Brisbane

Brisbane is the new star on Australia's horizon. With upcoming bars and restaurants galore, not to mention its blossoming nightlife and cultural scene, it's the nation's new buzzing metropolis. Wrapping itself around the Brisbane River and with beaches within driving distance, it's a beautiful city with plenty of outdoor activities on offer. From perusing the 17,000 works of the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) to choosing a brew from more than 400 whiskies at West End's Cobbler (if you are lucky enough to find a babysitter!), visiting the world's first and biggest koala sanctuary to taking a dip at Street's Beach (Australia's only inner-city, man-made beach), climbing Story Bridge for panoramic views over the city to shopping at Fortitude Valley, Queensland's sunny, sophisticated capital is the perfect city escape for families wanting something a little less bustling than the streets of Sydney and Melbourne. Check out our Brisbane family guide here