7 suburbs in Canberra that are just like Sydney

Hello Canberra

Reading time: 4 minutes

Canberra and Sydney have more in common than you’d think—bridges splitting the north and south, curious architecture and whole lot of uni students.

Every year, a bunch of Sydneysiders make the move to ANU, swapping the big city for internationally renowned degrees, well-paying jobs and the relaxed lifestyle. And honestly? There’s a lot here to love.

Canberra’s got stunning waterways, mountain views and hidden spots serving up some of the best food and coffee in the country (courtesy of Australia’s top young chefs). It’s no wonder so many people come to the capital for uni and the vibe and end up staying.

But if you’re from Sydney and missing a little slice of home, we get it. The good news is that there are plenty of places in Canberra that feel just like Sydney.

Here are a few local suburbs that might feel familiar.

If you love Newtown, try Braddon

If you’re a fan of matcha, op shops and cute puppies, you’re going to love Braddon.

Much like Newtown, Braddon has an industrial history and attracts the cool, creative crowd. A walk down Lonsdale Street mirrors the eclectic, buzzing energy of King Street—packed as it is with vibey local shops and plenty of spots to pick up a ’90s-inspired outfit and Canberra memorabilia to take home.

The rainbow roundabout in Braddon and street view of Lonsdale Street in Canberra.

Braddon is the go-to place for everything trendy and fun.

If you love Surry Hills, try Campbell

With great pizza, cosy wine bars and leafy urban parks, Campbell has all the essentials.

Just a short walk or drive from the city, it’s a local favourite with the same charm as Surry Hills, only with a Canberra suburban twist, fewer hills, less traffic noise and plenty of spots to unwind.

Exterior of Campbell shops and people dining and drinking outside.

The leafy greenery of Campbell offers an amazing backdrop for hanging with friends.

If you love Double Bay, try Manuka

Both have a polished but relaxed feel, where long brunches, boutique shopping, great coffee and outdoor dining are part of the routine. Manuka has the same mix of stylish cafes, designer finds and people-watching opportunities that make grabbing a coffee feel like an event.

The pace is a little slower and the streets are a little quieter, but that only adds to the charm. Whether you’re meeting friends for a late lunch or browsing homewares before settling in for dinner, it’s easy to spend the day here without realising where the time went.

Street view of Manuka shops, with people dining outside.

Manuka is a historic district in Canberra, known for its comfortable charm and amazing coffee.

If you love Balmain, try Kingston

Leafy streets, waterfront views and a mix of old and new give both places their character. Kingston has the same blend of heritage and modern energy, with cosy cafes, well-loved restaurants and a strong sense of community.

The old-school pubs are just as inviting, the markets are just as busy and the walking trails by Lake Burley Griffin make it feel like the perfect balance of city and escape. Whether you’re catching up over a long lunch or just taking a slow stroll along the foreshore, Kingston has that same effortless appeal.

View of the waterfront shops and apartments on the Kingston Foreshore.

Kingston has it all, and is an incredible place to stroll around on a Sunday afternoon.

If you love Haymarket, try Dickson

Both are known for their late-night energy and unbeatable eats. Dickson is packed with family-run restaurants, unbeatable dumpling houses and some of the best bubble tea and coffee spots in town.

Just like Haymarket, it’s the kind of place where dinner can turn into an hours-long feast and where the best meals are often found in unassuming shopfronts. If you’re up for it, there’s always karaoke nearby to keep the night going.

The exterior of Dickson shopfronts in Canberra.

If you’re looking for incredible hand-pulled noodles or a hearty wonton soup, Dickson is your spot.

If you love Alexandria, try Fyshwick

Alexandria turned from an industrial hub into a creative hotspot, and Fyshwick is on the same path.

Among the trade suppliers, car yards and warehouses, you’ll find roasteries with serious coffee cred, art galleries in unexpected corners and antique stores packed with hidden treasures. It’s the place to go for artisan pastries, specialty homewares and handmade furniture, if you know where to look.

A bird’s-eye view of Fyshwick in Canberra, Australia

Fyshwick is home to some of the best hidden gems in the city, and you will never know what you will find.

If you love Glebe, try Ainslie

Glebe has its village feel, local markets and that sense of community that makes it more than just a suburb. Ainslie has a similar vibe, with tree-lined streets, friendly faces and a pocket of local shops (and locals) that feel like a neighbourhood meeting place.

The pub is always lively, the grocery shop has the best cheese selection in town and the indie wine store is stocked with expert recommendations. It’s the kind of place that feels instantly familiar.