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Brisbane and the Gold Coast offer two different ways to experience Queensland
Brisbane and the Gold Coast each have plenty to offer, whether you're in the mood to explore a city, spend time by the water, or discover a new neighbourhood.
The Gold Coast has plenty to explore beyond its famous beaches
A day on the Gold Coast could start in Surfers Paradise, where you can spend the morning by the beach, soak up the energy of Cavill Avenue, or head up to SkyPoint Observation Deck at Q1 for panoramic views of the coastline, city skyline, and hinterland.
For a more action-packed way to see the area, race across the Broadwater on a jet boat ride or explore the city's streets and waterways aboard the iconic Aquaduck.
Broadbeach offers a different pace from the buzz of Surfers Paradise. You can spend some time at Pacific Fair, which has more than 400 stores ranging from international designer labels to familiar Australian retailers. Once you've had your fill of shopping, the surrounding area also has plenty of cafés, restaurants, and places to grab a bite.
Further south, Miami offers a more laid-back neighbourhood feel. Take a dip at Miami Beach, stroll along the sand, or stop at Mick Schamburg Park for coastal views.
If you're staying out into the evening, make your way to Miami Marketta. Open on selected evenings from Wednesday to Saturday, this lively night market brings together street food from around the world, communal dining spaces, and live music. It's a fun way to sample different cuisines and experience another side of the Gold Coast after a day outdoors.
For a change of scenery, continue towards Burleigh Heads. Burleigh Head National Park has walking tracks that take you around a rocky headland and through subtropical rainforest. Follow the Oceanview Track for coastal views or take the Rainforest Circuit for a walk among the greenery. You can also look out for seabirds and other wildlife along the way.
Burleigh Heads is also a local favourite for its laid-back dining scene, where trendy cafés, buzzing restaurants, and ocean views come together. It's a good spot to slow down, grab a bite, and enjoy a different side of the Gold Coast.
Brisbane brings together city sights, culture, and food
Dive into Brisbane's city life at North Quay, a convenient starting point for exploring the CBD. Browse Queen Street Mall's lively mix of Australian labels and international favourites, discover the grandeur of Brisbane City Hall, then step inside the Museum of Brisbane for stories about the city's past and present.
You can also wander through the city's laneways to uncover street art and creative spots, or book a guided walking tour to learn more about Brisbane's history and local stories.
From North Quay, make your way to South Bank Parklands. Here, you can snap a photo with the Brisbane Sign, cool off at Streets Beach, or take a stroll through the riverside parklands. If you're visiting from Friday to Sunday, check out the Collective Markets for artisan goods, fashion, food, and live music before heading to the Queensland Cultural Centre and the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) for exhibitions and creative experiences.
Next, make your way to QUT Gardens Point and the nearby City Botanic Gardens, where you can slow down amid shaded walking paths, tropical greenery, and ornamental ponds. You can also follow the waterfront towards Goodwill Bridge for views across the river to South Bank, or pop into QUT Art Museum to see its contemporary exhibitions.
When you're ready to explore more of the riverside, head towards Kangaroo Point. The waterfront paths and Kangaroo Point Cliffs offer views of the Brisbane skyline, especially towards sunset. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also look into rock climbing or abseiling along the cliffs.
As the day winds down, Howard Smith Wharves is a good place to settle in for dinner or drinks. Set beneath the Story Bridge, this riverside precinct has a lively mix of restaurants, bars, and outdoor spaces, including Felons Brewing Co. For a different perspective of the city, you can also book the Story Bridge Adventure Climb for panoramic views from above.
If you have more time, spend a relaxed morning at New Farm Park, known for its wide lawns, shady trees, and riverside setting. On Saturday mornings, you can also browse the nearby Powerhouse Farmers Markets for fresh produce, artisan food, and coffee.
Travelling with kids? Head to Northshore Hamilton and step straight into the playful world of Bluey's World, an immersive experience inspired by Australia's much-loved children's series.
Keep the fun going at Eat Street Northshore, open on Fridays and Saturdays from 4pm to 10pm and Sundays from 4pm to 9pm. With shipping containers, food from around the world, live entertainment, and a lively waterfront atmosphere, it's a fun way to round off a family day out.
The best part? Getting around Brisbane and the Gold Coast can cost just AUD0.50 per journey on selected public transport services!
With so many places to explore, knowing your transport options can make planning your days much easier.
On the Gold Coast, the G tram connects coastal areas including Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Burleigh Heads. In Brisbane, the CityCat ferries travel along the river, with stops near attractions, parks, and dining precincts.
Under Translink's current fare offer, buses, trains, ferries, and trams cost AUD0.50 per journey. Airtrain services are excluded, so remember to account for that separately when planning your airport transfer.
You can check routes, timetables, and connections through Translink before setting off. That way, you'll have a better idea of how to move between the places on your itinerary while leaving some room for spontaneous stops along the way.
Is your heart already in Queensland? Then it's time to experience it for real with Malaysia Airlines!
Malaysia Airlines flies from Kuala Lumpur to Brisbane, making it easy to plan a city-and-coast getaway.
Selected flights feature its new-generation Airbus A330neo, with songket-inspired cabin details and these onboard perks:
- Business Class: Fully flat beds, privacy doors, direct aisle access, 17.3-inch 4K entertainment screens, and built-in wireless charging.
- Economy Class: 13.3-inch 4K entertainment screens, with extra legroom available in selected seats.
- Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi: Available in both cabins.
- In-flight dining: A rotating menu of regional and destination-inspired dishes, plus Chef-on-Call pre-orders for selected signature dishes in Business Class on eligible flights.
There are booking options for added flexibility, too:
- Easy refunds: If your visa application is unsuccessful, you may be eligible for a refund.
- MH Flex fares: Unlimited rebooking with any applicable fare difference, earlier travel on the same day subject to availability, and priority check-in, boarding, and baggage.
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With your flights sorted, you can get back to planning what to eat, see and do in Brisbane!
It's time to explore Brisbane and the Gold Coast!
Whether you're looking forward to coastal walks, riverside dining or discovering a new neighbourhood, Brisbane and the Gold Coast offer plenty of ways to make your next getaway memorable.
Book your flight directly through the Malaysia Airlines website or official app, and start planning your trip.
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