Brisbane , or ‘Briz-Vegas' as it is affectionately known by Australians, is Queensland 's largest city. Although not as hectic as Sydney , Brisbane is a metropolitan city with museums, art galleries, universities, restaurants, and shopping and a welcoming, relaxed vibe.

Brisbane enjoys year round great weather and the climate is warm for most of the year. The city itself is built along the Brisbane River and is a great place to base yourself as it is serviced by an excellent public transport system, which includes buses, taxis, trains and water-craft. The city is also a great place to get all of your tour information and tips for exploring the rest of Queensland.

Brisbane city is located just 9km from the airport and is easily accessible by Sky Train from the airport. Disembark at Roma Street Station, located right beside the gorgeous Roma Street Parklands and a large range of backpacker hostels, friendly tour operators and pubs and clubs for you to meet fellow travelers in. Located just across the river is Brisbane 's South Bank which features a beach, fabulous restaurants and cafes, and acres of parklands for you to enjoy.

Brisbane is fast developing a reputation for its live music scene, so when the sun goes down make your way to Fortitude Valley ; home to some of the best nightspots in Brisbane . Brisbane is also a city with a great reputation for its arts scene and venues such as the Queensland Performing Arts Centre or QPAC are worth a visit.

When the weekend comes, head to a local market for breakfast and while you are there check out the arts and crafts, great food, second-hand goods and organic produce.

Brisbane , the gateway to the Tropical North, and the Sunshine and Gold Coasts is a destination in itself so base yourself at one of Brisbane 's hostels and take some time to explore the city and its surrounds.

The city shaped like a spike, Brisbane is home to many races – native Australians and immigrants from New Zealand, South Africa, and the United Kingdom, as well as migrants of Asian, Middle Eastern, Greek and Italian descent. Visitors and locals alike enjoy the artistic benefits of Brisbane, particularly within the Queensland Performing Arts Complex and the Fortitude Valley. Brisbane also hosts reminders of its convict history. The Windmill and the Old Commissariat Store continues to stand today, both of which are must-sees, if only for the genteel nature of the structures that belie their less-than-refined origins.

Brisbane is proud of its festivals and fun activities, too. Be enthralled with the 30-minute Riverfire choreographed fireworks of the Riverfestival, be a glorious Greek at the Paniyiri Festival, and visit the gardens and parks of Brisbane like the City Botanic Gardens and the Japanese Garden. At Brisbane, you will not search in vain for the perfect people and places!