Welcome to Brisbane, Australia’s second-largest city and the capital of Queensland. It is a vibrant, cosmopolitan metropolis with abundant culture, food, shopping, and nightlife. The city has over 2 million people, is home to many international businesses, and is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. The city center is compact and easy to navigate on foot or public transport. Many attractions are within walking distance, including the Story Bridge, Queen Street Mall, South Bank Parklands, and New Farm Park. The following article will give you a comprehensive Brisbane travel guide for 2022: what to do in Brisbane, where to stay, where to eat, how to get around, events and festivals, shopping, things to see, and places to visit.
What to Do in Brisbane
There is so much to see and do in Brisbane that it can be challenging to know where to start! Here, we have listed some of our favorite activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy in Brisbane.
1. Take a tour of the city
There are numerous tours available in Brisbane. These include the City Explorer Bus Tour, which takes you through the CBD, inner suburbs, Fortitude Valley and surrounds, and the Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour. These tours offer great insight into the history and heritage of Brisbane. They also provide a fun way to explore the city at your own pace. You will realize how small the town is after taking a tour. You will also discover hidden gems along the way.
2. Visit Kangaroo Point Cliffs
Kangaroo Point Cliffs are located just north of the CBD and are a must-see if you want to learn more about the local wildlife. The cliffs are home to kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and other native animals. Kangaroo Point Cliffs have long been considered the best place in Australia to view marine life. This is because there are several species of fish living in the area.
3. Go surfing
Surfing is a big business in Brisbane. If you like to surf, then this is the place to go. The beaches here are world-famous, and the waves are consistently sound. Surfers Paradise (the closest beach) was voted the number 1 surf spot globally in 2013. When you arrive in Brisbane, check out the surf shops and book onto a board before heading to the beach.
4. See live music
You must experience Brisbane’s thriving music scene if you love live music. You will find something to suit all tastes, from jazz clubs to rock bars. Some of the top venues include The Zoo Bar, The Corner Hotel, The Tivoli Theater, The Metro Theater, and The Rex Hotel.
5. Explore the Botanic Gardens
If you want somewhere peaceful to relax and unwind, the Botanic Gardens should be on your list. The gardens cover almost 400 hectares of land and feature beautifully landscaped gardens, rainforests, lakes, fauna, and flora. The gardens were established in 1879 and have since become a major attraction.
6. Watch the sunset from Eagle Bay
Eagle Bay is known as one of the most scenic locations in Brisbane. The views from here are incredible. The bay is surrounded by lush green hills covered in eucalyptus trees. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is white.
Where to stay
If you plan to spend any time in Brisbane, accommodation is essential. Whether you are looking for a budget option or something more luxurious, there are plenty of options. Here are some of my favorites:
1. Stay at the Hilton
This iconic hotel is next to the river and offers stunning views across the water. The rooms are spacious and comfortable and feature modern amenities such as free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, work desks, coffee makers, and hair dryers. The bathrooms are large and beautifully designed.
2. Stay at the Sheraton Grand Hotel
The Sheraton Grand Hotel is a luxury hotel close to the city center. All of the rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated. Each room features a balcony with sweeping views of the Brisbane River. The hotel has a private marina, and guests can use the nearby Sheraton Riverside Marina facilities.
3. Stay at the Westin
This boutique hotel is located in the heart of the city. Beautiful parks and gardens surround it, and it’s only minutes from all the major attractions. The rooms are stylishly decorated and feature modern amenities, including free WiFi, flat screens, work desks, and tea/coffee-making facilities. The bathrooms are large, clean, and well-equipped.
Where to eat
Whether you are looking for fine dining or fast food, Brisbane has it covered. Here are some of my favorite restaurants:
1. Eat at the Black Pearl
The Black Pearl is a popular seafood restaurant that serves fresh Australian produce on the waterfront. The menu includes oysters, steaks, pasta, and salads. There’s an extensive wine list, too. This place is perfect for people who love seafood.
2. Have lunch at the Boathouse Café
One of the most popular cafes in Brisbane, the Boathouse Cafe, is situated near the Story Bridge. It serves delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch items. You will find everything from eggs benedict to sandwiches and pastries. This restaurant is excellent for families with young children.
3. Try Thai Street Food
Thai street food is trendy in Brisbane. Many tourists visit the city specifically to sample this cuisine. One of Brisbane’s best places to try authentic Thai food is Thanon Sukhumvit 63. Here, they serve noodles, curries, and rice dishes.
4. Enjoy Italian Cuisine
Italian food is another specialty of Brisbane. Some of the best places to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine include Il Barocco Ristorante and Trattoria e Pizzeria Da Gino. Both offer traditional dishes alongside pizzas and pasta.
How to get around
Getting around Brisbane is easy. Most of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Public transport is also convenient. For those who prefer to drive, the freeways provide quick access to anywhere in the city. The City Loop bus service connects many of the main tourist spots.
Conclusion
If you want to experience genuine Queensland hospitality, stay at one of these hotels during your trip. They have everything you need to make your vacation relaxing and enjoyable. When you fly into Brisbane, don’t forget to stroll along the riverfront. It’s a great way to relax after a long flight.
