Parliament House
Australia's iconic Parliament House, a marvel of contemporary architecture offering insights into democracy and stunning Canberra views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer school groups
Parliament House
Best Time
Fewer school groups
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Australia's iconic Parliament House, a marvel of contemporary architecture offering insights into democracy and stunning Canberra views.
"A must-visit landmark that showcases outstanding architecture and offers a fascinating glimpse into Australia's political history."
🎯 Free Entry & Tours
Entry is free! Book guided tours online for a deeper understanding of the building and its history.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast building and its exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Hall
Main building
Marvel at the impressive 10-meter high tapestry and the stunning architecture of this central gathering space.
Rooftop Views
Rooftop
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Canberra, including Lake Burley Griffin and surrounding landmarks.
Parliamentary Chambers
House of Representatives and Senate
Witness where Australia's laws are debated and made. Guided tours offer insights into the workings of government.
Exhibits and Art
Corridors and galleries
Discover fascinating exhibits on Australian history, democracy, and a diverse collection of parliamentary art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Explore Beyond the Chambers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visiting parliament house
🎯 Free Entry & Tours
Entry is free! Book guided tours online for a deeper understanding of the building and its history.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast building and its exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
You're help would be appreciated!
Visiting Canberra next week and to get an idea I picked up my favorite travel writer Bill Bryson. What did I read? It roasts this city!
📸 Rooftop Photo Ops
Don't miss the incredible panoramic views of Canberra from the rooftop. :camerawithflash:
📚 Learn Australian History
Engage with the exhibits and narratives to gain insights into Australia's political journey. :books:
Parliament House tours
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry & Tours
Entry is free! Book guided tours online for a deeper understanding of the building and its history.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast building and its exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Rooftop Photo Ops
Don't miss the incredible panoramic views of Canberra from the rooftop. :camerawithflash:
📚 Learn Australian History
Engage with the exhibits and narratives to gain insights into Australia's political journey. :books:
🚗 Parking Information
Parking can be tricky; look for visitor parking signs upon arrival. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Parliament House for its impressive architecture, rich historical exhibits, and the opportunity to witness Australian democracy firsthand. The free entry and panoramic rooftop views are significant highlights. Some minor points of improvement mentioned include the cleanliness of toilets and clearer signage for parking.
"It was a wonderful experience to visit the building where important decisions are taken and the country is run. The exhibits in the corridors and narratives besides them give an insight into the history.
We visited on a weekday and there were quite many school groups.
Entry is free. A visit is highly recommended!"
Helen Thomas
"Visited Canberra how come we can miss this place.
Had a wonderful experience of visiting parliament house and being a migrant it's very important to indulge in the history and observe the political culture so whats better then can be of visiting parliament house.
Had the opportunity to watch a documentary which showed the efforts it was made to construct this amazing structure.
Viewing role of various women being able to served on a higher level was very good and brief history about each elected prime minister was very knowledgeable.
Saw a rare script of a constitution and how it was preserved was exceptional.
Had also opportunity to visit rooftop where you can have amazing views.
My kids aged 12 and 9 enjoyed a lot so overall we had a wonderful experience
You can also sit in between as there are seats available in corridors.
Toilets can be cleaner and parking should be more visible for the visitors."
Solly
"Dropped by Parliament House for a quick visit during our trip to Canberra. Really impressed by how grand it is and the beautiful surroundings. The building’s design is pretty cool, and I love that it’s open for tourists to explore. Nice to see democracy up close like that!"
ThuyBich NGO
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parliament House is located on Capital Hill in Canberra. You can drive and find visitor parking, or take a local bus service. Taxis and rideshare services are also readily available.
