3 Days in Brisbane: Suggested Itineraries
Brisbane (Bris Vegas to the locals), on the northeastern coast of Australia, has really come into its own having morphed from a sleepy town to a progressive city renowned for its year-round sunshine, laid-back lifestyle and chock-a-block cultural calendar. This thriving arts capital sports a happening café scene and great nightlife, all within a stone's throw of some heavenly island getaways. Climate, culture and sandy relaxation? You've never had it so good! We've cherry-picked the best of Brisbane for this three-day itinerary.
Day 1: Viva Bris Vegas!
Brisbane is a great city to discover on foot. Start your day with the pick of the latest cafes by venturing to the city fringe and into Fortitude Valley, a bohemian, gentrified neighborhood of restaurants and boutiques. Once fortified, hit the streets, taking in Brisbane's historic buildings, churches, gardens and expansive, incredible Gallery of Modern Art. Give your feet a rest by taking a cruise along the lazy Brisbane River, then head to Mt. Coot-tha Lookout for a magnificent eyeful of the cityscape. Fancy a taste of the local produce? You can tour a scenic vineyard or take an indulgent dinner cruise once the sun goes down.
Day 2: Fun for the Whole Family
Brisbane is tailor-made for family holidays with endless beaches, the great outdoors and the Gold Coast theme parks just down the road. Dreamworld and WhiteWater World are great, splashy fun for kids. Get up close with crocodiles and tigers at Steve Irwin's ongoing legacy - Australia Zoo, or head to World Heritage-listed Fraser Island on a four-wheel drive eco day trip.
Day 3: Brisbane Day Trips
With weather as tropical and bright as Brisbane's, you can't wait to get outside. Luckily it's perfectly positioned for all kinds of day trips. You can get your glitz on at the unashamedly blingy beach area of Surfers Paradise. A day trip to the aptly named Sunshine Coast takes you shopping and dining at stylish Noosa Heads, and exploring Queensland's largest aquarium at Underwater World. Get zen at the old hippie enclave of Byron Bay (fancied up for café tastes) or get behind the wheel for some four-wheel drive touring and camping on Moreton Island.
Australia Zoo by Croc Express Coach
- Observe amazing animals from Down Under and around the world at the famous Australia Zoo — Home of the Crocodile Hunter! The legacy of Steve Irwin and his family, this conservation center aims to educate visitors about wildlife and help preserve endangered species for the future. Ride to the zoo from your Brisbane or Gold Coast hotel in an air-conditioned Croc Express coach, and enjoy 6 hours of free time to browse the fantastic mammal, bird and reptile exhibits. Watch supervised educational demonstrations by animal handlers.
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Brisbane River Dinner Cruise
- Enjoy the sights of Brisbane at night from a prime vantage point on the water during a 3-hour dinner cruise aboard a classic wooden paddlesteamer. Dine on a contemporary buffet meal that features top Australian ingredients including fresh meats and produce, then take in live onboard entertainment in addition to unobstructed views of the sparkling waterfront. Bring your camera for great photo ops of your loved ones or visiting friends on a memorable night out in Brisbane.
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Eumundi Markets and Sunshine Coast Day Trip from Brisbane
- Travel from Brisbane to the Eumundi Markets and Sunshine Coast Hinterland for a full day that includes shopping and walks in picturesque towns and the rain forest. Australia's biggest arts and crafts market, Eumundi Markets features more than 600 local vendors selling all sorts of goods — a great place to find unusual treasures. Then head to the mountain town of Montville and nearby Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. Upgrade to include a visit to Noosa, famous for its gorgeous beach, high-end shops and restaurants.
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Australia Zoo and Sunshine Coast Day Trip from Brisbane
- Leave busy Brisbane for a full-day tour to Australia Zoo and Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Have about four hours on your own at the Australia Zoo — made famous by Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin and one of Queensland's top attractions. Afterward, continue to Montville for a stroll about town, then into Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve for an optional guided rain forest walk. Enjoy the fresh air of the mountains and learn about the plants of this subtropical zone before returning to Brisbane in the late afternoon.
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XXXX Brewery Tour
- In Queensland, XXXX means beer, but how did this iconic brew get its name? Find out on a fun and fascinating 90-minute guided tour of the XXXX Brewery. Walk through the heart of the production area, check out how the brews are created, observe the brewing process up close, then pour the perfect pint after learning from the pros. Includes four tastings of XXXX Brewery’s delicious beers and a voucher to the souvenir store.
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Springbrook National Park Discovery Full-Day Bushwalking Tour
- Enjoy an in-depth experience of the World Heritage–listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia on a full-day tour from Brisbane to Springbrook National Park. Your expert guide shows you examples of subtropical and temperate rainforest, stopping at stunning lookout points and cascading waterfalls. Sit down for a picnic lunch at Purlingbrook Falls, take a refreshing dip in natural freshwater pools and see the foliage up close on nature walks. This small-group tour is limited to 15 participants to ensure a more personalized experience.
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