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Brisbane tours and excursions

Brisbane tours

Ghost tours

A ghost tour of Brisbane may not be as unusual as it sounds, considering the city has been voted the second most haunted city in the world by National Geographic. Prepare to be spooked on a 90 minute lantern-lit tour in which the haunted heritage of sights, including Brisbane Arcade, are bought chillingly to life. Be sure to leave horror masks and children under the age of 12 at home. Torches are provided.

Tel: +61 7 3344 7265.
Website: http://www.ghost-tours.com.au

Walking tours

Brisbane is a wonderful city to discover on foot due to its size and relatively flat landscape. Brisbane Visitor Information Centre has a map with four self-guided walking tours emphasising different themes and areas (historical, art, city to South Bank and river loop). For something a little gentler, free guided walks of the City Botanic Gardens depart from the rotunda opposite the Albert Street gates, twice daily Monday to Saturday at 11am or 1pm.

Tel: +61 7 3006 6290; +61 7 3403 2535.
Website: http://www.visitbrisbane.com.au

Brisbane excursions

Moreton Bay and islands

This marine oasis stretches for 125km (78 miles) from Bribie Island to Redland Bay, with Moreton Island anchored just 25km (16 miles) off Brisbane's coast. This island is the perfect destination to go snorkelling, sand boarding or four wheel driving. Whale watchers should head to Point Lookout on picturesque North Stradbroke Island or take an excursion on a charter boat to get up close to those mighty sea dwellers. The Moreton Bay region is 40 minutes from Brisbane city centre and can be reached by the Bruce Highway.

Tel: +61 7 3408 9026.
Website: http://www.visitmoretonbay.com.au

D’Aguilar National Park

Located about an hour's drive from the centre of Brisbane, the park is divided into two distinct sections—South D’Aguilar section (formerly Brisbane Forest Park) and Mount Mee section (formerly Mount Mee State Forest and Forest Reserve). With eucalyptus woodlands and sub-tropical rainforests, the park provides the ideal surroundings for walks and picnics, or even horse and mountain bike rides. The first stop for visitors should be the Walkabout Creek Visitor Centre, where the staff can provide information and brochures.

Tel: +61 13 74 68.
Website: http://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/daguilar/walkabout-creek.html

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City Highlight: Brisbane

Glorious year-round sunshine, a packed events calendar, splendid scenery and friendly locals make Brisbane a top destination for backpackers and families alike

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Featured Hotels

Rydges South Bank Brisbane

With a South Bank postcode, this modern hotel is ideally placed for art aficionados and culture buffs. Rooms are elegant without being fussy and the high-end options feature private balconies with views over the Brisbane River and city skyline. There are 304 rooms, including 64 one-bedroom suites. A gymnasium, spa and sauna are among the in-house attractions.

George Williams Hotel

In the heart of the CBD, this 103-room hotel makes the ideal base from which to explore the city. Following an extensive A $2.5 million dollar revamp, the minimalist rooms feature colourful artworks, flat-screen TVs and coffee-making facilities. The on-site restaurant, 325 on George, dishes up international fare in a casual outdoor setting.

Capri by Fraser

Billing itself as urban inspired, high tech and intuitive, this is one of the latest additions to Brisbane's vibrant hotel scene. Capri offers 239 serviced studios and one-bedroom apartments, each featuring integrated living spaces and kitchenettes fitted with a microwave and Nespresso coffee machines. Within striking distance from Queen Street Mall and Eagle Street Pier, some of the other highlights of the chic property include living vertical gardens, art installations, and facilities such as a restaurant, an indoor pool, a sauna and 24/7 fitness centre.

Spicers Balfour Hotel

Spicers Balfour hotel is an Art Deco style boutique hotel, situated in the historic suburb of New Farm but still central enough to get around the city. The hotel also has a rooftop bar for the evenings and does high tea over brunch or in the afternoon. Check the Spicers Balfour website for the best days to book and save some money.

Summer House Brisbane

Summer House is a great accommodation option for those looking to save on hotel rooms, and it's just a 10-minute walk from the Central Business District. Fabulous graffiti style murals adorn the walls and the atmosphere is warm and lively - the perfect place to meet new people to explore the city with. With laundry facilities, free wifi, a rooftop terrace and a TV room, this hostel has all you need during your stay in Brisbane.

Ibis Brisbane

Good sized rooms, friendly service and a perfect central location make the Ibis one of the better moderately priced hotel options in the city. With Wi-Fi facilities, meeting rooms and a restaurant, this hotel is ideal for both business and holiday travellers.

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