48 hours in Townsville
In previous years Townsville has garnered a bit of an unfair reputation as an oversized country town with not as much to do as the tourist-friendly Cairns. However this North Queensland city packs an enormous punch and is perfect for an overnight getaway.
Here’s how to fill 48 hours in Townsville; Queensland’s unexpected hotspot.
9am
Get your bearings and collect your hire car, or jump on one of the local buses heading towards xxx.
11am
xxx. Afterwards, wander to xx and enjoy a hearty lunch.
1pm
Escape the afternoon heat by heading over to the Museum of North Queensland. The massive (air conditioned!) space includes a scaled replica of the HMS Pandora’s hull, and a constantly changing selection of natural, historical and cultural exhibits. NQ residents can enter for free by showing an ID or utility bill with their address.
3pm
Head back to your hotel to check in, followed by a refreshing swim in the on-site pool. No need to worry about Townsville’s resident stingers and ‘bitey things’ here!
6pm
Swing by Townsville’s resident party street - Palmer Street- for a pre-dinner beverage. There’s a bar here for every kind of drinker; swanky speakeasies to your classic Australian pub. Enjoy a cold drink as the sunset surrounds Castle Rock with a golden glow.
8pm
Flinders Lane comes alive in the evening. Melboune laneway dining meets the NQ tropics; here you can find a selection of cusines to suit. Our favourites include xx. Restauraunts are particularly busy on weekends so reservations are suggested to avoid wait times.
7am
Start your morning on the northern end of Townsville’s esplanade - home to several local cafes. Coffee in hand, make your way Jezzine Barracks walk to learn more about the xx people who have acted as custodians of the land. The paved footpath winds its way up to a viewpoint overlooking the Coral Sea - making it a perfect spot to enjoy your morning cuppa.
10am
Check out of your hotel - though your adventure doesn’t end yet. Swing by Ottos Delicatessen (3 outlets across Townsville) and pick up some tasty goodies before your flight, train or drive back home. The donuts are a local favourite!
WHERE TO STAY IN TOWNSVILLE
If you’re looking for a splurge, The Ville and Ardo have great waterfront rooms overlooking Magnetic Island and The Strand.
However, we have another favourite - Grand Hotel and Apartments.
This small, locally-operated hotel has modern rooms with facilities rivalling international brands with the addition wonderfully helpful staff. Located in Palmer Street, guests are a stone’s throw from all of the excitement of Townsville (and most of it walkable if not hiring a car). The Grand also has some excellent sustainability initiatives - you can read more about our stay HERE.