Find your perfect next Queensland holiday with Singapore Airlines

Are you dreaming of sun-dappled beaches, chilled fruity drinks, turquoise waters, and hobnobbing with colourful fish? Queensland, aptly titled "beautiful one day, perfect the next," is beckoning you to book your tickets and experience its stunning beauty and culture.

The Australian state has attractions that cater to every type of travel palate. Read on to see what you can tick off your bucket list! The best way to travel to Queensland from India is with Singapore Airlines, which offers a world class journey to both Brisbane and Cairns with seamless connections via Singapore.

1) For the metropolitan crowd

Brisbane, the river city of Queensland, has everything a city-bred creature could desire: award-winning food and wine for epicures, street shopping, winding lanes to explore, breweries where you can sample some of the fare, and a glittering nightlife that will leave you wanting more! Just an hour south of Brisbane lies the Gold Coast, another metropolis known for its stunning beaches, cafes, restaurants, and theme parks to lose yourself in.

• Cool ways to get around

Commuting has never been so fun! Brisbane's City Cat service glides along the southern reaches of St Lucia to the northern banks of Hamilton, interspersed with 25 stops. And it's cheap, costing $2.60 for a ride. Those on a budget can hop on the Red City Hopper ferry, which is free and offers views of the picturesque capital city.

You can also hop on the G-link, a rail line that helps you get around the Gold Coast. Get a Go Explore travel card for unlimited daily rides on all TransLink bus and tram (G-link) services on the Gold Coast. It's $10 daily for adults and $5 for your little tyke (aged 5-14 years).

• Treat your tummy

Indulge in delish food at beautiful waterfront restaurants such as Alchemy Restaurant Brisbane, Pony Dining, Sake and Aria, all vying for more fine-dining accolades. Make sure you stop by Il Centro's to wolf down some creamy sand crab lasagne, which has held its own since 1992.

Howard Smith Wharves, located under the Story Bridge, has been drawing people in owing to its unrestricted views of the bridge, riverside dining, and delicious food. HSW has places like Felons Brewing Co, Mr Percival's Overwater Bar, GRECA Greek Taverna, and other riverside restaurants for a chilled evening out.

If lots of people, bright lights, sizzling street food, and noise are more your thing, head towards Eat Street Northshore. Eat Street Northshore is a dedicated food village that comes alive on the weekend and cooks lip-smacking food. The wide range of food available is multicultural, including paella, fresh calamari, 'Japanese pizza', kebabs, and giant cotton candy. Food coma is guaranteed.

Gold Coast has a reasonable number of dining options, too. The Collective at Palm Beach has five kitchens doling out American, Mexican, Asian, Italian and contemporary Australian cuisine. The food hub is bathed in natural light and surrounded by greenery. The rooftop bar is perfect for those afternoon cocktails with a warm breeze blowing.

Are you in the mood for a picnic? Burleigh Heads is where you should be. Plop down on a rug on a grassy spot in front of the beach. Head to one of the many surf clubs along the coast and watch surfers perform amazing feats as the sun goes down.

• Drink in the view from rooftop bars

Brisbane and the Gold Coast's rooftop bars afford a fantastic view of the twinkling landscape at night with a drink in hand for those looking for their favourite poison. Popular hotspots in Brisbane, such as Eleven Rooftop Bar, Valley Hops Brewing, Fiume, and the Rooftop at QT, the Burleigh Pavilion on the Gold Coast, offer a delightful mix of ambience, drinks, and scenic vistas.

• Shop till you drop

Brisbane and the Gold Coast offer vibrant shopping experiences for travellers seeking a blend of high-end luxury and unique local finds. In Brisbane, James Street in Fortitude Valley is a must-visit, featuring designer boutiques, chic homeware stores, and gourmet eateries. The Port Douglas Markets are a must-visit for a more eclectic shopping adventure. Located in the picturesque coastal town, these markets feature an array of artisanal crafts, local produce, and vibrant souvenirs, offering an authentic taste of Queensland's local culture.

