5 Reasons to Visit Brisbane, Australia
Brisbane, Australia’s third largest city, has shed its country town image for a more cosmopolitan edge, intriguing locals and international travellers alike. In plain sight, the Queensland capital is blossoming into a destination rife with culture, chic hotels, world-class developments, and a notable foodie scene, commanding respect from its bigger siblings, Melbourne and Sydney.
If Brisbane isn’t already on your Australia must-see list, these five compelling reasons might prompt you to take a trip.
1. The Burgeoning Brizzy Food Scene
While Sydney and Melbourne’s restaurants have dominated ‘Best of Australia’ rankings, Brisbane’s growing culinary scene has made its mark. The current culinary heat map points to Fortitude Valley, where chefs from around the country are showcasing diverse flavors beyond standard Australasian fare. Noteworthy neighborhood restaurants include Joy, a nationally-acclaimed supper club-style venue serving Nordic and Japanese dishes, and Hellenika, a stylish bar and restaurant offering a fresh array of Greek classics like spanakopita and grilled octopus. Additionally, popular Za Za Ta combines Middle Eastern flavors with bold twists, making it a top dining choice in an eccentric setting.
Across the river in the South Bank area, you will find Brisbane’s perennial favorites. The Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) boasts a light-filled restaurant offering exquisite dishes like Moolooba king prawn with quince and macadamia-infused nam prik (spicy Thai chili sauce), complemented by a Queensland-focused wine list. Stokehouse Q provides stunning river and city views, perfect for enjoying European and Mediterranean-inspired dishes like bolognese-style carrot cavatelli and lamb loin with smoked eggplant.
2. Street Art & Culture
As Brisbane establishes itself as a thriving hub for street art and culture, it’s time for Melbourne to take notice. From vibrant laneways in Fortitude Valley to a diverse range of murals and mixed-media artworks lining CBD’s Burnett Street, Brisbane’s public art scene is giving the cityscape a much-needed facelift. Look out for guerilla-style blue wooden sculptures from Blu Art Xinja, often seen as Brisbane’s answer to Banksy.
The Brisbane Street Art Festival has transformed into a two-week-long program featuring live ‘art battles,’ cycling tours, and exhibitions by renowned street artists. Moreover, the culturally rich South Bank is home to the Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), Australia’s largest public gallery, where local and international artists’ works coexist, including indigenous talent alongside creations by Anish Kapoor and Damien Hirst.
3. Revitalised Riverfront
Brisbane’s geography has always been shaped by the winding Brisbane River, and recent waterfront developments have created inviting spaces for both locals and visitors. The Howard Smith Wharves district has been transformed into a vibrant entertainment hub featuring friendly promenades, live entertainment, and scenic dining options like the popular Mr Percival’s.
Additionally, the brewing scene thrives with Felons Brewing Co., offering unique ‘Beer Yoga’ sessions on a lush lawn overlooking the river and skyline. The Brisbane Riverwalk provides a scenic, half-mile floating promenade connecting to the New Farm neighborhood, effortlessly accommodating both walking and cycling.
4. Gateway to the Sunshine Coast
South of Brisbane lies the popular ‘Australia’s playground,’ the Gold Coast, while just to the north is the naturally stunning Sunshine Coast. Located less than an hour and a half from Brisbane by car, this destination offers everything from the Great Sandy National Park’s 40 Mile Beach to the subtropical hinterland with views of the Glass House Mountains. Combining the serene beauty of nature with your urban exploration of Brisbane delivers the ideal getaway.
5. Hot New Hotels
Exploring all of these features means you’ll need some comfortable accommodations. In just two years, Brisbane’s hotel landscape has evolved from dull to dazzling, introducing chic boutique options. Leading this renaissance is Fortitude Valley’s The Calile, described as Australia’s first ‘urban resort,’ at the heart of the trendy James Street precinct. This Palm Springs-inspired hotel is a geometric marvel with 175 pastel-hued rooms overlooking the city hills or sparkling outdoor pool.
Another highlight in Fortitude Valley is Ovolo the Valley, an enjoyable hotel known for its vibrant decor and lively communal areas featuring an 80’s soundtrack, alongside rooftop pool amenities. The hotel’s generous offerings include happy hour drinks, a ‘freemium’ breakfast, in-room minibars featuring adult beverages, sweet treats, and self-service laundry.
Situated dramatically beneath the Story Bridge, The Fantauzzo – Art Series is a sultry accommodation designed as a gallery-with-rooms, named after artist Vincent Fantauzzo. His striking portraits adorn 166 guest rooms and hallways. The hotel’s standout feature is the impressive views of Brisbane’s skyline from the vibrant rooftop bar, Fiume, and an exclusive guest pool.
