If you crave a quintessential taste of Australia in one compact, easily navigable package, look no further than Brisbane—the sunny, buzzworthy capital of Queensland. It’s no surprise that travelers flock to this riverside metropolis for its glorious weather and outdoorsy lifestyle, but Brisbane also offers plenty of less-expected charms: a vibrant cultural scene, a coastline dotted with enchanting islands, and a host of exciting restaurants and hip cafes dishing up of-the-moment cuisine. Here’s how to get the most out of Australia’s hottest under-the-radar city.