Brisbane: A City of Sunshine, Riverside Strolls & Hidden Gothic Gems

Brisbane, often known for its sunny weather and laid-back vibe, surprised me with its fascinating mix of modern city life and historical charm — especially its classic churches that you simply shouldn’t miss. Right in the heart of the city, just across from the Brisbane City Hall, stands the Albert Street Uniting Church. Built in 1889, this beautiful church is one of Brisbane’s oldest, and a rare example of 19th-century stone architecture in the city. Its striking Gothic Revival style, pointed arches, and detailed stonework feel like a quiet reminder of history among all the high-rises. Even if you’re not religious, it’s worth popping by for a look — especially at sunset when the red stone glows softly under the Brisbane sky. A short walk away, I visited St. John’s Cathedral, a true architectural highlight. This is Queensland’s only Neo-Gothic cathedral, and one of the few in all of Australia designed in this style. Construction began back in 1906, and it still proudly watches over the city from one of the highest points along the street — almost like a castle perched on a hill. Walking up to it, you can’t help but admire its grand stone facade and towering spires. Of course, Brisbane isn’t just about churches — I also loved strolling along South Bank, hopping on the CityCat ferries, and grabbing coffee in the lively West End. But these two historic churches added a whole new layer of character to my Brisbane trip — a little slice of Europe in Australia’s sunshine capital. #staycation #travel #trip #australia