Brisbane, the vibrant capital of Queensland, offers an array of attractions and activities perfect for visitors and locals alike. From scenic lookouts to historical landmarks, this city caters to a variety of interests. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do and must-visit attractions in Australia’s third biggest city.
Start your exploration at Mt Coot-tha Lookout, where panoramic views of the city skyline and surrounding areas provide the perfect backdrop for memorable photos. Here, you can bring a picnic and admire the view, or enjoy a meal at the Summit Cafe. For the adventurous travellers, it’s easy to make an entire day out of visiting Mt Coot-tha. It is home to several walking trails and mountain bike trails too.
Adjacent to the lookout, you’ll find Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium and the Botanic Gardens, Mt Coot-tha. The Brisbane Botanic Gardens in Mt Coot-tha offer a serene, sub-tropical escape. The gardens boast signed walking trails, themed gardens, and a tropical dome. It includes an exotic rainforest and a Japanese garden, which is home to one of Australia’s largest Bonsai houses.
Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens are located 7 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD. At Brisbane City Hall, you can catch a bus directly to the gardens, which takes around 20 minutes to get there. If you’r driving a car, there is parking available at the gardens and additionally, at the summit.
South Bank Parklands in Brisbane is a vibrant cultural and recreational hub, perfectly situated across the river from the Brisbane city. Whether you prefer an evening stroll, a morning jog, or a scenic bike ride, the Brisbane riverfront offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. For those looking to explore further, the City-Cat and ferry services provide an excellent way to travel up and down the Brisbane River.
On warm summer days, South Bank comes alive with families enjoying barbecues and picnics around Streets Beach—a stunning, man-made beach complete with shaded areas, and playgrounds. Open year-round and free to use, Streets Beach is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.
South Bank is also a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of restaurants and bars. Every weekend, the area buzzes with live music and twilight markets, creating a lively atmosphere for visitors.
Renowned as Brisbane’s cultural hub, South Bank is home to the Queensland Performing Arts Complex (QPAC), where you can catch an array of shows. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), while those interested in history and science can visit the Queensland Museum and the interactive Sparklab Science Centre. To top off your visit, take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane for panoramic views of the city. You can access South bank via bus, train, ferry or car.
Howard Smith Wharves (HSW) is one of Brisbane’s most vibrant destinations, blending historic charm with modern flair. Nestled beneath the iconic Story Bridge, this riverside precinct offers an exciting mix of dining, entertainment, and stunning views of the city and river. From alfresco meals at trendy restaurants to sipping ice cold craft beers at Felons Brewery, HSW offers a relaxed, social atmosphere with live music and a picturesque atomosphere. Whether you’re indulging in fine dining or exploring casual eateries, this dynamic space has something to suit every taste.
Originally built in the 1930s as a working wharf, HSW’s transformation preserves its heritage-listed buildings while incorporating innovative design. Visitors can explore scenic riverwalks, and lawns that are perfect for picnics. For those seeking an extended stay, the luxurious Crystalbrook Vincent hotel offers eco-conscious accommodations with a rooftop pool and bar, providing prime access to all the precinct has to offer. Located near the nightlife of Fortitude Valley and just a stroll from Eagle Street Pier, Howard Smith Wharves combines history, culture, and leisure in one extraordinary riverside experience. HSW is accessible via ferry, bus, train, and car.
New Farm is a must-visit suburb in Brisbane, blending a rich history with vibrant attractions that promise a great day out. This riverside suburb has transformed into one of Brisbane’s most sought-after places to live. Its centerpiece, New Farm Park, is a haven for relaxation and leisure. Stroll through its stunning rose gardens, which showcase hundreds of blooms, or find a shady spot under the century-old fig trees for a picnic by the river. On weekends, the park buzzes with life as the Jan Powers Farmers Markets offer fresh produce, artisan goods, and delicious street food, making it a favourite for locals and visitors alike.
Within the precinct is the Brisbane Powerhouse, a cultural landmark steeped in history. Originally a power station, this heritage-listed site was abandoned for decades before being transformed into an arts and cultural hub. Today, it hosts an eclectic mix of live performances, from comedy and theatre to music and dance, as well as contemporary art exhibitions and riverside dining options.
