Queensland is a beautiful place to go on holidays. With sunny days for more than 300 days of the year and lots of cheap and free activities to keep you busy, there is something for everyone in this beautiful state. However, with so much to do and so much area to cover, you may only be able to afford one day in each area. If you are planning to visit Brisbane in a hire car*, then the following activities will help you make the most of this beautiful city in one day.
Wake up bright and early and head into Paddington. Located just 2km west of Brisbane’s CBD, this area is known for its spectacular vintage and boutique shops, stunning views and cute cottages dotting the region. It also features a number of great cafes, where you can get your morning coffee to start the day.
After visiting Paddington and soaking up the mountain atmosphere, get in your hire car and head back down to the Brisbane River. As the longest river in south east Queensland, this area offers lots of things to do, with many of the activities free of charge. Start at one end and catch a City Cat, thenget off near Kangaroo Point, where you can hire a kayak and paddle down the river.
After building up an appetite from all the exercise, stop off at South Bank, on the opposite side of the river from Brisbane’s CBD. South Bank offers everything from a man-made beach and numerous restaurants, to art galleries, museums and gorgeous parklands. Choose from one of the many restaurants and cafes for lunch. One particularly cheap option is one of the many fish and chip shops dotted along the river.
Your next stop is the Maiala Rainforest Circuit. This is a little further away and getting Brisbane car hire is a necessity for a shorter and easier trip. Located further north in Samford Valley, this park is all about impressive views, Australian wildlife and relaxing walks. This route can be very steep so take caution. If you prefer something a little more relaxed, another route can be found via the Gap, a city just west of the CBD.
By evening, you will want to head back into the CBD for dinner. Brisbane city is as beautiful at night as it is during the day, with buildings lighting up and restaurants littering the region. One great place to go is Vapiano, an Italian restaurant in the heart of Brisbane. With pizza, pasta and a range of heavenly desserts, this restaurant will make even the fussiest eater happy.
To finish your day in Brisbane, get back in your hire car and head a little further south to Mount Coot-tha. This scenic lookout offers panoramic views of Brisbane, as well as a quaint restaurant where you can fill up on ice cream. Buy an ice cream and set up a spot at the lookout where you can see the city lights twinkle.
After a long day, head back to your accommodation and enjoy a good night’s rest.
