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
Roma Street Parkland and Eagle Street Pier are just a few worthwhile attractions to visit in Brisbane Central Business District. Travelers also love the beautiful gardens, stunning river views, and popular shops.
Brisbane Airport
Travelers come to Brisbane Airport for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like DFO Brisbane and Moreton Bay while you're in town.
South Bank
South Bank is a destination visitors seek out for is ample dining options, fascinating museums, and beautiful river views. You might also want to check out attractions like South Bank Parklands or Streets Beach while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Fortitude Valley
Travelers come to Fortitude Valley for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Brunswick Street Mall and Chinatown Mall while you're in town.
South Brisbane
South Brisbane is a destination visitors seek out for is abundant dining options, interesting museums, and stunning river views. You might want to check out attractions like Queensland Performing Arts Centre or Queensland Museum and Sciencentre while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Tangalooma
Tangalooma is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Moreton Island National Park and Moreton Bay.
Reviewed on May 9, 2024
Reviewed on May 9, 2024
Reviewed on May 12, 2024
Reviewed on May 6, 2024
Reviewed on May 8, 2024
Reviewed on May 1, 2024
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
Noosa, Aussie Animals & Glass House Mountains from Brisbane
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Plaza Premium Lounge at Brisbane Airport (BNE)
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Brisbane: Hot Air Balloon Flight with Vineyard Breakfast
Brisbane: Sightseeing River Cruise with Morning Tea
Reviews of Brisbane
5/5 - Excellent
Very walkable city with lots to see and do.
5/5 - Excellent
It was a bit busy for our liking and the roads were a little confusing to drive on.
5/5 - Excellent
Very nice clean city. People are very friendly
5/5 - Excellent
I absolutely loved the city. Modern, fresh, full of culture.... it was just awesome
5/5 - Excellent
Beautiful city, fantastic people.
5/5 - Excellent
Nice City
Other places like Brisbane
- XXXX Brewery
- Roma Street Parkland
- South Bank Parklands
- Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital
- University of Queensland
- Queensland Performing Arts Centre
- Treasury Casino
- Brisbane Entertainment Centre
- Queen Street Mall
- Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
- Mater Private Hospital Brisbane
- Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
- Story Bridge
- Westfield Garden City Shopping Mall
- DFO Brisbane
- Princess Alexandra Hospital
- Queensland University of Technology
- Brisbane City Hall
- Queensland Museum
- Queensland Children's Hospital