Palko – Stylish in the City

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Palko – Stylish in the City during a quick getaway to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it kind of surprised me in the best way. Tucked right on Lonsdale Street in Braddon – that’s that trendy inner-north suburb where all the cool cafes and boutiques are popping up – it’s got this sleek, urban vibe without trying too hard. I mean, pulling up to 27 Lonsdale, you’re basically steps from places like Mocan & Green Grout for your morning flat white or a stroll down to the lake if you fancy some fresh air. Check-in was a breeze; the staff were these laid-back locals who chatted about the best spots for craft beer nearby (try Bentspoke if you’re into that), and they sorted my room key in minutes. No fuss, no long lines – which is a godsend after driving in from Sydney, especially with Canberra’s traffic picking up around rush hour. The lobby smells faintly of fresh coffee and eucalyptus, like they’ve bottled that Aussie bush essence, and it’s got these funky art pieces on the walls that nod to the city’s design scene. Parking’s a bit of a squeeze on the street – typical for Braddon – but they have a secure spot out back if you book ahead.

What really sets Palko apart, though, is how it nails that balance of stylish and practical for a 4-star spot. My room was on the third floor, overlooking the bustle of Lonsdale – you can hear the faint hum of trams and chatter from sidewalk diners in the evenings, but it’s not overwhelming, especially if you crack open the window for that crisp Canberra air (which, fair warning, can get chilly even in spring). The bed was plush, with those high-thread-count sheets that make you sink right in, and the bathroom had this rain shower that felt like a mini spa after a day wandering around the National Gallery or Parliament House – both just a 10-minute drive or easy bus ride away. I appreciated the little touches, like the in-room Nespresso machine stocked with local blends and a mini-fridge that actually had space for your own snacks (handy if you’re grabbing goodies from the Braddon markets on weekends). It’s not massive – rooms are compact, sort of like a smart city apartment – but the design is clever, with mirrored wardrobes that make it feel bigger and these geometric patterns on the cushions that scream “modern Canberra.” Oh, and the Wi-Fi is lightning-fast; I streamed a whole movie without a glitch while munching on room service – their smashed avo on toast is legit, though a tad pricey at peak times.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra for work or just to explore – maybe catch the Floriade festival in September when the city’s blooming – Palko is a solid pick that lives up to its 8.9 rating without being pretentious. It’s not perfect; the gym’s on the smaller side if you’re a fitness nut, and breakfast can get crowded on weekends with all the locals popping in. But for the price, you get that authentic city buzz right at your doorstep, plus staff who’ll point you to hidden gems like the underground bars on Mort Street. I’d go back in a heartbeat – well, maybe book a corner room next time for extra quiet. Trust me, it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve got the inside scoop on Canberra’s stylish side. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $185. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Very good – Mark from United Kingdom – 10 July 2025 (8/10)

  Great apartment and great location for what we needed
  
  What could be improved: The lockbox is in a fairly awkward position which caused us a problem. Too low and right in the corner.

• It was great and I will definitely be back! Great accomodation – Keshia from Australia – 8 July 2025 (10/10)

  The location was amazing , beautiful apartment and the owners were great to deal with.

• Overall very good and would stay here again – Cristen from Australia – 5 July 2025 (8/10)

  The location was awesome, the apartment spacious and had most things we need, great parking and easy to access.
  
  What could be improved: We couldn’t find a bathplug for our kids to use the bath and one of the lounge area blinds wouldn’t go down. The shower was also missing a handheld shower head and a little tricky to use.

• Exceptional – Estela from Australia – 21 June 2025 (10/10)

  the whole place

• This is a great Appartment, fabulous location – Dee from Australia – 19 June 2025 (9/10)

  Location , balcony, spacious
  
  What could be improved: Need instructions for oven use
  More saucepans would be good

• Natalie was a great host. She came to our rescue when we accidentally locked ourselves out of the apartment even though – Nurul from Malaysia – 20 May 2025 (10/10)

  Great location. Walking distance to Canberra Center as well cafes and stores.

• Great location, clean & comfortable apartment with a responsive host. – Michelle from Australia – 12 May 2025 (9/10)

  The location as well as the responsiveness of Natalie when we had an issue with the fob for the parking. It was a delight to deal with her.

• Perfect place – Andrea from Australia – 22 April 2025 (10/10)

  Perfect place to stay. Has everything you need in the best location
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Enjoyable! – Alana from Australia – 16 April 2025 (10/10)

  The location was central. Underground parking.
  
  What could be improved: The broken blind on the sliding door.

• Perfect location to enjoy the city. – Jennifer from Australia – 11 April 2025 (8/10)

  Fabulous locations and kitchen was well appointed. Rooms are much smaller than they look and lighting was a little odd.
  
  Communication via the app wasn’t responded too but instruction for check in were clear and easy to follow.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities