Brisbane travel guide
Meet BrisbaneBrisbane weather reportGetting into BrisbaneTop attractions in BrisbaneGetting around BrisbaneWhere to eat in Brisbane Page 2: More information on Brisbane
Meet Brisbane
Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and is Australia's third largest and fastest-growing city. Dubbed 'the city of Sundays ", the street cafe vibe of Brisbane is not hard to get lost in. Culture vultures are spoiled for choice with the South Bank's art museums and a buzzing music scene to be found in most bars around. There is a good sporting culture here too, fantastic range of shops for both the fashionista and quirky trinket collector.
Brisbane is embedded in a beautiful landscape, and is a great Springing-off point for nature lovers. Like most Australian cities, it is on the coast, and Winer, safaris, and bush exploration are only a stone's throw away.
There are still signs of the city's aboriginal roots, as well as influence from new immigrants from Europe and the Asia. With a vibrant and Laid-back atmosphere, and a variety of cosmopolitan districts, Brisbane is the Quintessential Australian city - one of diversity, discovery, and adventure.
The best time to visit Brisbane is in March, when the climate is still warm but not as humid, and produce will be plentiful. Airfare will be cheaper around this time of year also, as it does not coincidence with school holidays.
Brisbane weather report
While Brisbane does enjoy a somewhat temperate climate, the weather remains mild in comparison to other Australian cities. Like Melbourne and Sydney, the Central Business District can become extremely humid in the summer, with temperatures well into the 40s, and not cooling below 20 at night. In winter, while Victoria enjoys snow, Brisbane stays in the early teens, with some rainfall, but a mostly sunny season.
For the latest weather info use the Pampo weather forecast tool.
Getting into Brisbane
Brisbane National Airport is only 20 km from the city center, and is well served by the major Australian airlines Qantas and dry and budget airline Jet Blue. Travellers from beyond Asia will almost certainly have to take two flights to get to Brisbane, and it May Be cheaper to fly from another Australian city on the way.
Leave plenty of time for any inter-terminal travel, as trains only run twice an hour and finish service early. To get into the city, and AirTrain CoachTrans Provide cheap (around $ 14) transfers, and car rentals are easy to find.
There are also excellent intercity train and bus links, but bear in mind that Australia is big, only to take these options for a long journey with a good view!
Top attractions in Brisbane
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Alma Park Zoo - thirty minutes north of the city, the zoo provides a great basic introduction to the country's wildlife. The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary provides a more intimate experience.
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Brisbane City Hall and King Geroge Square - the city's Most significant landmark, Which OFTEN hosts free concerts. The top of the clock tower can be reached for free also, for stunning views of the city.
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Botanical Gardens - with walking and cycling tracks, this free attraction displays the best of Brisbane's fauna.
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CityCat river cabs are an extremely cheap way of introduction to the city. For $ 5 combined ticket and boat will take you on a two hour journey.
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Mt Coot-tha - Brisbane's tallest mountain with an excellent view.
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South Bank - the cultural hub of the city, with an Artificial beach, several museums, and free swimming. There is also a 15 minute "Wheel of Brisbane" ride for panoramic views of the city.
Getting around Brisbane
There are many ways to get around Brisbane:
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Bike - the city has numerous cycle routes, and it is legal to cycle on footpaths, making it easy to get around and be green. Be aware that there is a $ 120 fine for cycling without a helmet.
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Car - Brisbane's one-way system and steep parking fees make driving around the city center difficult, but, save a couple of cheap toll roads, it is by far the easiest way to explore the suburbs and other parts of Queensland.
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Motorbikes / Scooters - these are far cheaper alternatives to driving a car, and parking is free, and although scooters are not allowed on motorways, there are many scenic routes that can be enjoyed from a motorbike.
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Public Transport - Brisbane has an integrated system of buses, ferries, and trains Which run on the GoCard (similar to London's Oyster system) Which are around 30% cheaper than paper tickets, Which are set to be phased out in the 2010th The GoCard will also make a cheap souvenir of your trip!
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By foot - Like most Australian cities, Brisbane has a very compact central business district, Which is easy to navigate by foot.
Where to eat in Brisbane
Whole travel guides could be written on Brisbane's food offerings, with for Brevity, here are the best restaurants in the central business district:
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Bar Merlo - and cafe chain, but regarded as a leader in Brisbane's café society. It makes a pleasant alternative to Starbucks!
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Beach House - big portions, a licensed bar and live music make this a great place to have a cheap meal.
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Cha Cha Char - Considered home to some of Australia's best steaks.
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E'cco Bistro - run by renowned chef Philip Johnson, this is probably as good as they come.
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Little Tokyo - the oldest Japanese restaurant in Brisbane, this place has been serving authentic food for over 40 years.