Top 10 Best Things to do in Brisbane
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Are you planning to take a trip in the coming vacations? Are you confused about which destination to choose? Don’t worry, we have you covered! If you are looking for a place that is full of adventures, mesmerizing sights and affordable at the same time, then it’s time to visit Brisbane.
Brisbane in Australia is the perfect balance of adventure and peace, and a city which is open for all. Whether you are traveling with your friends, family or even solo, there is so much to explore in Brisbane. This blog is your perfect Brisbane travel guide, as we will cover the best things to see in Brisbane, the most famous Brisbane activities to do, why you should visit Brisbane, how to get around Brisbane and What is the best time to visit to Brisbane.
Why Visit Brisbane?
Below are five compelling reasons people often choose to visit Brisbane. Each reason showcases a different aspect of the city’s charm and appeal:
- Vibrant Outdoor Lifestyle: With year-round sunny weather and plenty of green spaces, Brisbane caters to nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. From riverfront promenades to lush parklands, there’s no shortage of spots for picnics, cycling, or morning jogs.
- Thriving Cultural Scene: Brisbane boasts a lively calendar of festivals and events, including the famous Riverfire and Ekka. The city’s eclectic music venues, galleries, and independent theaters also provide countless opportunities to immerse yourself in local arts and culture.
- Easy Accessibility & Travel Convenience: Compact and well-connected, Brisbane’s TransLink system (ferries, buses, and trains) makes getting around simple. Whether you’re hopping on the CityCat for a scenic river ride or taking the Airtrain from the airport, public transport is efficient and user-friendly.
- Diverse Food & Drink Options: From innovative craft breweries to stylish rooftop bars and global street-food markets like Eat Street Northshore, Brisbane’s culinary scene is both diverse and delicious. Vegans, vegetarians, and meat-lovers alike will find a multitude of dining choices to suit any palate.
- Gateway to Iconic Destinations: Brisbane’s central location in Queensland makes it a perfect base for day trips or weekend getaways. The Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast beaches, and islands like Moreton and Stradbroke are all easily accessible, offering opportunities for surfing, snorkeling, and wildlife encounters.
Things To Do In Brisbane
Watch Sunrise from Mt Coot-tha
If you are someone who loves watching the beautiful colors of sunrise, then this is the perfect spot for you. Accessible by both car and walking, this spot is just 15 minutes away from CBD. This is one of the best Brisbane Attractions, and the largest open area in Brisbane, spread across 1,600 hectares. Surrounded by lush rainforest gullies, waterfalls and creeks, Mt Coot-tha is the best place for all sunrise lovers.
Satisfy your cravings at Eat Street
Imagine 180 shipping containers, fairy lights and a place full of food from all over the world. Now, what if you could find all of these at one place? That’s right! One of the best places to go in Brisbane is the Eat Street Northshore. Open every Friday-Sunday, this Eat Street festival is a yearlong thing. And this is not it. Live music is also on the menu! So, end the wait here, and prepare yourself for the biggest feast!
Climb an icon
Brisbane’s Story Bridge built in 1940 is your perfect place to face fears. This remains one of the most fun attractions Brisbane, as this is not for the lighthearted. Upon climbing this bridge, you will be 80 meters above sea level! If you are thinking of why you should climb this bridge, then the answer is the extraordinary view of the Glass House Mountains. The aesthetic and breathtaking view of the Brisbane skyline is also one of the reasons to climb the icon.
Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctury
One of the most famous Brisbane tourist attractions is the one where people get to not just see, but also hold Koalas! Lone Pine has so much more than just Koalas, but these grey furry adorable creatures take all our attention every time! However, if you are looking for some spine-tingling adventure, then you can always get a picture clicked with a snake or a raptor. Or try coming face to face with the scary saltwater crocodiles! Moreover, you can also hand-feed wallabies or kangaroos, and watch shows and presentations.
Relax at Streets Beach
Just because there are no real beaches in Brisbane, doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the beach experience. Built especially to give residents and tourists a beach-like experience, this inner-city swimming beach is a great experience for you. You may find it stupid at first, but trust us, once you reach the Street beach, you will be mesmerized with the view, water and fun! And don’t worry, it is absolutely safe for kids as well, since there are lifeguards around.
Explore city on water
Looking for some interesting things to do in Brisbane? The scenic beauty of Brisbane River is not just for you to see. You can also paddle through the waterways and watch the city from a new perspective. Sights like Myora shipwreck, Story Bridge and Mangroves are also easily seen during the tour. Kayaking is one of the best activities in Brisbane, whether you’re solo, with friends or family!
Have a picnic in parklands:
If you are looking for a peaceful and perfect getaway with your friends or your partner, then what’s better than a picnic? The inner city of Brisbane is filled with many parklands, such as Roma Street Parklands, New Farm Park and City Botanic Gardens. Thanks to the subtropical weather of the city, there is never a wrong time to go for a picnic. You can pack your own choice of food and drinks or look for the local companies that provide picnic baskets and experiences.
Groove to Live Music at The Valley
If you want to have a perfect night away from all the stress, then The Valley may be the right spot for you. A lively place with live music and bands like Regurgitator, The Grates and Powderfinger, you are bound to have a night like no other. There are so many venues that you can never get bored of the place. From The Tivoli, Fortitude Music Hall, Black Bear Lodge, The Triffid to Greaser, this place is full of local and international stars.
Give local tipple a try
If you are a fan of Beer, then you cannot miss this place! Gather you friend around, and head straight to any of the best craft beer breweries or distilleries. Newstead Brewing Co, Green Beacon Brewing, Ballistic Beer Co, Catchment Brewing Co, and so many more are the local businesses that provide happiness in a mug. Try out their cool range of traditional style beers, various flavors and experimental brews.
Enjoy the view from The Terrace
Visiting Brisbane with your lover is one of the best things you can do. While there are numerous romantic things to do in Brisbane, enjoying the city view from The Terrace Rooftop bar remains to be the best one. Day or night, you can find stunning views and leisure every time. There are various breakfast options and cocktails are served late at night, so that you can enjoy yourself with your loved one and have the best time with them.
How to Get Around Brisbane?
Brisbane’s well-organized transportation system and compact city center make it easy to explore the city’s many attractions:
- If you’re using the TransLink system (ferries, buses, trains), you can reach popular spots such as South Bank, Mt Coot-tha, and Fortitude Valley with ease—just grab a go card for cheaper fares and quick tap-on/tap-off access.
- For scenic views of the river, try the CityCat ferries or the free CityHopper for shorter trips.
- If you love fresh air, consider renting a bike or electric scooter (like Neuron or Lime) to hop between neighborhoods like West End and Paddington—just remember to wear a helmet and follow bike-lane rules.
- The central business district is also highly walkable, and you can take advantage of the Riverwalk trails near Howard Smith Wharves for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
- For airport transfers, the Airtrain connects Brisbane Airport to the city center in about 20 minutes, and you can even use your go card on this route.
What is the Best Time to Visit Brisbane?
If you want mild temperatures and fewer crowds, Spring (September–November) is an ideal season. Days usually range between 20–25°C, making it perfect for outdoor adventures like kayaking on the Brisbane River or exploring local farmers’ markets. During these months, you can also catch various spring festivals and events. Thanks to Brisbane’s subtropical climate, it’s generally pleasant throughout the year; however, summers (December–February) can be hot and humid, often surpassing 30°C—so pack extra sunscreen if you’re visiting then. Meanwhile, winters (June–August) are mild, with daytime temps around 15–22°C, allowing you to still enjoy most Brisbane activities without much hassle.
