Palko – Luxury In the City

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Palko – Luxury In the City during a quick trip to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it kind of surprised me how it nailed that sweet spot between fancy and approachable. It’s tucked right on Lonsdale Street in Braddon – that buzzing little pocket north of the city center where all the cool cafes and craft breweries have popped up over the years. I mean, if you’re into that hipster vibe, you’re steps away from places like Rye Cafe for a killer flat white or The Hamlet for some street food on weekends. Pulling up in my rental car (parking’s a bit of a squeeze on the street, but they have a small valet setup that saves the hassle), the facade looks sleek and modern – all glass and clean lines, nothing over-the-top flashy like some of those big-chain spots down near Civic. Check-in was a breeze; the staff were these laid-back locals who chatted about the best walking paths around Lake Burley Griffin, which is just a 10-minute stroll away if you cut through the back streets. My room on the third floor had this plush king bed that felt like sinking into a cloud after a day exploring the National Gallery – soft linens with that faint, fresh lavender scent from whatever laundry magic they use. And the bathroom? Marble counters, rain shower, the works – though, fair warning, the water pressure dips a tad during peak hours in the morning when everyone’s rushing for breakfast.

What really sets Palko apart, though, is how it feels like a proper escape without isolating you from the action. I spent one evening on their rooftop terrace – it’s not huge, but the views over the rooftops toward Mount Ainslie are stunning at sunset, especially with a glass of local shiraz from their bar (they source from nearby Canberra wineries, which is a nice touch if you’re into that). The on-site restaurant does these inventive Aussie fusion dishes – think grilled kangaroo with native spices – and it’s not pretentious at all; prices are reasonable for a 4-star joint, around $40 for a main. Rooms are kitted out with all the mod cons: fast Wi-Fi that actually holds up for video calls (handy if you’re there on business, like I was part of the time), a mini-fridge stocked with complimentary sparkling water, and even noise-cancelling earplugs on the nightstand – smart, because Lonsdale can get lively with bar-hoppers on Friday nights. That said, it’s not perfect; the gym’s on the smaller side, more for a quick treadmill session than a full workout, and if you’re a light sleeper, request a room facing away from the street to avoid the occasional scooter buzzing by. But overall, it’s got this warm, textured feel – think exposed brick accents in the lobby that nod to Braddon’s old warehouse history, mixed with contemporary art from local artists.

Look, if you’re heading to Canberra for a mix of culture and chill – maybe hitting the War Memorial or just wandering the autumn leaves in the botanic gardens – Palko is a solid pick. It’s not the cheapest (rooms start around $250 a night in off-season), but with that 8.9 rating, you get what you pay for: luxury that feels genuine, not forced. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in the quieter winter months when the city’s less crowded and you can snag a deal. Just pack layers – Canberra’s weather can turn on a dime!

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $181. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 single bed for Max persons: 3

Reviews

• Superb – Alana from Australia – 1 July 2025 (9/10)

  Very comfortable and well located.

• Exceptional – Tania from Australia – 30 June 2025 (10/10)

  The location was perfect for us. The apartment was really nice with a lovely living area.

• Great place.would highly recommend – Paul from Australia – 16 June 2025 (10/10)

  Awesome location. Clean and convenient.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. The property was perfect for what I was after and I would definitely book it again

• Comfortable, attractive digs in an ace location. – Mo from Australia – 10 June 2025 (10/10)

  Location is brilliant — loads of restaurants and cafes on your doorstep, and an easy walk into the centre. Nice outlook, funky decor, comfy bed and good shower. Easy to follow instructions for checkin, and great to have a car space.
  
  What could be improved: Very minor: It'd be great to have somewhere to hang towels, and to have the tea etc offerings restocked. And a second set of keys might be useful for some people (we were fine with one set).

• Clean apartment. Great location. Very comfortable. – Marcus from Australia – 22 May 2025 (8/10)

  Great location
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Superb – Greg from Australia – 19 May 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, modern apartment & secure parking.

• Our stay was great, we were very comfortable in the apartment. – Greg from Australia – 16 May 2025 (9/10)

  It was a modern, clean apartment with secure parking. It is in a great location.

• Exceptional – David from New Zealand – 16 May 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent location!

• Great stay in the centre of Canberra – Damien from Australia – 6 May 2025 (10/10)

  Great location, clean and large size apartment.

• Very good – Nicole from Australia – 8 April 2025 (9/10)

  Very happy with everything just getting the key seemed very difficult for me.
  
  What could be improved: Locked key box

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities