Brisbane

Welcome to
Brisbane

Queensland's capital, where the living's easy  

Welcome to Brisbane, a cosmopolitan hub for arts, culture and dining, heavy on laid-back charm. 

Boasting stunning natural assets, clear blue skies all year round and subtropical alfresco lifestyle, Brisbane is an urban metropolis with a relaxed vibe. Here you’ll receive a warm welcome from the city with timeless nature in its soul.

Beach

On now

Beach Season

December - February

Beach

Average temperatures

December - February

Min

19

°

Max

29

°

Get your cultural fix in Brisbane

Fortitude Valley to the north of Brisbane has long been the epicentre and heart of Brisbane’s nightlife and music scene, with the main drag Brunswick Street Mall presenting a bustling and colourful pedestrian-only stretch of clubs, pubs and watering holes.

Over at the riverside precinct of South Bank are some of Brisbane’s best-recognised cultural offerings, with gallery duo QAGOMA leading the way, alongside theatrical hub QPAC and the family-friendly Queensland Museum and Sciencentre. It’s here families head to SparkLab, an interactive science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) space, and the annual World Science Festival Brisbane. South Bank is one of the top spots in Brisbane for kids, and with the weekly Collective Markets at Little Stanley Street adding to the mix, it’s perfect for a family getaway.

Whether you’re a self-confessed foodie or just eager to satisfy hunger pangs, there’s always an outstanding eatery to visit. Outdoor dining precincts in Brisbane are especially popular, including James Street and the ever-popular Howard Smith Wharves, where a cluster of must-taste restaurants collide.
 
Beer enthusiasts will be delighted to hear there's no shortage of independent breweries worth sampling, in a city that has become widely renowned as Australia’s home of craft brewing —  you’ll find them scattered from the city centre to Brisbane’s outer suburbs. 

Discover Brisbane's top attractions

To chat face-to-face with a local about all the best things to see and do in Brisbane, step into a Visitor Information Centre

Queensland’s riverside capital city continues to boom. Dividing Brisbane into two parts, the Brisbane River winds its way between the city centre and South Bank’s cultural precinct. Take some time to wander along the Brisbane Riverwalk and experience this scenic water highway from a ringside view.

In the heart of Brisbane, bordered by the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens and Kangaroo Point Cliffs with the iconic Story Bridge in full view, the Brisbane River presents itself in all its majestic glory – from those hopping on and off CityCats and KittyCats, to those on kayaking tours getting up close and personal with the Brisbane riverfront. 

Courtesy of its 300 days of sunshine on average and year-round warm climate, it’s little wonder that Queenslanders favour being outside wherever possible. The city’s open-air markets are a popular pastime, as well as the public green spaces including the recently redeveloped Roma Street Parkland, or New Farm Park, a stunning spot on the river – perfect for picnics and outdoor get-togethers.  

Up for an urban adventure? The River City offers no end of adventure experiences to get your heart racing. Tackle the Story Bridge Adventure Climb for incredible views from Brisbane’s most iconic structure, kayak with Riverlife Adventure Centre, climb or abseil the cliffs at Kangaroo Point, or take in the city skyline views with a swim at Streets Beach in South Bank. 

Drive 20 minutes southwest of the city and you’ll find Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary where you can meet the 130-strong population of national icons. Or make the most of Brisbane’s consistently sunny days by exploring the city’s natural wonders with a trip to Mount Coot-tha. It’s here you’ll find the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium and a network of walking tracks through the national park, as well as bird's eye views of the city skyline from the lookout.

What to know before you go

Where is Brisbane?

Brisbane lies at the centre of South East Queensland in Australia.

How to get around Brisbane?

Brisbane's public transport is serviced by the TransLink network and includes buses, ferries and trains. E-bikes and e-scooters are also available to hire across the city.

What is the climate of Brisbane?

Brisbane enjoys a subtropical climate and experiences a relatively dry and sunny climate all year round.

  • During summer (December, January, February), average temperatures range from 21 - 29.8°C and the city has its highest rainfall during this time at 426.6 mm.
  • In autumn (March, April, May), average temperatures range between 15 - 25°C and the city experiences low humidity and less rain.
  • Through winter (June, July, August), the weather is generally dry and mild with average temperatures between 11 - 21°C. 
  • In spring (September, October, November), you'll find warm, sunny days with average temperatures between 15 - 25°C.

What is there to do in Brisbane?

From lush green parks and riverside walkways to rooftop bars, award-winning restaurants, and nearby islands, there's plenty to fill your itinerary. For more ideas on what to do, here are 30 of the best things to do in and around Brisbane

Where are the best beaches near Brisbane?

From the heart of the city to the fringes of nearby Moreton Bay, and the islands that lie an easy day trip away, Brisbane offers a mix of sea and sand. Take a peek at this local guide to the best Brisbane beaches

What to eat in Brisbane?

If you're close to South Bank, grab a bite at Fish Lane, or for more action,  the bustling pedestrian boardwalk at Howard Smith Wharves is lined with restaurants and bars. In Brisbane for the weekend? Check out Eat Street Northshore, a one-of-a-kind dining experience, featuring over 70 traders including micro restaurants, themed bars and more.

If you've got a specific meal in mind, explore Brisbane's breakfast spotscheap eatsfood trucksbarsrestaurants or even the best vegan food.

Where are the best parks in Brisbane?

Brisbane offers near year-round opportunities to throw out a picnic blanket, lay down a spread, and embrace a few hours of watching the world go by. The City Botanic Gardens offer a beautiful setting for a riverside walk, and Roma Street Parkland provides 16 hectares of stunning parkland. Another favourite is New Farm Park, one of Brisbane’s oldest, grandest and largest parks.

To explore more of Brisbane's parks, here's where to find the best picnic spots.

Where to stay in Brisbane?

Whether you're on a budget, looking for a pet-friendly abode or want luxury accommodation with a spa bath, there's a comfortable spot to lay your head for every traveller. Here's your essential guide to the best accommodation in Brisbane

What to do at night in Brisbane?

As the sun sets, you'll see a different side of Brisbane. From tasting your way around the city's best restaurants to bar-hopping, live music and sports games, here are the best things to do at night in Brisbane.

Where to shop in Brisbane?

Brisbane has become one of the hottest shopping destinations in Australia. While the city offers some of the best retail therapy money can buy including fashionable James Street, Brisbane’s inner suburbs are bustling with laneways and chic retail strips. Discover Brisbane's best shopping destinations.

What to do in Brisbane when it rains?

Although Brisbane is known for its great weather, there's a chance you might get caught in the rain. From shows at QPAC to sipping your way around breweries or finding hidden treasures at local boutiques, you won't run out of rainy-day activities. Here are the best things to do in Brisbane when it rains.

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