A Two Week Itinerary for Brisbane and the Gold Coast
Within a hour’s drive of Brisbane, you’ll find so much to do from a metropolitan getaway, to lush mountains and crystal clear waters. Find somewhere to base yourself in Brisbane or on the Gold Coast and explore from there. Bring your walking shoes, swim wear and sunscreen – you’ll need them all!
Days 1-2
You’ll most likely be flying into Brisbane, so start by picking up a Go Card from a train station and you can have access to all trains and buses to get you around. For your first couple of days in Brisbane, follow our 48 hour guide to Brisbane. It will cover you for some seriously good local eats and a trip to the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art.
Days 3-4
Hire some camping gear and head out of the city to D’Aguilar National Park for a couple of days of camping. You’ll get a somewhat ‘outback’ Aussie experience out here even though it’s so close to the city. Beautiful country views, walking tracks and you can even have a swim in the local reservoir – what more could you want?
Days 5-6
Head back to the city for a couple of days of touristy goodness. Visit the Brisbane City Hall, Museum of Brisbane, see the clock tower and learn the history behind Anzac Square. Pop across the river and visit the Queensland Museum and learn about Australia’s most interesting animals and cultural history.
Days 7-9
Hire back some camping gear and head south to the ‘Great Walk’ on the Gold Coast – it will take you a good three days. Be sure to plan it out before hand for a smooth (approx. 54km) journey. You will pass the Gondwana Rainforest, Lamington and Springbrook National Parks and Numinbah Valley. There are plenty of great camping grounds along the way.
Day 9
Now that you’ve worked hard on your three-day hike, take a couple of days off to enjoy the luxurious and restful options that the Gold Coast has to offer. Stay in one of the best luxury hotels and enjoy the on-site spas, bars, pools and restaurants while you recuperate.
Days 10-11
Follow our 48 hour guide to the Gold Coast. It has some incredible food options as well as some stunning beaches. Skip the trip back to Springbrook National Park and replace it with a road trip down to the famed Byron Bay for the day.
Days 12-14
If you’re finishing up your two weeks on a weekend, then head to one of the Gold Coast’s fantastic markets such as the Village Markets or Miami Marketta for some great eats and treasures to take home with you. Sneak in a few salty swims wherever possible, our favourites are Burleigh Heads and Tallebudgera Creek (swim between the flags). Once you’ve had your share of sun and water, hit up the Gold Coast’s best breweries like Gold Coast Brewery, Burleigh Brewing Company or Black Hops Gallery.