48 Hours in Brisbane: Your Perfect Weekend Itinerary
Brisbane is the ideal city for a short escape—vibrant, sun-soaked, and packed with culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Whether planning a quick weekend getaway or a spontaneous city break, Queensland’s capital delivers big-city excitement with a relaxed riverside charm. With stylish stays offered by CLLIX Apartments and Hotels, your base is always central, comfortable, and connected to everything worth discovering.
From riverside strolls and buzzing cultural precincts to rooftop bars and open-air markets, every hour in Brisbane holds something new. Make the most of your 48 hours in Brisbane with this curated weekend itinerary, perfect for couples, friends, solo travellers, or families looking to explore the heart of the River City.
Day 1 – Arrival & Urban Exploration
Morning: Check in and Settle at the Hotel
Check into your contemporary, independent apartment in South Brisbane or the central business district to start your weekend excursion. CLLIX Apartments and hotels are in the city’s dining, entertainment, and artistic districts so that you can walk to everything.
Stop by a local café for a fresh brew (John Mills Himself and Coffee Anthology are excellent choices) and enjoy some sunshine. Brisbane’s easy-going vibes are infectious.
The City Centre Free Loops and Inner-City Ferry Services are convenient, affordable, and picturesque ways to get around the city.
Midday: Lunch by the River
Take a ferry or walk to the South Bank, where you can eat lunch at one of the many eateries along the river. In addition to serving delicious food, local favourites like River Quay Fish, Popolo, or Otto Ristorante provide breathtaking views of the Brisbane River and city skyline.
South Bank offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste, including wood-fired Italian, fresh seafood, and fine Australian cuisine.
Afternoon: Streets Beach & South Bank Parklands
After lunch, unwind at Streets Beach—Australia’s only inner-city man-made beach. Dip your toes in the cool lagoon, relax under palm trees, or go for a swim. This unique urban oasis is surrounded by South Bank Parklands, a lush stretch of landscaped gardens, public art, and family-friendly spaces.
Explore the Arbour Walk, take selfies in the bougainvillea tunnel, and maybe rent a bike or e-scooter to cruise the riverfront.
Evening: Culture & Cuisine
For an inspiring evening, book tickets to a live show at QPAC (Queensland Performing Arts Centre)—a cultural hub showcasing musicals, ballets, concerts, and theatre. Afterwards, satisfy your appetite at Julius Pizzeria, known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas, or indulge in modern Australian dishes at Gauge, just steps away.
Then return to your CLLIX apartments for a restful night in your chic city haven.
Day 2 – Markets, Art, and Hidden Gems
Morning: Breakfast & South Bank Collective Markets
Start your day with breakfast at a beloved local café. The Gunshop Café and Morning After in the West End are famous for their creative menus, strong coffee, and relaxed vibes. Try the corn fritters, sourdough stacks, or vegan pancakes—whatever suits your style.
Next, head to the South Bank Collective Markets (open Friday–Sunday) for boutique shopping. Browse handmade goods, artisan crafts, and local fashion that make the perfect souvenirs or gifts.
Midday: Art & Panoramic City Views
Dive into Brisbane’s creative side with a visit to GOMA (Gallery of Modern Art) or the adjacent Queensland Museum, where exhibitions range from contemporary installations to natural history and science.
After that, ride the Wheel of Brisbane to enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the city skyline, river, and mountains beyond. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and a peaceful way to admire Brisbane from above.
Afternoon: Brisbane Riverwalk & Coffee Break
Take a leisurely stroll along the Brisbane Riverwalk, a scenic, over-water path stretching from New Farm to Howard Smith Wharves. The route is shaded, breezy, and full of surprise pop-ups and picnic spots.
Stop by a riverside café like Felons Brewing Co. for a cold brew or enjoy a quiet moment with a book by the City Botanic Gardens. This part of Brisbane blends nature and architecture beautifully.
Why June is the Best Time to Visit Brisbane
Brisbane’s subtropical climate makes it a year-round destination, but June offers some of the city’s most comfortable and inviting weather. With clear blue skies, mild temperatures, and low humidity, it’s the perfect time to explore outdoor attractions, relax by the river, or enjoy a seaside escape.
June also continues Brisbane’s vibrant festival season, bringing a mix of live music, cultural events, and winter markets to the city. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, June offers the ideal blend of relaxation and entertainment.
What’s On in Brisbane (June – December 2025)
Make your Brisbane weekend getaway even more memorable by syncing it with a local event:
June–December Highlights
- Katy Perry Live (June 17)
- Scenic Rim Eat Local Month (June)
- British & Irish Lions vs QLD Reds (July 2)
- Ekka (Aug 9–17)
- Keith Urban Live (Aug 15)
- Riverfire (Sep 6)
- James Blunt (Oct 23)
- Metallica: M72 World Tour (Nov 12)
Whatever your interest—music, food, sports, or culture—Brisbane’s events calendar has you covered.
Why Stay with CLLIX Apartments and Hotels?
CLLIX offers the ultimate in comfort, convenience, and location for travellers who want to experience Brisbane like a local, while enjoying hotel-style amenities.
- Prime Locations in South Bank, Fortitude Valley, CBD, and Hope Street, all near Brisbane’s top attractions.
- Fully Equipped Apartments with kitchens, laundry, and living areas—ideal for longer stays or families.
- Stylish Interiors with modern design, complimentary Wi-Fi, and spectacular views.
- Perfect for couples, families, business travellers, and solo adventurers seeking a brilliant stay in the city.
With CLLIX, you don’t just visit Brisbane—you live it.
Your 48-Hour Escape Awaits
From inner-city beaches and world-class galleries to local markets and rooftop sunsets, Brisbane rewards both exploration and relaxation. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a cultural adventure, or a last-minute city break, this destination is where two days can feel like so much more.
And with CLLIX Apartments and Hotels, your perfect base is ready and waiting.
Ready to book your 48 hours in Brisbane? Discover our properties and plan your stay today!
