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How to Spend 24 Hours in Brisbane, Australia

Fortitude Valley
Fortitude Valley | © Anthony Lister/Flickr

Brisbane has a bit of a reputation for being a sleepy town. Don’t let that fool you though – we have some fantastic attractions, food, great shopping and the best weather around. Make sure to arrive on an empty stomach and bring your sunscreen!

Brisbane River

07:00AM – SOME MORNING EXERCISE

Start your day by utilising one of Brisbane’s beautiful walking routes.

08:30AM – BREAKFAST

Sourced Grocer | Teneriffe

Market

This gem never disappoints. This ultra relaxed café is in a gourmet market set in an old warehouse in Teneriffe’s quiet back streets.

Nodo | Teneriffe

If you’re gluten intolerant but still a massive foodie, this place is for you. GF waffles, donuts and pulled meat burgers are their jam, and they do them well. For the dairy intolerant, we recommend an iced coffee with almond milk.

Sassafras | Paddington

Paddington’s Sassafras is one of the most well known cafes in Brisbane. They do a good hearty Aussie breakfast in a relaxed setting.

10:00AM – TIME TO SHOP

Queensplaza

James Street | New Farm

This place is a mecca for fashionistas. Here you will find mega stores like David Jones and Pottery Barn, to independent boutiques such as Gorman, Calexico and Sass and Bide.

Queens Plaza | Brisbane CBD

This centre is where you’ll head for all things luxe. If you’ve got a penchant for the designer life, then head here to find Chanel, Bvlgari, Aesop and more.

Latrobe & Given Terraces | Paddington

Paddington has everything from brilliant local designers and manufacturers, to the best of Brisbane’s vintage and antique stores. Take your time to stroll down this long terrace.

Latrobe Terrace, Paddington, Brisbane, Australia

12.30PM – LONG LUNCHING

Popolo | South Brisbane

Grab a picnic from Popolo and soak up some fresh air. Place your picnic order with Popolo and you’ll be given a red picnic blanket. Mosey on down to the grassy knoll and enjoy the view. The Popolo staff will bring your picnic feast over so you don’t have to lift a finger.

Gerard’s Bistro | New Farm

Bistro, Restaurant, Middle Eastern

Gerard’s has a reputation for consistently good service and quality food. They are also brilliant at pairing wines and delicious tapas if you’re after a lighter option.

Julius Pizzeria | South Brisbane

This is definitely one of the best pizza joints in Brisbane, with a good booze list too.

2:30PM – EXPLORE AND RELAX

Queensland’s GOMA | South Brisbane

Brisbane’s gallery of modern art rarely disappoints. They often have great exhibitions on but if not, it’s always worth a visit!

One Wybelenna Day Spa | Brookfield

Spa, Fitness Studio, Health Spa

If you’ve got car access, then this is definitely Brisbane’s stand-out day spa. It’s away from the hustle and bustle, and will definitely encourage some zen.

Explore | West End

Wander down West End’s main streets (Vulture and Boundary). Visit SWOP for vintage, The Happy Cabin for gifts and fashion and Avid Reader for books and a cuppa.

Lane Ways | Fortitude Valley

The lane ways in Brisbane are a somewhat new addition. Bakery Lane (not just bakeries) and Winn Lane are definitely worth a visit with sweet little boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Try I Heart Brownies for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Bakery Lane – 690 Ann St, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, Australia

Winn Lane – Winn St, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, Australia

Fortitude Valley

5:30PM – PRE-DINNER COCKTAILS

Cobbler Bar | West End

Bar, Australian, Cocktails, Wine, Beer

Time for a pre-dinner cocktail at Cobbler Bar. Cobbler is all about their whisky, and they have a huge range from all over the world. It’s a beverage only bar but BYO food is welcome.

Barbara | Fortitude Valley

Beautiful fit-out, knowledgeable staff, this place has it all. Super easy to find on the Fortitude Valley lane ways too.

7:30PM – DINNER TIME

Dinner at Stokehouse | South Brisbane

Perfect riverside dining that is outstanding every time. These guys are all about a relaxed and youthful environment while also providing an experience pretty close to fine dining.

Alchemy Restaurant and Bar | Brisbane City

Bar, Restaurant, Australian, European, Vegetarian, Wine, Beer

Another one with great views of the Story Bridge and river. There are a few select restaurants in Brisbane’s city that have a view like this and it’s definitely a treat. This one isn’t a ‘cheap eat’ by any means, but worth the investment.

Beccofino | Teneriffe

The perfect relaxed Italian dining scene. It has pasta and pizza to die for and the nicest Italian waiters ever. Beccofino is one of our Best Italian Restaurants in Brisbane.

LATE – DESSERT

South Bank

Dessert Degustation at Bucchus | South Bank

It’s all about over the top flavours, like caramelised ginger bavarois with sesame. You can even opt for the paired wines too. Which obviously, you should.

Mister Fitz | Fortitude Valley and East Brisbane

Ice cream sandwiches are Mister Fitz’ speciality. Our warning would be to take a friend because these can be a bit too much for just one person. You may want to do this pre-nightcap and wash the sweetness overload down with something strong.
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