South Bank is Brisbane at its best

South Bank packs an extraordinary amount into one riverfront precinct: sprawling lawns, picnic spots, walking paths, restaurants, the bougainvillea-covered Arbour and a sandy swimming lagoon called Streets Beach. The pool is especially unusual: a place to swim with skyscrapers in view.

Just nearby is Brisbane's cultural heart. The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), Queensland Museum, State Library and performing arts venues make it easy to combine a casual day in the sun with exhibitions or a show.

Why we like it: Few central-city neighbourhoods combine a beach-style swim, public green space and serious cultural institutions so comfortably. On busy weekends, though, it can be crowded.