The Sebel Canberra Civic

Hotel Description

You know, when I first rolled up to The Sebel Canberra Civic on London Circuit – right in the heart of the city, smack dab in that bustling Civic area – I was honestly relieved. I’d just driven in from Sydney, dodging those endless highway trucks, and parking in Canberra’s CBD can be a bit of a nightmare, especially during peak hours when everyone’s scrambling for spots near the bus interchange. But this place has its own undercover parking (for a fee, mind you – about 25 bucks a night), which saved me from circling the block like a lost tourist. The lobby’s got this sleek, modern vibe – think polished concrete floors that echo a little when you walk in, and a faint whiff of fresh coffee from the espresso machine they keep humming all day. Check-in was a breeze; the staff were chatty without being over-the-top, and they even tipped me off about the best time to hit up the nearby Lake Burley Griffin for a sunset walk – early evening, before the joggers take over.

What really sold me on the Sebel, though, was how it nails that balance between city convenience and a cozy escape. My room on the fifth floor overlooked London Circuit, which meant a bit of traffic hum in the mornings – nothing earplugs couldn’t fix, but fair warning if you’re a light sleeper. The bed was plush, like sinking into a cloud after a day exploring, and the bathroom had those rain showerheads that make you linger way too long (I mean, who doesn’t love that?). It’s a 4-star spot, rated around 8.4, which feels spot-on – not extravagant, but thoughtful touches like the kitchenette with a proper fridge and microwave came in handy for reheating leftovers from that amazing Thai joint on Bunda Street, just a five-minute stroll away. Honestly, being so close to the Canberra Centre for shopping or grabbing a bite at Gus’ Place – that iconic cafe with the best flat whites – made it easy to ditch the car and wander. Oh, and if you’re into politics or history, Parliament House is an easy 20-minute walk south, past the National Gallery; I timed it one afternoon and it was perfect for burning off breakfast.

All in all, I’d recommend The Sebel if you’re visiting Canberra for a mix of work and play – say, during the Floriade festival in spring when the city’s buzzing but you want a quiet spot to unwind. It’s not flawless; the Wi-Fi can lag a tad during busy evenings, and rooms might feel snug if you’re traveling with a lot of gear. But for the price and location, it’s a solid choice that feels authentically Canberra – central without the chaos, you know? If you’re heading there, book a higher floor for better views, and don’t skip the complimentary bikes they offer for zipping around the lake paths. Trust me, it’ll make your trip that much more memorable.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $167. Superior Queen Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $179. Executive King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $182. Superior Room with One Queen and One Single Bed with 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 3
• Estimated price from: $214. Family Apartment with 2 single beds and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 5

Reviews

• Good – Meyers from Australia – 8 July 2025 (7/10)

  The cleanliness of the room and room size
  
  What could be improved: The parking accessibility. Found it hard to always have to walk to and from car parking facilities made it really difficult.

• Overall lovely stay would definitely recommend it especially with fur babies – Kylie from Australia – 7 July 2025 (8/10)

  Lovely hotel and fantastic that its pet friendly. Comfortable bed hot shower and walking distance to the city centre.
  Coffee shop in the building
  
  What could be improved: The lack of hotel parking . Though they provide several options the easiest for us was the park at central shopping centre snd was a short walk. Capped at $3 per day on weekends. If youre lucky u can score a public park across the road

• Clean, quiet comfortable and a great central location – Peter from Australia – 7 July 2025 (8/10)

  Clean, quiet comfortable and a great central location
  
  What could be improved: Nothing really

• Good 👍 – Anthony from Australia – 28 June 2025 (8/10)

  Convenient location
  
  What could be improved: No carpark

• It was a great stay – David from Australia – 8 June 2025 (8/10)

  Comfy clean and great location
  
  What could be improved: Staff could be more professional

• Great – Peter from Australia – 8 June 2025 (9/10)

  Dog friendly
  
  What could be improved: Noise from bathroom , fan on all night didn’t turn off.

• Very good. – Josephine from Australia – 8 June 2025 (8/10)

  The location was ideal for shopping, eating nd catching the buses.
  
  What could be improved: complimentary water?

• Thank you – Nickie from Australia – 4 June 2025 (7/10)

  Staff
  Comfort
  Location

• Superb – Phil from Australia – 25 May 2025 (9/10)

  Good location, spacious room
  
  What could be improved: Parking is a bit of a chore

• Very good – Amir from Philippines – 24 May 2025 (8/10)

  Nice modern room. Clean. Comfortable bed.
  
  What could be improved: A little small. Parking very difficult and not on site. No pool.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities