Brisbane is not as popular as Sydney or Melbourne for many tourist. But it still has it’s fair share of amazing landmarks and things to do. Many people still think Brisbane is just a large country town. However, Brisbane has all the makings of a world city while keeping its laid back charm.
10. Mt Cootha
The tallest mountain in the inner city area of Brisbane offers amazing views; over the city centre out to Moreton Bay. The views are particularly good at sunrise watching the sun rise over the city; although sunset can be just as good. Additionally there is a cafe and restaurant up here for those who want to watch over the city as they dine. You can get up there by car, bus or by one of the many walking/biking trails covering the mountain. To get a view from the south of the city, Mt Gravatt Lookout provides another amazing viewpoint of Brisbane.
9. Brisbane City Hall Clock Tower
A little known museum and clock tower tour exists in the old city hall building in front of King George Square. The museum entrance and clock tower tour are both free. With the museum featuring some art and some exhibits about Brisbane. The clock tower gives a nice vantage point to look over the city. However, unfortunately a lot of the view is blocked by the multitude of office buildings dwarfing the city hall these days.
8. Eat Street Market
While not known as being a food destination like Melbourne. Brisbane is starting to have a fantastic food scene pop up. Eat Street Market and Hamilton is like an Asian hawker or street market with plenty of vendors vying for your trade. From the famous cronuts (and its evolutions) to delicious moreton bay bug, there is something for everyone here. As a bonus you take an exhilarating ride on a Brisbane CityCat to get to the markets.
7. Ride a City Cycle along the river
There are many bike paths in Brisbane that follow the river and make for a chilled ride. Using the council’s City Cycle allows for people without a bike to hire one for a few hours to explore the beautiful paths following the river. A popular path is to cycle from South Bank around to Kangaroo Point and back. Most importantly, there is plenty of eateries and bars for a post-ride recovery.
6. Queen St Mall
The main shopping mall of Brisbane is a pedestrian-only open air mall. It has a number of bigger centres and boutique shops filling the streets. With bars and restaurants in the middle and sides of the street, it is busy day and night. Often there will be performers and events going on in the street. Especially on Friday and Saturday evenings or important holidays.
5. Gold Coast
Although technically not Brisbane, the Gold Coast is only an hour’s drive from Brisbane. This makes it easy to get to for a quick. Gold Coast is definitely more touristy than Brisbane as is evident by the amount of hotels on the Main Beach. There are amazing beaches to swim at along with some exciting theme parks to visit. Definitely worth a couple days of visiting.
4. Kangaroo Point
There is a reason they call Brisbane the ‘river city’, there are so many awesome locations along the river. Walking or cycling along Kangaroo Point is nice and relaxing whether you go along in the morning or evening. If you are feeling adventurous, feel free to join the many rock climbers enjoying the cliffs.
3. South Bank
Visit South Bank and see the famous lagoon next to the river, it even has real sand! You can have a picnic near the lagoon and have a swim without leaving the city centre. Along with the lagoon there are many fantastic restaurants and bars to spend the evening.
2. Line Pine Sanctuary
One of the most famous locations in Brisbane. It is a great place to visit to see all the wildlife of South East Queensland. You even have the opportunity to hold a Koala and get photo! Other iconic Australian wildlife make an appearance as well including kangaroos, dingoes and wombats. If you are staying in the city there is a cruise that takes you all along the river to visit Lone Pine Sanctuary.
1. North Stradbroke Island
Only a short ferry ride from Brisbane and you can be at the incredible North Stradbroke Island. With kilometres of stunning beaches as well as hidden inland lakes, this is place for a swimming holiday. You can choose to camp at the various campsites. Or you can rent out one of the magnificent beach house. Some of the views over the ocean are utterly breathtaking. If you have a 4WD you see some even more hidden sights in the middle of the island and to the far southern tip. Amazing place to visit while you are in Brisbane.
Did I miss any amazing sights in Brisbane? Been to any of the places above and want to let me know about it? Leave a comment below.
Alche is a passionate writer about many topics and wants to share knowledge in a simple way so all readers can enjoy and learn.