Little Drifter Canberra

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Little Drifter Canberra during a quick work trip last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those spots that just clicks – not flashy or over-the-top, but solid and welcoming in that understated Aussie way. It’s tucked right on Akuna Street in the heart of Civic, which means you’re basically steps from the Canberra Centre for grabbing a flat white or some last-minute shopping on Bunda Street. I mean, if you’re into that lakeside vibe, a short stroll gets you to Lake Burley Griffin – perfect for an early morning jog or just watching the rowers glide by when the mist is still hanging low. Parking was a bit of a hassle, though; the underground lot fills up fast during peak hours, especially on weekends when folks flood in for events at the National Gallery or whatever’s on at the Convention Centre. But once I handed over the keys to the valet (yeah, they have that), check-in was a breeze – the staff were chatty without being pushy, and they even hooked me up with a room upgrade because I mentioned it was my first time in Canberra. The lobby has this cozy, modern driftwood aesthetic, with that faint eucalyptus scent wafting from some diffuser, which sort of grounds you after a long drive from Sydney.

What really sold me on the place was how it balances that four-star polish with little thoughtful touches that make you feel like you’re crashing at a mate’s stylish pad rather than some impersonal chain. My room on the third floor overlooked a quiet courtyard – well, quiet until the birds kicked off at dawn, but that’s Canberra for you, all that green space bleeding into the city. The bed was plush, with those crisp white linens that actually stay cool even in the summer humidity, and the bathroom had rain showers that hit just right after a day traipsing around Parliament House (pro tip: book tickets early if you’re going during school holidays; it gets mobbed). They’ve got a small gym and a rooftop terrace that’s gold for sundowners – I spent an evening up there with a local craft beer, chatting to some travelers about the best hikes in Namadgi National Park, which is only about 40 minutes south if you’re keen on escaping the urban hum. Food-wise, the on-site cafe does a mean brekkie – think smashed avo on sourdough, nothing fancy but fresh and hearty – though if you’re after more variety, wander over to Glebe Park for food trucks on Fridays. Oh, and the Wi-Fi? Blazing fast, which was a lifesaver for catching up on emails without that frustrating lag you get in some older spots around here.

All in all, with its 8.2 rating, Little Drifter feels like a smart pick for anyone who wants to dive into Canberra without the stuffiness of those big-name hotels near the lake. It’s not perfect – the rooms can feel a tad compact if you’re traveling with a lot of gear, and noise from Akuna Street traffic sneaks in if you’re a light sleeper – but that’s minor compared to how it nails the essentials. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in autumn when the leaves turn and the city’s at its chilliest, most charming self. If you’re planning a trip, book ahead; it books out quick during festivals like Floriade. Trust me, it’s the kind of place that leaves you feeling refreshed, not just rested.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $105. Private Compact Queen Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $118. Private Twin Ensuite Room with 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $141. Private King Ensuite with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $154. Private Family Ensuite Room with 1 double bed and 2 bunk beds for Max persons: 4
• Estimated price from: $208. Entire 4 Bed Dorm with 4 bunk beds for Max persons: 4
• Estimated price from: $403. Entire 8 Bed Dorm with 8 bunk beds for Max persons: 8
• Estimated price from: $412. Entire 8 Bed Ensuite Dorm with 8 bunk beds for Max persons: 8
• Estimated price from: $492. Entire 10 Bed Dorm with 10 bunk beds for Max persons: 10
• Estimated price from: $58. Bed in 10 Bed Dorm with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $60. Bed in 8 Bed Dorm with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $60. Bed in 8 Bed Female Dorm with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $61. Bed in 8 Bed Ensuite Dorm with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $62. Bed in 4 Bed Female Dorm with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $62. Bed in 4 Bed Dorm with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1

Reviews

• Great location, facilities, and a seamless check-in. The staff were super helpful and I met some kind people staying her – Charles from United Kingdom – 9 July 2025 (8/10)

  Location, facilities, staff.
  
  What could be improved: Shower temperature could have been more consistent.

• Easy accommodation for Canberra attractions. – Justine from Australia – 4 July 2025 (9/10)

  .the location great. Check in online before- easy.
  Great design for dormitory with the little curtains. Friendly staff
  Great communication about lifts not working
  Fun movie night.
  Nice clean kitchen and facilities.
  
  What could be improved: I think there could be some hooks and shelving at the sinks in the female bathroom. Very difficult to put your vanity bag down to clean teeth and do m ake up. As sink area is too small and wet.

• Superb – Mohammed from India – 3 July 2025 (9/10)

  Staff, cleanliness, roop top, bed & common area
  
  What could be improved: It’s takes 15 mins for the hot water and it was 0 degrees when i was there

• Superb – Siro from Switzerland – 26 June 2025 (9/10)

  Great facilities and lovely staff, for an affordable price
  
  What could be improved: Even though it was the cheapest in Canberra at the time, it isn't that cheap in comparison to any other major city in Australia

• Very good – Ally from New Zealand – 10 June 2025 (8/10)

  Facilities were very nice and up to date. the rooms were also very spacious, with good curtains etc on each bed. The fridge and pantry bins are a very good addition.
  Did feel 100% comfortable with a character in my initial room and they were super accommodating and easy to change.
  
  What could be improved: My room initially wasn't ready, which is totally okay, was able to leave my bags. Came back and there was a very long line to check in (I had already checked in online, downloaded the app etc to "save time"). Some of the staff weren't the friendliest.

• Central and cosy – Elizabeth from Australia – 3 June 2025 (9/10)

  Cosy and clean
  
  What could be improved: Rooms were not well insulted from noise (even walk/doors closing) in the hallway.

• Great! – Helen from Australia – 26 May 2025 (9/10)

  New, fresh, quality facilities. Comfy bed, dutiful staff members at reception. Love the interior deco too.
  
  What could be improved: Parking is a challenge as it's in the central

• Very good – Tsai from Australia – 9 May 2025 (8/10)

  The room was clean, and the curtains provided good privacy.
  
  What could be improved: The bathroom's hot water supply was not great — it took a while for hot water to come through, and there was no hot water at the sink.

• Superb – Alixe from Australia – 4 May 2025 (9/10)

  The location is perfect, near everything you need !
  the fast check-in was very good because i arrived at 8 am.. the staff is very friendly, they help you if you need anything !
  
  The kitchen is very huge, you store your food in different fridges !!
  
  The bedroom i took a bedroom of 8 (girls only), it is really nice and cosy, very huge also
  
  What could be improved: Maybe add some salt and pepper in the kitchen

• Great stay, fully recommend. – Ramya from India – 13 June 2025 (9/10)

  The bathroom was outfitted very well, there were sufficient numbers. The staff were courteous and immediately responded to complaints. Standard bunk beds with storage space beneath the bed. There were also USB cable slots and two plug points beside every bed. Location fantastic.
  
  What could be improved: The beds are a bit too springy and the doors automatically shutting is too loud everywhere. Other than that, no complaints.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities