It may have taken 100 years, but Canberra is officially a city on the rise.


In a blow for Canberra bashers worldwide, travel site TripAdvisor unveiled the capital as an increasingly popular travel destination on Wednesday.


Described as "more than just a city of civil servants", Canberra recorded the sixth greatest increase in positive traveller feedback and traveller interest throughout the South Pacific region, falling behind the likes of Margaret River and Broome.


The announcement follows international attention on the territory due to Centenary celebrations, same-sex marriage laws and the controversial Skywhale.


VisitCanberra director Ian Hill said the ranking was a "massive accolade" for Canberra.


Mr Hill said campaigns such as the Human Brochure had boosted coverage of the city, as blockbuster exhibitions such as Mapping Our World at the National Library of Australia.


"TripAdvisor is today's travel currency and people will take notice of what they say," he said.


"There's just a range a fantastic experiences here and I believe Canberra's been one of Australia's best kept secrets for years."


Mr Hill said his staff would be rising to the challenge and increasing the city's rating next year.


"Canberra and a holiday aren't usually seen as hand in glove... but I think this bodes well for our future," he said.


Comment has been sought from TripAdvisor.


A Canberra Centenary spokeswoman declined from commenting.


TripAdvisor's top 10 destinations on the rise in the South Pacific



  1. Christchurch, New Zealand

  2. Margaret River, Australia

  3. Broome, Australia

  4. Rotorua, New Zealand

  5. Surfers Paradise, Australia

  6. Canberra, Australia

  7. Pokolbin, Australia

  8. Alice Springs, Australia

  9. Dunedin, New Zealand

  10. Taupo, New Zealand