After three weeks winding down Australia’s East Coast, Brisbane made for the perfect finale. It is a city that feels effortlessly liveable. The city is full of good food and open-air spaces. It has a creative edge that’s easy to fall into.
It’s the kind of place where mornings start with a world-class croissant. Afternoons drift by along the river. Evenings end over shared plates and local wine. Compact, sunny, and laid-back, Brisbane offers that sweet spot between city energy and Queensland’s signature ease.
This post is part of our Ultimate 3-Week East Coast Australia Itinerary. It features a route from Cairns to Brisbane. The route is full of reefs, rainforest, and relaxed coastal towns.
Riverfront vibes: exploring Brisbane’s heart
Brisbane is built around its river — a wide, looping curve that shapes the city’s rhythm. The Howard Smith Wharves precinct is one of the best places to feel that energy. This area was once an old dock. Now, it is home to open-air bars and breweries. It also features some of the city’s most scenic dining spots.
We spent an afternoon at Felons Brewing Co., right under the Story Bridge, sipping cold craft beers while the skyline turned golden across the water. The whole area buzzes with locals finishing work. They catch up over shared plates. The ambiance is casual, fun, and full of character.
Just above the wharves, you’ll find walkways connecting to New Farm and Kangaroo Point. These are perfect for an early morning jog or a sunset stroll. If you’re not in a hurry, hop on one of the CityCats. They are Brisbane’s public ferries. They offer a great way to see the city from the water for just a few dollars.
Cafés, bakeries & morning rituals
Brisbane’s café culture could rival Melbourne’s — just with more sunshine.
Our first stop was Agnes Bakery. It’s a must-visit spot. The smell of fresh pastries hits you before you even see the queue. Their croissants live up to the hype. They are flaky, buttery perfection. The morning light spilling through the windows makes it one of those slow, happy starts to the day.
Later, we walked over to Lune Croissanterie, another cult-favourite for pastry lovers. The layered, sculptural croissants here are almost too pretty to eat (almost). Grab one to-go and stroll through Brisbane Arcade, a heritage gallery filled with boutiques and old-world charm.
Dining highlights: relaxed, refined & full of flavour
Brisbane’s dining scene is quietly impressive — stylish without being pretentious, and full of creative touches that showcase local produce.
A few highlights from our stay:
- Bianca – Vibrant, modern Italian in the heart of Fortitude Valley. Think handmade pasta, crisp wines, and an atmosphere that makes you want to linger.
- Fatcow Steak & Lobster – For something indulgent. Perfectly cooked steak, fresh seafood, and warm, polished service. A treat dinner that feels worth it.
- Wineology – A relaxed wine bar with a great selection of Australian bottles and small bites. Perfect for an easy evening before or after dinner.
Every meal felt relaxed yet special — that effortless Brisbane blend of quality and comfort.
City walks & hidden stories
Between meals and river views, Brisbane’s compact layout makes it perfect for exploring on foot.
We joined an interesting guided history walking tour through the city centre. We learned how Brisbane evolved from a penal settlement. It has become one of Australia’s most forward-thinking cities. The blend of colonial architecture, street art, and modern glass towers gave the tour a fascinating contrast. It was an experience that deepens your connection to a place without feeling overly formal.
Later, we wandered through the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens. It is a lush riverside park. It is filled with winding paths, giant fig trees, and open lawns. The gardens are a calm retreat right in the heart of the city. Locals pause there for their lunch break. Visitors linger with an iced coffee under the palms.
Experiencing Brisbane culture
Across the river, South Bank is where the city really opens up. The area features leafy walkways, weekend markets, and the Cultural Centre. It is home to the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) and the Queensland Museum. It’s a place to wander slowly and soak up the creative energy.
We spent a few hours here enjoying coffees and craft beers. We browsed contemporary art exhibitions. Then, we caught the sunset back along the river. Both GOMA and the museum are free to enter, and well worth a visit.
An Australian tradition: 2-Up Day
By chance, our visit coincided with ANZAC Day. It is a national day of remembrance. It is also the only day of the year when it’s legal to play 2-Up. This is a traditional Aussie coin-tossing game usually played in pubs.
We joined locals in one of Brisbane’s lively bars for a few rounds. It was a mix of cheering, laughter, and good-natured competition. It’s one of those travel moments that stays with you: spontaneous, social, and a real slice of Australian culture.
Where to stay & how to get around
- Getting there: Brisbane Airport is just 20 minutes from the city centre, with regular train and shuttle connections.
- Where to stay: Fortitude Valley and South Bank are ideal — close to dining, bars, and river walks. For something quieter, New Farm offers boutique stays with leafy surroundings.
- Getting around: The city is compact — walking, ferries, or e-scooters are easy ways to explore.
- How long to stay: 2–3 nights is perfect for soaking up the atmosphere and hitting the highlights.
Summary: Brisbane’s easy energy
Brisbane doesn’t try too hard — and that’s exactly what makes it shine. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, eat well, and just enjoy being there.
From Agnes Bakery mornings to Felons Brewery sunsets, and from Botanic Garden strolls to that unexpectedly fascinating walking history tour. Every moment felt like the perfect wrap-up to our East Coast adventure. It was relaxed, warm, and full of simple pleasures done beautifully.
Whether you’re finishing a long road trip or just starting one, Brisbane is a reminder of something important. Sometimes, the best experiences are the ones that don’t need an itinerary.
Start from the beginning with our Ultimate 3-Week East Coast Australia Itinerary
Wander with Orla 
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