Meriton Suites Canberra

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Meriton Suites Canberra during a quick work trip last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those spots that makes you rethink what a hotel stay can be like in the capital. Pulling up to 40 Allara Street – right in the thick of things, just a stone’s throw from the bustling Civic area – I was already impressed by how easy it was to find. No circling for ages like you sometimes do in busier parts of Sydney; here, it’s all straightforward, with that underground parking garage that’s a lifesaver if you’re driving in from the airport (which, by the way, is only about 10-15 minutes away on a good day). Check-in was a breeze – the staff were chatty but not over-the-top, handing over my keycard with a quick rundown of the Wi-Fi and where to grab a coffee nearby. The lobby has this sleek, modern vibe, all polished floors and big windows letting in that crisp Canberra light, though I did notice a faint whiff of whatever they’re using to clean – sort of fresh and citrusy, which beats that stale hotel smell you get elsewhere.

What really sets this place apart, though – and I mean this as someone who’s bounced around a few spots in Canberra – is how it feels more like a swanky apartment than a standard hotel room. My suite was massive, with a full kitchen (hello, actual dishwasher and stovetop for whipping up brekkie without relying on room service), and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Allara Street and bits of Glebe Park across the way. You can literally stroll out the door and be at the edge of Lake Burley Griffin in under 10 minutes, perfect for those early morning jogs or just wandering to the National Gallery if you’re into that cultural fix. The beds are ridiculously comfy – think plush pillows that don’t go flat overnight – and there’s an indoor pool and gym that I actually used, which is saying something because I’m usually too lazy. Noise-wise, it’s pretty quiet midweek, especially since it’s not right on the main drag like Northbourne Avenue, but come weekends, you might hear a bit of chatter from the bars on Bunda Street filtering up. Oh, and pro tip: if you’re here during parliamentary sitting weeks, book ahead – the place fills up with suits, and the elevators can get a tad crowded in the mornings.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra for business or just to explore – maybe catch the Floriade festival in September when the whole city blooms – I’d say Meriton Suites is a solid pick. It’s got that 5-star polish without feeling stuffy, and with a rating like 8.9, it’s clear others agree. Sure, the rates can creep up during peak times, and I wish the coffee machine in the room was a notch better (it does the job, but nothing fancy), but honestly, waking up to those views and stepping out into the heart of it all makes it worth it. You won’t regret basing yourself here – it’s like having a home base that lets you dive right into what makes Canberra tick, from the quiet paths around the lake to grabbing a bite at those hidden gems on Lonsdale Street.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $147. One Bedroom Mini Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $154. Studio Luxury Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $161. One bedroom Luxury Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $535. One Bedroom Executive Loft Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $261. Two Bedroom Luxury Suite with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 4
• Estimated price from: $500. Three Bedroom Luxury Suite with 3 × 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 6
• Estimated price from: $957. Penthouse Apartment with 3 × 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 6

Reviews

• Great – Elaine from Australia – 12 July 2025 (10/10)

  Location was great, friendly staff
  
  What could be improved: Access to coffee/tea station in the reading area downstairs(which was lovely)

• Excellent – will definitely book Meriton whenever we can. – Belinda from Australia – 11 July 2025 (8/10)

  Toiletries were great – size of room was fantastic
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Close to the city centre and comfortable – David from United Kingdom – 11 July 2025 (9/10)

  All as expected
  
  What could be improved: Didn’t offer breakfast

• Exceptional – Adam from United Kingdom – 10 July 2025 (10/10)

  Just really excellent in all aspects. Reception got cab to airport on departure day, apartments are amazing, pool there etc
  Great

• Great location and well set up for a small group or large family – Mark from Australia – 10 July 2025 (9/10)

  Loved it and thought the property was great
  
  What could be improved: Nothing come to mind

• Overall the hotel was good. Shame about what was happening around – Alix from Australia – 9 July 2025 (9/10)

  Good location
  
  What could be improved: The noise from the construction right outside our window but yet I paid the same amount as someone that would of had a room on the other side of the building where they wouldn’t of had the same noise

• It is friendly staff and good location. – Xuliang from Australia – 7 July 2025 (8/10)

  Location
  
  What could be improved: Need more space for car park

• Great location with spacious, stylish and well appointed facilities – Lloyd from New Zealand – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  Great central location. Very spacious & comfortable unit with kitchen and laundry facilities. Stylish decor with plenty of seating. Could walk to Mall. Friendly staff

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

  The hotel was very nice , comfortable and very clean

• Definitely be back to Meriton again. Worth the money! – Crystal from Australia – 5 July 2025 (8/10)

  Great location.
  Short distance to shoppings and restaurants.
  Friendly and professional staffs
  Room is nice and good size, beautiful layout.
  It provides tea, coffee and cooking utensil.
  Nice pool and spa.
  
  What could be improved: Bed is too soft for my liking.
  It’s a bit challenge for kid to flush the toilet because the button is too hard to press.
  Car park entry is small.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities