The capital city of Queensland – or what the locals call the Sunshine State – is a bustling city with pleasant weather all year round.

Not to be overshadowed by its glitzy neighbour Gold Coast, the city of Brisbane and its surrounding suburbs have much to offer for the adventurous, the foodies and the family.

In this post, we will share with you some of the highlights of Brisbane, and you have your usual Must-Sees, Must-Dos, and Must-Eats.

WHAT TO SEE IN BRISBANE

SOUTHBANK PARKLANDS

There is nowhere as unique as Southbank Parklands. Where else in the world would you find a beach, complete with fine white sand and swaying palm trees, right smack in the middle of the city?

Southbank Parklands has redeveloped the site of the 1988 World Expo, into a premier entertainment hub of Brisbane. Stroll along the river banks to soak in the view of Brisbane city and admire the Bougainvillea trellis when the flowers are in full bloom.

If you are searching for somewhere to cool off in summer, put on your boardies and take a dip at the manmade Streets Beach.

MOUNT COOTHA

There is no better view of Brisbane city than from Mount Cootha! Located just a mere 10-minute drive from the city, Mount Cootha is easily accessible and boasts a mesmerising bird’s eye view of the city.

Apart from a spectacular lookout, Mount Cootha—part of the D’Aguilar National Park— has a few short trails around the forest which are ideal for those who are keen to explore the wilder side of Brisbane.

How to get there: Board Bus 471 on Adelaide Street towards Mount Cootha. The bus terminates at the Mount Cootha Lookout.

NORTH STRADBROOKE ISLAND 

Looking to unwind at the beach, yet dislike the crowds at popular beaches in neighbouring Gold Coast? With its white sandy beaches and scenic coastal cliffs, North Stradbrooke Island—also commonly known among the locals as Straddie—is a must-visit.

There are many activities available on the island for both the young and old. Learn to surf, explore the island on a bicycle or just chill on the beach. On lucky days, you may even spot whales off the coast in winter or turtles and manta rays in summer!

How to get there: Take a Train from Central Station to Cleveland Station on the Cleveland line and take Bus 258 from Cleveland station to Toondah Harbour, before hopping onto one of three ferry services (Stradbroke Flyer, StradbrokFerries and Big Red Cat) to the island.

WHAT TO DO IN BRISBANE

EXPLORE BRISBANE VIA THE UNIQUE PUBLIC TRANSPORT SYSTEM

In Brisbane, nothing is as ubiquitous as its unique public transport option. Not only does it have the works (trains and buses), its public transport system is also supplemented by its own ferry and bicycle services.

For a leisure ride across Brisbane to soak in the view of the city, hop on the CityCat—a ferry service that takes you right into the heart of the city. The stretch between Regatta to New Farm ferry terminal is especially scenic. For the budget conscious, the CityHopper presents a free alternative that brings you around the city centre.

If you prefer to explore the city in an active manner, why not consider cycling? For just A$2 a day, you can rent a bicycle from one of the 150 CityCycle stations around the city. Just remember to end each journey in 30 minutes to avoid having to pay any additional bicycle rental fees.

MAKE FRIENDS WITH KOALAS

Other than the kangaroo, there is no animal that screams Australia more than the Koala. Where better to catch a sight of these cuddly marsupials than in Brisbane’s Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?

Home to the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary, not only will you get to see these cute koalas up-close, you can also hold them for photos. Apart from koalas, there are also many native Australian animals in the Sanctuary such as Kangaroos, Echidnas and Platypuses.

Alternatively, drop by the Daisy Hill Koala Centre (especially if you are making your way down to Gold Coast). The Koala Centre has a boardwalk that allows visitors to view the koalas in the Centre, which is a home for rescued Koalas that are not suited for release back into the wild. Viewing of these creatures is free of charge.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
708 Jesmond Rd
Fig Tree Pocket
QLD 4069, Australia
Tel: +61 7 3378 1366
Daily: 9am – 5pm

Daisy Hill Koala Centre
Regional Park, Daisy Hill Rd
QLD 4127, Australia
Tel: +61 7 3299 1032
Daily: 10am – 4 pm

SHOP AT DAVIES PARK MARKET @ WEST END

Farmers’ Markets are a common sight in Australia and the Davies Park Market at West End is one of the most popular ones. The weekly market is open from 6am to 2pm on Saturdays. It has a myriad of products for sale; visitors can anticipate fresh produce such as vegetables and honey to interesting handicrafts by local artists.

Of course, what is a farmer’s market without food? Fill your tummies with Hungarian garlic bread aka lángos and poached eggs served atop freshly fried Rösti patties.

Montague Road and Jane Street
West End QLD 4101, Australia
Tel: +61 4 3101 9454
Saturday: 6am – 2pm

WHERE TO EAT IN BRISBANE

CORNER STORE CAFE

Housed in what used to be a derelict cottage built in the early 1900s, the Corner Store café has since been expertly restored it into a quaint little café with an adjoining patio that offers a relaxing atmosphere.

We love Corner Store Café’s eclectic mix of all-day breakfast options; from spiced porridge to cauliflower and chorizo hash, the cafe is not one to shy from experimenting flavours. They even have an outdoor herb garden where the herbs they grow are incorporated into their dishes.

113 Sylvan Rd, Toowong
QLD 4066, Australia
Tel: +61 7 3870 2223
Daily: 7am – 3pm

CAXTON GRILL (THE CAXTON HOTEL)

Steak is a staple among Queenslanders and there is clearly no shortage of steakhouses in the city. However, with so many choices, it is not easy to find a steak place that that resonates with everybody.

Caxton Grill is our go-to place for a good steak in Brisbane; we love its large portions and daily steak specials. Their specially made Hollandaise is sinfully delicious and complements the beef and chips really well.

38 Caxton St, Brisbane City
QLD 4000, Australia
Tel: +61 7 3369 5544
Sun to Thu: 10 am – 2am
Fri and Sat: 10 am – 3am

MIEL CONTAINER BURGER

Miel Container Burger stands out from the surrounding dull grey office buildings with its striking red colour shipping container. The burger place has been turning heads since its opening day for its interesting set-up and their gourmet burgers with an Asian twist.

The Korean-inspired BBQ Bulgogi Burger and Japanese fusion Miso Smoked Pork Belly Burger are highly recommended. Should none of the pre-fixed burgers interest you, then consider building your own burger instead.

88 Mary St, Brisbane City
QLD 4000, Australia
Tel: +61 7 3229 4883
Sat, Mon to Thu: 11am – 9.30 pm
Fri: 11am – 10.30pm
Closed on Sundays

MADTONGSAN II

With one of Australia’s largest Korean community (the largest outside of Sydney), you can be certain that Korean food in Brisbane is authentic and tasty. Of the many Korean restaurants, Madtongsan is a hot favourite amongst the locals.

The restaurant serves a variety of heartwarming Korean dishes such as Bi Bim Babs and Korean stews (Jji Gae), that are affordably priced; most main courses cost no more than A$15.

1/85 Elizabeth St, Brisbane City
QLD 4000, Australia
Tel: +61 7 3003 1881
Mon to Sat: 11am – 11pm
Sun: 11am – 10 pm

WHERE TO DRINK IN BRISBANE

NEWSTEAD BREWERY

What was once a steel warehouse (and subsequently an art studio) had been tastefully converted into both a microbrewery and a gastro-pub. While Newstead Brewery serves up a variety of heartwarming food, the star is definitely their locally-brewed beers.

With 12 taps on offer, one will be spoilt for choice, be it trying one of their handcrafted brews or craft beers by other microbreweries.

85 Doggett St, Newstead
QLD 4006, Australia
Tel: +61 7 3172 2488
Daily: 10am – 12 am

ARCHIVE BEER BOUTIQUE

If 12 beer taps are not enough to quench your thirst, how about 22 taps? Located in the hippie West End, Archive Beer Boutique curates a selection of Australian craft beers so impressive that it is enough to leave any beer enthusiasts feeling immensely satisfied.

Comic book fans would also love the look of the place, whereby its walls are plastered with comic book pages from many different comic book series.

100 Boundary St, West End
QLD 4101, Australia
Tel: +61 7 3844 3419
Daily: 11am – late

TRANSPORTATION IN BRISBANE

AIRPORT TRANSFER FROM BRISBANE AIRPORT

Public Transport: The Airtrain connects Brisbane Airport to the Brisbane CBD, as well as its network of local Translink train stations. The train leaves the airport every 15 minutes and costs A$17.50 one way or A$33 return.

Con-x-ion Airport Transfers: A private shuttle service providing door-to-door pickups from the airport, simply pop by the Con-x-ion booth at Level 2 of the International Terminal to book your transfers after your arrival.

A one-way ticket from the airport to Brisbane CBD would cost around A$20. However, booking a return trip would give you a discount on your trip back to the airport.

Taxi: Taxi stands are available at both Domestic and International Terminals and a one-way trip to the city from the airport costs approximately A$44. If you are travelling in a big group, it may be more cost-efficient and time-efficient to book a Maxi-cab than taking the Airtrain or the shuttle buses.

Note that an additional A$11 on top of the cab fare will be incurred for a ride on the Maxi-cab.

GETTING AROUND BRISBANE

There is a variety of transport option available for visitors travelling around Brisbane. Managed by Translink, Brisbane’s public transport service provider, its fare structure is the same across all buses, ferries and trains.

Using a zonal system, travelling around Brisbane typically starts at A$4.80 for travel within one zone, and it is highly recommended to purchase a go card if you are travelling around Brisbane regularly as go card users enjoy a significant discount off fares, especially if travelling across multiple zones.

CityCat: The city’s public ferry service, the CityCat plies its route along the Brisbane river with the University of Queensland at one end and Hamilton Cruise Terminal at the other, running through the heart of the city and providing a scenic yet efficient means of public transport to the city.

CityHopper: A free ferry service between North Quay (Queen Street) and New Farm which brings you past Brisbane’s most iconic landmarks such as Kangaroo Point Cliffs and Story Bridge. As its name suggests, simply hop on and hop off.

Buses: Apart from the many regular bus services that connect you to suburbs and towns around the city, there are two free city loop services visitors and residents alike can enjoy. These two free services bring you to some of Brisbane’s most popular areas such as Queen Street Mall and Riverside and can be identified from its distinctive red or yellow buses.

Queensland is a state that we have always wanted to explore, and we finally made a trip down under for a fortnight of fun. The good people at Tourism and Events Queensland were more than hospitable, and we ate and saw so much.

We started our holiday at Brisbane, an upcoming city that is bustling in its own rights and home to many. Sunshine Coast was next. We experienced the hinterlands and fell in love with the picturesque Maleny. Then, we moved on to Noosa for a lot of feasting and to experience the laidback lifestyle. The last leg of our trip saw us spending a week at Gold Coast, the famous destination for a beach-in-a-city experience.

Having seen the bests of Queensland, we are certain that this is the place to take a fun-filled holiday at. For lovers, friends, families – there will definitely be something for everyone. Here, we share the memorable parts of our trip and we hope these will entice you to take a trip down under too!

B R I S B A N E

#1 SHOPPING AND DINING AT JAMES STREET

James Street in Fortitude Valley is easily our favourite area in Brisbane. It has an eclectic mix of lifestyle shops, Aussie labels boutiques, quaint cafes and coffee shops, and restaurants to boast.

#2 THE WHEEL OF BRISBANE

Hop on to the ferris wheel of Brisbane and catch a glimpse of the city from up above. Located within South Bank, The Wheel of Brisbane is a leisure ride of about fifteen minutes, and there are special prices for students, families and a private gondola.

#3 STAYING AT EMPORIUM HOTEL

Super chic and sexy, Emporium Hotel is where you should put up at when in Brisbane. It adds on to the city experience, we promise. Its vicinity is an enclave of restaurants and bars, and its prime location is of walking distance to James Street and Fortitude Valley.

#4 LONE PINE KOALA SANCTUARY

Getting chummy with koalas, kangaroos, emus, wombats, and dingoes, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is home to 130 koalas, and if you don’t already know, they just sent 4 koalas to Singapore recently. Definitely a must-visit spot in Brisbane, and you too shall have fun cuddling koalas and feeding kangaroos.

#5 CLIMBING THE STORY BRIDGE

The Story Bridge Climb offers a breathtaking view of the city. What we love most about it is that the bridge is located very near to the city – offering a close-up view of the city’s skyline. It is a relatively easy climb, so don’t be intimidated. It will be an experience to love.

