Queensland’s culture-packed coastal capital is Melbourne and Sydney’s cool, creative little sister. Life in Brissie plays out along the Brisbane River, whether you’re cruising to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, strolling the parklands and exhibitions at the South Bank, or climbing the Story Bridge for a panoramic city view. If you run out of things to do in Brisbane’s buzzing neighborhoods, escape to the golden beaches and mountainous hinterlands of the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast or enjoy whale-watching, snorkeling, and scuba diving at Moreton and North Stradbroke islands.
Brisbane temperatures can be scorching during the summer (December and February), so visit during the spring and fall for a more comfortable experience. The fall months from March to May offer excellent surfing and drier weather conditions, which will allow you to enjoy the Australian sunshine. The spring brings the Brisbane Festival, a three-week international arts festival held annually in September, among other things to do.
One way to get around Brisbane is by ferry, many of which crisscross the busy Brisbane River. The high-speed CityCats and the smaller CityHoppers are part of the public transit network and offer a way to explore the city and get a great sightseeing experience, as well. The city is walkable and also well connected by buses. E-bikes and e-scooters are available for rent throughout the city.
Visit Streets Beach in the South Bank neighborhood, and relax like a local. This man-made public swimming lagoon overlooks the river and the skyscrapers of the downtown, and it’s the perfect place for an evening picnic. Take advantage of the free public barbecue facilities and cook up some snags (sausages), or grab an ice cream from one of the carts dotting the parkland.
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Brisbane is the capital of Queensland state and Australia’s third-largest city. It’s located on the Brisbane River and is famous for its hot, sunny climate. Well-known attractions include the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the botanic gardens, and the South Bank Parklands development, which features a central-city river beach.
...MoreThere are many things to do in Brisbane, which is one of Australia’s largest cities. Well-known attractions are the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the botanic gardens, and the South Bank Parklands development, which includes a central-city river beach. With a famously warm climate, many activities in Brisbane can be enjoyed outdoors.
...MoreMany of Brisbane’s main attractions are at or near the Brisbane River that runs through the city, including promenades, cruises, and the central city river beach at the South Bank Parklands. Other attractions include the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the botanic gardens, and Mt. Coot-tha.
...MoreBrisbane is an outdoorsy city, so there are many free things you can enjoy. Stroll along the banks of the Brisbane River, relax or swim at the South Bank Parklands beach, or take a picnic to one of the parks or botanic gardens and find a spot in the shade.
...MoreYes. Brisbane is worth visiting if you enjoy vibrant cities with a range of outdoor and indoor cultural attractions. There are activities and attractions to suit every kind of traveler, from relaxed river cruises and city beaches to wildlife sanctuaries and day trip opportunities to nearby mountains, forests, and islands.
...MoreBrisbane’s warm climate means there are many outdoor activities to enjoy. These include relaxing or swimming at the South Bank Parklands river beach, hiking to the summit of Mt. Coot-tha, strolling along the banks of the Brisbane River, or day-tripping to nearby North Stradbroke Island.
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