This guide is all about my recent Brisbane weekend escape. Keep reading to discover some of my favourite things to do with only two days in Brisbane.

My weekend in Brisbane this May was a little spontaneous for me (I bought my flights on sale about two months in advance). But my friend just happened to be in town at the same time and our football teams just happened to be playing each other in Brisbane. I mean, I couldn’t not visit. I flew in on Friday afternoon and out on Sunday night, and it was one of those perfect weekends away that just refresh you. So I thought I’d share exactly what I got up to on this particular Brisbane weekend trip.

What I got up to with only two days in Brisbane

1. I stayed at Brisbane City YHA

 How good is this view? When I booked my accommodation at Brisbane City YHA, I was reading the reviews and a lot of people mentioned the great city views from the pool area. So on my first night, as I headed out to see a friend, I made my way to the top to see if they knew what they were talking about. They certainly did! This hostel was great for my short break in Brisbane. You can easily walk to the city, Suncorp Stadium and South Bank. The staff were friendly and the rooms were clean. There isn’t more you could want in budget accommodation in Brisbane.

For more cheap accommodation recommendations, check out this comprehensive guide to all things Brisbane.

2. Dinner in Chinatown

I met up with my childhood friend, Elle and we had dinner in Chinatown. For a Friday night, I couldn’t believe how quiet Chinatown was! We decided to go back to King of Kings, a Chinese seafood restaurant I had been to previously when I lived in Brissy. There was a couple next to us who ordered a massive plate of fried rice with some sizzling steak and vegetables, so we asked the waiter if we could have the same. It was the best decision – the Mongolian beef was delicious.

3. Saturday brunch in West End

Our first stop the following day was brunch in one of my favourite Brisbane neighbourhoods: West End. You basically can’t have a bad brunch in West End, but some recommendations include Lokal + Co, Plenty West End and Jo-Jo’s Restaurant.

4. A stroll through South Bank

I don’t think you can visit Brisbane without checking out South Bank. We wandered down to the waterfront, through the bougainvillea vines to the beach, and then onto the weekly Saturday markets. It was a hot day, so the man-made beach was particularly busy. My other Southbank highlights: Ahmet’s for excellent Turkish cuisine, Mister Fitz for ice cream and Cactus Republic for Mexican.

5. Saturday night footy

There are plenty of ways to spend your Saturday night in Brisbane, but as a rugby league fan I can’t think of anything better than checking out the footy. My friend and I put on our opposing team colours and headed to the game. The crowd was massive as there were two games back-to-back, but unfortunately my team lost. If you are going to Suncorp Stadium, it is worthwhile checking out Paddington while you are in the area. Kettle and Tin is a particular old favourite.

6. Sunday morning brunch

Oh, you bet I backed up my brunch game! I met up with Vancouver friends I toured Canada and New York with back in 2014. Although I didn’t snap a photo of my dish this time, we visited my friend’s sister’s cafe, Deedot in Holland Park. It’s a popular spot with the locals and they have a great menu to boot. They also just opened a new cafe in Manly West, if you happen to be in that neck of the woods too.

7. Shopping in Brisbane CBD

I wrapped up my time in Brisbane with a little movie break and shopping trip down Queen Street Mall. How Brisbane has a Forever21 before Melbourne blows my mind – this needs to change, fashion gods. I also discovered the Suitcase Rummage Markets were happening that day. If only I had room in my small carry-on backpack!

Finally, I have to give a quick shout-out to my brother’s bar, The Village Social. I didn’t get a chance to check it out this trip, but I hear craft beer enthusiasts will love it.

A perfect weekend in Brisbane

I hope this post helps you plan your own Brisbane weekend trip. It’s really a sample itinerary for all the good things waiting for you. Even if you only have two days in Brisbane, you can have a great time. Don’t miss my more comprehensive Brisbane guide, which includes over 30 things to do and places to eat. Click here to check it out now!

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