Brisbane: Where the River Dances and the Sun Never Leaves
Why Visit Brisbane?
Brisbane is one of those cities that surprises you. It doesn’t try too hard—but it doesn’t have to. With its winding river, sunny weather, friendly locals, and easy pace, Brisbane offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a full week, there’s plenty to explore—from food to nature to fun.
Top 10 Things to Do in Brisbane
1. Cruise the Brisbane River on a CityCat Ferry
Hop on a CityCat and explore the city from the water. You’ll pass by famous sights like South Bank, Story Bridge, and Kangaroo Point. It’s affordable, relaxing, and gives you a whole new view of the city.
2. Walk Along South Bank Parklands
South Bank is Brisbane’s heart. With its riverside walkways, public beach, gardens, and open-air events, it’s the perfect place to chill, picnic, or people-watch. Don’t miss the Wheel of Brisbane or the Nepalese Pagoda.
3. Climb the Story Bridge for Epic City Views
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, book a guided climb on Story Bridge. The views at the top—especially at sunrise or sunset—are absolutely worth the effort.
4. Visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Want to hold a koala? You can here! Lone Pine is the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary. You’ll also see kangaroos, wombats, and native birds. A great spot for families or animal lovers.
5. Catch Sunset at Mount Coot-tha Lookout
This is the best place to see Brisbane from above. Take a short drive or hike up to Mount Coot-tha for sweeping views of the city, especially at dusk. There’s also a café and botanical garden nearby.
6. Explore Brisbane’s Best Food Spots
Brisbane’s food scene is fresh, multicultural, and full of flavor. Try these:
- Howard Smith Wharves: Riverside dining and craft beer
- Eat Street Northshore: A lively night market with street food from around the world
- West End: Trendy, artsy, and packed with great local cafes and restaurants
7. Wander the Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)
Located right next to South Bank, these twin galleries are modern, inspiring, and air-conditioned (bonus!). You’ll find everything from Aboriginal art to cutting-edge exhibits from around the world.
8. Take a Walk or Bike Ride Along the Riverwalk
The Brisbane Riverwalk is a scenic floating path that runs between the city and the suburb of New Farm. It’s great for morning jogs, sunset strolls, or just watching boats glide by.
9. Hop on a Scooter and Explore Like a Local
Electric scooters are everywhere in Brisbane—and they’re fun! Use them to get from South Bank to the Botanic Gardens, or just cruise around at your own pace. Just remember your helmet.
10. Day Trip to Moreton Island or North Stradbroke Island
If you have an extra day, take a ferry to one of these island escapes just off the Brisbane coast. Swim in crystal-clear water, snorkel with turtles, or sandboard down giant dunes.
How to Get Around Brisbane
Brisbane is easy to explore. Here’s how:
- CityCat Ferry: Great views and smooth travel along the river
- Trains and Buses: Cover most areas in and around the city
- E-Scooters: Quick and fun for short distances
- Walking: Many of the top attractions are walkable if you’re staying in the city center
Local Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Best time to visit: March to May or September to November for pleasant weather
- Where to stay: South Bank, Fortitude Valley, or the CBD
- Coffee culture: It’s strong! Try local favorites like Coffee Anthology or John Mills Himself
- People: Friendly, relaxed, and always ready for a chat
Brisbane doesn’t shout for attention—it quietly wins you over. It’s not just about the things you see, but how you feel while you’re here. Laid-back, sunny, and full of life, it’s the kind of place that lets you slow down and enjoy the moment.