#6 SPENDING A DAY EXPLORING BRISBANE WITH BRISBANE GREETERS

In Brisbane, there is this amazing group of volunteers called ‘Brisbane Greeters’, and they are locals who are so passionate about sharing their city. Their services are completely free of charge, and they will dedicate a few hours to bringing you around Brisbane based on your interests.

S U N S H I N E C O A S T

#7 SUNSHINE COAST HINTERLANDS FOOD TOUR

We spent a day to explore Maleny, Flaxton and Montville in the Sunshine Coast Hinterlands with Mystic Mountain Town. Quaint towns where the air is fresher, and countryside experience with visits to a cheese factory, a chocolatier, a local gelato shop… and we milked cows and tasted the freshest custards at a local farm too!

#8 OUR FIRST TIME STAYING IN A RAINFOREST RESORT

It was quite an experience to stay at Narrow’s Escape Rainforest Retreat. We were not expecting a rainforest resort to be so modern and well-furnished – needless to say, it took us completely by surprise! Nature lovers, this is for you. Wake up to Australian King Parrots hanging out at your verandah, and enjoy life on a hammock while breathing in the freshest air.

#9 ARRIVE IN NOOSA IN STYLE WITH NOOSA DREAM BOATS

After leaving Sunshine Coast Hinterlands, we arrived in Noosa in style with Noosa Dream Boats. We went on a cruise with our super friendly host Michael along Noosa River to visit the river mouth, see gorgeous holiday houses, and even passed by Sir Richard’s private resort island.

#10 NOOSA BEACH

One of the most beautiful beaches we’ve seen in recent times, and it is little wonder Noosa Beach is such a hit among beach goers. The waters are calm and the skies are blue; what’s there not to love about this postcard-worthy place?

#11 EUMUNDI MARKETS – GOOD FOR THE SOUL, BAD FOR THE WAISTLINE

The many food stalls at Eumundi Market drove us crazy, and there was even a cronuts truck! Local commodities are also commonly found – artwork, clothes, homeware… If you ever find yourself in Noosa, Eumundi Market is open every Wednesday and Saturday.

#12 NOOSA FARMERS’ MARKET – A HEAVEN FOR FOOD LOVERS

Noosa Farmers’ Market is the dream place for all foodies. Apart from stuffing yourself silly with all kinds of food, indulge in the vast selection of local produce by proud Aussie farmers.

#13 DO THE STAND UP PADDLE LIKE THE LOCALS

We heard the locals lead awesomely balanced lives and they do the stand-up paddle every day. It was a first for us, and our patient instructor, Rick, guided us through. By the fifteenth minute, we were paddling around at ease on our own, and the liberation of being out in the sea is one you would love too.

GOLD COAST

#14 STAYING AT PEPPERS BROADBEACH – OUR DREAM HOME

Peppers Broadbeach, to describe simply, is like our dream house. White and bright, clean spaces, an amazing obstructed view of Broadbeach… it was a hospitality that we will always remember. Its vicinity – The Oracle – is one happening area that is home to many reputable restaurants. We would like to think that staying at Peppers Broadbeach completed our Gold Coast experience.

#15 A SPECTACULAR VIEW OF GOLD COAST BEACH FROM SKYPOINT OBSERVATORY DECK

Because no trip to Gold Coast is complete without heading up to the Skypoint Observatory Deck. There, you get a bird’s eye view of the entire city. It is incredible. You won’t believe how we were so fascinated, especially when we could see the whole stretch of gorgeous beach – that’s Gold Coast for you.

#16 DINING AT GOLD COAST’S FINEST RESTAURANTS

Gold Coast is a connoisseur’s heaven. We were actually surprised by the availability of so many fine restaurants, and you bet our bellies were pretty pleased. Not a single bad meal we had, and we have nothing but praises for the culinary standards. To name a few that we like: Social Eating House, Seaduction, Fish House Donto Japanese Restaurant, and Jamm.

This Queensland trip to Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast is made possible by Tourism And Events Queensland. 

Over the past few years, the dining scenes in Gold Coast and Brisbane have grown tremendously. Many vibrant Australian cafés with a bohemian twist and an increasing number of authentic Asian restaurants are winning the hearts of both locals and tourists alike. Here are 7 restaurants to visit in Queensland.

Au Cirque

Au Cirque is a two-level wooden café serving nutritious Australian cuisine. Voted as one of the best brunch spots in Brisbane, this cozy place is extremely popular amongst Australians. Scrumptious breakfasts are served till 3pm; best dishes include corn fritters and breakfast chow down. Genovese coffee is served here, which explains the frequent influx of caffeine addicts.

3/618 Brunswick Street, New Farm
Queensland, Australia 4005
Tel: (07) 3254 0479

Charis Seafood

Gold Coast’s biggest seafood outlet Charis Seafood is committed in delivering customers the freshest supplies from Australia and New Zealand. There are 40 over different kinds of gourmet species, from Atlantic Salmons to Tasmanian Scallops. Takeaway hot food is available upon request. One can enjoy the quality food in the outdoors benches and tables at Harley Park along Gold Coast Broadwaters. Keep your eye on your food or lose them to the swooping birds.

371 Marine Parade
Harley Park, Labrador
Gold Coast, Queensland 4215
Tel: (07) 5527 1100

Davies Park Market

Davies Park Market, also known as West End Markets, is not a restaurant, but it is truly a taste of Brisbane. Held every Saturday from 6am to 2pm, one can expect aplenty of local fresh produce, make shift food stalls, coffee vans, one of a kind jewellery and handmade clothing. Freshly brewed coffee, made-to-order crepes, juicy German bratwursts and crunchy roasted nuts are just some of Davies Park Market’s food highlights.

Montague Road, West End
Brisbane, Queensland 4101
Tel: (07) 3844 2440

Elk Espresso

This Australian café serves premium coffee and contemporary Australian food. Popular dishes include potato hash served with avocado & bacon. Young trendy surfers can be spotted chilling here in their sunglasses and board shorts. The menu changes with the season, keeping its customers revisiting for exciting changes/additions.

16 Chelsea Avenue, Broadbeach
Gold Coast, Queensland 4218
Tel: (07) 5592 2888

Obaltan Korean BBQ

Obaltan Korean Barbeque is famous for its DIY charcoal grill. Fresh off from the steaming wire mesh, the pieces of cooked meat with a tinge of smoky flavour (something that cannot be achieved via electric grill) are tantalising even from afar. A giant retractable fan is rooted from the ceiling to keep the smoke at bay. This authentic Korean barbeque restaurant is very popular and reservations are strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.

91 Elizabeth Street, CBD
Brisbane, Queensland 4000
Tel: (07) 3211 1469

Sono Japanese Restaurant

Sono Japanese is an exquisite fine dining Japanese restaurant with remarkable awards to its name. It was crowned the Best Asian Restaurant in 2010 and was featured in several prestigious publications, including The Australian, Style Magazine, Vogue and more. Its Teppanyaki bar is a highlight, where chefs prepare food right in front of guests whilst performing impressive culinary “stunts”. Seafood fans will be in a treat as Sono’s succulent scallops amazingly melt in one’s mouth. Do note that bookings must be made prior to one’s visit.

39 Hercules Street, Portside Wharf
Level, 1 Building 7, Hamilton
Brisbane, Queensland 4007
Tel: (07) 3268 6655

Vue Lounge

Vue Lounge is a lovely chameleon; it is a modern Australian café that serves all day breakfast till 2.30pm and it evolves into an Italian restaurant from 3pm onwards. And that is not the end. Vue is also a Burger Bar & Bistro every Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm till late! It is impossible not to love Vue Lounge for supplying Brisbane-based foodies with aromatic coffees, delicious breakfast, tasty Italian fares and takeaway brilliant burgers throughout the day.

83 Merthyr Road, New Far
Brisbane, Queensland 4005
Tel: (07) 3358 6511

About the writer
Hui Jun Ng was previously a marketing executive and freelance photographer in the food industry. Her work has been published on Epicure, Lifestyle Asia and Meld Magazine etc. She is currently on a break and traveling around the world. Follow her travel adventures on Instagram or The Keepers Map where she shares useful curated travel itineraries.