Canberra

Canberra is unlike any other city in Australia — it was carefully planned and built from scratch over a century ago, born out of a friendly rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne, both of which wanted to be the country’s capital. The winning design came from an American husband-and-wife team, and many of the stunning detailed drawings were the work of Marion Mahony Griffin, one of the most talented architects of her time. Walking around Canberra today, you can still feel that sense of purpose and intention in every wide boulevard and open space.

At the heart of the city lies a beautiful artificial lake, perfect for kayaking or watching an enormous jet of water erupt high into the sky. Around it, world-class museums and galleries tell the story of Australia from its ancient Indigenous roots to the present day, while Parliament House — partly buried under a grassy hill — sits as a reminder that this is where the country’s big decisions are made.

Canberra is quieter and greener than Australia’s buzzing coastal cities, but that makes it feel special. It is a place built with a big idea in mind, and exploring it feels like uncovering that idea one landmark at a time.