Cruise your way around Brisbane by CityCat
Feature
By Taneil Thornberry
See Brisbane from a whole new angle - from the water. Glide past riverside icons, jump off at buzzing precincts, and soak up the city’s laidback lifestyle.
There’s no better way to get to know the Queensland capital than by navigating the iconic Brisbane River which winds its way right through its centre. Jump aboard one of Brisbane’s fleet of 26 CityCats and five KittyCats (a network of 22 terminals).
Whether you're a local or just visiting, this is one of the easiest, and most fun, ways to experience Brisbane with the whole family.
North Quay
W Brisbane WET Deck
Kick off your water-bound adventure from North Quay, right in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD. Not far from Queen Street Mall, this central spot is surrounded by top accommodation options, making it an ideal base to explore the city. One standout stay? The W Brisbane - a bold, riverside retreat that brings style and fun. Expect a rooftop bar and pool, the Three Blue Ducks restaurant, and rooms decked out with designs inspired by the Sunshine State itself.
South Bank
Streets Beach, Brisbane
The next port of call is the cultural capital of South Bank. Perched on the other side of the Brisbane River, this inner-city sanctuary is overflowing with things to do. Here you’ll find Australia's largest Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), the Queensland Theatre Company, the Queensland Museum, the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) and the State Library of Queensland.
But it’s not all arts - spend some time wandering the South Bank Parklands, host to the state’s only city beach, or catch a bird’s eye view of the CBD aboard the Wheel of Brisbane.
Or walk along the Neville Bonner Bridge to The Star Brisbane to enjoy the many dining precincts.
QUT Gardens
The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) terminal is your gateway to campus life and some of Brisbane’s most historic and scenic spots. Whether you're a student or just stopping by, you’ll find libraries and cafés to explore.
Just a short walk, you can catch a live gig at Riverstage, wander through the lush City Botanic Gardens, or step back in time at Queensland Parliament House and Old Government House.
Howard Smith Wharves
Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane
This terminal is your gateway to some of Brisbane’s best riverside spots. Step off and stroll straight into the vibrant Howard Smith Wharves precinct, packed with bars, restaurants, and lush gardens. From here, you’re also just a short walk (or an elevator ride) away from the buzz of Fortitude Valley’s entertainment precinct and train station.
This is also your launchpad for one of Brisbane’s most iconic adventures - the Story Bridge Climb. If you haven’t met the Story Bridge yet, here’s the lowdown: it’s a heritage-listed steel giant, the longest cantilever bridge in Australia, and one of only three bridge climbs in the world where you can abseil back down.
New Farm Park
New Farm Park, Brisbane
Next stop on your Brisbane by CityCat adventure? One of the River City’s most-loved spots.
New Farm Park is a green oasis where locals and visitors sprawl out on the grass, fire up a riverside BBQ, or wander through the manicured gardens. Pack a picnic and settle in - this is one of Brisbane’s best places to soak up the sunshine.
Right next door, you’ll find the Brisbane Powerhouse - a transformed tram power station that now buzzes with comedy, live music, art exhibitions, and theatre performances. Hungry? Pull up a seat at Bar Alto, a riverside eatery known for its Italian fare and killer views.
Swing by on a Saturday and you’re in for a treat—the Jan Powers Farmers Markets set up, and serve up some of the best local produce.
Teneriffe
Next stop: Teneriffe - once an industrial hub, now one of Brisbane’s coolest riverside pockets.
This historic suburb is best known for its heritage-listed woolstores, which have been transformed into loft-style apartments, cafes, restaurants, and bars. It’s also a brewer’s paradise—sip your way through Green Beacon Brewing Co. or Newstead Brewing, where food trucks regularly roll in to keep things delicious.
Northshore Harbour
Eat Street Northshore, Brisbane
Northshore marks the final stop on your Brisbane by CityCat adventure, and trust us - you’ll want to arrive hungry.
Time your visit for a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday night, when the legendary Eat Street Markets light up the riverfront. This foodie playground has been transformed with 180 repurposed shipping containers dishing up flavours from every corner of the world. Think 70+ food stalls, themed bars, micro-restaurants, and live music to keep the good vibes going.
Once you’ve eaten your way around the markets, hop back on the CityCat and cruise towards the city while taking in Brisbane’s skyline.
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