Brisbane’s South Bank: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Brisbane’s South Bank is often considered the city’s cultural and dining heart. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll discover how this area evolved from originally a convict work site and then a rough waterfront of wharves and rowdy pubs into Brisbane’s most loved destination. The tour begins at the Nepalese Peace Pagoda, a remarkable structure hand-carved by 160 Nepalese master craftsmen, entirely without nails or power tools. Along the way you'll encounter some of South Bank’s more whimsical touches, like the upside-down elephant sculpture. You'll have a chance to immerse yourself in the Aussie lifestyle at parklands, beaches, and relaxed outdoor living at places like The Boat Pond, Streets Beach, River Quay Green, and Picnic Island. The tour ends at the historic Plough Inn, where you can enjoy a classic Aussie meal at an iconic and historic pub with live music – and, of course, plenty of cold beer and refreshments.

Itinerary

1. You'll begin at this stunning three-tiered pagoda, hand-carved by 160 Nepalese master craftsmen using traditional techniques without nails or power tools. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship and peaceful atmosphere that marks the gateway to your South Bank journey.
2. Pass by the historic Victoria Bridge Abutment, a remnant of Brisbane's 19th-century river crossing. Walk along the riverside boardwalk while learning about the bridge's evolution from timber structure to modern icon connecting the city to South Bank.
3. Stroll past this 60-meter observation wheel that offers panoramic views across the city and river. Enjoy the sight of this modern landmark that has become one of South Bank's most photographed attractions since opening in 2008.
4. The iconic red and white "BRISBANE" letters have become the city's most popular photo opportunity. Pass by this Instagram-famous installation where visitors and locals alike capture their South Bank memories.
5. View the world's largest tensegrity bridge with its distinctive "knitting needles" design stretching across the Brisbane River. Marvel at this architectural wonder's unique stick-and-spoke structure that connects South Bank to the city's cultural institutions.
6. Australia's largest gallery of modern and contemporary art sits in a striking riverside building within the Cultural Centre. Explore cutting-edge exhibitions from Australian, Indigenous, and Asia-Pacific artists in this world-class institution.
7. This major cultural institution tells Queensland's natural and cultural history through fascinating exhibits. Walk through the Queensland Cultural Centre precinct while discovering collections spanning dinosaurs to Indigenous heritage.
8. Australia's only inner-city man-made beach features white sand and a sparkling lagoon in the heart of Brisbane. Enjoy this uniquely Brisbane experience surrounded by restaurants and palm trees, where city meets seaside.
9. A stunning canopy of purple bougainvillea stretches more than a kilometre through South Bank's parklands. Wander beneath this living tunnel of vibrant flowers that provides shade and spectacular photo opportunities year-round.
10. This productive community garden showcases herbs, vegetables, and edible plants in raised garden beds throughout the precinct. Experience South Bank's commitment to sustainability and urban agriculture in this peaceful green space.
11. This pedestrian and cyclist bridge connects South Bank to the Queensland University of Technology Gardens Point campus. Cross while enjoying bird's-eye views of the Maritime Museum below and the river stretching in both directions.
12. This historic 1885 pub is one of Brisbane's oldest surviving watering holes and your tour's final destination. Enjoy classic Aussie pub fare, live music, and cold beer at this iconic venue that has served South Bank locals for over 135 years.

Meeting & end point