Brimming with positive energy, and Australia’s third-largest city, Queensland’s sun-soaked capital of Brisbane is a city which effortlessly blends laid-back charm with dynamic urban energy – offering a perfect mix of sunshine, adventure, and culture.

From picturesque riverfront picnics and beautiful national parks to a thriving arts scene and bustling suburbs - each with their own character and brimming with craft breweries, bars, culinary spots to be discovered, boutiques and more, Brisbane invites you to explore its sunny allure on all levels.

A modern, sub-tropical capital city, it’s got the Brisbane River at its heart, and it’s a vibrant metropolis, dotted with cultural hotspots, which thrives on its outdoor spirit – all with the backdrop of the iconic Mt. Coot-tha overlooking everything that it has to offer. 

To boot, Brisbane has also been recognised as an international events capital, having been elected as Host City for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – plus, the city and surrounds also offer a range of appealing visitor experiences and easy access to the famous Gold Coast and Great Barrier Reef. If you’re looking to stay and also boost your visit with a few other adventures, you can also take a trip to one for all of the numerous coastal villages around, an expansive bay of islands which are not too far – including Mulgumpin (Moreton Island) and Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) – or the magic of the hinterland, with historic countryside towns, lush national parks and fertile farmland to discover.

Be warned though – unlike other Aussie capitals, Brisbane’s inner city can be a bit of a dead zone, particularly evenings and on weekends. This is because the best of Brisbane, the action, vibe and beauty is all in the ‘burbs, as the locals would say.

There are plenty to choose from, seeming as the City of Brisbane has more or less 190 suburbs according to the Brisbane City Council – but there’s no formal system of regions. Matching perfectly with the laid-back ambience that permeates this place and its locals, the suburbs here are informally grouped by Brisbane residents based on their relation to the Brisbane River and the Brisbane CBD. 

Brisbane’s winding river then carves through the neighbourhoods, and you choose your own adventure based on what you’re after and your own character. 

On the north bank, places marked by the Howard Smith Wharves under the iconic Story Bridge are your go-to for chic hotels, waterfront dining, and an electric nightlife. Meanwhile, the southern suburbs offer a blend of leafy retreats, multicultural eateries, and lively weekend markets that keep the energy high from day to night, making Brisbane a city that’s as dynamic as it is diverse.

There are a few ‘burbs that stand out though, and are Locay’s favourites for the moment – so here are our top picks, and the ‘low down’ on each, if you’re struggling to choose where to go, and stay, when you visit.

If you’re looking for a place where style and charm converge in Brisbane’s lively Fortitude Valley – look no further. 

Ovolo The Valley, located in the heart of this vibrant neighbourhood, oozes modern flair, fitting perfectly with its surroundings which have transformed from their edgy past into a chic hotspot teeming with artisan cafés, trendy boutiques, and dynamic nightlife. 

With every corner echoing tales of reinvention and community spirit, The Valley invites you to dive into its creative pulse, and inside the award-winning Ovolo, 102-rooms offer the perfect blend of comfort and style, and modern flair. 

Complete with a rooftop pool, a sizzling sauna, elegant cocktail bar, a patisserie, and a premium gym – plus 24-hour room service for guests, and all rooms with a mini bar, large flat screen TV, Google Chromecast device and free WiFi – Ovolo The Valley is the epitome of contemporary luxury. Custom wallpaper, eccentric furniture and illustrations curated throughout all spaces and rooms just add to its artful design, all which reflects the area’s eclectic vibe. 

Whether you're lounging by the pool, sipping a flat white at a nearby café, or hitting the town for an unforgettable night out at one of the many restaurants and bars in town, Ovolo The Valley is your gateway to an extraordinary Brisbane experience. 

Discover Miss Midgley’s, Brisbane’s hidden gem, nestled in a historic building rich with stories spanning over 160 years. 

Once known as Cairncross House, this charming site has served as a hospital, orphanage, and schoolhouse, but its latest transformation into a boutique hotel invites you to experience a unique blend of history and modern comfort.

Designed to make you feel right at home, Miss Midgley’s offers its guests a choice of five beautifully appointed apartments that prioritise warmth and cosiness, with thoughtful amenities – including free WiFi, and dog-friendly accommodations, plus touches like a little laundry and a well-curated book library. Parking is all available on-site, and guests can unwind on sunny Brisbane days at the property’s stunning pool surrounded by lush gardens. 

A delightful retreat for those seeking a truly local experience – Miss Midgley’s is the place to be whether you’re planning a short getaway or a longer escape,  and promises a stay filled with character and comfort in the heart of New Farm.

Nestled on a bustling corner just a five-minute stroll from the picturesque Brisbane River, Emporium Hotel South Bank is your gateway to luxury in one of the city’s most vibrant precincts. 

This sophisticated haven features 143 beautifully designed suites, complete with lavish gold leaf mirrors and modern amenities like complimentary Wifi and flat-screen TVs, as well as mini fridges, mini bars, and tea and coffee making facilities, plus en suite marble bathrooms and safes. Upgraded rooms also offer river and city views.

Amenities also include a restaurant, a piano bar, a terrace and a gym, as well as a sauna and a stunning rooftop infinity pool for guests – but those that want to indulge in the ultimate retreat can do so in the Poolside Cabana Suite, where you can step directly onto the rooftop deck and unwind in your own private cabana, and elevate the stay with one of the in-room massages available. Those who want to take it a step further can even take advantage of exclusive experiences like fly-and-dine adventures with Elite Helicopters. 

This is where opulence and elegance meets comfort, and with the top-notch dining options around, and proximity to South Bank’s cultural gems, including the famous city beach and the Queensland Museum, this hotel offers an unforgettable blend of relaxation and a lavish experience in the heart of Brisbane.

Fortitude Valley

‘The Valley’, as it is affectionately known by the locals, is where Brisbane’s nightlife, arts, and culinary delights collide in an eclectic embrace. 

It’s always marched to the beat of its own drum, and this dynamic neighbourhood is one which thrives on its rich cultural tapestry, offering everything from chic boutiques and trendy eateries to late-night bars and live music venues. 

It’s a place where heritage buildings and modern sophistication mingle seamlessly, inviting you to explore its lively streets day and night.

As you wander through The Valley, don’t miss James Street – a stylish, tree-lined avenue with a multitude of laneways to explore, small bars to discover, and boutique hotels to stay at. A shopaholic meets foodie dream, it’s also brimming with high-end fashion boutiques and delectable cafes and restaurants. Here, you can sip coffee at artisanal spots or indulge in exquisite dining experiences from acclaimed chefs – whatever you fancy on the day, or just do both.

Our tips? Start your day at The New Black in Bakery Lane, where breakfast becomes an art form. Known for its inventive dishes, it’ll kickstart your day in the right way. Just a stroll away on King Street, get your caffeine hit at Kuhl-Cher Coffee, where the beans are roasted fresh on the premises. If you’re looking for something more chic, get yourself to L'Americano, a glamorous spot to soak in the ambience of the Italian Riviera with decor by Coco Republic. If you want to explore a bit further afield, head to Alfred and Constance Streets, here you’ll have plenty of other cafes to choose from, also worthy to start your day at.

When the sun sets, this area transforms into a buzzing nightlife hub, and dining paradise, where a puzzle of restaurants, dive bars and rooftop lounges come together and beckon you to dish up, grab a beer or cocktail and unwind. 

Ovolo The Valley steps it up with its delicious vegetarian fare at Za Za Ta, whilst Gerard’s Bistro is the go-to for Middle Eastern delights. Go Mediterranean with Greek fare at Hellenika within The Calile Hotel, or Italian classics at Bianca; but if you’re more in the mood for Asian done differently, head to our pick sAme sAme. There’s also the Ada Lane food precinct if you just don’t know what you want. 

For a nightcap, ascend to Iris Rooftop for breathtaking views, or mingle at local breweries like Soapbox Beer, before exploring the lively bar scene that includes the eclectic Suzie Wong's Good Time Bar and the sophisticated CRU Bar + Cellar. Here, every meal and cocktail tells a story, inviting you to savour the essence of Brisbane's vibrant culture.

