Things To Do
in Brisbane

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, Australia, is a vibrant city known for its warm climate, beautiful parks, and a relaxed lifestyle. The city is located on the Brisbane River, providing stunning waterfront views and recreational opportunities. Brisbane boasts a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and live music venues.

Its diverse culture is reflected in its culinary offerings and lively festivals throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to South Bank Parklands, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river and soak in the lush gardens.

afternoon
:

Head to the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) to explore an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional art.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Eat Street Northshore, a vibrant marketplace with an array of food stalls and live entertainment.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to get up close with native Australian wildlife, including koalas and kangaroos.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic ferry ride on the Brisbane River to explore the city from the water and visit the Botanic Gardens at Mount Coot-tha.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at Fortitude Valley, known for its bars, live music venues, and vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$20 - $40
Coffee$4 - $5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$4 - $5
🛏️Hotel (3-star)$150 - $250
🍺Beer$8 - $12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Pleasant climate year-round
  • Vibrant arts and culture scene
  • Diverse culinary experiences
  • High humidity in summer months
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities

Places to Visit in Brisbane

Visit one of these nice places.

Kangaroo Point Cliffs

Offering stunning views of the city skyline and the Brisbane River, this is a popular spot for sunset photography.

South Bank Parklands

With its lush gardens, iconic wheel, and river views, South Bank is a picturesque location for beautiful photos.

Story Bridge

A historic landmark of Brisbane, the Story Bridge is especially photogenic at night when illuminated.

Culinary Guide

Food in Brisbane

Brisbane's culinary scene is a delightful blend of Australian flavors and international cuisine, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Brisbane Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moreton Bay Bugs

A local delicacy, these sweet and tender shellfish are often grilled or served with a garlic butter sauce.

Must-Try!

Pavlova

A classic Australian dessert made of a meringue base topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Brisbane Markets

A lively market featuring fresh produce, gourmet foods, and local crafts, held every weekend.

Eat Street Northshore

A vibrant street food market with a range of international cuisines, live music, and a festive atmosphere.

Climate Guide

Weather

Brisbane's climate is characterized by a subtropical environment, with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) or higher, while winter temperatures typically range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Rainfall is most common in the summer months, while winters are generally dry. Humidity can be high in summer, making it feel warmer than it is.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Casual Dress Code

Brisbane has a laid-back atmosphere, and casual attire is acceptable in most places.

Politeness and Courtesy

Australians value politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is considered good manners.

Respect for Indigenous Culture

Be respectful of Aboriginal culture and history, acknowledging their significance in the region.

Safety Guide

Safety

Brisbane is considered a safe city, but standard precautions should be taken, especially at night. Avoid poorly lit areas, and keep valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 000. Additionally, always be aware of your surroundings and follow local advice regarding safety.

Tipping in Brisbane

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Brisbane, but rounding up the bill or leaving a 10% tip for excellent service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common. Cash is also available but less frequently used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm temperatures and occasional thunderstorms. It's perfect for beach visits and outdoor festivals.

Autumn (March - May)

Mild temperatures and lower humidity make this an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

Winter (June - August)

Cool and dry with clear skies, winter is great for sightseeing and outdoor events.

Spring (September - November)

Warm temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a beautiful time to visit Brisbane.

Nightlife Guide

Brisbane at Night

Brisbane has a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in areas like Fortitude Valley and South Bank. The city is filled with bars, clubs, and live music venues, catering to diverse tastes. From trendy cocktail bars to relaxed pubs, there's something for everyone. The Valley is known for its lively clubs, while South Bank offers a more laid-back atmosphere with riverside bars and restaurants.

Hiking in Brisbane

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Coot-tha

A popular hiking destination with various trails offering stunning views of Brisbane and the surrounding areas.

Glass House Mountains

Located about an hour’s drive from Brisbane, these mountains provide spectacular hiking trails with breathtaking vistas.

Airports

How to reach Brisbane by plane.

Brisbane Airport (BNE)

Located approximately 13 km from the city center, Brisbane Airport is the main international airport serving the region, with flights to various domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Brisbane is a walkable city, particularly in the central areas where many attractions, dining, and shopping options are close together. South Bank Parklands and the Brisbane Riverwalk offer pedestrian-friendly paths. However, some suburbs may be less accessible without a vehicle.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Brisbane has a growing population of young professionals attracted by job opportunities and the vibrant lifestyle.

Students

With several universities located in the city, a significant student demographic contributes to the city's youthful energy and diverse culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is one of the most popular sports in Brisbane, with the Brisbane Broncos being the local NRL team, attracting passionate fans.

Cricket

Cricket enjoys a significant following, with matches held at the iconic Gabba stadium, particularly during the summer season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Brisbane can be congested, especially during peak hours (7:30 AM - 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM). The city's public transport system includes buses, trains, and ferries, which are effective for commuting. However, some areas may require a car for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Brisbane.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Brisbane offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, making it easy for those with dietary restrictions to find suitable meals.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are widely available in most eateries, ensuring that those with gluten intolerance can enjoy local cuisine.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Brisbane has a well-developed healthcare system with both public and private hospitals available. Emergency services are accessible via 000, and there are numerous general practitioners and clinics throughout the city. International travelers should consider travel insurance that covers healthcare costs.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide