Brisbane thanks its laid-back lifestyle and mellow vibe to its sunny weather and the Brisbane River, which snakes lazily through the city before spilling out in to the calm waters of Moreton Bay. This setting opens up the CBD to some superb views, if you know where to look.
A recent explosion of rooftop bars and lofty restaurants in inner-city Brisbane has everybody talking. The riverside restaurants along Eagle Street Pier, for example, have all the ingredients for a romantic night out. The CBD now also offers trendy rooftop bars with plunge pools, cosy rooftop garden bars with fairy lights and ultra-modern top-floor cafés with glass ceilings. In the top-floor restaurants and bars of Brisbane's skyscraper hotels, everyone can feel like a star.
By far the most spectacular way to get a bird's-eye view of Brisbane is joining the Story Bridge Climb at sunset. Afterwards, get a night shot of this iconic bridge with the shiny towers of the CBD in the background from Wilson's Outlook in New Farm.
Across the bridge, the Kangaroo Point Cliffs tower high above the river parklands. Come here early, when the first sun rays of the day hit the Brisbane skyline, casting a golden glow over the CBD. The sweeping views also take in the lush City Botanic Gardens and South Bank, Brisbane's favourite playground. Jump on the Wheel of Brisbane to soar high above the Cultural Forecourt and take in the city's famous landmarks.
Overlooking all this buzz is the granddaddy of all Brisbane lookouts: Mount Coot-tha. Rising up gently to the west of the city centre, this forest-clad mount has seen the city grow from a simple riverside settlement to a trendy city that reaches for the skies. Put on your hiking boots to follow Mount Coot-tha's forest trails and relax with a picnic on the lawn under the viewing platform at the top. Stay until dark to see a sea of twinkling lights appear beneath and above you. It's the most mesmerising Brisbane view of all.