Whether you’re cycling along the riverwalk, enjoying the lively atmosphere at the markets, or soaking in the cultural energy of the Powerhouse, New Farm offers a blend of relaxation and excitement. Its blend of historic charm, scenic beauty, and modern attractions make it a highlight of any visit to Brisbane. New Farm Park is located close to the city, and is accessible via bus, CityCat/ ferry or car.
Brisbane’s markets are a vibrant reflection of the city’s creativity, community spirit, and love for fresh produce. From the aroma of freshly brewed coffee to the sight of colourful artisan goods, these markets offer a delightful experience for locals and visitors alike.
The Jan Powers Farmers Markets are a must-visit, held at iconic locations like the Brisbane Powerhouse, Manly, and Mitchelton. These markets are renowned for their fresh produce, baked goods, handmade goods and food trucks.
For those seeking a larger market experience, the Saturday Fresh Markets in Rocklea feature an impressive array of fresh fruits, vegetables, specialty foods, and plants. It’s a hub for food lovers, gardeners, and aspiring home cooks. When you hear locals talking about it, they’ll refer to it as the Rocklea Markets.
Over at South Bank, the Collective Markets bring together talented makers and creators, offering everything from fashion and jewellery to homewares and street food. The Collective Markets run every weekend, all weekend (Friday 5pm-9pm, Saturday 10am-9pm & Sunday 9am-4pm).
Last but not least, the West End Markets have a bohemian vibe, showcasing organic produce, live music, and an eclectic mix of stalls that celebrate Brisbane’s diverse culture. Also known as Davies Park Markets, the West End markets are open every Saturday morning. Shaded by fig trees, It’s a great market to attend all year round, where you can bring your picnic blanket and enjoy a coffee and breakfast from one of the food trucks on site, before you explore the array of market stalls.
All of these markets not only provide an excellent opportunity to support local businesses but also serve as vibrant social hubs. Whether you’re strolling through stalls, enjoying a leisurely breakfast, or finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs, Brisbane’s markets promise an experience that you’ll enjoy.
Brisbane’s dining scene is diverse, offering something for every palate. Outdoor dining along the Brisbane River is particularly popular, especially on warm summer evenings when the city skyline sparkles against the water. Iconic precincts like Eagle Street Pier are renowned for dining options such as Madame Wu, and Patina at Customs House. Here, you can indulge in a meal with breathtaking river views. At Howard Smith Wharves, you’ll find casual dining options such as Felons Brewery, or more upmarket dining options including Stanley, and Greca to name a few.
Food lovers flock to South Bank, enjoying options including family-friendly eateries to upscale dining like Aquitaine Brasserie, which serves French-inspired dishes with a view of the river. The newly developed Queen’s Wharf is also set to become a culinary hotspot, promising a mix of cuisines including the much loved Black Hide Steak + Seafood. For a trendy, upscale vibe, James Street in Fortitude Valley delivers with some of the best restaurants that Brisbane has to offer, including SameSame, and Gerard’s Bistro.
Meanwhile, West End and Woolloongabba are ideal for those craving a more eclectic and bohemian dining experience. Stroll through West End, and you’ll find everything from hole-in-the-wall spots, and an extensive cafe scene. The Gunshop Café is a favourite, renowned for its locally sourced produce. West End is also home to some of Brisbane’s best vegan and vegetarian options, such as Plant Vibes Café. Just around the corner, the historic suburb of Woolloongabba is a hub for those seeking unique food experiences, including the standout Italian restaurant – 1889 Enoteca.
Brisbane’s food precincts showcase an unparalleled variety of cuisines. Whether you’re enjoying seafood at FOSH or savouring Japanese specialties at Sono Japanese Restaurant at Portside Wharf, the city’s dining options are a celebration of its multicultural roots.
Brisbane’s nightlife offers something for every taste, from buzzing clubs to laid-back rooftop bars and unique late-night activities. In Fortitude Valley, iconic venues like Ric’s Bar and The Wickham draw crowds with live music, DJ sets, and a lively atmosphere. Rooftop bars are a highlight of Brisbane’s after-dark scene, offering spectacular views and chic vibes. Fiume Rooftop Bar in Howard Smith Wharves is popular, where you can sip cocktails overlooking the Story Bridge. For a more traditional experience, discover some of Brisbane’s oldest standing pubs, including the Boundary and the Regatta Hotel.