Some even say this suburb was Australia’s first dedicated entertainment district, and with its mix of unique blend of old-world charm, contemporary flair and constantly bustling cafes, bars, restaurants and cool places to pop into, Fortitude Valley is the still ultimate destination for those seeking a taste of Brisbane and its energetic spirit.

If you’re a music lover though, there’s no better time to dive into Brisbane’s vibrant scene than during BIGSOUND in September, an electrifying festival that showcases the freshest local talent alongside industry legends. January's Lunar New Year fills Chinatown Mall with colourful dragon dances, while February brings the lively Valley Fiesta. Throughout the year, the Judith Wright Centre features with an array of performances, from theatre and dance to visual arts, and it’s the place to enjoy Brisbane's cultural landscape.

Whatever you're into, The Valley is sure to have something that fits the bill, as long as you bring the energy to match.

New Farm

Lining the Brisbane River, New Farm is a lush, green oasis known for its bustling arts scene and delightful café culture. 

This historic suburb is a haven for those who crave outdoor adventures and cultural experiences alike, boasting the sprawling New Farm Park – home to jacaranda trees and scenic picnic spots. With the iconic Brisbane Powerhouse at its heart, the area buzzes with creativity and also offers a myriad of dining options, from artisanal brunch spots to charming local delis that reflect its rich cultural tapestry.

Stroll through the leafy streets, and you'll discover culinary gems like the beloved A Café Called Kevin. Housed in a heritage building and quintessentially Queensland, this is a cafe that’s been given a sleek, modern makeover, and its here that locally sourced ingredients shine in every dish, and you can even ‘Build Your Own Breakfast’ (BYO). 

Other favourites are the enchanting Blue Bear Coffee House, perfect for relaxed brunches and/or evening bites and a wine by night; and Dicki’s for simple, nourishing vegan food.

For your French fix, head to Chouquette – an authentic French bakery and patisserie specialising in pastries, cakes, artisan breads, viennoiserie and savoury items; and within walking distance of New Farm Park and the Teneriffe Riverwalk, is Mylk + Ko, a friendly, visually pleasing cafe with all-day brunch and bench seats, as well as chairs inside the café, plus plenty of outdoor seating to soak in the sunshine with your cappuccino. 

Don’t leave without popping into the iconic New Farm Continental Delicatessen though. Situated at 81 Merthyr Road New Farm, and established in 1975, it’s been in the same family for more than 40 years, and its fourth generation is now passing on the traditions, flavours, and hard-to-get-but-necessary European ingredients to the current Brisbane community, and visitors alike. It’s here that you’ll find character, mouthwatering Mediterranean delicacies, paired with home-baked bread, and (arguably) the best Italian style espresso in the city. 

Self-proclaimed ‘hub for contemporary culture’, the Brisbane Powerhouse beckons from its graffitied, but refurbished, red-brick industrial building, with plenty of plays and concerts, and a variety of cultural events and exhibitions to check out. 

Pretty, family-friendly, and fancy without the snob, New Farm invites you to experience a unique blend of relaxation and lively community spirit, with an array of activities year-round, and everything from arts and culture to shops, walks, parks and cafes. 

A little, sparkling neighbourhood gem you need to discover. 

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Paddington

Perched on a hill just a little north of Brisbane, and known for its scenic and tranquil leafy streets, patchwork of historic worker’s cottages, stunning character homes and treasure trove of shops, Paddington is a place that captures the essence of urban living with a dash of unmatched charm.

With its lively hubs along Latrobe and Given Terrace, Paddington invites you to wander down its main winding road filled with an eclectic mix of boutiques, cafés, and vintage shops that promise to delight – and when it comes to shopping, Paddington stands out in particular as a haven for vintage lovers and those on the hunt for one-of-a-kind pre-loved goods.

The Paddington Antique Centre is just the beginning, and as you meander through the streets, you’ll uncover an array of second-hand stores brimming with quirky finds and retro treasures. From stylish clothing to unique homewares and artwork, each shop tells a story, making every visit an adventure – so you’ll never be bored. 

But it’s not just this that has attracted the wave of professionals, students and young families who make up the local community here, and the visitors that are continually drawn to this inner-city hub.

The local dining scene complements the shopping experience, with cosy cafés and trendy eateries spilling out onto the pavements here, and cater to both brunch enthusiasts and casual diners. Post vintage and boutique shopping, this is the place for catch-up drinks, a lazy weekend breakfast/brunch, or a cool night out dining.

Just a short distance from the bustling CBD, Paddington is more than a suburb; it's a lifestyle – and we can’t mention this suburb without zoning in on the much-loved Rosalie Village. Part of Rosalie – a former suburb of Brisbane, which has been a neighbourhood within the suburb of Paddington since 1975 – it revolves around Rosalie Village and is a compact, attractive pocket of the city that happens to be a well kept local secret.

It’s got its own cool catalogue of places to visit – from restaurants and bars to cinema and gourmet providores. 

There’s plenty to discover to say the least, but the best of the best in our books from these hotspots is Naim, Anouk, Sassafras, and Chapter IV Espresso if you’re on the hunt for a great brunch complete with all the essentials; or Darling & Co – a chic café, bar, and restaurant located in a spacious, stylish setting.

A note for the sustainable Sassafras of Paddington in particular, is its famous all-day breakfast made from locally-sourced and seasonal produce, and the fact that it’s a a dog-friendly haven with a hidden courtyard – making it a beloved part of Brisbane's culinary landscape for over 25 years.

If you’re after plant-based, gluten-free and vegan options, Flannerys Paddington is the place for breakfast or lunch, seven days a week; and Grappino Trattoria, Il Posto or Marinara Trattoria will have your Italian food cravings sorted when they call. 

Emily Yeoh Kitchen, marked by the Masterchef alumnus is the spot for modern Chinese casual dining, known for simple cooking techniques with locally sourced, biodynamic and sustainable ingredients that showcase Queensland produce; and Paddington Social, a cafe and Thai restaurant housed in a converted and cosy, old Queenslander house is also worth a look. 

For classics though, you can’t go past Hope & Anchor – a local gastropub in Paddington set in a historic late-1800s cottage with an elevated selection of breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes that’s sure to fit the bill; or  King Tea, housed in a 100-year-old building – a former spot that provided tea, tobacco and sandwiches to tram workers.

For a day relaxing with some local craft beer taking in the sun, it seems that Patio by Range and 5 Boroughs have passed the neighbourhood test, so good for a pint post suburb exploration. 

Family-run boutique food hall, and Brisbane's best deli, Rosalie Gourmet Market, is the best place to try a bit of everything though – from prepared, high quality gourmet food and artisan products and ingredients from around the world, to the best in fresh local produce. 

If you’re just after a laid-back evening though, then try boutique twin cinema Blue Room Cinebar – a hidden gem and local favourite in the heart of Rosalie Village which screens arthouse, independent and big blockbuster films along with a glass of wine or premium beer, appetisers and light meals along with the show. 

Otherwise, head into the back of the Wine Experience bottle shop in Rosalie Village, and find the tiny Wine Experience Bar – a petite 13-person neighbourhood wine bar in Euro-style, which serves share plates, cheese and charcuterie paired with wines, where local conversation flows.

In a nutshell though, one could just say that Paddington promises a unique blend of relaxation, excitement, great food (and even better shopping) all rolled into one – and whether you’re savouring artisanal coffee in a chic café, exploring local art and trendy shops, or simply enjoying the stunning views from the hills – it’s a place that makes the cut as must-see spot in Brisbane. 

West End

A melting pot of cultures, and a place where every corner tells a unique story, West End is one the most bohemian neighbourhoods in Brisbane, making it a great place to head out and explore.

This dynamic neighbourhood thrives on its multicultural roots, welcoming residents and visitors from all walks of life.  

