| Brisbane | Short Escape
 Located on the Brisbane River, Queensland’s capital is an attractive city of around 1.4 million people. This sunny sub-tropical metropolis is renowned for its relaxed lifestyle - making it a great holiday destination.
Start your Brisbane visit in the City Centre - at the heart of which you’ll find the main shopping precinct, Queen Street Mall that is lined with outdoor cafes. This central area also contains the elegant Conrad International Treasury Casino, the tranquil Botanic Gardens and some beautiful old buildings.
Many of Brisbane’s attractions, however, lie over the river on the southern shore. You can easily spend a day wandering around the brilliantly executed South Bank Parklands complex, the former 1988 World Expo site, where there are restaurants, shops, parks, tropical gardens, a man-made beach and the Butterfly and Insect House. This area is also home to the Queensland Maritime Museum and Queensland Cultural Centre, which includes the excellent Queensland Art Gallery and informative Queensland Museum.
Cruising the Brisbane River is a great way to view the city’s modern skyline. Cruises and ferries depart regularly from the Riverside Centre and Eagle Street Pier, the location of some great restaurants with river views, and a colourful Sunday market.
Further a field; Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (best reached via a scenic boat ride) is a must, as is the Australian Woolshed and the spectacular city panorama from Mount Coot-tha Reserve and Lookout, just a few kilometres to the west. You can also take boat trips out into Moreton Bay to visit Stradbroke and Moreton Islands, and Brisbane offers plenty of adventurous pursuits like skydiving, balloon flights and abseiling.
Where to Stay
Time Required: At least 2 days are recommended | | |
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