- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Brisbane
Discover Brisbane's rich past, from its 1820s convict origins to its current state. Explore Queenslander architecture in Paddington or marvel at the 1930s City Hall. See the intricate sandstone details of the Treasury Building, showcasing what is Brisbane famous for beyond modern towers.
Experience Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle. Kayak the 309 km Brisbane River or climb Mt Coot-tha for city views. South Bank Parklands offers swimming and cultural venues like GOMA, amongst the top attractions in Brisbane. End your day with a Story Bridge adventure climb.
Savour Brisbane's diverse culinary scene. Explore West End's hidden cafes for exceptional coffee and brunch, or visit Eat Street Northshore for global street food. Don't miss locally sourced Moreton Bay Bugs, a regional delicacy essential for visiting Brisbane foodies.
- BrisbaneAustralia
- BrisbaneAustralia
- BrisbaneAustralia
- BrisbaneAustralia
Quick Travel Essentials
- Sep-Novmild temperatures, less humidity, beautiful blooms
- Dec-Febhot, high humidity, peak tourist season
- Mar-Maywarm, comfortable, fewer crowds
- Jun-Augcooler, pleasant, occasional rain
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #Hat
- #LightClothing
- #ReusablesWaterBottle
- #PowerAdapterTypeI
- 3-4 days for highlights
- 5-6 with beaches & day trips
- Australian Dollar (AUD)
- English
- English is the primary language spoken
- #SouthBankParklands
- #LonePineKoalaSanctuary
- #StoryBridge
- #QueenslandArtGallery
- #BrisbaneBotanicGardens
- #VictoriaBridge
- Visit South Bank Markets
- Kayak on Brisbane River
- Explore the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
- Try local craft beer
- Ride the Wheel of Brisbane
Recommended Hotels in Brisbane by Experience
Things to do in Brisbane
Discover
Venture through the highlights of Brisbane, from the South Bank Parklands to the Gallery of Modern Art and breathtaking views from the Brisbane Skydeck. Don't miss iconic Brisbane attractions like the Queensland Museum and City Botanic Gardens.
Experience
Engage in thrilling activities such as cycling along the river, enjoying the vibrant local arts scene, or participating in Brisbane cultural activities including workshops and festivals. The city offers diverse things to experience in Brisbane year-round.
Brisbane Skydeck
Observation deck offering panoramic city views.
Gallery of Modern Art
Australia's largest gallery of contemporary art.
South Bank Parklands
Beautiful riverside park with gardens and beaches.
Queensland Museum
Exploring natural history and cultural heritage.
Brisbane Riverwalk
Scenic walking path along the Brisbane River.
Brisbane Festival
Annual arts festival featuring theater and music.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
To get to Brisbane, fly into Brisbane Airport (BNE). The Airtrain offers a 20-minute journey to Central or Roma Street stations (~$20-$30). Brisbane shuttle bus services are also available, or taxis cost around $50-$60.
Getting Around
Use TransLink for public transport in Brisbane, including buses, trains, and CityCat ferries. Go Cards offer cheaper fares; buy them at stations/retailers. CityHopper ferries are free for short river trips, showcasing riverside views.
Local Essentials
Driving in Brisbane involves tolls on motorways; use Linkt for payment. Always tap on/off with your Go Card for correct fares. Sun protection is crucial year-round. Helmets are mandatory by law for all cyclists.
Where to Stay in Brisbane
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore traditional food in Brisbane like Moreton Bay bugs, meat pies, and lamingtons. The vibrant café culture thrives here, with late-night dining options and a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Enjoy
Taste the local cuisine in Brisbane at standout spots like La Vue Waterfront Restaurant, which is perfect for seafood lovers. For drinks, head to Blackbird Bar & Grill, known for its lively atmosphere. Booking ahead is advised.
La Vue Waterfront Restaurant
Modern waterfront spot serving seafood, steaks & contemporary dishes.
Ahmet's Turkish Restaurant
Authentic Turkish dishes in a warm ambiance, great for groups.
Sono Japanese Restaurant Portside Wharf
Fine dining experience with exquisite sushi, ideal for dinners.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Brisbane cultural activities include the Ekka (Royal Queensland Show), showcasing agricultural heritage. Explore the city's history through Anzac Day commemorations and the Brisbane Festival, celebrating local stories and community spirit.
Enjoy
Explore Brisbane's Queensland Music Festival, featuring diverse genres from indie to classical. Discover visual arts at the IMA and immerse yourself in theatre and installation art during Brisbane tours and events.
Ekka (Royal Queensland Show)
August agricultural show with events, fireworks, and entertainment.
Brisbane Festival
September arts festival with parades and fireworks.
Queensland Music Festival
July event featuring diverse musical performances.
Night Noodle Markets
October food festival with Asian street food and music.
GOMA (Gallery of Modern Art) Exhibitions
Ongoing multimedia art installations and international exhibitions.
Anzac Day
April 25th dawn service and march honouring veterans.
World Science Festival Brisbane
March event with talks, workshops, and interactive science exhibits.
Brisbane is seriously cool - didn't want to leave
South Bank is just brilliant. The outdoor pool right on the river, the markets, the food - all within walking distance. Brisbane has this easy-going energy that makes you feel welcome straight away. Great city.
Perfect base for exploring Queensland
Stayed in Fortitude Valley and loved every bit of it. The food scene is proper good - lots of Asian options which felt like home. City is clean, easy to get around, and the locals are genuinely friendly. Really glad we chose Brisbane.
Way more to do here than I expected
The Story Bridge climb was absolutely worth it - views over the river are stunning. Brisbane has a relaxed pace but there's always something happening. Cafes are excellent and coffee culture here is no joke.. wait, it really is that good. Would recommend without hesitation.
Great city for a family trip
Took the kids to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and they absolutely lost it - in the best way. Brisbane is so family-friendly, easy to navigate, and the weather in January was perfect. South Bank parklands kept everyone happy too. Solid trip all round.
Loved the food and the river walks
Moreton Bay bugs at a riverside restaurant - best seafood I've had in ages. The city is compact enough to walk most things but there's a ferry too which is dead easy. Really enjoyed the mix of good eating and outdoor stuff here.
Brisbane genuinely impressed me
The Gallery of Modern Art is free and actually really good - spent ages in there. Brisbane feels like a big city without the stress of one. Streets are clean, people are relaxed, and the food in West End was some of the best I've eaten anywhere. Really solid destination.