Mantra MacArthur Hotel

Hotel Description

You know, I rolled into Canberra last spring, right around Floriade time when the city’s bursting with tulips and tourists, and I needed a spot that wasn’t going to break the bank but still felt like a proper base. That’s when I checked into the Mantra MacArthur Hotel on Northbourne Avenue in Turner – it’s that long, straight drag heading north from the city center, super handy if you’re driving in from the airport (takes about 15 minutes, no sweat). Honestly, first impressions? The lobby’s got this modern, no-fuss vibe – think sleek tiles underfoot and those big windows letting in the afternoon light, with a faint whiff of fresh coffee from the little cafe area. Check-in was a breeze; the staff were chatty Aussies who sorted me out in under five minutes, even threw in a tip about avoiding the peak hour traffic on nearby Barry Drive if I was heading to the War Memorial. Parking’s underground and secure, which is a godsend in a place like Canberra where street spots vanish faster than you can say “kangaroo” – though fair warning, it can get a bit tight during events, so snag a spot early.

What really sold me on the place was how it balanced comfort with that practical edge you need when you’re exploring. My room was on the higher floors, overlooking Northbourne – yeah, there’s some traffic hum in the evenings, but nothing earplugs couldn’t handle, and the double-glazed windows kept it mostly quiet (I slept like a log after a day traipsing around Lake Burley Griffin). The bed was plush, with those crisp white sheets that feel like they’ve been ironed by angels, and the bathroom had a rain shower that actually had decent pressure – none of that dribble you get in some hotels. Amenities-wise, there’s a gym that’s small but functional (I squeezed in a quick treadmill session before breakfast), and the on-site restaurant does a solid brekkie buffet with fresh croissants and eggs any way you like ’em. It’s not fancy-schmancy, mind you – the decor’s a bit corporate, like they’ve gone for efficiency over flair – but for a 4-star joint, it punches above its weight. Oh, and if you’re into self-catering, some rooms have kitchenettes; I whipped up a simple pasta one night using stuff from the nearby Dickson shops, which are just a 10-minute walk up the road. Minor gripe? The Wi-Fi can be spotty in the corners, so don’t plan on streaming your shows without a hiccup.

All in all, if you’re hitting Canberra for the sights – like popping over to Parliament House (a quick 10-minute drive south) or wandering the National Gallery – this place is a smart pick without the pretension. It’s got that reliable, unassuming charm that makes you feel settled, especially in cooler months when the city’s quieter and you can snag deals. I’d go back in a heartbeat for a no-drama stay; just remember, it’s more about convenience than luxury, you know? At a 7.6 rating, it’s honest value – not perfect, but it gets the job done with a smile.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $114. Studio Room for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $134. Deluxe Studio for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $142. Executive Studio for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $167. One-Bedroom Suite for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $189. One-Bedroom Deluxe Suite for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $234. Two-Bedroom Suite for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $315. Two-Bedroom Deluxe Suite for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Quite good. The breakfast buffet and dinner facilities are very reasonable. I was able to invite friends over for dinner – Robert from Australia – 14 July 2025 (7/10)

  Very comfortable. As I was only 2 nights stay I didn’t need housekeeping.

• Good & comfortable – Keith from United Kingdom – 10 July 2025 (9/10)

  New hotel nice size room comfortable bed. Right by 4th stop on light railway from centre of the City
  
  What could be improved: Maid service was not in the price which is fine for 2 days but longer & you would need it especially if 2 persons !

• Very Comfortable – Helen from Australia – 6 July 2025 (9/10)

  The cleanliness was good
  
  What could be improved: Na

• Comfortable short stay – Susan from Australia – 26 June 2025 (8/10)

  Great breakfast! Convenient restaurant. Comfortable bed and quality TV in a compact room.
  
  What could be improved: Bit out of the way but tram not far. Liquid soap in the shower was empty – forgot to mention it.

• Very good location close to Canberra CBD, would recommend you not bring a car – Stephen from Australia – 10 June 2025 (8/10)

  The room and location was very good, excellent position near places I wanted to visit and near public transport. Very quiet, able to rest peacefully, and the continental breakfast was very good.
  
  What could be improved: Car parking was not what I expected. Once I understood how the parking system worked, it was okay, but I would have preferred that there would have been enough underground secure parking so as not to have to park on the street.

• Excellent position, close to the tram – Clive from Australia – 2 June 2025 (8/10)

  booking in, room servicing and the breakfast
  
  What could be improved: No laundry on site and evening meal menu could be a bit more extensive

• Nice place to stay in Canberra – Greg from Australia – 27 May 2025 (8/10)

  comfortable, convenient/walking distance to Dickson, tram stop at the door
  
  What could be improved: more pillows (only one each provided), as the building is set back from the corner, a little more visible/eye level signage on the corner would be useful (Text instructions sent in advance were great… however not referrable whilst you are driving)

• A comfortable and clean hotel outside the city zone. – Peter from Australia – 20 May 2025 (9/10)

  Relaxed lounge area to sit with friends. Same at breakfast.
  
  What could be improved: Could be better soundproofing of rooms.

• Superb – Dewit from Australia – 29 April 2025 (9/10)

  Everything
  
  What could be improved: Parking

• Very good – Jessica from United Kingdom – 29 April 2025 (8/10)

  The staff were very friendly and helpful and I liked the size of the room and the layout. Good for a short stay and to come back to after visiting the city. Breakfast was an additional cost but it had a lots of variety and was very good.
  
  What could be improved: The bathroom was in need of a bit more attention and perhaps an upgrade but not too bad.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities