Canberra Accommodation Centre

Hotel Description

You know, when I rolled up to the Canberra Accommodation Centre on Northbourne Avenue – that’s that main drag heading north out of the city, always buzzing with trams and folks commuting from the suburbs – I wasn’t expecting much from a 3-star spot. But honestly, it surprised me in a good way. I got there around dusk after a long drive from Sydney, and the check-in was a breeze; the front desk guy was this laid-back local who chatted about the best spots for a quick coffee in Braddon, just a short walk away. The lobby’s nothing flashy – think functional with a few armchairs and that faint, clean smell of fresh linen mixed with whatever they’re brewing in the vending machine – but it felt welcoming, like crashing at a mate’s place rather than some sterile chain. My room was on the second floor, overlooking the avenue, and yeah, there’s a bit of traffic hum in the evenings, especially during rush hour when everyone’s heading home from Parliament House or the uni, but it quiets down after 8 pm. I mean, if you’re a light sleeper, ask for a back-facing room – they mentioned those are quieter, facing the little courtyard garden that’s surprisingly green for Canberra’s dry vibe.

What really sets this place apart, though, is how it’s positioned for exploring without breaking the bank. You’re literally steps from the light rail stop that zips you to Civic or down to Lake Burley Griffin in under 10 minutes – perfect if you’re here for the museums or a quick hike around the water (pro tip: go early morning to beat the tourist crowds in summer). The rooms are basic but spotless; mine had a comfy queen bed with those crisp white sheets that actually feel cool against your skin after a hot day, a mini-fridge that hummed softly (not annoyingly), and a bathroom with decent water pressure – none of that dribbly shower nonsense. Breakfast isn’t included, but there’s a communal kitchen area where you can whip up your own eggs, and I grabbed some fresh bread from the Dickson shops nearby, which are a five-minute stroll and packed with Asian groceries if you’re into that. Oh, and parking – it’s free on-site, which is a godsend in Canberra where street spots vanish during events like Floriade in spring. Sure, the decor’s a tad dated – think beige carpets and those generic landscape prints – but for the price, it’s solid value. Staff were great too; one evening I asked about bike rentals, and they hooked me up with a place in O’Connor that does cheap hires for the paths around Mount Ainslie.

All in all, if you’re popping into Canberra for a weekend or a work trip and don’t need the fancy bells and whistles, this spot’s a smart pick. It’s got that unpretentious charm that makes you feel like you’re actually experiencing the city, not just passing through. I’d go back – well, maybe not for a romantic getaway, but definitely for something low-key. Rating-wise, that 7.7 feels spot on; it’s reliable without trying too hard, and in a town that’s all about understated efficiency, that’s saying something.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $92. Standard Double Room with Shared Bathroom with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $102. Standard Family (Twin) Room with Shared Bathroom with 1 single bed and 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $118. Superior Double Room with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $146. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $267. Two Bedroom Apartment – Ground Floor with 1 double bed and 2 bunk beds for Max persons: 3
• Estimated price from: $467. Four Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 single bed and 2 × 1 double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Very good – Ella from United Kingdom – 19 June 2025 (8/10)

  Good value for money. Great location, short walk to restaurants/shops. Comfortable rooms. Communal bathrooms clean.

• Very good – Valerie from Malaysia – 10 May 2025 (8/10)

  Great location. Close proximity to tram. Nearby a weekend market. Quiet neighbourhood. Convenient check in and check out. Staff helped with the storage of my luggage. Clean shared bathroom with hot shower.
  
  What could be improved: No heater in room, prolly it’s because it’s not winter yet, but I wish it could be turned on, 10 degrees at night was cold enough for me.

• Brief stay and the room was clean, staff very helpful – David from New Zealand – 9 May 2025 (8/10)

  Great location
  Good value for money
  
  What could be improved: Quite noisy

• Very good – Arif from Kuwait – 30 April 2025 (8/10)

  The staff is polite. Rooms are clean. Onboarding is so nice, and checkout is also. Other hotels should learn something from them
  
  What could be improved: The price is bit expensive rest all good.

• Cosy and covenient for central Canberra – Mark from United Kingdom – 19 April 2025 (9/10)

  Room was nicely heated on arrival on a chilly Canberra evening. Receptionist was very friendly and helpful. Towels were fluffy. Bed was comfy.
  
  What could be improved: All was fine

• Very good – Gardner from Australia – 15 April 2025 (8/10)

  the room was great and staff was great
  
  What could be improved: nothing my stay was great experience

• Clean, great location – Imogen from Australia – 4 April 2025 (9/10)

  Clean room and amenities in a great location. The tram stop is just outside which takes you right into the city or it was also a short walk. Plenty of parking and a great little kitchenette where you have use of a fridge and tea/coffee making supplies. Our room was on the smaller size, but for the price it was definitely worth it.

• Great base and exceptional value for money. – Amanda from United Kingdom – 26 March 2025 (9/10)

  Great value for money not far from public transport. It was also possible to self cater here.
  
  What could be improved: A little further out from the museums, than we first thought.

• Excellent place – really enjoyed my stay here! Would return again if visiting Canberra. – Asif from United Kingdom – 10 March 2025 (9/10)

  Very good value for money. Quite close to main shops (15-20 mins walk) and near to the tram stop. Quiet and comfortable stay. Staff were helpful and welcoming, allowing an earlier check-in. Although the bathroom was shared there was never a problem waiting. The laundry facility was very handy. There is a relaxed vibe about the place and I enjoyed my time here.
  
  What could be improved: There is no breakfast but there are a couple of cafes reasonably close by. There is a little bit of noise from the road but I can't say I had trouble sleeping.

• Good place for a few nights or if travelling for work – Bianca from Germany – 4 March 2025 (8/10)

  Super helpful staff in the morning when I asked to drop off my luggage (and a asked a million other things); clean rooms
  
  What could be improved: Location is okay, not much around though

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities