options :
The most convenient for visitors is "tap on and tap off" with a contactless credit or debit card, or via smartphone or smartwatch.
Alternatively, you can download the MyWay+ app and purchase a digital ticket, or buy a physical MyWay+ card at authorized retailers .
Car: Freedom on the Road
Renting a car is a popular choice and offers maximum freedom, especially for exploring attractions outside the city like wineries or nature reserves.
Advantages: The roads in Canberra are famous for smooth traffic, and even the so-called "rush hour" is more like a brief stream than a raging river . Finding parking is generally easy, with many paid and free areas throughout the city .
Rental and Accessibility: Rental agencies are available both at the airport and in the city center . For those driving an electric car, Canberra is one of the most "EV-friendly" cities in Australia, with a high density of charging stations .
Getting Around Sustainably and Actively
Canberra is a paradise for those who love to get around on foot, by bicycle, or on an electric scooter. The city boasts the largest network of bike paths in Australia, extending over 40 km around the lake and branching out into all neighborhoods .
Bicycle: In addition to dedicated paths, many bicycles are equipped with bike racks, and 90% of buses are equipped for them . You can rent a traditional bike or an e-bike through apps like Airbike .
Electric Scooters: Services like Beam and Neuron provide fleets of e-scooters throughout the city, perfect for short trips .
On Foot: Many of the main attractions, such as those in the lake triangle, are easily reachable on foot, making walking a pleasant and healthy way to discover the city .
Other Options: Taxi, Ride Sharing, and Tours
For those who prefer not to drive, taxis and ride sharing are always available. It is important to remember that in Canberra it is not common to hail a taxi on the street; it is better to book them via app or phone . For visitors who want a hassle-free option, the tourist bus Red Explorer Loop offers a hop-on, hop-off service that connects major attractions like the War Memorial and the National Gallery .
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Transportation in Canberra
How does payment work on public transport in Canberra?
The payment system is called MyWay+. You can pay simply "tap-and-go" with your contactless credit card, smartphone, or smartwatch. Alternatively, you can use the MyWay+ app or a physical prepaid card .
Is it necessary to rent a car in Canberra?
It is not strictly necessary if you stay in the city center and visit the main attractions, many of which are within walking or biking distance. However, renting a car is strongly recommended for exploring the suburbs, the wineries of the wine region, Namadgi National Park, or hiking outside the city with total freedom .
What are the public transport options from the airport to the city center?
The bus line Rapid 3 connects the airport to the city center with services every 15 minutes (weekdays) and takes about 20 minutes. Taxis, ride sharing (Uber, DiDi), and car rentals are also available .
Is the light rail in Canberra expanding?
Yes. The Phase 2A, currently under construction, will extend the line from the center to Commonwealth Park, with three new stations. Its opening is expected in early 2028 .
Is it safe to ride a bike in Canberra?
Yes, Canberra is considered one of the most bike-friendly cities in Australia. It has a vast network of shared bike paths and dedicated lanes, making it a safe and pleasant city for cycling .
Transport in Canberra
Whether you prefer the freedom of a car, the convenience of public transport, or the pleasure of a bike ride along the lake, Canberra is a city that facilitates movement. Its urban planning, investments in sustainable infrastructure, and its compact size make it one of the most accessible and enjoyable capitals to explore. Plan your travels according to your itinerary: for a stay in the heart of the city and visits to museums, you can do without a car; to discover the hidden gems of the surroundings, the car will give you the freedom you seek. Canberra awaits you with its open roads and green paths, ready to provide you with a stress-free journey.
To make the most of every aspect of your trip—from choosing accommodation to discovering all the attractions—consult our Complete Guide to Canberra Holidays. You will find all the information you need for an unforgettable stay in the Australian capital.
Review date: July 1, 2026