Discover Brisbane

Your complete guide to this amazing destination

Discover the best things to do in Brisbane, Australia in 2025. Explore top attractions and plan your Brisbane itinerary with our guide. Find fun things to do and must-see places.

Discovery Insights

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Local Insider Secrets

1

Visit South Bank Parklands on weekdays before 10:00 AM to avoid the weekend crowds. Enter through the Stanley Street Plaza entrance for a quieter experience.

2

Purchase a Go Card for public transport. Download the MyTransLink app for real-time bus and train schedules. Remember to tap on and tap off at the start and end of your journey to avoid fines.

3

A realistic budget for 3 days in Brisbane is approximately $300-$500 AUD. This includes $90 for meals, $30 for transport, $150 for attractions, and $30-50 for miscellaneous expenses.

4

Shop for souvenirs and local crafts at the Riverside Markets on Sundays. Bargain politely for better prices, especially for multiple items. Look for Aboriginal art and handcrafted jewelry.

5

Avoid the overpriced souvenir shops on Queen Street Mall. Instead, visit the Queensland Art Gallery shop for unique and locally made gifts. Skip the chain restaurants and try local cafes in laneways like Burnett Lane.

6

The Brisbane Festival takes place in September each year, featuring music, theatre, and dance performances. Be aware that accommodation prices may increase during this period.

Dining & Food

Best Cafes

Brew,The Coffee Commune,Edward Specialty Coffee

Top Restaurants

Gauge,Southside Restaurant and Bar,OTTO Ristorante Brisbane

Food Markets

Eat Street Northshore,Riverside Markets,Davies Park Market

6 Photo Spots

1

South Bank Parklands

Wheel of Brisbane and the Brisbane River views.

2

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Cuddle a koala for a memorable photo!

3

Queensland Museum

The giant dinosaur exhibit.

4

Brisbane City Botanic Gardens

The river views and the bamboo grove.

5

Story Bridge Adventure Climb

360-degree views of Brisbane from the summit.

6

Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)

The architecture of the building itself is a great photo.

Budget Breakdown

Free Activities

  • Explore South Bank Parklands
  • Visit Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
  • Wander through Queen Street Mall

Budget-Friendly

  • Eat Street Northshore ($20-30)
  • Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (entry fee $42)
  • Ferry ride along the Brisbane River ($5-10)

Splurge-Worthy

  • Story Bridge Adventure Climb ($129)
  • Fine dining at Gauge ($100+)
  • Day trip to Moreton Island ($100+)

Quick Facts

Total Attractions: 12

Free Activities: 4

Average Time per Attraction: 30–60 minutes

Walking Friendly: Yes

Public Transport Quality: Excellent

Complete Brisbane Guide

1

South Bank Parklands

Moderate 2-3 hours

South Bank Parklands is a premier cultural and recreational precinct. It's one of the best things to do in Brisbane, offering lush gardens, a swimming...

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a picnic by the river....
2

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Moderate 2-3 hours

Get up close and personal with adorable koalas at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, one of the oldest and largest koala sanctuaries in the world. It's a must...

Arrive early to avoid the tour bus crowds and get the best spots for animal encounters....
3

Queensland Museum

Moderate 2-3 hours

Delve into the natural and cultural history of Queensland at the Queensland Museum. It's one of the top attractions in Brisbane for those interested i...

Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events....
4

Brisbane City Botanic Gardens

Moderate 2-3 hours

Escape the city bustle at the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens. These gardens offer a tranquil oasis with diverse plant collections, scenic river views, ...

Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing lunch amidst the greenery....
5

Story Bridge Adventure Climb

Moderate 2-3 hours

For a thrilling experience and panoramic city views, climb the Story Bridge. This iconic bridge offers guided climbs that provide breathtaking perspec...

Book your climb in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot....

South Bank Parklands

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

South Bank Parklands is a premier cultural and recreational precinct. It's one of the best things to do in Brisbane, offering lush gardens, a swimming lagoon, walking paths, and stunning city views. You can easily spend an entire day here. I found the atmosphere surprisingly relaxing despite being so close to the city. Explore Brisbane's vibrant heart!

Insider Tip

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a picnic by the river.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Easily accessible by bus, train (South Brisbane station), or ferry (South Bank terminal).
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, but some attractions within the parklands have specific hours.
Cost: Free

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Get up close and personal with adorable koalas at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, one of the oldest and largest koala sanctuaries in the world. It's a must-see place in Brisbane for animal lovers. You can even cuddle a koala (for a fee) and hand-feed kangaroos. It's the kind of place you might linger longer than expected.

