Flights from Zurich (ZRH) to Brisbane (BNE)

About Brisbane

Discover Brisbane

Why visit Brisbane?
Brisbane blends a laid-back riverside lifestyle with a growing arts and dining scene, all under a warm subtropical sky. You can explore leafy riverfront paths, vibrant cultural precincts, and relaxed neighbourhoods that make the city feel welcoming from the moment you arrive.

What to expect
The city centres around the Brisbane River, with the CBD, South Bank, and Fortitude Valley forming the core areas most visitors explore. Expect modern galleries, green spaces, and easy access to coastal escapes, alongside an outdoor-focused way of life that suits everything from short breaks to longer stays.

Plan your trip
Brisbane is a convenient base for exploring South East Queensland, from the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast to nearby islands and hinterland retreats. Whether you are stopping over before heading further into Australia or making it your main destination, planning a few extra days lets you experience the wider region.

Top sights in Brisbane

South Bank Parklands

Stroll along the riverfront, relax on the man-made Streets Beach, and enjoy gardens, cafes, and public art in this central leisure precinct.

Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)

Discover contemporary works, interactive installations, and major touring exhibitions in one of Australia’s leading modern art galleries.

Brisbane Riverwalk

Walk or cycle along elevated pathways that trace the river’s edge, offering skyline views and easy access between key inner-city neighbourhoods.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Visit one of the world’s oldest koala sanctuaries to see native wildlife in a relaxed, leafy setting by the river.

Mount Coot-tha Lookout

Head up to this panoramic viewpoint for sweeping vistas over the city, the river, and the surrounding hills, especially striking at sunset.

Howard Smith Wharves

Enjoy a lively riverside precinct beneath the Story Bridge, with dining, bars, and open-air spaces perfect for late afternoon and evening visits.

Queen Street Mall

Explore Brisbane’s main pedestrian shopping strip, lined with retail centres, boutiques, and plenty of spots to pause for a drink or snack.

New Farm Park

Unwind in one of the city’s favourite green spaces, ideal for picnics, riverside walks, and access to the nearby Powerhouse arts venue.

Experience Brisbane’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Brisbane’s public transport network of trains, buses, and CityCat ferries makes it easy to move between the CBD, South Bank, and inner suburbs. River ferries offer a scenic way to travel, while walking or using shared bikes and scooters is ideal for the final stretch of your journey.

Local life & culture
Life in Brisbane often revolves around the outdoors, with residents making the most of riverside paths, parklands, and shaded cafe terraces. Cultural energy centres on the South Bank cultural precinct and lively neighbourhoods like West End and Fortitude Valley, where you can feel the city’s creative and social pulse.

Where to unwind
You can relax in inner-city oases such as the City Botanic Gardens, South Bank Parklands, or New Farm Park, each offering generous green space and riverfront views. Early mornings and late afternoons are especially comfortable, when the light softens and the temperature is ideal for a gentle walk or quiet rest.

A taste of Brisbane

Street food & local specialties
Brisbane’s food scene showcases fresh regional produce, with relaxed venues serving seafood, modern Australian dishes, and global street-food favourites. Neighbourhoods such as West End and Fortitude Valley offer casual spots where you can sample different flavours in a single evening.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Across the city you will find easygoing dining in riverfront precincts, inner-suburban high streets, and shopping centres, making it simple to fit a meal into your day. Menus often encourage sharing, so you can try smaller plates and a range of cuisines without committing to a single large dish.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, choose restaurants overlooking the river at Howard Smith Wharves, Eagle Street, or South Bank, where views of the skyline add to the occasion. Elevated venues on nearby hills and lookouts also pair seasonal menus with broad vistas, ideal for marking a special evening.

Retail therapy in Brisbane

Malls & lifestyle hubs
In the heart of the city, Queen Street Mall and its surrounding centres bring together international labels, local brands, and entertainment. These hubs act as social spaces as much as shopping destinations, with cafes and casual dining helping you break up your visit.

Markets & local crafts
For something more individual, smaller markets and neighbourhood strips in areas such as South Bank, West End, and Paddington showcase local designers, crafts, and homewares. These spots are ideal for picking up thoughtful souvenirs and pieces with a distinct Brisbane character.

Evening retail scene
As the sun sets, central streets and riverfront precincts remain active, with illuminated shopfronts, late-night openings on selected days, and nearby dining. Many of these areas are well linked by public transport, so you can enjoy evening browsing and return to your accommodation with ease.

Best time to visit Brisbane

Summer (December to February, peak season)
Brisbane’s summer brings warm, humid days, with average temperatures around 21–29°C (70–84°F) and occasional afternoon showers. It is a lively time, ideal for enjoying the river, coastal day trips, and long evenings spent outdoors.

Autumn and spring (March to May, September to November, shoulder season)
These months offer comfortable weather, with average temperatures around 16–27°C (61–81°F) and generally lower humidity than summer. Clear days and mild evenings create pleasant conditions for sightseeing, walking, and outdoor events across the city.

Winter (June to August, low season)
Winters in Brisbane are mild and dry, with average temperatures around 10–21°C (50–70°F) and plenty of sunshine. Cooler nights and crisp mornings make it a comfortable time for exploring on foot and visiting nearby hinterland areas.

Frequently Asked Questions