Canberra in the Winter

Well, yes, it's midwinter in Australia and can get really cold in some parts of the country. Canberra in the winter, for instance, does get rather cold, relatively speaking, with a mean temperature range in July, the coldest month, from -0.2°C (32.4°F) to 11.2°C (52.2°F). While one is tempted to simply snuggle up before a roaring, warming fire and pass the time that way, there are always a few things to do despite the winter chill.

Suitable indoor winter activities in Australia's national capital include catching the latest exhibitions at the National Gallery of Australia or the National Museum of Australia, while outdoor activities could take in walking or cycling around Lake Burley Griffin, or visiting the region's wineries for a wine-tasting tour.

Those heading for the ski slopes in the Snowy Mountains find Canberra a suitable stopover for at least a day or two.

• Where to Stay in Canberra

Photo: National Museum of Australia, by John Gollings, courtesy National Museum of Australia