I boarded bus 430 at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and rode it to the Queen Street bus station. I learned that I couldn't use credit or debit cards for payment on the bus, and a local Brisbane version of the Oyster card was required.

Upon arriving at the Queen Street bus underground station, IIfollow the exit sign for the Mall and found myself near the bustling Queen Street Mall. A nearby store caught my eye with its selection of sorbets, and I decided to try the raspberry and mango flavours. I then found a comfortable spot on one of the benches and took in the vibrant energy of the area, observing the hurried pace of the passersby.


After finishing the ice cream, I wanted to see the Brisbane sign. Unfortunately, road work obstructed my path, preventing me from crossing the street at my intended location. Instead, I altered my plans and strolled to the Queensland Parliament and the City Botanic Garden.



Brisbane City Hall


Albert Street Uniting Church








It was an interesting contrast between the old small buildings and new high-rise buildings.


Queensland Parliament
After that, I wanted to visit Old Government House, but unfortunately, I discovered it had already closed for the day. Only then did I realise I had wandered onto the QUT Campus and was surrounded by many students.

Art museum


Old Government House


One of the buildings on the campus


I remained determined to visit the Brisbane Sign. I made my way across Goodwill Bridge, with separate lanes for pedestrians marked by red lines and a designated green lane for bicycles.

Goodwill Bridge


Queensland Maritime Museum

I enjoyed taking a leisurely walk through the park. I took regular breaks to sit and watch the animals and people around me.






It was nice to see the Lagoon in Brisbane and Street Beach, which must be popular in the summer. Even though it was only the beginning of spring, several people were already swimming or relaxing in the water.

Street Beach

Nepalese Pease Pagoda

I even found a miniature version of the Eifel Tower🙂.


Eventually, I made it to the Brisbane sign.

Found it!

I had no energy to walk to the hotel, but there was a solution to my problem - a riverboat that accepted card payments!



view from the boat

view from the boat

While looking for a place to eat, I found several dining options near the hotel. Among them, HappyCrab had the most impressive reviews. Since I was in the mood for seafood, I decided to give it a try. I was particularly intrigued by the mention of them serving food in a bag, so I was eager to experience it.


Well deserved drink after walking the whole day

When the food arrived, I was disappointed because I ordered a bag but got my food served on a plate. However, it was super tasty, and I almost ended up in a food coma.



The next day, before my flight, I decided to explore the area around the hotel. Of course, I stopped to buy my coffee.

New sign every day 😁



Some random art

I started with the Central Station, which looked like a historic building from the outside. In front of it was Anzac Square and Memorial Garden, adorned with numerous statues and war memorials.

Central Station


Anzac Square


Memorial Garden


Memorial Garden

After that, I continued to the Post Office Square and the Australia Post building. Through the GPO Laneway, I proceeded towards Old St. Stephen's Church and the Cathedral of St. Stephen.

Post Office Square


Laneway


Cathedral of St. Stephen

To my surprise, I found that the Brisbane City Market was open. It's only open on Tuesdays from 8:00 to 14:00 (2pm).


Brisbane City Market

Brisbane City Market

Brisbane City Market



Streetart

Coffeeshop


I felt sad as I prepared to depart from Brisbane. I enjoyed my time in this city, whether visiting the koala sanctuary or walking through the city streets.