How to Spend 48 Hours in Brisbane

Simply hop on a flight and you’ll be ready for a weekend of sun-filled activities within just a few hours. We’re sure you’ll have a fantastic time exploring all that this city has to offer, and below we’ve shared our top tips for making the most of a short visit. 

Friday Night: Go For Drinks on the Wharf

The perfect spot for a sunset tipple, the Howard Smith Wharves host some of the best hospitality in Brisbane. It’s thriving at the weekend, so make sure to book ahead and enjoy the buzzing ambience while the sun sets over the water. There are a number of different venues that you can try while here, including more relaxed options or upscale ones: whichever takes your fancy! You can have a beer or two at Felons Brewery, or enjoy a leisurely glass of wine and Italian food at Ciao Papi. We recommend looking ahead of time to see what’s on offer, and always making sure you have a designated driver with you.

Saturday AM: Make a Trip to the Farmers Market

Farmers Markets are loved throughout Australia, as they are a great way to purchase local by buying from one of the many stalls on display. The Powerhouse Farmers Market is open every Saturday and promises fresh local produce and an ambience that will start your weekend off right. With over 120 stalls in attendance every Saturday, it’s the perfect way to experience local cuisine and try out what’s on offer. 

Saturday PM: Do the River Walk

The River Walk is one of the most well-known city walks in Australia. It winds through the centre of Brisbane and is one of the best walks on offer within the city. If it’s a nice day, head over to the 6-kilometre stretch of boardwalk and take in the sights. Don’t worry if you get thirsty, as there are plenty of refreshment breaks on the route, and given the walk is in the city centre, you can always hop off the track for a bite to eat. 

Saturday Night: Eat at Fish Lane

Fish Lane is a delicious art-filled laneway with some of the best food Brisbane has to offer. With a seemingly never-ending list of restaurants, cuisines, and bars, it’s the perfect place to come and try it all. It’s a trendy place with an excellent atmosphere, so come with an empty stomach and a sense for a food adventure! We also recommend you try Wandering Cooks while you’re here, as it’s an open air space that’s perfect for new talent to test their skills to the public. You might get to experience the next best food sensation before they make it big time! 

Sunday: Head to the Beach

Brisbane is often overlooked as a beach destination, however there are plenty of beaches within a one or two hour’s drive away. From the island destinations of North Stradbroke Islands or Moreton Island to the endless white sand and rolling waves of the Gold Coast, there are plenty of options close by. You could even go up to the Sunshine Coast, where destinations such as Noosa and the various national parks will provide you a full day of fun, sand, and sea. 

Weekend Stay: Splash Out and Stay at the W Brisbane

Brisbane is affectionately known as Brisvegas, and no hotel captures this spirit more than W Brisbane. The interiors to this hotel are simply spectacular, with a zebra-striped pool, jazzy prints throughout, and decorative art throughout that represents the different tide levels of the Brisbane River. And with the incredible Three Blue Ducks restaurant, from the team at the Farm in Byron Bay, nestled inside the hotel, you can experience some excellent food without ever having to leave your accommodation. 

Brisbane is a fantastic place to come for a weekend of fun, food, and frivolities. Bring your sense of fun and plenty of sunscreen because this sunshine-filled city will be filled with activities from the moment you land on the tarmac.