Insider Tip

Arrive early to avoid the tour bus crowds and get the best spots for animal encounters.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Take bus 430 from the city center.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Cost: Approximately $42 per adult.

Queensland Museum

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Delve into the natural and cultural history of Queensland at the Queensland Museum. It's one of the top attractions in Brisbane for those interested in science, history, and culture. The museum features interactive exhibits and fascinating displays. Perhaps you'll find a dinosaur!

Insider Tip

Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located in the Cultural Centre precinct, easily accessible by bus, train, or ferry.
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Cost: Free entry to the general museum; some special exhibitions may have a fee.

Brisbane City Botanic Gardens

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Escape the city bustle at the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens. These gardens offer a tranquil oasis with diverse plant collections, scenic river views, and peaceful walking paths. It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature. What to do in Brisbane if you want a break from the city?

Insider Tip

Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing lunch amidst the greenery.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located in the city center, easily accessible by public transport or walking.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily.
Cost: Free

Story Bridge Adventure Climb

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

For a thrilling experience and panoramic city views, climb the Story Bridge. This iconic bridge offers guided climbs that provide breathtaking perspectives of Brisbane and its surroundings. It's definitely one of the more adventurous fun things to do in Brisbane.

Insider Tip

Book your climb in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located near the city center, easily accessible by public transport.
Opening Hours: Various climb times available throughout the day and evening.
Cost: Approximately $129 per adult.

Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), part of the Queensland Art Gallery. GOMA showcases a diverse range of modern and contemporary artworks from Australia and around the world. Explore Brisbane's art scene!

Insider Tip

Visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds and have a more peaceful experience.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located in the Cultural Centre precinct, easily accessible by bus, train, or ferry.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Cost: Free entry to the general collection; some special exhibitions may have a fee.

Moreton Island Day Trip

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Escape the city for a day and visit Moreton Island, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and sand dunes. Enjoy activities like snorkeling, sandboarding, and dolphin feeding. It's one of the best things to do in Brisbane if you love the beach. Some say it's paradise!

Insider Tip

Book your ferry tickets and activities in advance, especially during peak season.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Take a ferry from Brisbane to Moreton Island.
Opening Hours: Ferry schedules vary; check the ferry operator's website.
Cost: Ferry tickets range from $80-$120 per person.

Eat Street Northshore

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Indulge in a culinary adventure at Eat Street Northshore, a vibrant food market with a wide array of international cuisines. It's one of the best things to do in Brisbane for foodies. Sample delicious street food, enjoy live music, and soak up the lively atmosphere. A feast for the senses!

Insider Tip

Arrive early to beat the crowds and secure a table.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Take a ferry or bus to Northshore Hamilton.
Opening Hours: Friday and Saturday 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Sunday 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Cost: Entry fee is $6 per person.

Howard Smith Wharves

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Howard Smith Wharves is a revitalized waterfront precinct with restaurants, bars, and event spaces. Enjoy stunning views of the Story Bridge and the Brisbane River. It's a great place to relax, dine, and soak up the city's atmosphere. One of the fun things to do in Brisbane at night.

Insider Tip

Check the event calendar for live music and special events.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located under the Story Bridge, easily accessible by public transport or walking.
Opening Hours: Varies depending on the venue.
Cost: Varies depending on the venue.

Gauge

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Gauge is a highly-rated restaurant known for its innovative and modern Australian cuisine. Located in South Brisbane, Gauge offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations. The ambiance is intimate and stylish, making it perfect for a special occasion. Signature dishes include their black garlic bread and creative tasting menus. Expect to pay around $80-$120 per person for a full meal. A great place to experience local food culture.

Insider Tip

Book well in advance, as it is a popular spot.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located in South Brisbane, easily accessible by public transport.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, lunch and dinner.
Cost: Expensive ($80-$120 per person).

Queen Street Mall

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Queen Street Mall is Brisbane's premier shopping destination, offering a wide variety of retail stores, department stores, and boutiques. It's a great place to shop, dine, and soak up the city's atmosphere. One of the must-see places in Brisbane for shopaholics.

Insider Tip

Visit during the sales for great deals.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located in the city center, easily accessible by public transport.
Opening Hours: Varies depending on the store.
Cost: Free to enter.

Southside Restaurant and Bar

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Southside Restaurant and Bar offers stunning views of the Brisbane River and city skyline. Located at South Bank, this restaurant features modern Australian cuisine with Asian influences. The ambiance is chic and relaxed, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends. Signature dishes include their seafood platters and innovative cocktails. Prices range from $50-$90 per person. A great option to explore Brisbane.

