The capital of Queensland used to be the poor relation of southern cultural and economic hotspots Sydney and Melbourne, but in the last twenty years it has developed into a vibrant, modern city, with more and more Aussies moving up north to escape the wintry gloom of the south, and more and more tourists flying in to get a taste of the many attractions on offer. Brisbane’s surrounding area is also well worth exploring: an abundance of natural wonders is only a day trip away.
Things to see and do:
- Walking tour – follow the gold arrows on the pavements to take in all of Brisbane’s historical sites and buildings.
- South Bank – this buzzing area on the south side of the Brisbane river is one of the city’s most attractive areas, with eateries, parks and markets aplenty.
- Mount Coot-Tha – 5 miles out of the city centre, Mount Coot-Tha gives you a great view of Brisbane and the landscape that surrounds it.
- Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast – there aren’t any beaches in Brisbane itself, but these popular holiday resort areas, lying respectively north and south of the city, can be reached in around an hour by car or train.
- Fraser Island – the biggest sand island in world has long been an obligatory backpacker destination; it’s just over 100 miles north of Brisbane, but remember – in Australian terms that’s not very much!
Getting There:
Brisbane airport is 8 miles out of the city centre; buses, trains, taxis and car hire all offer easy access to the city. You can fly there internationally, and domestic flights also arrive from across Australia.
Location and weather:
Brisbane sits on Australia’s easternmost tip, gazing out into the Pacific Ocean. Sydney is 500 miles southwest, while the rest of Queensland and the Great Barrier reef lie to the north of the city. In the summer (November to March) the heat and humidity can be stifling for the unacclimatised, whereas the winter (June to August) affords warm, sunny days and cool evenings (pack a jumper).
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