Brisbane

How many days: 3 to 4

Spend your first day at South Bank, the cultural precinct and the riverfront. Use the second day to explore the City Botanic Gardens, New Farm and Fortitude Valley, with a ferry journey along the river. The city's subtropical climate makes outdoor time particularly enjoyable when temperatures are comfortable.

On your third day, visit Mount Coot-tha or Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. With a fourth day, consider an excursion to Moreton Island or another nearby coastal destination. If your main aim is beaches and surfing, you may prefer to stay separately on the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast.

What to do in Brisbane

Explore South Bank Parklands

Walk through riverside gardens, public spaces and the Streets Beach swimming area. It is one of the easiest places to spend a relaxed morning or afternoon.

Visit Queensland Art Gallery and GOMA

Explore major art collections and contemporary exhibitions in the South Bank cultural precinct. Check official information for temporary exhibitions and access arrangements.

Ride a ferry along the Brisbane River

See the city from the water as the river curves between central districts and residential neighbourhoods. Public ferries can be a useful journey as well as a sightseeing experience.

Walk through the City Botanic Gardens

Enjoy shaded paths, mature trees and river views close to the central business district. It is an easy break from shopping and busy streets.

Visit Mount Coot-tha Lookout

Head west of the centre for panoramic views across Brisbane and towards the surrounding landscape. Clear conditions make the city layout easier to appreciate.

Explore New Farm Park

Spend time in a leafy riverside park popular for picnics and walking. Combine it with the nearby river paths and neighbourhood cafés.

Discover Fortitude Valley

Explore streets known for dining, music and nightlife, alongside shops and creative spaces. The atmosphere changes considerably between daytime and late evening.

Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Learn about Australian wildlife in a dedicated sanctuary outside the centre. Follow animal welfare rules and do not assume close-contact encounters are available.

Explore Moreton Island

Take a boat excursion to an island known for sandy beaches, dunes and marine environments. Conditions and activities vary, so plan transport and safety arrangements carefully.

Walk the Kangaroo Point cliffs

Follow paths around the cliffs and riverfront for views of Brisbane's skyline. The area is especially attractive in softer morning or evening light.

What to eat and drink

Have Australian brunch

Try eggs, sourdough, seasonal vegetables and good espresso coffee. Brisbane's café culture suits a slow morning before sightseeing.

Enjoy Queensland seafood

Look for prawns, fish and other locally sourced seafood. Simple grilled preparations are a good way to appreciate fresh ingredients.

Explore Asian dining

Try dishes influenced by Brisbane's diverse communities, including Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese and Thai cooking. Sharing several smaller dishes works well.

Eat by the river

Choose a casual riverside meal with views of the water and passing ferries. Outdoor dining is particularly pleasant when the heat has eased.

Try modern Australian cooking

Look for menus built around seasonal produce, seafood and regional ingredients. The style often combines Australian produce with international techniques.

Sample local craft drinks

Try a Queensland-made beer, non-alcoholic drink or locally roasted coffee. Warm evenings make relaxed outdoor venues appealing.

Getting around

Brisbane's central districts, South Bank and nearby riverfront areas are manageable on foot, although distances can be deceptive because of the river's bends. Trains, buses and ferries form the main public transport network. Ferries are particularly useful for travelling between riverfront neighbourhoods.

For Mount Coot-tha, wildlife attractions and outlying suburbs, public transport may require connections, so a taxi or app-based car can save time. A hire car is more useful for countryside and coastal excursions, but central parking and traffic can make it unnecessary for a city-focused visit.

Good to know

• Brisbane has a subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and generally milder winters. Afternoon storms can occur in warmer months.
• The Brisbane River is not a general swimming destination. Use designated swimming facilities and follow local water safety advice.
• Sun exposure can be strong even on cloudy days. Carry sunscreen, a hat and drinking water.
• Public transport payment arrangements can vary by service. Check official guidance before travelling.
• Tipping is optional and not expected for ordinary service in Australia.
• Flooding and severe weather can occasionally disrupt riverside paths, ferries and road travel. Check official warnings when conditions are unsettled.