Quest Canberra

Hotel Description

You know, I ended up at the Quest Canberra kind of by accident last spring – I was in town for a quick work thing and needed something central without all the fuss of a big chain hotel. It’s tucked away on West Row, right in the heart of Civic, which is basically Canberra’s downtown vibe. Honestly, pulling up after a long drive from Sydney, I was relieved to find parking wasn’t a nightmare – they’ve got secure spots underground, though it can get tight during peak hours when everyone’s rushing to the nearby offices or the lake. Check-in was a breeze; the staff were these laid-back Aussies who chatted about the best coffee spots on Bunda Street (pro tip: try the flat white at that little cafe around the corner – it’s worlds better than the hotel’s machine brew). The lobby’s got this modern, apartment-style feel – not too flashy, with some comfy couches and that faint new-carpet smell that says “clean but not sterile.”

What really sold me on the place was how it felt like a home base in a city that can sometimes come off as a bit too planned and polished, you know? My room was one of those serviced apartments – spacious, with a full kitchenette that came in handy for whipping up breakfast from the markets at Old Bus Depot (that’s a Sunday must if you’re into fresh produce and quirky stalls). The bed was firm but comfy, and the bathroom had those rain shower heads that make you linger a little too long – though, fair warning, the water pressure dips if everyone’s showering at once in the evenings. It’s rated 8.1 for a reason; it’s solid four-star stuff without pretending to be luxury. I mean, you’re steps from Lake Burley Griffin – I took evening walks along the paths, hearing the water lap and the occasional magpie call, which beats staring at traffic. Noise-wise, it’s pretty quiet after dark since West Row isn’t party central, but if you’re a light sleeper, grab a room facing away from the street; the odd tram ding from London Circuit can sneak in. Oh, and during Canberra’s festival season in March, it books up fast – I lucked out, but plan ahead if you’re hitting Floriade or something.

All in all, if you’re visiting Canberra for the sights – like Parliament House or the National Gallery, both an easy 10-minute stroll or Uber away – Quest is a smart pick. It’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the far corners of the building, and breakfast options are basic unless you cook your own. But honestly, for the price and that authentic, lived-in feel, it’d be my go-to again. You get that balance of convenience and comfort without feeling like just another tourist trap – plus, waking up to those crisp Canberra mornings with a view of the Brindabellas in the distance? Totally worth it. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $141. Studio Apartment for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $165. Studio Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $181. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $194. Executive One-Bedroom Apartment with Balcony with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $303. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 single beds and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Very good – Elleygrace from Australia – 5 July 2025 (8/10)

  Very friendly and helpful staff. Excellent location …walking distance to restaurants and shopping. Very clean and comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: The noise from the bar, "PJs" downstairs played music each night. It wasn't too bad…it finished at 10pm and we had the tv on to block it out.

• Lovely apartments in the Heritahe Melbourne Building of Civic – Richard from Australia – 26 June 2025 (8/10)

  Very central Civic location in lovely Heritage Melbourne Building
  
  What could be improved: A bit costly

• Good working apartment – Allen from Australia – 19 June 2025 (8/10)

  location
  parking close by but paid
  
  What could be improved: cold
  dark

• Very good – Matoyla from Australia – 30 May 2025 (8/10)

  Large comfortable rooms
  Very accommodating staff
  Excellent location

• a great stay in an old comfortable and spacious hotel in sensational location. – Paul from Australia – 28 May 2025 (9/10)

  Nice big room & balcony, clean and comfortable, a bit dated.

• Location was great, accommodation comfortable – Sue from Australia – 13 May 2025 (8/10)

  The room was very comfortable, facilities in the were very good.
  The balcony of our room could have been made more inviting with plants and a bit of colour.
  
  What could be improved: Unfortunately we came at a time were there was major road construction @night near the Quest , sleeping was very hard,

• Very good – Karen from Australia – 11 May 2025 (8/10)

  What could be improved: The lift noise was a little concerning

• Very good – Keith from Australia – 2 May 2025 (8/10)

  Location was excellent.
  Staff friendly and helpful.
  Facilities in the apartment.
  
  What could be improved: Somewhat dated.
  Some mould in the grout of the shower.

• Spacious apartment, would stay here again – Mark from Australia – 26 April 2025 (9/10)

  Perfect and central location in walking proximity to good quality Bars, restaurants and museums etc.
  Staff very friendly and helpful. Parking at the rear, very handy. Fantastic balcony for room 7. Excellent value for money.
  
  What could be improved: Noisy lift while it's under repair – we were only 1st floor so we just used stairs.
  The odd bit of noise through the evening, from downstairs pub, but understandable if you want to stay in a central location like this one.

• Superb – Alexander from New Zealand – 26 April 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, comfortable and clean room, very helpful staff.
  
  What could be improved: N/a

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities