Set on the sparkling Brisbane River, metropolitan Brisbane
is the capital of the sunshine state of Queensland. Full of wonderful
architecture, a thriving and eclectic arts scene, boutique shopping and superb
alfresco dining thanks to the year-round temperate weather. On the outskirts of
the city you have the scenic Brisbane coastline and access to nearby island
sanctuaries such as Moreton island and North Stradbroke Island. Plus, only 20
minutes from the city you’ll find the world’s largest koala sanctuary, Lone
Pine Koala Sanctuary. With a perfect blend of city, beach and nature plus the
typical laid-back Queensland atmosphere there is something for everyone.
Must-sees and dos
South Bank
Located on the banks of the Brisbane River, this premier precinct is the place to be for world-class dining, eco-driven markets, museums, relaxing walks through the lush parklands and it’s buzzing events calendar all throughout the year. It even has a pretty great beach placed like an oasis in the middle of the city, Street Beach, which can be visited year round with a myriad of activities on offer. It’s fantastic for children with a shallow lagoon, Aquativity area and it’s patrolled by dedicated lifesavers for extra safety.
Art and architecture
You don’t need to be an art lover to enjoy Brisbane’s vast array of museums, galleries and pleasing architecture. The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) houses a collection of over 16,000 works of historical, modern and contemporary art in addition to an array of leading exhibitions, conveniently located at South Bank. After a hit of culture? The Queensland Museum is your answer with a dedicated exhibit on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island culture and heritage plus more of the state’s historical collections. For the more adventurous you can climb the picturesque and iconic Story Bridge for panoramic views across the city skyline and further out to the Glass House Mountains in the north. Of course, Brisbane also has its own wheel, The Wheel of Brisbane, for more sweeping views of the city from the comfort of a climate-controlled gondola. The repurposed tram power station, now known as the Brisbane Powerhouse, is a successful conversion from pre-war industrial history into a hub for contemporary art, creativity and cultural innovation situated on the Brisbane River. This is just the tip of the iceberg.
Kangaroo Point
Just outside of the city above the Brisbane River, in one of the city’s oldest suburbs, is Kangaroo Point. A popular walking spot thanks to its amazing views and proximity to the well-known Kangaroo Point Cliffs, historic and beautiful Yungaba House and Story Bridge, with the Story Bridge Hotel perfect for a relaxing afternoon drink stop. Grab the CityCat (ferry service) for a lovely way to reach this must-see part of the city and discover its rich history and iconic landmarks.
Mount Coot-tha
This is an absolute must-see when visiting Brisbane. It provides the beautiful backdrop to the city and breathtaking views after a moderate ascent to the Lookout via the 5 kilometre Summit Circuit. Walk the track in the late afternoon or early evening for a wonderland view of the twinkling city lights and starry skies or in the morning, as day breaks, to be rewarded with a stunning sunrise scene.
Fortitude Valley
An intriguing blend of elegance and grunge, the Valley, as the locals know it, is where eclectic bars, heritage-listed buildings and chic shopping and dining all meet and work harmoniously well together. Head here for a coffee fix at one of the great cafes, the thriving live music and entertainment scene, some of Brisbane’s best boutique shopping and hip bar and dining establishments such as popular LongTime, Les Bubbles and Eleven Rooftop Bar.
Explore further
Around 1 hours’ drive south of Brisbane will bring you to
the glittering Gold Coast where surf, sand and fun are on the menu. Here
you can experience the exciting theme parks such as Warner Bros Movie World,
Dreamworld, Seaworld and Wet ‘n’ Wild, relax in renowned Surfers Paradise and
dine at one of the many great restaurants at nearly every turn. Head 90 minutes
north by car to the stunning Sunshine Coast for pristine beaches, trendy
Noosa and it’s excellent dining scene and a myriad of natural wonders and
picturesque coastal towns with the lush hinterland at their doorstep. Or for a
change of pace, Birdsville, located west of Brisbane, is the
quintessential outback destination well know for the annual Birdsville Races
and iconic Birdsville Hotel for a welcoming country front bar experience.
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Brisbane is the ideal destination that caters for all interests and tastes. Embracing the outdoors, this city and beautiful surrounds is brimming with fine food, history, culture and diverse natural wonders.
Click here for our holidays featuring beautiful Brisbane or contact one of our friendly Holidays of Australia & the
World team on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
for more.
Image credit: Unsplash, Tourism & Events Queensland