Stroll along the eclectic main vein of Boundary Street, and you’ll encounter an irresistible medley of cafés, restaurants, and lively bars, all contributing to the area’s lively social scene. Vulture Street also adds to the vibe, and is home to vintage finds and bookshops, boutiques, cafes, bars and craft breweries – both streets a hive of activity from morning to late night.

Here you'll find craft breweries paired with tasty bites popping up alongside beloved eateries, and something for everyone’s taste and cravings – West End is most definitely a food lover’s paradise just waiting to be explored.

Within the vibrant West Village pocket – a precinct in itself – you’ll find a bit of everything, with some stand-outs being: Beirut Bazaar, Italian Street Kitchen, Cheeky Poke, and Picnic Café. Rich & Rare also stands as a culinary gem there, offering a mouthwatering blend of succulent dry-aged steak and the freshest seafood, all set against a backdrop of gorgeous greenery.

It’s the historic Peters Ice Cream Factory though – built in 1928, and given new life – that is the cornerstone of the living heritage village, and once you spot it, you’ll know you’ve reached your destination at the now mixed-use development that has a little bit of everything but hasn’t lost its charm. 

Venture a little further and you’ll discover The Fourth Monkey, a whimsical Caribbean-inspired rum bar that invites you to sip on fruity cocktails and enjoy tantalising grilled dishes in a dog-friendly oasis. 

The Boundary Hotel, on the other hand, is your classic Aussie pub, plus a few extras thanks to its revamp – boasting a cool laneway café, rooftop bar, beer garden and more; with other great neighbourhood spots to mingle with the locals being The Burrow and BOSC. 

If you’re wanting a meal made extra special with city glimpses and district views from a stylish sun room style dining terrace, then head to West End's Hardgrave St where stunning Sardinian restaurant and bar Pilloni will be waiting. Once you’re there, relax with a well-earned dinner in its cosy interior brick-walled dining room alongside the open kitchen, or pick on a few tapas with a wine from its separate bar near the front. La Lupa and Pasta Club will do the trick for Italian lovers.

For an Asian fix, Chop Chop Changs has been a Boundary Street mainstay since 2013, but Bird’s Nest Yakitori and Little Red Dumpling are also good; along with Trang and Quan Thanh – side by side on Hardgrave Road, but both guaranteeing a great Vietnamese feast no matter which you choose. 

It’s not just about the food though. West End pulses with artistic energy, and has inherited a rich live music tradition that dates back to the legendary days of local icons like The Saints and the Bee Gees – with live music  joints The End and The Bearded Lady great groovy hangouts and beloved by the community.

For a nightcap (and if you’ve still got the energy) make your way to Cobbler and choose from the more than 400 whiskies on its shelf; or the chic Covent Garden for gorgeous decor, and a stunning selection of the best gins in Brisbane. For local brews on tap, the Archive is our pick – a lively joint open late, where you can unwind with a good beer.‍

‍On any lazy weekend stroll through green spaces with playgrounds like Musgrave Park, or just go to the Davies Park markets, where you’ll no doubt spend hours exploring the maze of aspiring designers, organic grocers, food vendors and coffee houses all weaved into one wonderful medley.

Whether you're relaxing in a cosy corner of one of the many bars, having a pint at a craft brewery, or exploring the array of international cuisines on offer, West End is a colourful neighbourhood where flavours, cultures and cool beats collide, and you’ll never be bored. 

Milton

Tucked away along the serene banks of the Brisbane River lies Milton, a suburb that seamlessly blends history with a modern vibe.

Once a quiet corner of the city, Milton has recently transformed into a lively hub for young professionals seeking an escape from the bustling CBD, and with several businesses based here, this inner-west gem is a great spot to stay, or simply grab lunch or a post-work drink, if you happen on be a work trip. 

Park Road, however, is where the real fun begins – and as you stroll down you’ll find yourself in a delightful European-inspired enclave, with an array of continental-inspired restaurants, eateries, cafes, bars and boutiques that have a certain "je ne sais quoi”. 

It’s even home to Brisbane's very own Eiffel Tower, a cherished gathering spot that draws everyone from romantics to Francophiles, or just curious travellers who want to feel a bit of the sparkle of Paris sans ticket fare.  

This said – and sticking with the French vibe – if you’re craving exquisite pastries for brekkie, then you’ll find these at Beurre, just opposite Italian restaurant La Dolce Vita on Park Road, Milton. A sleek patisserie and bakery from the folks behind renowned Christchurch bakery LeBakerman, this beauty beckons from its stylish marble space, and you’ll be wow-ed from the get-go with their huge selection of delightful and delicious choices on offer behind the counter from the minute you step in. 

For a cup of artisanal coffee, this charming strip has a number of options – starting with the vine-clad Bunker – a cafe with a story behind it. Housed in an old World War II air raid shelter, this place has found a new life and is a unique coffee outlet which serves awesome 5 Senses coffee.

Just a few steps away is Caffeine Robber, serving classic breakfasts and international dishes, plus top-notch coffee from Brisbane-based Fonzie Abbott beans. 

For an expresso with style though, you can’t go past Whisk & Ladle or Polo Expresso – both are chic in their own way and cater to the cool crowd, but strikingly different to each other too. 

Proud of their roots, Whisk & Ladle sources local produce where possible and makes all its jams, chutneys, relishes and syrups, plus plenty of other stuff – including their sauces, sweet treats, ice-cream, aioli, etc. It's all made from scratch, so be prepared for a brekkie to be remembered here. We’re talking the good stuff, like a New Yorker buttermilk waffle sandwich with maple bacon and sunnyside egg, or Buttermilk Ricotta Pancakes with house-made ice-cream, maple syrup and berries. Coffee is a choice of Byron Blue Coffee Reserve single origin or The Colombian Reserve blend (PNG, Brazilian, Ethiopian and Colombian), or try the loose leaf Paddington Tea, or something from their selection of ice-cold frappes on a smouldering Brisbane day. 

You can’t go past Polo Expresso though – not just because it’s awesome food, coffee and more… but because it's a Barbie bright pink shipping container with a canopy of pink and white striped umbrellas outside for patrons to sit under and shelter from the sun on a sweltering hot morning. You really can’t miss it – and you wouldn’t want to. It’s perched on the corner of Park Road and Fort Lane in Milton, and here you’ve got a mix of light eats, with the coffee on pour roasted locally by The Black Lab Coffee Co – plus Simple Juicery juices, StrangeLove sodas, and Brisbane-based Pinnacle sparkling iced teas.

If you came to Milton for the European vibe though – then get to the cute French provincial courtyard of Heimish Bleu – a petite French-inspired cafe, with locally-roasted beans by Bellissimo, right in the heart of the suburb. With its green hedges, maple trees and garden statues, it’s a central, charming and breezy hangout once you set up outside.

If you just can’t stop though, then Tognini's Cafe & Deli is a great one for a few takeaway treats, and a cup of coffee on the go. 

If you happen to be in Milton mid-week and your tummy is rumbling, check out Mrs Luu’s Vietnamese Canteen for good and simple fare; or go the other way and head down Milton Road to do fine dining at its finest at Deer Duck Bistro, where dim lighting and framed paintings give you a French Renaissance experience with mouthwatering complex cuisine to remember. Alternatively, The Fishery on Baroona Road is just what it sounds like – a taste of the sea on a plate; while Yuzu & Co does Japanese brilliantly, with a modern twist.

For a place that really exudes the chilled community spirit though – even to the point of encouraging BYO food from neighbouring eateries - get to The Scratch Bar, and sink into its well-worn leather couches and mismatched furnishings, with a pint of whatever you choose from its six rotating beer taps – all sourced from local and international microbreweries.

If you just can’t choose though, and prefer to cruise around and just enjoy the local vibe, then head to the Milton Markets on Sunday, or select Thursday mornings. Around 130 produce and lifestyle stalls set up here on Cribb Street and showcase everything from gourmet goodies to farm produce, arts, crafts and more – so it’s worth a look.

South Brisbane

Just a stone's throw from Brisbane's bustling CBD, South Brisbane bursts with life and creativity at every turn. 

