1BR City Apt-Parking&View& Homey

Hotel Description

You know, when I rolled into Canberra last spring for a quick work trip mixed with some sightseeing, I wasn’t expecting much from a place called 1BR City Apt-Parking&View& Homey – sounds a bit like a classified ad, right? But honestly, pulling up to 20 Allara Street in the heart of Civic, I was pleasantly surprised. It’s tucked right in that bustling area near London Circuit, where you’ve got easy access to the Canberra Centre for shopping or grabbing a coffee at one of those hidden laneway spots like Mocan & Green Grout (their flat whites are killer, by the way). Check-in was a breeze – no fuss with a front desk; it’s more like an Airbnb setup where you get a code texted to you, and boom, you’re in. I mean, after a long drive from Sydney, that was a godsend. The building itself has that modern apartment vibe, not too flashy, but clean and secure, with an elevator that actually works without the usual creaks you get in older spots.

What really won me over was how homey it felt inside – it’s a proper one-bedroom setup, not some sterile hotel room. The living area had this cozy couch that I sank into after a day wandering around Lake Burley Griffin, and the kitchen was stocked with basics like a Nespresso machine and even some local teas (shoutout to the Canberra region blends). The view from the balcony? Oh man, you get these sweeping looks over the city towards Mount Ainslie, especially at dusk when the lights start twinkling – perfect for that evening glass of wine. And parking! In Civic, where spots are like gold dust during peak tourist season (think summer when everyone’s hitting the galleries), having your own secure spot downstairs was a lifesaver. No circling blocks like I did once near Glebe Park. It’s not dead quiet at night – you might hear a bit of street noise from Allara if there’s a event on at the nearby theater, but nothing that kept me up; the double-glazed windows do a decent job. Well, sort of – I did crack one open for that fresh, crisp Canberra air, which smells faintly of eucalyptus in the mornings.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra and want something that feels like a local’s pad rather than a chain hotel, this place is a solid choice. It’s rated about 8.4 for a reason – comfortable, practical, and right where you want to be without breaking the bank. I’d go back in a heartbeat, maybe in autumn when the leaves turn and the crowds thin out. Just pack light; the closet space is ample but not huge. You know what? It made my trip feel less like work and more like a mini escape – that’s saying something in a city that’s all about politics and monuments.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $190. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Very convenient and comfortable stay. – David from Australia – 16 November 2024 (8/10)

  The proximity to shops, restaurants and other entertainment is excellent. The accomodation is spacious and more comfortable compared to many hotels. The view is excellent. The air-conditioning is quiet and effective. The host (Jane) is extremely helpful and responsive to messages and calls.
  
  What could be improved: The check-in process of collecting the keys and parking seemed overly complicated. It was also difficult to park near the building initially to access the key lock box.

• Cozy,clean and near shops. – Deborah from Australia – 14 July 2024 (9/10)

  Location and cleanliness

• excellent et comfortable – Alina from Australia – 29 April 2024 (9/10)

  The location was ideal, situated right in the heart of the city, making it convenient to explore all the attractions. The cleanliness of the place was impeccable, which was a big plus for our family of four, including two adults and two kids.
  One of the highlights of our experience was the well-equipped kitchen. Having everything we needed right at our fingertips made us feel right at home.
  We would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay while exploring the city of Canberra.

• Centrally located apt, ideal for Floriade – Susan from Australia – 29 October 2023 (9/10)

  Perfect location, close to city centre, transport and Floriade. Nice view from balcony.
  
  What could be improved: Only issue was induction cooktop. Stove top didn't work, and replacement portable one turned on once and then switched off during cooking. I gave up and used the oven. Management was keen to help, but it needs to be fixed.

• Superb – Simoncheong from Australia – 25 September 2023 (9/10)

  Location & cleanliness
  
  What could be improved: Parking system

• Had a lovely overnight stay in a conveniently located clean, warm and comfortable apartment. – Bathie from Australia – 24 August 2023 (9/10)

  Great central location across the road from the Casino. Close to cafes and attractions. Very clean, warm and comfortable unit with nice views across the city. Onsite parking.

• amazing – Tim from Australia – 14 June 2023 (8/10)

  great location beautiful view free parking
  
  What could be improved: na

• The apartment was very comfortable and well located. – Annette from Australia – 21 May 2023 (9/10)

  location and cleanliness
  
  What could be improved: the parking was very difficult especially due to roadworks and entrance to garage. Fortunately a very kind person walking down the street was able to help us.

• Good – but difficult to find and access. – Bell from Australia – 4 December 2024 (7/10)

  The apartment was good and clean. It met all my expectations. The people I spoke to on the phone were helpful.
  
  What could be improved: It is good to speak with someone face to face and have that person meet you and show you how things work. I am not good with technology and found dealing with someone remotely was difficult.

• Confotable – Mayas from Australia – 9 March 2025 (10/10)

  Big and clean
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities