Brisbane

Brisbane

Pop quiz: What is Australia's third-most populous city? If you said Brisbane, you're correct. If you blanked, don't worry, you're not alone. Sydney and Melbourne tend to get all the attention – understandably, as they are also wonderful places to visit – but the capital of Queensland is a magical city in its own right.

And despite being a sleek, cosmopolitan city, Brisbane still manages to maintain the air of an easily accessible small town community, which is very welcoming to visitors. Over two million people call Brisbane home, with more arriving every day as Australians and expats flock to the cool hotspot.

Although it’s not a very cheap place to live, ranking ahead of Melbourne but behind Sydney, it’s definitely worth it to splash out on a visit (although you might end up wanting to stay longer).

Brisbane features cheap coffee shops where you can sip an afternoon espresso, an amazing collection of world-class bookstores, meandering walks along the lazy Brisbane River that winds its way through the city, and restaurants and hotels to match.

Getting around on the public transport system is as easy as spotting a well-dressed hipster, and playful nightlife venues will keep you awake well into the night.

As much as night owls are catered for, this is also a city for the outdoorsy. Endless sunny days and the close proximity to the Sunshine and Gold Coasts make Brisbane perfect for beach lovers, while large green spaces, such as the City Botanic Gardens, provide a break from the buzzing city.

Brisbane Airport (IATA: BNE, ICAO: YBBN) is the primary international airport serving Brisbane and South East Queensland. It is the third busiest Australian airport by aircraft movements.

Things to do in Brisbane

■ Explore the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)
■ Shop the shelves at Folio Books
■ Stroll around the South Bank Parklands
■ Cuddle a koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
■ Browse the art at Brisbane Powerhouse

Eat in Brisbane

■ The Euro (Mediterranean)
■ Alchemy Restaurant + Bar (Australian)
■ The Spice Avenue Balti Restaurant (Indian)
■ Jellyfish (Seafood)
■ Gerard's Bistro (Middle Eastern)
■ Esquire (Seafood)

Stay in Brisbane

■ Gambaro Hotel
■ Aussie Way Backpackers
■ Watermark Hotel Brisbane
■ Spicers Balfour Hotel
■ Emporium Hotel Brisbane
■ Bowen Terrace

Scheduled Flights to Brisbane (from Kuala Lumpur)

■ Singapore Airlines (1 Stop)
■ Qantas (1 Stop)
■ Jetstar (1 Stop)