By day, the area thrives as a cultural hub, brimming with art galleries, museums, and science exhibits that draw in curious minds from all over. As the sun sets, the streets transform into a culinary playground, where tantalising eateries and cosy bars come alive, showcasing the best of Brisbane's foodie scene. 

All of this backed up by stunning views of the city skyline and a lively atmosphere – it’s no wonder this dynamic suburb is a magnet for locals and visitors alike.

At the heart of South Brisbane lies South Bank, a pretty riverside destination that offers a delightful blend of relaxation and entertainment. Picture yourself strolling along the vibrant promenade, discovering unique shops at the Collective Markets, or unwinding at Streets Beach on a warm afternoon – it’s no brainer, and something every city visitor should experience on their Brisbane trip. 

For those seeking a taste of culture, swing by Brisbane's Cultural Centre with the Queensland Art Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art, Queensland Science Centre and State Library of Queensland – and check out Queensland Performing Arts Centre, one of Australia's leading centres for live performance and the place to plan a night out, engage with the local community and see a performance of ballet, opera and drama, or even a comedy act, or memorable Broadway musical.  

The tree-lined Grey Street is a busy boulevard where commerce combines with creativity to create a truly diverse offering, and whether you're after a lazy night watching a blockbuster at the local cineplex, or more active and tasty offering of gourmet tapas with a wine, this hotspot has it all. 

Entered off Grey St, in Southbank (and just opposite the Queensland Museum) you’ll find the ever-evolving Fish Lane ready to explore if you can find it – and it’s a hidden gem filled with cool bars, innovative restaurants, and vibrant street art, where food lovers can indulge in everything from experimental dishes to beloved classics.

Not-to-be-missed down the Grey Street end of Fish Lane is the famous Julius – recognisable by the line of people usually queuing up (understandably) for its tables and a taste of its wood-fired pizzas, authentic Italian pasta and fresh seasonal specials; or get some Southeast Asian flavours with a share philosophy at Hello Please. Take your pick, or just change it up every time you go, and try something new each visit – there’s plenty to choose from in this little lane and its surroundings, just bursting with selection. 

For a tipple post-meal, the Barbossa Bar & Bottle Shop will add a bit of colour. A Caribbean inspired venue, it’s sure to wow you with its extensive array of over 200 cocktails to choose from, plus barrel aged infused rums made in-house and a large variety of beers, wines and ciders; or swing by La Lune, Fish Lane's own classy French-style wine haunt with character. For a selection of cheese and charcuterie to go with your wine though, there’s no better stop than Maeve in its enviable heritage-listed space. 

As morning dawns again – and if you can find it pre-caffeine fix – get to hole-in-the-wall coffee haunt Espresso Garage, nestled in an unassuming nook between Grey and Little Stanley Streets, and the perfect a quick coffee hit with good beans from Di Manfredi coffee delivered by talented baristas.

It would be a shame to head down to Fish Lane without knowing a bit of its background though – and it’s interesting to know that this eclectic artery originally started life as Soda Lane, a neglected back alley at first, but then a vital route supporting the busy docks of South Brisbane. As the city expanded though – and the precinct as a whole transformed – South Brisbane and little streets like this formed the tapestry for a lively commercial centre that served the burgeoning colony through its local fleet, although maintaining its identity as a gritty, working-class dockside neighbourhood for 150 years. 

It’s continued to evolve over the years, and was changed forever by the World Expo 88 – but that all said, it’s clear overall that South Brisbane has an interesting history behind it. 

Once full of warehouses, factories, and wharves, South Brisbane has steadily transformed into a key part of part of Brisbane’s landscape – and conveniently located just a two-minute drive or a short ferry ride from the Brisbane City Centre, it offers easy access to urban amenities, and and is now a great place to stay to be part of the action whilst still enjoying that bright community spirit.

It’s here that residents enjoy an active lifestyle that fosters connections and creativity, sustained by a rich schedule of events, several parks and recreational facilities – so if you’re on the hunt for a place that effortlessly combines urban excitement with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, South Brisbane is your destination.