Yes, there is visitor parking available. However, it can get busy, especially on weekdays with school groups. Look for clearly marked visitor parking areas. :car:
If you are staying in the city center, it's a pleasant walk up Capital Hill, offering scenic views along the way. Allow about 30-45 minutes for the walk from the CBD. :walking:
Several ACTION bus routes service Parliament House. Check the Transport Canberra website for the most up-to-date route information and timetables. :bus:
Parliament House is designed to be accessible. Lifts are available to all public areas, and accessible parking is provided. :wheelchair:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Parliament House is free for all visitors. You can explore many public areas and exhibits without a ticket. :ticket:
While you can walk in and explore public areas, booking a guided tour in advance is highly recommended to get the most out of your visit. Check the official Parliament House website for tour schedules and booking.
Parliament House is generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours can vary on public holidays or during parliamentary sittings. It's best to check the official website for the most current opening times. :clock1:
Yes, you can observe debates in the House of Representatives and the Senate from the public galleries when Parliament is sitting. Check the parliamentary sitting schedule online. :eyes:
Yes, visitors will undergo security screening upon entry, similar to airport security. Please check the website for a list of prohibited items. :lock:
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the Great Hall, visit the parliamentary chambers' public galleries, enjoy rooftop views, and discover numerous art installations and historical exhibits throughout the building.
Yes, there is a Parliament House shop where you can purchase souvenirs, books, and gifts related to Australian democracy and history. :gift_heart:
Absolutely! Parliament House is a great educational experience for children. Many exhibits are engaging, and the rooftop views are always a hit. Families often report their kids enjoy the visit.
Yes, free guided tours are available and highly recommended. They provide valuable context about the building's architecture, history, and the parliamentary process.
Parliament House is renowned for its unique architecture, designed to blend with the natural landscape. It features a distinctive boomerang shape, extensive use of marble, and a large flagpole. :building_construction:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining facilities available, including a cafe and a restaurant, offering various options for visitors. :coffee:
While you can bring water, it's generally recommended to consume your own food in designated areas or at the cafe/restaurant to maintain the building's pristine condition. :apple:
The cafe typically offers a range of light meals, snacks, coffee, and beverages, suitable for a quick bite during your visit. :sandwich:
Yes, there are bars available within Parliament House, often frequented by members and staff, but also accessible to visitors. :beer:
The dining facilities usually cater to a variety of dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan options. It's advisable to check the menu or ask staff for specific choices. :salad:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in most public areas for personal use. However, restrictions may apply in certain galleries or during specific events. Always check signage or ask staff. :iphone:
The rooftop offers stunning panoramic views of Canberra. The Great Hall with its tapestry and the exterior architecture are also popular photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
No, drone photography is strictly prohibited within the vicinity of Parliament House due to security regulations. :noentrysign:
No, photography and videography are not permitted in the public galleries when Parliament is in session to avoid disturbing proceedings. :mute:
While there aren't specific photography tours, the general guided tours will take you to many visually appealing areas. The rooftop is a highlight for photographers. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
🚶 Day-Trippers from Sydney/Melbourne
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
Inside, the Great Hall is a focal point, featuring a magnificent 10-meter high tapestry depicting the opening of the first Federal Parliament. The design emphasizes transparency and accessibility, with many public areas offering views into parliamentary offices and committee rooms. The building's layout encourages visitors to engage with the democratic process, with clear pathways leading to the House of Representatives and Senate chambers. The integration of art throughout the building, including sculptures and murals, further enhances its cultural significance.
Visitors often express awe at the scale and design of Parliament House. The way it merges with the landscape and the thoughtful incorporation of Australian symbolism resonate deeply. The Parliament House gardens also offer a serene environment for reflection and appreciation of the surrounding national institutions.
A Glimpse into Australian Democracy
Guided tours are invaluable for understanding the nuances of parliamentary procedures and the historical context of key decisions. You can sit in the public galleries of the House of Representatives and the Senate to observe debates when Parliament is sitting, providing a firsthand experience of political discourse. The exhibits often highlight significant moments in Australian history, the roles of various prime ministers, and the preservation of important documents like the Constitution.
Many visitors, including migrants, find visiting Parliament House a deeply meaningful experience, allowing them to connect with their country's political culture and history. The insights gained into the efforts behind the building's construction and the roles of influential figures, particularly women in higher office, are often highlighted as particularly enriching aspects of the visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit