Look around Brisbane, and you’ll see energized, activity-loving, restaurant-dining and fun-loving locals. With world-famous chefs setting up shop, hip bars in laneways and bustling boutiques blossoming, it’s no surprise that Brisbane was voted among Monocle Magazine’s ‘Top 25 Global Cities’.
Bookmark these must-not-miss things to do in Brisbane if you want to make the most out of your sojourn here. You can thank us later!
Epitomising Brisbane’s friendly character, there are free walking tours for visitors where locals will take you around their city for free! Brisbane Greeters is a free public service open to everyone and run by residents who want to show you the best of their amazing city. All in all, it’s a great way to get insider tips, local knowledge and a list of must-see things to see and do.
TIP: For travellers who wish to taste the true blue essence of Brisbane, the specialised ‘Your Choice – Special Interests’ program is an absolute treat. Here you would be matched with a like-minded greeter.
One of the most memorable experiences you’ll have in the city, this 2-hour guided climb might look strenuous in the beginning, but it’s all worth the effort once you feast your eyes on the panoramic views of the skyline and the cityscape from here. You can choose from the Twilight Climb, Day Climb or the Night Climb—each one will treat you to breath-taking vistas of Brisbane.
TIP: Wear comfortable weather-appropriate clothes, and don’t forget to pack rubber-soled or hiking shoes for good support and grip while climbing.
Location: State Route 15, New Farm QLD 4169
Price: $129 onwards per adult
About 15 minutes from the city, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary will have you witness native Australian wildlife up close. Recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records, it’s the world’s first and the largest koala sanctuary housing close to 130 koalas, kangaroos, wild lorikeets, bats and other species. That’s not all! You’ll also get to cuddle these cute Koalas, hand-feed kangaroos and watch animal shows while here.
BONUS: The Park has umpteen lounge areas where you can simply enjoy your cappuccino with free Wi-Fi.
Location: 708 Jesmond Road, Fig Tree Pocket
Price: $36 per adult
Timings: 9AM-5PM (7 days a week)
If you want to see Brisbane in its full glory, don’t skip the pulsating South Bank. Famed as one of the fast-burgeoning cultural and lifestyle destinations across the city, this buzzing space offers a diverse mix of entertainment, recreation and leisure activities that will keep you hooked throughout. Located on the southern banks of the Brisbane River, and featuring 17 hectares of lush parklands, cafes, museums and galleries and theatres, the area is a different world in itself. You can spend the day picnicking by the riverside, exploring cafes and community markets, and stopping by the various tourist attractions.
Location: South Brisbane QLD 4101
Our Recommendations: The Arbour Gallery of Modern Art, Queensland Museum, The Nepalese Pagoda, River Quay Amphitheatre
If you are a beach bum and craving an action-packed day out, you’re in for a treat in Brisbane! Tucked away on the world’s third largest Island (Moreton Island), Tangalooma Island Resort is a protected nature theme park that lets you see the exotic marine life of Brisbane up close. The 75-minute cruise to Tangalooma Island Resort is one of the most sought-after experiences in Brisbane, and makes for a perfect mini-beach adventure. With activities like Quad Bike Tours, Marine Discovery Cruise, Desert Safaris, Snorkelling and much more, you can look forward to an amazing time here.
The Highlight? Hand-feeding the majestic dolphins, ATV Quad Biking and Sand toboganning ! Location: Moreton Island QLD 4025
Steeped in history, and brimming with quirky cafes and eateries, hip bars, artistic alleys and rare souvenir shops, the Brisbane Laneways give an insight into the city’s vibrant culture and history. Be it the street art on the Burnett Lane (Brisbane’s oldest laneway), culinary delights on the Fish Lane or the eclectic bars on the Gresham Lane, you will find a different flavour at every turn.
Our Recommendations: Fish Lane, Burnett Lane, California Lane, Bakery Lane
Whether it’s good coffee, a scrumptious meal or just a fun night of partying, the impressive line-up of cafes, coffee nooks, quirky brunch spots, barbecue joints and fine dining restaurants in Brisbane will cater to your every whim! Housing some of the best rooftop and open air bars in the region, the wine and dine scene here is thriving, If you’re a foodie at heart, head straight to Eat Street Northshore, weekend food markets that will spoil you for choice of food, drink and music! Howard Smith Wharves by the iconic Story Bridge gives you the most instagrammable riverside dining experience!
Our recommendations: Felons Brewing Co, Eleven Rooftop Bar, W Hotel’s Three Blue Ducks , Eat Street Northshore, Otto Ristaurante, Greca, Happy Boy, Longtime, Urbane, Aria, Bacchus.
Ready to experience the best of Brisbane?
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