Brisbane is home to over 2 million people, but maintains a relaxed atmosphere thanks to the warm weather and easygoing locals. “Brissie” has plenty of nightlife and art galleries, but with its location on the banks of a major river in beautiful sunny Queensland, the biggest attraction is definitely the outdoors.
During the humid summers, catch a cooling breeze along the waterfront. Rent a kayak to paddle along the Kangaroo Point cliffs or spot dolphins and turtles around Moreton Island National Park. Enjoy a balmy night with “fish ‘n chips” and locally brewed XXXX beer along the Brisbane River.
The cooler, dry winters are good for whale watching and fitness activities, such as climbing the Story Bridge or the Glass House Mountains. The winter days are short, but the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, the Brisbane Powerhouse and the bars in Fortitude Valley keep you entertained at night.
Brisbane offers many free facilities such as pools, barbecues, playgrounds and frequent cultural festivals. You don’t have to pay for the government-funded attractions and nature reserves either, including the Roma Street Parkland, Gallery of Modern Art, Museum of Brisbane, Botanic Gardens, and Mount Coot-tha.
Apart from walking, the public transport and bike-share systems are convenient ways to get around. Start at South Bank, Brisbane’s attractive cultural riverfront area. From the Maritime Museum, follow the bougainvillea archway past streams with ibis and water dragons, palm tree-lined swimming lagoons, markets, food venues and street performers, all the way to the Ferris wheel, with wooden a Nepalese temple nearby.
Take the public ferry downstream to New Farm Park or book a scenic cruise upstream to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Alternatively, continue along South Bank to the state’s major museums, including the Queensland Museum and art galleries.
Brisbane is surrounded by stunning nature, so book a tour or rent a car to explore. Nothing is rushed here, so relax and take your time to enjoy the cultural displays and natural beauty in the capital of the Sunshine State.
Brisbane
Brisbane Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Brisbane
Brisbane Central Business District
Densely concentrated skyscrapers and parks define this central business hub, with attractions like City Hall, Story Bridge, and City Botanic Gardens. Enjoy seamless connectivity via road bridges, public transport, and the scenic Brisbane Riverwalk.
Brisbane Airport
Located 14km northeast of Brisbane's CBD, this coastal suburb boasts the Skygate Airport Village, featuring retail, commercial spaces, a GP Clinic, and Novotel airport hotel. Easily accessible via Domestic and International Terminal railway stations, it offers convenient connections to the city.
South Bank
Brimming with cultural and recreational attractions, South Bank offers diverse dining options on Grey Street and Little Stanley Street, as well as easy access to public transport, including ferries, buses, and trains.
Fortitude Valley
Brimming with nightlife, nightclubs, and bars, this inner suburb features Brunswick Street Mall and Chinatown for pedestrians. Shop at James Street precinct, visit Valley Pool, or explore heritage-listed sites like Howard Smith Wharves.
South Brisbane
Directly connected to the central business district, South Brisbane boasts the vibrant South Bank Parklands, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and attractions like the Wheel of Brisbane. Enjoy shopping and dining on Grey Street, and easily explore via CityCat ferry services.
Tangalooma
Indulge in resort accommodation, hand-feed wild dolphins at sunset, and explore the Tangalooma Wrecks while snorkeling. Discover Moreton Island National Park and enjoy whale watching cruises nearby.
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Popular places to visit
Roma Street Parkland
Stroll through this inner-city oasis with lake, subtropical flowers, native plants, public art and water features.
The Gabba
Catch an event at The Gabba during your trip to Brisbane. Amble around this culturally rich area's riverfront or experience its entertainment choices.
South Bank Parklands
Explore the great outdoors at South Bank Parklands, a lovely green space in Brisbane. Stroll along the riverfront in this family-friendly area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.
University of Queensland
Explore the campus of University of Queensland, during your travels in Brisbane. Stroll along the riverfront in this culturally rich area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.
Treasury Casino
A magnificent 19th-century building and riverside jewel that is now host to one of Queensland’s biggest casinos and entertainment precincts.
Queensland Performing Arts Centre
See a Broadway musical, enjoy a world-class opera or ballet performance or listen to a symphony at this state-of-the-art Brisbane venue with bars and restaurant.
Things to do
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Reviews of Brisbane
5/5 - Excellent
Brisbane is one of the cleanest large cities I have ever been too. It was a very enjoyable time. Very interesting to hear about it’s history, mistakes and how it has adapted over time.
4/5 - Good
Great city
5/5 - Excellent
Bike share system worth using. Arts Theater close by, worth taking in a play. Very walkable City.
5/5 - Excellent
Love the amount of greenery and parks along the River. Christmas light displays were great! And the pedestrian bridge is genius. Many cities could learn from their infrastructure!
5/5 - Excellent
Beautiful city. Love the transportation system. We purchased a Go Card. Access to trains/buses/boats! We were only there 2 days and just missed out on the Eats Market North Shore and were told it has many vendors and the food is world class.
5/5 - Excellent
What a lovely city!