Meanwhile, for those looking to mix socialising with activities, Brisbane delivers with an array of fun options. You’ll find retro arcades throughout Brisbane with bowling, darts, mini-golf, and a full-service bar. Pool enthusiasts will enjoy the laid-back vibe at Fat Louie’s in Brisbane City, a favorite for its relaxed setting and karaoke nights. Brisbane’s live music scene is also thriving, with venues like The Triffid in Newstead, hosting performances by local and international artists. Whatever your style, Brisbane’s nightlife ensures a memorable night for everyone.
Queen’s Wharf Brisbane in the city’s CBD, is a world-class destination for tourism, leisure, and entertainment. This development, spans over 12 hectares and integrates stunning contemporary design with Brisbane’s subtropical charm. With breathtaking riverside views and an array of attractions, including The Star Brisbane, visitors can indulge in luxury hotels, diverse dining experiences, entertainment venues, and an Event Centre.
The precinct pays homage to its rich Indigenous and European heritage through interpretive trails and restored landmarks. Blending repurposed heritage buildings with modern architecture, Queen’s Wharf invites locals and tourists to explore Brisbane’s cultural legacy in innovative ways. From historic structures transformed into boutique hotels and restaurants to cultural hubs offering immersive experiences, this development is set to bring new life into the city.
Queen’s Wharf is more than a destination, connecting Brisbane’s past with its vibrant present. Whether enjoying high-end dining, shopping, or riverside entertainment, visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s story while creating their own unforgettable memories.
For a unique dining experience, head to Eat Street Northshore. This bustling food truck style open-air market is housed in repurposed shipping containers. It features a wide variety of international cuisines, live music, bars and unique stalls. It is located in the upmarket suburb of Hamilton, and is situated along the Brisbane River. Opened every weekend, it’s a must-visit spot for foodies, families, and friends.
The Northshore Hamilton Ferry Terminal is a 250m walk, or alternatively you can get there via car. If you’re visiting Brisbane, add this destination to your itinerary. It is a true icon of Brisbane’s thriving food and entertainment scene.
For international visitors coming to sunny Queensland, experiencing Australian wildlife up close is a must—and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary offers an unforgettable opportunity to do just that. As the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary, Lone Pine is renowned for its ability to connect people with Australia’s animals. While holding koalas is no longer permitted, visitors can still get close to koalas in their natural habitat and capture memorable photographs. One of the sanctuary’s highlights is hand-feeding kangaroos, providing a hands-on encounter with these iconic animals.
Beyond koalas and kangaroos, Lone Pine is home to a wide variety of Australian wildlife, making it a comprehensive introduction to the country’s unique animals. Visitors can observe wallabies, wombats, echidnas, native birds, and even reptiles. The sanctuary is thoughtfully designed to create a natural environment for its animals, while allowing visitors to enjoy interactions.
Located in the picturesque suburb of Fig Tree Pocket, Lone Pine is easily accessible by car or public transport. For travellers eager to immerse themselves in Australia’s natural wonders, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a worthwhile destination.
At the heart of Brisbane lies the bustling Queen Street Mall and the iconic City Hall. It offers a perfect mix of modern attractions and historical charm. For a glimpse into the city’s rich heritage, visit the Museum of Brisbane within the historic City Hall. The museum brings Brisbane’s past to life through exhibits, displays, and guided tours.
The Queen Street Mall is a vibrant shopping precinct. It boasts a mix of popular retail outlets, luxury designer stores, charming boutiques, and unique arcades. Beyond shopping, the mall regularly hosts street performances, live music, and seasonal events, creating an energetic atmosphere that draws both locals and visitors.
The Queen Street Mall and its surrounds has many places to dine. Iconic spots like Jimmy’s on the Mall offer alfresco dining under the stars. The precinct also offers a wide variety of cafes, casual eateries, and fine-dining options to suit every taste.
Accommodation options are plentiful. Additionally, public transport options are at your doorstep, making it easy to explore all that Brisbane has to offer.
Brisbane is a city that truly has it all. From breathtaking lookouts and vibrant cultural hubs to world-class dining and unique wildlife encounters. Whether you’re exploring its scenic outdoors, indulging in its diverse food scene, or soaking up its rich history, Brisbane offers unforgettable experiences for every visitor. With so much on offer, the capital of Queensland is sure to bring cherished memories.
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