Brisbane & Gold Coast 4-Day Adventure

Day 1: Arrival & Brisbane Exploration

Morning: Arrive at Brisbane Airport and settle into your hotel in the South Bank precinct. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast overlooking the river.

Afternoon: Stroll through the lush Roma Street Parkland and visit the cultural hub of the Queensland Museum & Sciencentre.

Evening: Dine at a riverside restaurant in South Bank and catch the free sunset light show at Streets Beach.

Day 2: Brisbane Highlights

Morning: Take a guided river cruise to admire the skyline and hop off at the historic St. John's Anglican Cathedral.

Afternoon: Explore the bustling lanes of West End, sampling local coffee and street art, then head to the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA).

Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Fortitude Valley, with live music venues and rooftop bars.

Day 3: Gold Coast Beaches & Theme Parks

Morning: Travel to the Gold Coast (≈1‑hour drive) and start at the iconic Surfers Paradise Beach for sunrise and a beach walk.

Afternoon: Choose an adrenaline‑filled adventure at Dreamworld or relax at the serene Burleigh Heads National Park coastal walk.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at the lively Broadbeach precinct, followed by a stroll along the illuminated beachfront promenade.

Day 4: Gold Coast Relaxation & Departure

Morning: Visit the tranquil Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary for close encounters with native Australian animals.

Afternoon: Take a leisurely cruise on the Gold Coast Broadwater or shop for souvenirs at the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre.

Evening: Return to Brisbane (or depart directly from Gold Coast Airport) and reflect on the trip over a final meal at River Quay.

Time and Cost Estimates

• South Bank – 2 hrs – $0 (free public area)
• Roma Street Parkland – 1.5 hrs – $0
• Queensland Museum & Sciencentre – 2 hrs – $15
• Streets Beach Light Show – 30 min – $0
• River Cruise (Brisbane) – 1 hr – $35
• St. John's Anglican Cathedral – 45 min – $0
• West End Cafés & Shops – 2 hrs – $25 (meals & drinks)
• Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) – 2 hrs – $20
• Surfers Paradise Beach – 2 hrs – $0
• Dreamworld – 5 hrs – $120
• Burleigh Heads National Park – 2 hrs – $0
• Broadbeach Dining – 2 hrs – $40
• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary – 3 hrs – $45
• Gold Coast Broadwater Cruise – 1.5 hrs – $30
• Pacific Fair Shopping Centre – 2 hrs – $0 (shopping optional)
• River Quay Dinner – 2 hrs – $50
• Transportation (car rental & fuel) – 4 days – $200
• Accommodation (4 nights) – 4 nights – $560
• Total Estimated Cost: $1,130

Tips

If you have extra time, add a day to explore the Hinterland’s rainforest walks in the Lamington National Park or take a day trip to Moreton Island for snorkeling. To shorten the trip, skip one of the theme parks and focus on the beaches and nature reserves, which still provide a rich Gold Coast experience while reducing admission fees.