Brisbane Australia

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is a vibrant and sunny city that offers a unique blend of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and entertainment options. Located in the southeastern corner of Queensland, Brisbane is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Brisbane.

Places to Go

1. South Bank Parklands

  • Address: Grey St, South Brisbane QLD 4101
  • A vibrant entertainment precinct with a man-made beach, walking trails, and plenty of dining options.

2. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

  • Address: 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket QLD 4069
  • Get up close and personal with koalas, kangaroos, and other Australian wildlife.

3. Brisbane Riverwalk

  • A scenic walking and cycling path that runs along the Brisbane River, offering stunning city views.

4. Queensland Museum and Sciencentre

  • Address: Corner of Grey and Melbourne Streets, South Brisbane QLD 4101
  • Explore Queensland’s history, science, and technology through interactive exhibitions.
  • Address: Stanley Pl, South Brisbane QLD 4101
  • Discover an extensive collection of contemporary Australian art.

6. Mount Coot-tha Lookout

  • Address: Mt Coot-tha Rd, Mt Coot-tha QLD 4072
  • Take in breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains from the highest peak in Brisbane.

7. Newstead House

  • Address: 37 Crescent Rd, Newstead QLD 4006
  • Step back in time and explore this historic house museum, showcasing Queensland’s colonial past.

8. Kangaroo Point Cliffs

  • Address: Kangaroo Point, Brisbane QLD 4169
  • Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline while abseiling or rock climbing.

9. Wynnum Esplanade

  • A scenic coastal strip with a playground, picnic areas, and a picturesque beach.

10. Eat Street Markets

  • Address: 221D MacArthur Ave, Hamilton QLD 4007
  • Every Friday and Saturday night, indulge in street food, live music, and shopping stalls.

Activities

1. Brisbane River Cruises

  • Take a scenic cruise along the Brisbane River and learn about the city’s history and landmarks.

2. Bike Tours

  • Explore Brisbane on two wheels with guided bike tours that cover the city’s main attractions.

3. Surfing or Bodyboarding Lessons

  • Learn to ride the waves at one of Brisbane’s popular surf schools.

4. Hot Air Balloon Rides

  • Experience the thrill of flying high above Brisbane and taking in breathtaking views from above.

5. Whale Watching Tours (seasonal)

  • Witness the majesty of humpback whales migrating through Brisbane’s waters during winter months.

Where to Eat

1. Beccofino Restaurant & Bar

  • Address: 105 McLachlan St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
  • Savor modern Italian cuisine in a stylish setting.

2. The Fish Factory

  • Address: 139 Melbourne St, South Brisbane QLD 4101
  • Fresh seafood and stunning river views make this restaurant a must-visit.

3. Blackbird Bar & Grill

  • Address: 123 Eagle St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
  • Enjoy premium steak and seafood dishes in a sophisticated atmosphere.

4. Gauge

  • Address: 84 Longland St, Newstead QLD 4006
  • Treat your taste buds to innovative, farm-to-table cuisine.

5. Julius Pizzeria

  • Address: 601 Ann St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
  • Indulge in authentic Neapolitan-style pizza and craft beer.

Where to Stay

1. The Calile Hotel

  • Address: 662 Ipswich Rd, Woolloongabba QLD 4102
  • Luxuriate in boutique accommodation with a rooftop pool and trendy bar.

2. Spicers Balfour Hotel

  • Address: 37 Balfour St, New Farm QLD 4005
  • Experience luxurious comfort in this stylish hotel, featuring a rooftop bar and pool.

3. The Brisbane Hotel

  • Address: 134 Ipswich Rd, Woolloongabba QLD 4102
  • Enjoy modern rooms and amenities, including a rooftop pool and restaurant.

4. Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane

  • Address: 171 George St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
  • Relax in spacious apartments with kitchen facilities, perfect for families or long-term stays.

Things to Know

1. Weather

Brisbane has a subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Pack accordingly.

2. Safety

As with any city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas.

3. Cultural Events

Brisbane hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as the Brisbane Festival, Riverfire, and the Queensland Music Festival.

4. Sun Protection

Don’t forget to slip, slop, slap, seek, and slide to protect yourself from the Australian sun.

Transportation

1. Airtrain

  • A convenient and affordable way to travel between Brisbane Airport and the city center.

2. CityCat Ferries

  • Hop on a ferry to explore the city’s riverside attractions and neighborhoods.

3. Bus Services

  • An extensive network of buses connects Brisbane’s suburbs and surrounding areas.

4. Taxis and Ride-Sharing

  • Easy to hail or book, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber operate throughout the city.

5. Car Rental and Parking

  • Rent a car for day trips or longer excursions, but be aware of parking fees and restrictions in the city center.

Tips

1. Buy an OPAL Card

  • A convenient way to pay for public transportation, including buses, ferries, and trains.

2. Take Advantage of Free Wi-Fi

  • Many cafes, restaurants, and attractions offer free Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay connected on the go.

3. Explore Beyond the City Center

  • Venture into surrounding neighborhoods and suburbs to discover hidden gems and local favorites.

4. Be Prepared for Crowds

  • Popular attractions can get busy, especially during peak season or school holidays.

5. Respect Indigenous Culture

  • Brisbane is home to a rich Indigenous history; be respectful of cultural sites, traditions, and people.

Other Things of Interest

1. Day Trips

  • Explore the surrounding regions, such as the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Tamborine Mountain.

2. Markets

  • Visit the Brisbane Markets or the Jan Powers Farmers Markets for fresh produce, artisan goods, and street food.

3. Outdoor Activities

  • Enjoy hiking, rock climbing, or simply taking in the views at nearby national parks and reserves.

4. Sports Events

  • Catch a cricket match at the Gabba or a rugby league game at Suncorp Stadium.

5. Learn About Brisbane’s History

  • Visit the Museum of Brisbane or take a guided tour to uncover the city’s rich history and heritage.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Brisbane, Australia!