Discover Brisbane

There’s more to Brisbane than sunbathing at Southbank. Say hello to riverside adventures, rooftop drinks, artistic inspiration and plenty of nightlife to boot. The city’s only a stone’s throw from stunning beaches and untouched islands, so it’s easy to get your nature fix too.

Riverside Dining, Brisbane Source: Tourism Events Queensland

Blessed with seemingly endless summers, Brisbane is the kind of city that sports a holiday vibe year-round. It’s that laidback lifestyle the locals and tourists love, but don’t be fooled into thinking Brisbane is just about sunbathing at South Bank.

The city is blossoming whichever way you look, with a full calendar of world-class cultural and sporting events and an ever-expanding dining scene. Want contemporary art and cocktails? You got it. A barbecue with Storey Bridge views? Done. The city is home to vibrant urban hubs, each exciting and distinct in its own way.

But Brisbane is more than a cosmopolitan capital city. Located less than an hour away from stunning stretches of ocean and amazingly untouched islands, it’s a destination that lends itself to outdoorsy day trips and easy weekend getaways.

So whether you’re sticking to the city, or want to explore its surrounds, here are some of the top ways to discover Brisbane.

Say hello to sunny adventures

From sunset picnics on Kangaroo Point Cliffs to a breezy trip down the river, Brisbane is the kind of place where a sunscreen is always a good idea.

For a real-life action hero experience... and one with tremendous views, climb the iconic Story Bridge and abseil down the side.

Make like a local... and jump on a CityCat. Speeding along the Brisbane River, the ferries are a fantastic way to acquaint yourself Brisbane’s inner city spots, including Southbank and New Farm park, and get around with ease. If you like to keep a little more active, hire a bike and ride alongside the water instead.

Shop outdoors... at one of Brisbane’s bustling markets for art, clothing and gifts for the home, or join the throng of CBD workers at Jan Powers Farmers Markets on a Wednesday at Reddacliff Place for fresh produce, bagels and baked goods, and unbeatable lunches. If you prefer a leisurely weekend shop, check out the Powerhouse farmers markets in New Farm on a Saturday. 

Dine alfresco... along Eagle Street Pier or one of the many urban precincts. 

Dip your toes... in Australia’s only inner city beach, Southbank. The ultimate free playground for kids and adults alike, this area also features parks, restaurants, markets and The Wheel of Brisbane

Give your quads a workout... by running the 107 steps at the Kangaroo Point Cliffs. Another idea: settle in for a sunset barbecue instead.

Join the culture club

From internationally renowned exhibitions and hot Broadway offerings, to low-key indie gigs, you’ll find arts, music and entertainment for all flavours in Brisbane.

Enjoy a night at the opera... ballet or theatre at the city’s cultural precinct, Southbank. A beacon of nightlife, the centre even boasts big-ticket Broadway shows, so take a look-see at the line-up here.

Get inspired... at the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA), Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) or the Queensland Museum. Check out the calendar of current and upcoming exhibitions here and visit the QAGOMA Store for a great range of books, art merchandise and desiger gifts.

Discover independent dance... theatre and comedy in Fortitude Valley’s eclectic performance spaces.

Celebrate your style... with a visit to one of the city’s boutique-filled boroughs. Whether you’re into on-trend pieces or avant-garde designs, your wardrobe will be pleased!

Sitting on nature's door step

If you need a break from the cosmopolitan lifestyle, there are plenty of getaway destinations only a stone's throw from the CBD. 

Discover the life aquatic... with a bout of swimming, surfing and snorkelling on Moreton Island. Just a ferry ride away from Brisbane, the island is perfect for weekend escapes and family-friendly holidays. Head on a four-wheel drive adventure, relax over barbecues and bushwalks, or try a bout of sand tobogganing. You can even hand-feed wild dolphins at sunset. For more island ideas, head here.

Explore freshwater lakes... at North Stradbroke Island, or “Straddie” as it’s affectionately known to locals. Stay at a resort or pitch your own tent and explore the island’s stunning scenery, chill out at the markets and cafes, or do a spot of whale watching from Point Lookout.

Take for a Sunday drive... to the aptly named Scenic Rim. This World Heritage-listed region is home to rainforests, vineyards, charming villages and, of course, good old-fashioned Queensland pubs. So pack a picnic lunch, pick up vino from a local cellar door and take in the magical mountainous views. Find foodie adventures and a list of luxury escapes here.

 

Start exploring Brisbane with these holiday ideas.