Palko – Oasis in the City

Hotel Description

You know, when I rolled into Canberra last spring – right around that crisp September weather when the cherry blossoms are just starting to pop – I wasn’t expecting much from a hotel smack in the middle of Braddon. But Palko – Oasis in the City, over on 27 Lonsdale Street, totally surprised me. I mean, Lonsdale’s this buzzing strip in the inner north, lined with those trendy cafes like Rye and Mocan & Green Grout (grab a flat white there if you’re a coffee snob like me), and it’s just a quick stroll from the city center or even up to Mount Ainslie for a hike. Parking was a breeze, actually – they have a secure underground spot, which is gold in a place where street parking can be a nightmare during peak hours. Check-in was smooth as; the staff were these laid-back locals who chatted about the best spots for craft beer down the road, and honestly, it felt more like crashing at a mate’s place than some sterile hotel lobby. No long waits or awkward small talk – just keys in hand and up to the room in minutes.

What really hooked me was how this place lives up to its “oasis” name without trying too hard. The rooms are spacious, with these big windows letting in heaps of natural light – mine overlooked a little courtyard garden that muffled the street noise, which can get a bit rowdy on weekends with all the bars nearby (earplugs if you’re a light sleeper, but it wasn’t bad). The bed was ridiculously comfy, like sinking into a cloud after a day wandering around the National Gallery or Lake Burley Griffin – and don’t get me started on the bathroom; rain shower head, fluffy towels that actually smell fresh (none of that chemical hotel scent), and those little touches like locally sourced toiletries from some Canberra artisan. Breakfast downstairs is solid – think fresh avo on toast or eggs any way, served in this sunny atrium that feels worlds away from the urban hustle outside. Oh, and if you’re into wellness stuff, they’ve got a small gym and sauna – I squeezed in a session after a long drive from Sydney, and it was just what I needed. It’s not perfect, though; the Wi-Fi dipped a couple times in the evening when everyone was streaming, but nothing a quick reset couldn’t fix. Well, sort of – I ended up reading a book instead, which was a nice forced detox.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra for work or just to explore – maybe catching a show at the Canberra Theatre or hitting the markets in Kingston – Palko is that sweet spot of 4-star comfort without the pretentious vibe. At a 9.1 rating, it’s earned it; prices are fair, especially off-peak when the city’s quieter post-parliament sessions. I’d go back in a heartbeat – it’s got that genuine Aussie hospitality that makes you feel at home, even in the capital. Just book ahead for summer; it fills up fast with all the tourists flocking to Floriade.

Rooms

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

Reviews

• Great Location – Jennifer from Australia – 13 July 2025 (8/10)

  Great location and having parking

• Awesome location and Natalie and John were always quick to help where needed. – Anne from Australia – 6 July 2025 (9/10)

  Location and excellent living area – very quick reply and assistance from Natalie and John when requested.

• Great stay in the capital – Tatyanac from United Arab Emirates – 5 July 2025 (10/10)

  Tje apartment is located in the nice and quiet area. Plenty of restaurants to choose from.
  Chek in was fast and clear instructions were shared ahead of time
  The appartment is very clean and thoughtfully equipped with all essentials, tastefully decorated and beautifully designed.
  Beds are super comfortable.

• Highly recommended. – O'connell from Australia – 5 July 2025 (9/10)

  Very thorough instructions from the host. Good sized space and outstanding location.

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

  Super easy to self check in and perfect location. Super clean and beautiful decor in apartment.
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• Squeaky clean. Excellent accommodation and position in Canberra – Patricia from Australia – 19 June 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent location. Excellent accommodation. Squeaky clean. Clear instructions
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Superb – Lauren from Australia – 26 May 2025 (9/10)

  Good location, easy to access and very well maintained

• Great location, cosy quiet stay – Stacey from Australia – 25 May 2025 (9/10)

  Location was great, apartment was awesome, easy to access. Hosts were very helpful when contacted (we left something behind), would definitely stay there again
  
  What could be improved: No free to air tv – because we don't have streaming subscriptions we had no TV access at all – but also, was not the reason we were there. If it was a longer stay may be an inconvenience. Otherwise great stay!

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

  We loved the central position of the property and the apartment was clean and had everything we needed.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Fantastic location in centre of Civic, Canberra. Excellent inclusions and very high quality fittings – Robert from Australia – 28 April 2025 (8/10)

  Fantastic location. Self check in but owner’s instructions very clear and was easy to follow. Great to have free parking in centre of city. Spotlessly clean and had everything we could need.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities