Itinerary:
Ultimate Brisbane weekend
Experience adventure and indulgence with the ultimate weekend getaway in Brisbane. Island hopping, bridge-climbing, world-class dining, river adventures and so much more are all covered on this short but oh-so-sweet visit.
Early morning: Riverlife
Rise and shine! This morning you’re exploring Brisbane from a different angle. Whether you’re a first-timer or experienced paddler, Riverlife Adventure guided kayaking tour will have you gliding along the Brisbane River past some of Brisbane most famous landmarks, including the City Botanic Gardens, the Story Bridgeand South Bank Parklands.
Don’t feel like getting wet? Riverlife also offers a variety of on-land adventure activities ranging from rock-climbing and abseiling on the iconic Kangaroo Point Cliffs, segwaying along the banks of the river, as well as bicycle and rollerblade hire.
Mid-morning: High Tea
It’s time for some self-indulgence, so kick off with a decadent high tea affair at the stylish Stamford Plaza. Choose from a traditional morning tea, lobby high tea or an indulgent chocolate high tea buffet. Whatever you fancy, elegance and sophistication are the hallmarks of the experience as you enjoy meticulously crafted treats, with stunning Brisbane River views as your backdrop.
For a touch of French elegance, enjoy a Champagne High Tea at Patina Customs House. Savor iconic views of the Story Bridge, a classic high tea menu and a glass of Taittinger Champagne on the side.
Spoil yourself and your loved ones with a traditional high tea experience at Bacchus. Located in Rydges South Bank, indulge in free flowing Harney and Sons teas and delectable eats.
Located upstairs in the heritage listed Brisbane Arcade, you will find the Room with Roses that has specialised in high tea for years. This relaxed haven from the hustle and bustle of The City provides the perfect setting for any occasion. Looking for something a little different? Check out these places that serve both traditional and modern high teas. Get dressed up for a day out and enjoy a petit four with a glass of bubbles.
Prefer coffee over tea? There’s an abundance of cafés for you to explore, whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just want to savour a cup while taking in epic views. From industrial roasteries and hole-in-the-wall dispensaries to breezy cafes and pop-up coffee carts. Explore Brisbane one cup at a time with our guide to the best coffee in Brisbane.
Lunch: James Street
Boutique shopping, fine dining and the city’s best-dressed brunch crowd collide on James Street. Browse independent, local and luxury flagship stores in this leafy hotspot before indulging on fun and flavourful Thai dishes at sAme sAme, poolside Greek at Hellenika, fresh seafood at The Lodge Bar and Dining, modern Middle Eastern cuisine at The Green, and feel-good Mediterranean at Sunshine.
Afternoon: shopping at Queen Street Mall
Feeling refreshed, revived and full of treats, it’s time to hit the boutiques along Queen Street Mall. QueensPlaza is the fashionista’s dream; from the effortlessly cool designs of Aje and Scanlan Theodore to the sophistication of Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Max Mara. Across the way in Wintergarden, find the latest fashion trends, makeup looks and more. Explore parts of The City’s unique history and explore the many shopping arcades, from Brisbane Arcade to Tattersall’s Arcade, and stop in for a cocktail in the centre of the mall at the open-aired bar, Jimmy’s on the Mall, or here are our top picks where to eat while shopping in Queen Street Mall.
Late afternoon: Pampering the body and soul
Your time in Brisbane is almost at an end, so let’s unwind and experience a little pampering. Built on the belief that everyone deserves to indulge, Stephanie’s Spa Retreat in Sofitel Brisbane City makes for the ultimate detoxifying spa experience. Or, slip into a fluffy robe and drift away as your beauty and skin needs are taken care of by the expert team at Kailo Wellness Medispa, located in The Calile Hotel. For an alfresco rooftop spa experience, Soak Bathhouse in West End, takes your relaxation to the next level as you move between hot spas, mineral baths, plunge pools, steam rooms and saunas. For a luxurious wellness experience, The Bathhouse Albion offers an immersive escape to energise and restore.
Evening: Story Bridge Adventure Climb
There’s no rest for the wicked. Take a deep breath and feel the rush as you climb the glorious Story Bridge. One of only three bridge adventure climbs in the world, you’ll be rewarded for your bravado with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the river and sparkling city skyline as the sun sets. The two-and-a-half-hour climb is nothing short of spectacular.
Night: World-class dining and bars
When dusk falls, head towards the river and you’ll find the beating heart of Brisbane’s dining and entertainment scene, Howard Smith Wharves. Choose between award-winning restaurants like Greca, Yoko Dining and Stanley’s, and pop in for a nightcap at Stan’s, B-Side, Felons Brewing Co., Mr Percival’s or Fiume Rooftop Bar.
Or for the ultimate luxury dining experience, an exclusive degustation is calling your name. Joy in Fortitude Valley is an intimate fine dining destination seating only 10 guests, serving up Japanese inspired plates, or Donna Chang in The City fuses Cantonese and Sichuan legacy into modern fare. Delight in an array of culinary adventures at the new and renowned restaurants at Queen’s Wharf, including Sokyo, Fat Noodle and Luc Lac, or indulge in thrilling entertainment at The Star.
When it comes to kicking up your heels, jump across to Fortitude Valley for an eclectic mix of clubs and bars. Take in epic views of Brisbane River from rooftop bars like Cloudland’s glamorous Valley Hops Brewing, cacti-adorned Maya Mexican, chic Italian Cielo Rooftop, and decadent Peruvian-Japanese rooftop bar Soko.
Day Trip: Moreton Island/Mulgumpin
It’s time to explore the world’s third largest sand island! Catch a 75-minute passenger ferry from Holt Street Wharf over to Moreton Island/Mulgumpin’sTangalooma Island Resort. Your day ahead will be filled with adventure and beauty, so make sure you’re prepared with your swimmers, sunnies, spare clothes and good vibes. Start by snorkelling the iconic Tangalooma Wrecks, where you’ll make plenty of fish friends and may even spot the occasional turtle or dolphin in the water with you. From there, it’s time to pack as much in as possible with options of scenic helicopter flights, segway beach tours, sand tobogganing, catamaran hire, clear-bottom kayak tours, marine discovery cruises, scuba diving, sea scooter safaris, snorkelling or ATV quad biking. And make sure to leave time for a sunset cocktail overlooking the ocean from the Beach Bar.
Day tours are also an option, like the high-speed boat tour River to Bay which takes you snorkelling at the Tangalooma Wrecks, and stops for a quick visit to North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah on the way back home, leaving time to freshen up and try out one of the next restaurants on your list once you’ve returned.
Or stick to your own speed and get the adrenaline pumping with Australian Sunset Safaris for paddling transparent kayaks, snorkel and sandboard, book a spot with Moreton Island/Mulgumpin Fishing Charters, or see Moreton Bay from a whole new angle on a scenic flight with Elite Helicopters or V2 Helicopters.
Where to stay
The options are endless with Brisbane’s luxury hotel scene. From central City stays, to luxe resort-style accommodation, you’re spoilt for choice. Check into your accommodation and explore the surrounds by foot to get well acquainted with Brisbane for your stay ahead.
Stay in the heart of The City, at Capri by Fraser, as the perfect HQ for your weekend getaway. Spacious and luxuriously appointed, take in the sweeping view of the Botanic Gardens or city skyline. Also in The City, sits the vibrant dining and buzzworthy culture of W Brisbane and discover exceptional flair in the luxury hotel suites, energise at FIT Gym, get your glow on at AWAY Spa or kick back at WET Deck.
Located in the heart of Brisbane’s fashion, nightlife and restaurant scene of Fortitude Valley, Hotel X is both the centre of attention and undeniably indulgent, or rest, explore and be playful at The Calile, at the urban resort located in the upscale James Street, perfect for lazy days and relaxed nights.
Embrace an extravaganza of dynamic designs and sustainable amenities at the energetic Crystalbrook Vincent, where this 5-star hotel features artistic flair, radical entertainment, events and dining experiences all within the vibrant Howard Smith Wharves precinct.
Escape the ordinary at Emporium Hotel in South Bank and bask in the comfort of your luxuriously appointed suite or take in the spectacular views from the rooftop pool. Courtyard by Marriott Brisbane South Bank will put you right in the centre of exemplary bars, restaurants, cultural events and is conveniently located to the train station and ferry terminal.
