Things to Do in Brisbane in 2025 - Top Attractions, Local Food, Hotels & Travel Tips (Updated May 2025) | Trip.com

About Brisbane

Recommended trip: 2–5 day(s)

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Brisbane Local Travel Guide 2025

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Brisbane Brief Guide

Brisbane is the capital city of Queensland. First impressions of Brisbane include reveling in ample sunshine, lush parks, and friendly locals. Maiwar (or the Brisbane River) passes through the city. This modern metropolis is intertwined with the subtropical natural landscape. This is also the gateway to many of Queensland's attractions and a travel hub. This area has a great number of koala bears. Because of the adorable marsupials, the city is also called 'The Koala Kingdom'. Brisbane has an enchanting natural landscape but that doesn't mean the cultural landscape is lacking. You can also experience Brisbane’s strong cultural and artistic atmosphere by checking out the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art and the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, as well as its interactive exhibitions.

Brisbane Must-try Local Experiences

1. Discover Brisbane's Iconic Story Bridge Climb the iconic Story Bridge for breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Brisbane River. Choose between a daytime climb for panoramic vistas or a twilight ascent for magical sunset hues. 2. Explore the Cultural Precinct at South Bank Immerse yourself in art and culture at South Bank's Cultural Precinct. Visit QAGOMA for world-class exhibitions or catch a live performance at QPAC. 3. Encounter Wildlife at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Get up close with Australia's wildlife at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Cuddle a koala, feed kangaroos, and learn about native animals. 4. Cruise along the Brisbane River Embark on a scenic river cruise to admire Brisbane's landmarks like the Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs, enjoying informative commentary and picturesque views. 5. Explore South Bank Parklands South Bank Parklands features lush gardens, a man-made beach, and various dining options. It's perfect for a stroll, a swim, or a meal with a river view. 6. Explore the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Located at the base of Mount Coot-tha, the Brisbane Botanic Gardens offer themed gardens, walking trails, and a planetarium for a peaceful retreat. 7. Visit the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art QAGOMA showcases contemporary and historical art with regular exhibitions, workshops, and events highlighting local and international artists. 8. Indulge in Queensland's Craft Beer Brisbane's craft beer scene is thriving. Visit local breweries like Newstead Brewing Co. and Green Beacon Brewing to sample unique and flavorful beers. 9. Shop at Queen Street Mall Queen Street Mall is Brisbane's premier shopping destination with high-end boutiques, department stores, and local shops, perfect for unique souvenirs and gifts. 10. Capture the Cityscape from Kangaroo Point Cliffs The Kangaroo Point Cliffs offer stunning views of the Brisbane skyline, especially at sunset. It's a popular spot for photography, picnics, and rock climbing.

Brisbane Must-see Attractions

Brisbane is a dynamic Australian city known for its lush South Bank Parklands, the historic Story Bridge, the grand Brisbane City Hall, the panoramic Wheel of Brisbane, and the scenic Kangaroo Point, offering a rich blend of cultural, historical, and recreational experiences.

Brisbane Food Guide

Brisbane's food scene is complemented by locally sourced Australian wines, particularly from the nearby Granite Belt region, celebrated for its unique terroir and cool-climate varieties like Shiraz and Chardonnay, which are enjoyed for their fresh and pure characteristics.

Brisbane Transportation

Brisbane's transportation infrastructure is well-developed, with Brisbane Airport and Central railway station being key hubs for intercity and international travel. Brisbane Airport (BNE) is a significant international gateway, serving as the primary airport for the city and the state of Queensland, it facilitates flights to numerous domestic and international destinations. To reach the city from Brisbane Airport, travelers can utilize the Airtrain service or opt for taxis. Central railway station is a historic and principal station in Brisbane's CBD, offering access to various suburban and interurban lines. It has undergone several renovations to maintain its role as a major transportation hub. From Central station, travelers can connect to different parts of the city and the wider region, with frequent services to destinations such as the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.

Brisbane Where to Stay

Brisbane is a vibrant city that offers a diverse range of accommodation options across its various neighborhoods. The city's lodging is spread across key areas, each with unique characteristics and conveniences for travelers. From the bustling Central Business District to the convenience of Brisbane Airport, visitors can find the perfect stay to suit their travel needs.

Brisbane Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Brisbane is from March to May (fall) and September to November (spring), when the weather is warm with a breeze, ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the city's events like the Brisbane Festival. Another great period is during the winter months of June to August, offering clear days, cool nights, and the opportunity to attend cultural events such as the Ekka and the Quandamooka Festival. For those looking to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, the high season from May to September is recommended, with reliable sunshine and little rain.

Brisbane Travel Tips

1. Advance Reservations for Queensland Art Gallery: Certain exhibitions at the Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) require advance reservations. Group visits, especially those with 10 or more people, need to be booked in advance. Check the gallery’s website for details and book your spot early. 2. Be Cautious of Rip Currents: Brisbane's nearby beaches can have strong rip currents. Swim only in patrolled areas and follow lifeguard instructions. Look for signs of rip currents such as deeper, darker water and fewer breaking waves. If caught, stay calm, float, and signal for help. Avoid swimming against the current.

Brisbane Useful Guide

Brisbane, a multicultural hub, primarily speaks English, with its roots in British colonization. Despite no official language, English serves as the de facto language for communication and administration. The city's multilingualism reflects its diverse population, with languages like Mandarin, Vietnamese, and Cantonese also spoken. Visitors can navigate language barriers using translation apps or local interpretation services. Embracing gestures and visual aids like maps can aid effective communication.