Brisbane
With its sunny sub-tropical climate, Brisbane has a relaxed atmosphere and is the gateway to the Southern Queensland Region and its’ wonders. Built around the Brisbane River, the city showcases architecture and lifestyles geared to being outdoors and enjoying the sunshine.
Take a hint from the locals and spend your days outdoors - dine alfresco, browse the weekend craft and gourmet markets, cycle along the banks of the Brisbane River, or simply kick back and relax in good company at your pick of beer gardens. You'll be amazed by how much is happening here, and pleasantly surprised by the open and friendly attitude of the locals.
This is a city with an innovative and vibrant edge, a modern, free spirited outlook and a determination to do things just that little bit differently. It's about down-to-earth experiences without the sky-high expense; it's about hedonistic pleasures without the pretension. And, of course, it's about a long-standing love affair with the outdoors.
From pristine beaches to lush mountain hideaways, from a gently winding river to the aquatic paradise of Moreton Bay, Brisbane truly is a place where feeling alive comes naturally. Fresh experiences, fresh adventures and a fresh approach to life - this is what Brisbane is all about. It's a city where the air is filled with optimism and a sense of adventure is heavy on the ground.
Shopping
South Bank's Little Stanley Street should be next on your shopping list, for a little urban sophistication right by the river. And last but not least, why not dig your way through downtown's weekend outdoor markets, where you never know what you might find.
Dining & Nightlife
Brisbane has a fine reputation for dining out, having developed its own unique cuisine that matches the climate perfectly. Inventive and imaginative, the gastronomic creations starring at some of the finer establishments simply won't be found on any other tables.
Reflecting this is the fact that some of Australia's most awarded chefs can be found in the kitchens downtown, having been attracted by the inquisitive attitude of its proprietors and patrons alike. And don't worry if your tastes or budget are a little more modest - there are restaurants catering for every kind of cuisine, budget, view, pace, style and flavour.
For those who love to party, Brisbane's superb selection of nightlife venues will keep you more than entertained. Cool, sophisticated bars boasting the very latest in design and decor are sprinkled right throughout downtown Brisbane, as are energetic pubs, pumping nightclubs and intimate live music venues. Or, for something a little more cultural, there are musicals, live theatre, galleries, museums, and even guided walking tours of downtown's historical sites.
Moreton Bay & Islands
A stunning wide expanse of sheltered blue waters, Moreton Bay is Brisbane's own aquatic playground and marine sanctuary. Dotted with unspoilt islands - including one of the world’s largest sand islands - you’ll discover it’s also one of Brisbane’s favourite getaway spots.
Brimming with natural wonders, Moreton Bay is ideal for spotting dolphins, whales, turtles and manta rays, as well a vast array of birdlife.
Tours and activities cater for all types, including adventure and ecotours. Here you can throw yourself into adventure sports such as sailing, surfing, quad biking and sand tobogganing. Or you can take things a little easier, with a wide range of more relaxing activities, like fishing, feeding the dolphins or lazing by a blue lagoon admiring the birdlife and wildflowers.
There are all kinds of accommodation options, from beachside resorts through to boutique Bed & Breakfasts and campgrounds.
Inner CityIn the vibrant city centre, glass office towers and sandstone heritage buildings share broad, tree-lined streets or front the river. Alfresco cafes, parks, riverside walks and the central pedestrian mall give the city a very human scale.
The most spectacular way to discover Brisbane is from 80 metres above the Brisbane River. Take a Story Bridge Adventure Climb at Kangaroo Point and you’ll be exhilarated by the panorama of Brisbane and it’s surrounding natural beauty. After the two and a half hour climb to the very top of the iconic Story Bridge, the breathtaking view is all the reward you need.
Or discover Brisbane with one of Riverlife’s dynamic adventure tours. Kayak adventures along the Brisbane River are for beginners to experienced and offer paddlers the chance to view Brisbane’s CBD, Botanical Gardens, Cliffs, Southbank and other local landmarks.
Brisbane's Southbank Parklands
From the city centre, it's a five minute stroll across the bridge past the Treasury Casino to Southbank Parklands. The 16 hectares of riverside parklands and tropical gardens is a local favorite and a hive of activity with cafes, restaurants, weekend markets, cycle paths, walkways and even a beach and crystal clear swimming lagoon.
The Southbank precinct also includes the Queensland Art Gallery, Queensland Museum, Maritime Museum, State Library and the Performing Arts Centre.
Heritage Trail
Brisbane's grand colonial architecture is reflected in the mirror glass of today's modern towers. Discover the highlights on a City Sights Tour, on guided walks or at your own pace on the Heritage Trail.
The Heritage Trail begins at City Hall and includes such historic sites as the convict built Old Windmill, the beautifully restored Customs House on the riverbank, Old Government House, Parliament House, a magnificent collection of heritage buildings and some of the city's finest churches.
Meet a True-Blue Aussie
Southern Queensland offers some of the most accessible wildlife in Australia. In addition to the multitude of birds and animals in the hinterland, Australia's native fauna is a feature of numerous wildlife reserves and parks located around Brisbane. Cuddle a koala, hand feed kangaroos and get to know other true-blue Aussies like wallabies, emus and wombats.
More information about Brisbane.