2) For the adventure junkies

Those thirsting for their adrenaline fix should know that the Gold Coast and Cairns have much to offer regarding high-octane activities. If you crave adventure, you will get it. Hot air ballooning, sky rails, bungee jumping, skydiving, and jungle surfing exist.

• Adventure climbs

It isn't every day that you get to climb a 74-meter-high bridge. The Story Bridge is one of the three bridges in the world that you're legally allowed to climb on a guided tour.

If 74m high isn't enough for you, SkyPoint Climb is where you should head next. This 90-minute thrill-ridden adventure involves climbing a 270m high building, which happens to be one of Queensland's most iconic landmarks—the Q1 Resort Building. You can climb at night for a surreal 360-degree view of the glittering Gold Coast. Way to feel at the top of the world!

• Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef

There's no way you can miss out on the world's largest coral reef, so make sure you have a full day in hand when you head out. Opt to swim, dive or snorkel and make new friends with clownfish, giant clams, manta rays, Maori wrasse, potato cod, sharks, turtles and whales.

• Lose yourself in lush rainforests

Daintree Rainforest, located on the northeast coast of Queensland, has some of the oldest surviving flora and fauna, along with sparkling waterfalls. Immerse yourself in the wilderness to see fascinating plant and animal species.

• Ride the high at Gold Coast’s theme parks

Gold Coast has five large theme parks, so the kids will be spoilt for choice. Expect all the extravagances of theme parks, such as cotton candy, roller coasters, shows, and furry animal mascots.

3) For the animal lovers

Queensland is a veritable animal paradise, one of the two states offering furry koala cuddles. Say 'hey mate' to hoppy kangaroos up close at one of the many wildlife sanctuaries and watch the awe-striking beauty of glistening whales splashing around in the clear water from June to November every year.

• Encounter Australia’s Wildlife

Get up close and personal with crocodiles and other fascinating wildlife at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures in Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef. Witness thrilling crocodile feeding shows, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about conservation efforts through engaging presentations.

• Go whale watching in Gold Coast

Watch the magnificence and sheer power of the world's most enormous marine creatures with Whales in Paradise, a Gold Coast Whale Watching company. We guarantee that you'll have a whale of a time!

• Explore the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

If you're an animal lover, you'll be happy at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary on the Gold Coast. Wander through open animal enclosures, interact with kangaroos, or simply cuddle a koala. There are also bird shows, wild lorikeet feedings, and Aboriginal tribe performances.

4) For the hedonists

For all the hedonists who love being surrounded by luxury, the Whitsundays are a group of 74 jewel-like islands amidst the Great Barrier Reef. Stay at Qualia on Hamilton Island and experience opulence and natural beauty, or live the good life while sailing out on the Great Barrier Reef.

• Fly high with a helicopter ride

Hill Inlet in the Whitsundays is a treat to see from an aerial view. Take a scenic flight over the Heart Reef and land on Whitehaven Beach for your private picnic.

• Gorge on fine food and drink

Head to One Tree Hill bar on Hamilton Island, which will serve you a glass of bubbly with a side of cheese, charcuterie, or pate as you watch the sunset splashes the sky with vivid colours. As darkness falls, direct your feet towards Manta Bay restaurant for tapas-style dining. Feast on shared seafood paella or pan-fried clams with chorizo crumbles in a white wine butter sauce.

So take a trip to the Sunshine State to experience its many attractions. You'll leave Queensland with bags full of souvenirs and memories you'll cherish.

Join us on a thrilling virtual journey across Queensland with our brand-new web series - Essence of Queensland! Starting from the majestic Great Barrier Reef, we'll take you on an immersive adventure through the wonders of Cairns Aquarium, the exhilarating Reef Magic Cruise, and the pristine Port Douglas Beach. Don't miss out on this exciting exploration of Queensland's most breathtaking destinations!

This article is associated with Tourism and Events Queensland and Singapore Airlines; plan your trip and enjoy a seamless travel experience with Singapore Airlines, ensuring comfort and luxury from takeoff to landing.

In association with Tourism and Events Queensland