Brisbane is a sunny river city that blends laid-back outdoor living with a thriving cultural and creative scene. You find leafy neighbourhoods, riverside dining, and easy access to beaches and islands.
Discover Brisbane
Discover Brisbane
Why visit Brisbane?
What to expect
Expect warm weather, a walkable city centre, and a lively riverfront lined with galleries, bars, and parks. Neighbourhoods like South Bank and Fortitude Valley each bring their own character and energy.
Plan your trip
Brisbane is an ideal base for exploring Queensland, from the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast to hinterland national parks and nearby islands. Leave time for both city discoveries and day trips into nature.
Top sights in Brisbane
South Bank Parklands
Stroll along the riverfront promenade, relax on the man-made Streets Beach, and enjoy gardens, public art, and family-friendly attractions in the heart of the city.
Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)
Explore contemporary art from Australia and the region in a striking riverside building, with rotating exhibitions, interactive spaces, and city views.
Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
Wander shaded pathways, heritage features, and riverside lawns just steps from the CBD, ideal for a quiet break or a morning walk.
Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs
Walk or climb near the iconic Story Bridge, or enjoy sunset views of the skyline from the cliffs and riverside paths at Kangaroo Point.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Meet koalas and other native wildlife in a leafy riverside setting, reachable by road or a leisurely river cruise from the city.
Mount Coot-tha Lookout
Take in panoramic views of Brisbane and Moreton Bay from this hilltop lookout, with walking trails and picnic spots nearby.
Moreton Island and Tangalooma Wrecks
Take a day trip to snorkel around shipwrecks, walk sandy beaches, and experience the clear waters of this island playground.
Experience Brisbane's everyday rhythm
Getting around
Move easily around Brisbane using trains, buses, and the CityCat ferries that run along the river for a scenic commute. For the last mile, walking, e-scooters, and taxis or ride-hailing services connect you between riverside stops and inner-city neighbourhoods.
Local life & culture
Brisbane life revolves around the river, outdoor gatherings, and a thriving arts and live music scene. Explore districts like West End and Fortitude Valley to feel the city’s creative, relaxed, and sociable rhythm.
Where to unwind
Enjoy quiet moments in South Bank’s riverside lawns, the City Botanic Gardens, or at Mount Coot-tha’s forest trails and lookout, best at sunrise or sunset. The riverwalks offer gentle evening strolls with cooling breezes and skyline views.
A taste of Brisbane
Street food & local specialties
Sample Australian favourites, seafood, and global street food at markets and casual riverside spots, especially around South Bank and West End, where food stalls, food trucks, and small eateries sit side by side.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Find relaxed dining in city malls and along promenades like Eagle Street Pier and Howard Smith Wharves, where cafes, bistros, and bars serve shared plates and small portions that make it easy to try several flavours in one meal.
Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, book a table at a restaurant overlooking the river or skyline, or choose a hilltop spot near Mount Coot-tha. Long lunches and sunset dinners pair modern Australian cuisine with sweeping city views.
Retail therapy in Brisbane
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Queen Street Mall in the CBD brings together international brands, Australian labels, and entertainment, acting as a central social hub for shopping, dining, and people-watching.
Markets & local crafts
Browse weekend markets at South Bank, Riverside, or suburban hubs for handmade crafts, fashion, and design pieces, and explore neighbourhood streets in Paddington and West End for independent boutiques and vintage finds.
Evening retail scene
After dark, the city’s shopping streets stay lively with late trading on selected nights and market events along the river. Central train stations and bus routes make it simple to reach these illuminated areas and return to your hotel.
Best time to visit Brisbane
Summer (December to February, peak season) is hot and humid, with average temperatures around 21–29°C (70–84°F) and occasional afternoon showers. Autumn and spring (March to May, September to November, shoulder season) are warm and pleasant, typically 16–27°C (61–81°F), ideal for outdoor activities. Winter (June to August, low season) is mild and dry, with averages around 10–22°C (50–72°F), clear skies, and comfortable days for sightseeing.