As an Aussie friend said to me, Brisbane is just a big country town. That may be so and many people may only go to Brisbane to go somewhere else, but there’s a cool vibe in Brisbane. It’s not Sydney, Melbourne or Perth but that’s OK. The locals call it Brisvegas because of its great night skyline and who can argue, it looks amazing. Brisbane is definitely worth checking out for a day or two. Here’s a perfect day in Brisbane.

I stayed at the Rydges South Bank Hotel; which had killer views as you can see above and great breakfast! South Bank is really where you’d want to stay. On my previous visits to Brisbane I always stayed in the central business district or CBD. It’s fine to stay there but it’s much nicer in South Bank.

After breakfast take a walk along the waterfront promenade and admire the views across the river. Then take in the man made beach; which I thought was fantastic.

The last time I was in Brisbane was 4-5 years ago and I heard about it but I couldn’t be bothered checking it out but it really was pretty cool even if a little cheesy. I feel like more cities should do it especially when it can get super hot as it does in Brisbane.

Then head across the Victoria Bridge onto the main shopping street and walk around. Have lunch or coffee and people watch. I’m not much for shopping but if that’s your thing then you’re in luck because they have all the stores.

Head back to South Bank to catch the sunset and then watch as the neon lights of Brisbane make the city glow at night. It really is a beautiful nighttime skyline.

There are plenty of good, sophisticated bars and restaurants to occupy you in South Bank. But if you’re up for some good fun, head over to Base Brisbane (where I stayed the other 3 times I was in Brisbane) and hit up the Down Under bar. It’s a good old-fashioned backpacker bar but a lot of fun.

That’s a pretty perfect day in Brisbane in my book. Of course you can continue north or south and hit up Fraser Island, the Sunshine Coast or Gold Coast, as Brisbane is the gateway into Queensland. Regardless, give Brisbane a chance-it may be just a big country town but it’s a cool town.

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