'This Aussie capital city wasn't on my travel list, but it's now one of my favourite destinations.'

I'm a Sydney elitist gal, which means I believe my city is the best in Australia and one of the best in the world. Even though I've been impressed by other cities in Australia (and I mean actual city life), I always thought, "This has nothing on Sydney."

But oh, how could I have been so naive?

I recently spent just two nights in Brisbane — and I fell completely in love with it. Here's exactly what to do for the perfect weekend away in Brissie.

How to get to Brisbane.

As one of Australia's capital cities, it's not hard to get to Brisbane. Of course, you could drive, depending on where you're based. But the flight there from Sydney is a quick hour and a halg — why wouldn't you?

I flew from Sydney to Brisbane with Virgin, and it was a vibe. For an extra $48, you can upgrade your flight from Economy to Economy X, which, if you're willing to spend the money, is well worth it to make your flight that much smoother. You get extra legroom, priority boarding and check-in, and preferred overhead lockers. Winner.

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Another thing I love about Virgin is their app. You literally cannot miss your flight because all your boarding information stays locked as a notification on your home screen.

When you land and want to collect your bags, it also sends you a notification when your bag is on the carousel, so you can go grab a coffee and wait to be notified. Twist my arm.

Where to stay in Brisbane.

I wasn't in Brisbane for too long, but I lapped up every minute at the Star Grand Hotel.

And let me tell you this: if you feel the need to live like royalty just once in your life (you do!), stay at a fancy hotel. The views? Spectacular. The robes? So soft! The minibar? Actually reasonably priced!

Image: supplied.

You won't get a view of Brisbane City as nice anywhere else.

And, if you're feeling adventurous, head up to the sky deck, where you'll find a rooftop bar and a glass floor at the edge of the balcony, so you can watch people the size of ants wandering around below.

What to do with 48 hours in Brisbane.

One of the first things I did in Brisbane was visit the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art.

Even if you're not into art, it's worth a visit. When I visited, they were showing The 11th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, which I loved. And if you have littlies, take them to the Children's Art Centre where they can create art, and have their works displayed like an actual exhibition. It was my favourite part of the visit, so I guess I'm just a big kid.

You also HAVE to go to West End. There's so much to do in this precinct — but if you're short on time, put SOAK Bathhouse at the top of the to-do list. I've never felt more relaxed and totally got into the wellness vibe.

I did the Soak & Sip package ($79–$89 from Friday to Sunday), which includes a 90-minute soak session where you move through different temperature pools. You start in the magnesium mineral pool, then head to the hot spa, and choose between the sauna or steam room (I preferred steam).

After getting all hot and bothered, you jump into the cold plunge to cool down. Plus, you get two drinks (alcoholic or non) and a sweet snack. Complimentary robe with a kombucha in hand? Bliss.

Image: supplied.

West End also has great shopping. Visit the SWOP store for second-hand finds, or any of the boutiques on Boundary Street and Vulture Street.

Where to eat in Brisbane.

For breakfast, Sprout Artisan Bakery offers delicious treats, like savoury Danish and classic chocolate croissants, that live up to the hype.

Agnes Bakery across the street has fantastic sandwiches like mortadella focaccia and grilled vegetable ciabatta, plus beautiful coffees, including coconut water matcha.

For a delicious and affordable lunch, Naldham House is a must. Start with a warmed baguette with butter and the burrata entrée — such a treat. As for mains, the smoked eggplant cotoletta made me realise my strong love for a sweet tomato sauce and dill.

Grab dinner at Dark Shepherd, where they serve delicious Mediterranean dishes to share. The saganaki (pan-fried cheese) and a variety of dips like tzatziki and beetroot were highlights for me.

Ciao Papi is another great dinner spot, serving up tasty pizza, pasta and a non-negotiable tiramisu. The cocktails and outdoor seating are great, and don't forget to try the vodka pasta — but be sure to book in advance, it's reservation-only!

Image: supplied.

If you're worried you can't cram all of this into 48 hours, don't worry — just give it your best shot, because I promise, it's 100 per cent doable, even with kids in tow.

Trust me when I say, don't sleep on Brisbane — it's well worth spending a weekend finding out what the city has to offer.

The author was a guest of Virgin Australia x Visit Brisbane. All views expressed are her own.

Feature image: Supplied.