Modern apt in heart of the city

Hotel Description

You know, when I first rolled up to the Modern Apt on Mort Street in Canberra’s Braddon neighborhood – that’s 42 Mort Street, right in the 2612 postcode – I was honestly a bit skeptical. I’d just driven in from Sydney, dodging those endless roadworks on the Hume Highway, and the last thing I wanted was some sterile city crash pad. But man, this place surprised me. It’s tucked away in that buzzing part of Braddon, where you can smell the fresh-roasted coffee wafting from Lonsdale Street’s hip cafes as soon as you step out (try The Cupping Room if you’re into your flat whites – it’s like a five-minute stroll). The building itself has this sleek, modern facade that blends right in with the area’s converted warehouses and street art, and check-in was a breeze – no front desk drama, just a code sent to my phone and boom, you’re in. I mean, it’s not a full-on hotel with bellhops or anything, more like a stylish apartment rental, but that’s what makes it feel authentic, you know? Parking’s street-side and can be a hunt during peak hours (especially on weekends when the markets are on), but I snagged a spot easily mid-week.

Inside, it’s all about that clean, contemporary vibe without trying too hard – think polished concrete floors that are cool underfoot on those humid Canberra summer days, and big windows letting in heaps of natural light. The place I stayed in had a decent-sized living area with a comfy sofa (perfect for crashing after a day at the National Gallery – which, by the way, is just a 15-minute walk across the lake if you cut through Commonwealth Park). The kitchenette’s equipped enough for whipping up a quick brekkie – there’s a Nespresso machine that saved my mornings – but honestly, with all the eateries nearby, like Brodburger for a juicy feed or Akiba for Asian fusion, I barely cooked. The bedroom was quiet, even with the faint hum of city traffic outside; Braddon’s lively at night with bars spilling out onto the sidewalks, but the double-glazed windows kept most of the noise at bay (though if you’re a light sleeper, earplugs might be your friend after 10pm). Oh, and the bathroom – spotless, with those rainfall showers that make you linger a bit too long. It’s rated 8.8 for a reason, and yeah, it’s four stars, but it feels more lived-in than luxurious, if that makes sense. I even spotted a little balcony where I sipped my evening wine, watching the sunset over the Brindabellas in the distance – total bonus for a city spot.

Look, if you’re heading to Canberra for work or just to explore (avoid January if you hate the heat; it’s brutal), this apt’s a solid pick. It’s smack in the heart without feeling overwhelming – you’re steps from the light rail to zip to the airport or Civic for shopping, and it’s way more affordable than those big chains down by the lake. Sure, the Wi-Fi dipped a couple times during my stay (nothing a reset didn’t fix), and it’s not ideal for big groups since space is cozy, but for solo travelers or couples, it’s spot-on. I left feeling like I’d actually experienced a slice of local life, not just passed through. You’d love it – trust me, next time you’re in town, give it a go.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $102. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Superb – Anggia from Australia – 9 December 2024 (9/10)

  not applicable

• Very good – Quan from Australia – 9 July 2024 (8/10)

  Great location
  
  What could be improved: The shower door was very squeaky. The ironing board was broken.

• Very good – Quan from Australia – 9 July 2024 (8/10)

  Great location
  
  What could be improved: Squeaky shower door

• Nice and modern with great location but wouldn’t stay again as not comfortable – Andrew from Australia – 19 September 2024 (6/10)

  Great location, clean, modern.
  
  What could be improved: Small and uncomfortable bed, very uncomfortable couch, no air flow as windows were locked.

• Exceptional – Ji from China – 8 June 2024 (10/10)

  地理位置优越，服务非常周到，房屋舒适温馨

• Superb – Nerida from Australia – 15 November 2024 (9/10)

• Exceptional – Harper from Australia – 30 October 2024 (10/10)

• Superb – Frances from Australia – 25 August 2024 (9/10)

• Very good – Amelia from Australia – 1 May 2025 (8/10)

• Superb – David from Australia – 7 February 2025 (9/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities