Discover the Best Citywalk Routes Perfectly Suited for Exploring Brisbane

Brisbane, the third largest city in Australia, often finds itself overshadowed by the more famous Melbourne and Sydney. While many travelers know it as a convenient stopover to the Gold Coast, Brisbane is a hidden gem that deserves a day of leisurely exploration. A good half-day is all you need to uncover its charms.

1️⃣ Brisbane City Hall
Navigate to: City Hall
Admission is free, and inside, you can explore the Mayor’s office on the second floor and the Brisbane Museum on the third. Interestingly, there’s even a plaque gifted by the Shenzhen Municipal Government adorning one of the walls.

Tip: To the right of the entrance, you’ll find the Shingle Inn, the oldest coffee shop in Brisbane. Their brunch is a must-try! (More food recommendations in a separate post [ListR])

2️⃣ Queen Street Mall
Navigate to: Exit City Hall and turn right to cross the street.
Tip: Look for the KFC and Coles; nestled between them is a small alley where you’ll find Lune, a bakery renowned for its “world’s best croissants.”

3️⃣ Brisbane Botanic Gardens
Follow Queen Street Mall all the way down to the end, and you’ll reach the main entrance of the Botanic Gardens. This expansive garden is a haven of flowers, fountains, and even some friendly lizards. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.

4️⃣ Free Ferry Ride at the Dock + Best Photo Spot for the Story Bridge
Navigate to: Riverside Ferry Terminal
Just a 10-minute walk from the Botanic Gardens, the dock offers stunning views of the Story Bridge. Take your time to capture the perfect photo. Along the river, you’ll find numerous scenic restaurants where you can rest and recharge. Then, hop on the free ferry to explore the attractions on the other side.

Tip: The ferry schedule can be a bit tricky [ListR]. The free service is called the Free City Hopper. Before boarding, make sure to ask the staff if it’s heading towards South Bank.

5️⃣ Queensland Maritime Museum
Get off at the Queensland Maritime Museum stop. The museum is right next to South Bank Parklands. If you’re interested in maritime history, turn right after getting off the boat. Otherwise, stay on for one more stop to reach South Bank Parklands.

6️⃣ South Bank Parklands
This long, picturesque park along the river is a delight to explore. The artificial beach and public pool area are always bustling with activity, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. Find a cozy spot to enjoy a beer and watch the sunset—it’s a truly serene experience. Further ahead, you’ll find the iconic Ferris wheel.

7️⃣ Gallery of Modern Art
Depending on your energy and time, you might want to continue to the Gallery of Modern Art. I didn’t get a chance to visit due to time constraints, but it’s definitely worth a look if you have the opportunity.

8️⃣ QWR Queen’s Wharf
After exploring the lush South Bank Parklands, you can make your way back to the North Bank via a scenic pedestrian bridge that is exclusively for walkers. As you descend, you’ll find yourself at the entrance of Queen’s Wharf, set to become Brisbane’s premier destination for luxury accommodations, gaming, and retail experiences.

Although the full complex is still under development, the casino is already buzzing with activity. Be sure to check out the observation deck on the upper floors, currently free to visitors, where a glass walkway provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline.