Lonely Planet, the world’s leading travel publisher, has today announced their hottest destinations in the world to visit in 2018 – and Canberra is ranked third on the exclusive cities list.

Canberra has achieved the highest ever listing of any Australian city in this annual global publication.

“Our focus on connecting Canberra internationally, through direct international flights and attempts to attract international business to the territory, is clearly working and putting our city on the map,” said Chief Minister Andrew Barr.

“This news is a testament to the industry and I’m confident that the increased exposure of Canberra will further support the growth of our tourism sector. Canberra has a lot to offer tourists from around the world – we have Australia’s best national attractions, world-class food and wine and unprecedented access to some of the best natural settings Australia has to offer.”

Each year a panel of Lonely Planet’s international travel experts contribute to their Best in Travel 2018 guide, compiling a list of the world’s most travel-worthy locations, scoring each destination on topicality, excitement and ‘x-factor’.

The company’s Best in Travel 2018 showcases some of the worlds most appealing, interesting and diverse destinations.

Author of the Guide’s Canberra chapter, Lonely Planet’s Director of Sales and Marketing (Asia Pacific) Chris Zeiher says Canberra is the perfect choice for such an accolade.

“Canberra is a bit of a hidden gem that has been hiding in plain sight. Rich with history, culture and entertainment, it offers something for every kind of traveller,” said Mr Zeiher.