Novotel Canberra

Novotel Canberra Overview

I’ve stayed at Novotel Canberra a few times now, and honestly, it’s one of those places that grows on you. At first glance, you might think it’s just another business hotel – and yeah, it definitely caters to the suit-and-tie crowd given how close it is to Parliament House and all the government buildings. But there’s actually more character here than you’d expect from a chain property.

The thing that struck me most was how the staff genuinely seemed to know Canberra inside and out. I mean, when I asked about getting to the Australian War Memorial without dealing with tourist crowds, the front desk guy didn’t just point me toward a map – he told me exactly which entrance to use and what time of day the lighting is best for photos. That kind of local insight you can’t fake. The rooms themselves are pretty solid too, though I’ll be honest, the views vary wildly depending on which side you’re on. If you can swing it, try to get something facing the lake direction – the sunset views are actually spectacular when the weather cooperates, which in Canberra can be hit or miss.

What really sets this place apart is how it handles the weird rhythm of the capital. You know how Canberra empties out on weekends when all the public servants head back to Sydney or Melbourne? Well, the hotel actually embraces that – the restaurant gets more relaxed, the bar becomes this surprisingly cozy spot where you’ll find locals mixed in with the few tourists, and the whole vibe just shifts. I remember one Sunday evening, the bartender was telling stories about politicians he’d served over the years (nothing scandalous, unfortunately), and it felt more like hanging out at a neighborhood pub than being stuck in a sterile hotel. The breakfast situation is pretty typical Novotel standard – decent coffee, good spread of options, though they do this interesting thing with local honey that’s worth trying. Parking is straightforward, which matters more in Canberra than people realize, and you’re walking distance to some genuinely good restaurants that most visitors never find because they stick to the obvious touristy spots near the parliamentary triangle.

To book hotel in Canberra during the famous Floriade spring festival, visitors should make reservations well in advance as the capital attracts nature lovers and political enthusiasts from around the world.

Novotel Canberra Accommodations

Reviews of Novotel Canberra

• 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