Advice

Let’s take a quick break from your visit to introduce you to a few places that weren’t included in our itinerary. We’ve guided you through Brisbane’s ultra-central district, but if there’s one neighbourhood you shouldn’t miss, it’s Fortitude Valley – a mix of underground and bohemian vibes, with cinemas, boutique stores, live music, great food and markets like the Brunswick Street Market. For art lovers, the Queensland Cultural Centre is a must, home to two art galleries including GOMA (Australia’s largest modern and contemporary art gallery), as well as the Queensland Museum, the Sciencentre and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.

If you’re drawn to more alternative spaces, head to the Powerhouse – a former power station now transformed into one of the city’s favourite cultural venues, hosting exhibitions, concerts and live performances. History enthusiasts should head to the City Botanic Gardens to visit Old Government House, the first public building in Queensland and today home to a museum on colonial life. For a panoramic view of the city, make your way to Mount Coot-tha, just 15 minutes from the centre, and take the opportunity to visit the nearby Brisbane Botanic Gardens (free entry and over 50 hectares of subtropical nature).

If you’re hoping to meet the local wildlife, don’t miss the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – the world’s largest koala reserve – where you can also see kangaroos, wallabies and rainbow lorikeets. For a day trip, Moreton Island (the world’s third-largest sand island) offers lagoons, beaches, hiking trails, shipwrecks, snorkelling, sandboarding and even whale watching. You can also visit Stradbroke Island, known for its stunning coastal walk and the chance to spot turtles, dolphins or whales depending on the season.

Another local favourite is Bribie Island, two hours from Brisbane, with its national park, wildlife and excellent camping spots. And finally, just across the river from the City Botanic Gardens, the Kangaroo Point Cliffs offer a popular spot for walking, barbecues, rock climbing or even abseiling – the perfect place to relax and enjoy Brisbane. With all this, you’ll have plenty to do if you decide to stay a little longer in the region!