Deco Hotel Canberra

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon the Deco Hotel Canberra kind of by accident last spring – I was in town for a quick work trip and needed something central without the hassle of downtown parking wars. It’s right there on Northbourne Avenue, that main drag heading into the city from the north, at number 214, and honestly, pulling up felt like stepping back into some stylish 1930s film set. The facade has this subtle art deco flair – think geometric patterns on the windows and a sleek entrance that doesn’t scream for attention but just pulls you in. I mean, Canberra can feel a bit sterile sometimes with all its planned-out vibes, but this place adds a dash of personality without trying too hard. Check-in was a breeze; the staff were these laid-back locals who chatted about the best spots for a flat white in nearby Braddon – you know, that trendy suburb just a short walk away with its cafes and street art. No long lines or stiff formalities, and they even hooked me up with a room upgrade because it was a quiet weekday.

What really won me over, though, was how the hotel nails that balance of comfort and cool without feeling pretentious. My room was on the third floor, overlooking the avenue – yeah, there’s a bit of traffic hum during rush hour (it’s a busy road connecting to the airport and all), but the double-glazed windows muffled it nicely, and come evening, it was dead quiet. The bed? Oh man, one of those plush pillow-top numbers that makes you sink in just right, with crisp white linens that smelled faintly of fresh lavender – none of that over-starched hotel stiffness. They’ve got these little deco-inspired touches everywhere, like brass lamps and geometric rugs, but it’s all modernized with fast Wi-Fi, a decent mini-fridge stocked with local beers (try the Capital Brewing ones if you’re into IPAs), and a bathroom that’s actually spacious enough to move around in. Breakfast downstairs in their cafe was a highlight – fresh avo on toast with poached eggs that were spot-on, and the coffee machine hummed away with that rich, nutty aroma filling the air. If you’re into fitness, there’s a small gym with views of the avenue, or you can borrow bikes to cruise down to Lake Burley Griffin, which is maybe a 10-minute pedal south. It’s not huge, but it’s functional, and I appreciated the free yoga mats – sort of a thoughtful nod to travelers who need to unwind after a day at the War Memorial or Parliament House.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra and want a spot that’s got that 4.5-star polish without the corporate blandness, Deco Hotel is a solid pick. It’s rated a 9 for good reason – practical location means you’re steps from the light rail stop for easy hops to the city center or Dickson for Asian eats, and parking’s undercover and secure (a godsend in a place where street spots vanish fast). Sure, it might not have the flashiest pool or spa – it’s more of a boutique vibe – but for the price, it feels like a steal. I left feeling like I’d found a little gem in an otherwise buttoned-up capital; next time I’m back, that’s where I’m booking. You should too, especially in autumn when the leaves on Northbourne turn all golden – makes the whole stay even more picturesque.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $163. King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $190. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $211. Executive One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $264. Accessible Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4
• Estimated price from: $377. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed, 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 5

Reviews

• Exceptional – `chris from Australia – 13 July 2025 (10/10)

  Clean and spacious
  
  What could be improved: Price

• Very relaxing vibe about the place and everything was just as we had hoped. – Julian from United Kingdom – 11 July 2025 (10/10)

  A very well presented hotel with great staff and also in an ideal position for exploring Canberra.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. It was great.

• Great hotel. – Amanda from United Kingdom – 10 July 2025 (9/10)

  Very modern. Clean. Parking facilities. Very comfortable bed.
  
  What could be improved: It’s a little out of town but great for what we wanted.

• Excellent – Greg from Australia – 9 July 2025 (9/10)

  Modern
  Clean and quiet and comfortable
  EV charger onsite

• Exceptional – Candy from Australia – 7 July 2025 (10/10)

  very clean
  
  What could be improved: Smart TV doesn't have app required

• Fabulous place to stay, always so clean and comfortable and staff are always so friendly, welcoming and efficient. – Tracey from Australia – 7 July 2025 (10/10)

  Close to everything and always so clean and comfortable
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Exceptional – Muhammad from Australia – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  Location and facilities
  
  What could be improved: Parking area is limited

• 4 day weekend in Canberra- perfect location and choice and value for two people sharing. – Bronwyn from Australia – 30 June 2025 (9/10)

  Comfortable bed. Location. Street parking, bar and room amenities. Nespresso, robes, room and balcony.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Great staff yummy food – Nigel from Australia – 30 June 2025 (9/10)

  Staff were all lovely. Nice and tidy. Food was good.
  
  What could be improved: Paying $15 extra to park my car in there garage overnight… that was the only option

• Loved staying at the deco. – Sienna from Australia – 22 June 2025 (10/10)

  Clean room friendly staff
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities