Novotel Canberra

Hotel Description

You know, I stayed at the Novotel Canberra last winter when I was down there for a quick work trip mixed with some sightseeing – it’s right on Northbourne Avenue, smack in the middle of things, which is super handy if you’re trying to hit up places like the National Gallery or wander over to Lake Burley Griffin for a chilly morning walk. Honestly, pulling up to the place, it’s got that solid, no-nonsense vibe – not flashy like some of the newer spots popping up around Braddon, but reliable, you know? Check-in was a breeze; the staff were friendly without being over-the-top, and they sorted me out with a room upgrade because it was off-peak (Canberra gets pretty quiet mid-year, outside of those parliamentary sitting weeks when everything books up fast). The lobby smells like fresh coffee from their little bar area – nothing fancy, but it hits the spot after a long drive from Sydney. Oh, and parking – they have an underground spot, but it’s a bit tight if you’ve got a bigger car; I ended up using the street options nearby, which are metered but not too bad if you time it right.

Diving into the room, mine was on the higher floors with a view over the avenue – you can hear a bit of traffic hum in the evenings, especially if you’re sensitive to noise, but it wasn’t enough to keep me up (earplugs helped, though). The bed was comfy, sort of that plush hotel standard with crisp white sheets that feel like they’ve been ironed by pros, and the bathroom had those rainfall showers that make you linger a little longer. They’ve got a small indoor pool and sauna downstairs – I snuck in a swim one morning, and it was blissfully empty, water heated just right against the Canberra cold. Breakfast buffet? Solid, with fresh croissants and decent eggs, but if you’re a foodie, I’d say skip it and head to Mocan & Green Grout in NewActon for something more local and vibey – it’s only a 10-minute stroll away. The place is 4-star, sure, but it feels a tad dated in spots, like the carpets could use a refresh, and the Wi-Fi was reliable but not lightning-fast. Still, for families or business folks, it’s got that Accor chain consistency – kids’ play area in the lobby, and the rooms are spacious enough for unpacking without feeling cramped.

All in all, if you’re looking for a spot that’s central without breaking the bank – we’re talking around $150-200 a night depending on the season – the Novotel’s a smart pick. It’s not going to wow you with luxury, but it gets the job done well, especially if you’re using it as a base to explore the War Memorial or catch a show at the Canberra Theatre (both an easy bus ride or Uber from Northbourne). I mean, with a 7.1 rating, it’s honest value – some folks gripe about the decor, but I appreciated the straightforwardness. Would I go back? Yeah, probably for another quick visit; it’s got that familiar feel that makes traveling less stressful. Just pack layers for those frosty nights!

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $145. Standard Queen Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $145. Accessible Room with 1 Queen Bed with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $147. Standard Double Room with Two Double Beds with 2 double beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $151. Standard King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $155. Executive King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $155. Standard King Room with Balcony with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $166. Executive Room with 1 King Bed And 1 Double Sofa Bed with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $179. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Very good – Maria from Australia – 10 July 2025 (8/10)

  The Pool, the buffet and the location
  
  What could be improved: I know we were a last minute booking, but our family of 5 were split which made things awkward for us. So maybe some more clarification when booking so its not assumed that our rooms would be together would have been greatly appreciated

• Good value room but difficult in terms of parking. – Margaret from Australia – 8 July 2025 (7/10)

  Good value for money. Good room standard. Good location. The breakfast buffet was okay too and included in our room price.
  
  What could be improved: We were on level 2 near the pool so lots of noise all day from kids running past and screaming keen to get to the pool. We also found the parking expensive, with not many spots available.

• Very good – Tracey from Australia – 7 July 2025 (8/10)

  Location was excellent, staff were friendly and helpful. Beds were comfy and my room was spacious.
  
  What could be improved: Breakfast was okay food was only warm, not hot and queues to get in.

• We had a great time in Canberra just a lack of sleep due to noise from people upstairs and children running up and corri – Jennie from Australia – 30 June 2025 (7/10)

  Was very close to shops and restaurants
  
  What could be improved: Our room was next to the pool area and was noisy. Rooms need an update, bathrooms look very old

• Very good – Kerrie from Australia – 2 June 2025 (8/10)

  Good value for $$. Bed and pillows very comfy. Great location
  
  What could be improved: Hotel needs a spruce up.

• Great overall – Phillip from Australia – 21 May 2025 (8/10)

  Really nice
  
  What could be improved: The service in the dining room was a bit poor. I felt neglected after the main meal when wanted to order a coffee and perhaps dessert

• Very good – Eva from Australia – 17 May 2025 (8/10)

  A bit dated. But the location was perfect
  
  What could be improved: Old

• My stay at Novatel for Canberra Marathon. – Jacob from Australia – 11 May 2025 (7/10)

  great location, nice staff and facilities!.
  
  What could be improved: The lack of parking downstairs and how expensive it is really drives up the price and makes it inconvenient if you come for late check-in and all the spots are gone.

• Good – Mike from Australia – 1 May 2025 (7/10)

  Breakfast and the comfy bed
  
  What could be improved: Parking was bad and over priced

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

  The pool and proximity to CBD
  
  What could be improved: The pool was too cold for a heated pool

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities