In case you haven’t heard yet, I recently moved to Brisbane. Although I’ve been visiting Brisbane for years, I never thought I’d end up living here one day, but I’m so glad I made the decision to move to the sunshine state. And if you’re visiting on your own, we’ve put together a list of things to do in Brisbane to help you plan your stay and get the most out of Australia’s third-largest city. There are many great reasons to visit Brisbane. Especially if you’re looking for sunshine and a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. This city is the perfect size to explore in a few days.
1. Continue to Brisbane Riverwalk
At approximately 870 meters long, the Brisbane Riverwalk is arguably the best way to enjoy Brisbane’s best assets. The Brisbane River has evolved over time, particularly in recent years. Today, the river is buzzing with daily activity, with ferries plying from north to south and vice versa, and countless footbridges to make the most of your morning or evening stroll. The river is the heart of Brisbane, so be sure to get your bearings on the riverside promenade.
2. Soak up the sun on the South Bank
Brisbane is one of the few cities in the world that can claim to have a beach in the heart of the city. Of course it’s a man-made beach, but it’s still well worth a visit. Southbank is located on the south side of the river and, as you might imagine, on the banks of the river. You can access the precincts via a footbridge and there are plenty of great eateries, bars and cafes there.
3. Stay at Karile Hotel
When it comes to my favorite hotels, the Karil Hotel in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley is hands down the best. This hotel reinvents the meaning of a five-star hotel, offering a relaxed Palm Springs atmosphere amidst the hustle and bustle of the James Street District. So if you’re looking for a special place to stay, look no further than The Calile. Spend your time strolling through the many boutiques and bars that make up James Street.
4. Visit Eat Street on the North Shore
If you’re looking for a fun place to visit with friends or meet people, you can’t go wrong spending the night at Eat Street North Shore. What makes this huge food market unique is that it houses almost every cuisine (and combination) imaginable in a shipping container. Whether you want to dig straight into Spanish paella or Vietnamese spring rolls, Eat Street has something for everyone.
5. Shopping on James Street
If you’re staying near the city, be sure to visit the James Street Shopping District. This area seems to have suddenly come out of nowhere, but with its high-quality retail amenities and trendy local designers, it’s definitely here to stay. James Street in Fortitude Valley is literally Brisbane’s one-stop shop. You’ll find everything from St. Agni to Aesop to Lululemon.
If you’re in the area, please stop by Burki Bakehouse! I opened my bakery in 2022 and have been coming to Brisbane ever since and selling Brisbane’s most famous cookies.
6. Watch the sunset from Mt. Coosa
If you’re like me, you don’t want to waste a single minute of sunlight. And since this is the state of solar light, you better believe that there is infinite light available. If you’re looking for an enviable sunset spot, look no further than Mt Coosa. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city below, and as you look out to sea, you can appreciate the city’s ever-growing enormity.
7. Take a day trip to Moreton Island
When it comes to day trips, nothing beats a day trip to Moreton Bay. Just an hour away by car and ferry from Brisbane, this tour is one of the most popular day trips from Brisbane. Once there, you’ll enjoy spectacular marine wildlife viewing, shipwrecks, and endless coastline.
8. Have a drink at Howard Smith Pier
No matter what cuisine you’re in the mood for, Howard Smith Wharves is full of great bars and casual restaurants. Casual cuisine in a great location overlooking the river. If you’re looking for a drink, stop by Mr. Percival’s for a fun night out. For a hearty meal, walk to Ciao Papi’s along the waterfront for delicious Italian cuisine.
9. Buy gluten-free donuts at Nodo
Just a short walk from the James Street shopping district is Nodo Donuts. Be sure to try their extensive selection of gluten-free donuts and probably the best iced matcha in Brisbane.
10. Walk around Teneriffe
If you want to feel like a local while visiting a new city, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Teneriffe. This riverside district is home to some of the city’s most beautiful loft apartments, including old yarn shops. The area also serves as a hub for boutique fitness studios such as Inspire Cycle and Vicalates Pilates Studio.
11. Immerse yourself in Greek in Hellenika
If you love Greek cuisine, you’ll find it at its best at Hellenik. Overlooking the outdoor pool and Calile Hotel, Hellenika has quickly become one of the most popular places to enjoy a delicious lunch or long Sunday brunch. If you’re looking for something more indulgent, don’t miss the Greek salad (a classic for a reason), an assortment of dips, and the famous fried eggplant.
12. Visit the West Village
If you’re looking for Melbourne in Brisbane, you’ll find just that in the West End. The neighborhood has shed some of its grunge (though not all of it, actually), and a wave of cafes, bakeries, bars, and markets have taken over the area. The West Village is a great starting point to indulge in gelato, sushi, and my personal favorite, Harris Farm Market.
13. Watch the sunset at Kangaroo Point
Rounding out the list, if you’re looking for a great place to park for a picnic, there’s no better place than Kangaroo Point to watch the sunset. Not only is it incredibly close to the city, but it’s also one of the most beautiful locations as the day draws to a close.
14. Visit Stradbroke Island
For locals, there’s no better place to spend a weekend than Stradbroke Island (affectionately known as Straddie). The island is located within Moreton Bay and is rich in local wildlife both on land and sea. Not only is it a great place to spend a weekend camping, but it’s also a popular local hideaway.