Insider Tip

Request a table with a river view when booking.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located at South Bank, easily accessible by public transport.
Opening Hours: Varies, check website for details.
Cost: Moderate to Expensive ($50-$90 per person).

Getting Around

Brisbane has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries. The TransLink network integrates these services, making it easy to travel around the city and its surrounding areas. Consider purchasing a Go Card, which allows for convenient and discounted travel on all TransLink services. You can top up your Go Card at various locations, including train stations and convenience stores. Buses are a common mode of transport, with extensive routes covering most parts of the city. Trains are ideal for traveling longer distances and connecting to suburban areas. Ferries offer a scenic way to travel along the Brisbane River, providing access to attractions like South Bank and the City Botanic Gardens. CityCycle, a bike-sharing program, is also available for short trips around the city center. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are readily available in Brisbane. However, they can be more expensive than public transport, especially during peak hours. Walking is a great way to explore the city center and enjoy its many attractions. Many areas are pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained sidewalks and pathways.

Transportation Tips:

  • Check local transport apps for real-time updates
  • Consider day passes for multiple journeys
  • Download offline maps before exploring
  • Ask locals for the best routes and shortcuts

Where to Stay

Brisbane offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. The city center is a popular choice, with hotels ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. Staying in the city center provides easy access to major attractions, shopping, and dining. South Bank is another great area to consider, offering a mix of hotels, serviced apartments, and boutique accommodations. This area is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions. Kangaroo Point, located across the river from the city center, offers stunning city views and a range of accommodation options, including hotels and apartments. For a more relaxed and suburban experience, consider staying in areas like Fortitude Valley or New Farm. These areas offer a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals, with a more laid-back atmosphere and easy access to local shops and restaurants.

Accommodation Tips:

  • Book early for better rates and availability
  • Consider location vs price when choosing areas
  • Check transport links to major attractions
  • Read recent reviews for the most current information

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Brisbane is during the shoulder seasons, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. Summer (December to February) in Brisbane can be hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms. While it's a great time to enjoy the beaches and water activities, be prepared for the heat and humidity. Winter (June to August) is generally mild and dry, with cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings. This is a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather and want to avoid the summer crowds. Consider your interests and preferences when planning your visit. If you enjoy outdoor activities and warm weather, spring and autumn are ideal. If you prefer cooler weather and want to avoid the crowds, winter may be a good choice. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you travel and pack accordingly.

Seasonal Highlights:

  • Check local events and festivals
  • Consider weather patterns for outdoor activities
  • Book accommodations early during peak seasons
  • Off-season visits often offer better value

Suggested Itinerary

Here's a suggested 3-day itinerary for exploring Brisbane: Day 1: Start your day at South Bank Parklands, exploring the gardens, swimming lagoon, and cultural attractions. In the afternoon, visit the Queensland Museum or the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA). In the evening, dine at Howard Smith Wharves and enjoy the city views. Day 2: Take a day trip to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and get up close with koalas and other Australian wildlife. In the afternoon, explore the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens. In the evening, indulge in a culinary adventure at Eat Street Northshore. Day 3: Climb the Story Bridge for panoramic city views. In the afternoon, shop at Queen Street Mall. In the evening, enjoy a fine dining experience at one of Brisbane's top restaurants, such as Gauge or Southside Restaurant and Bar.

Itinerary Tips:

  • Book major attractions and dining reservations in advance
  • Allow flexibility for spontaneous discoveries
  • Keep backup indoor activities for weather changes
  • Mix popular sights with local neighborhood exploration

When is the best time to visit Brisbane?

The best time to visit Brisbane is The best time to visit Brisbane is during the shoulder seasons, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. Summer (December to February) in Brisbane can be hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms. While it's a great time to enjoy the beaches and water activities, be prepared for the heat and humidity. Winter (June to August) is generally mild and dry, with cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings. This is a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather and want to avoid the summer crowds. Consider your interests and preferences when planning your visit. If you enjoy outdoor activities and warm weather, spring and autumn are ideal. If you prefer cooler weather and want to avoid the crowds, winter may be a good choice. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you travel and pack accordingly.. This period offers ideal weather conditions and optimal experiences for most attractions and activities.

How many days should I spend in Brisbane?

We recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Brisbane to see the main attractions. For a more comprehensive experience, 5-7 days allows you to explore hidden gems and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

What are the must-see attractions in Brisbane?

The top attractions include South Bank Parklands, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Queensland Museum. These represent the essence of Brisbane and should not be missed during your visit.

Is Brisbane suitable for budget travelers?

Yes, Brisbane offers options for budget travelers. Many attractions are free or low-cost, and there are affordable dining and accommodation options available throughout the city.

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