Cruise your way around Brisbane by CityCat

See a new side to the River City with a cruise along its waterways. There’s arguably 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 much-loved fleet of 22 CityCats, the fast-paced ferries which cruise along the river’s length, dropping off passengers at the burgeoning population of terminals scattered along the way.

The CityCat is one of the most popular ways to get around town - and a family-friendly one at that - let this guide to Brisbane by CityCat show you why.

North Quay

Commence your waterbound adventure from North Quay, in the heart of Brisbane CBD. This central location is one of the closest to the city centre and its bounty of accommodation options, which sit sprawled across the pedestrian shopping haven of Queen Street and its surrounds. One of the more popular additions to Brisbane’s growing hotel scene is the W Brisbane, a vivacious offering on the river’s edge from the global hotel chain, which comes complete with rooftop bar and pool, a Three Blue Ducks outpost, and room decor heavily inspired by the Sunshine State.

South Bank

Next port of call (quite literally) is the cultural capital of South Bank. Perched on the other side of the Brisbane River, this inner-city sanctuary is overflowing with cultural pursuits. It’s in this district that you’ll find QAGOMA - the Queensland Gallery of Art and the adored Gallery of Modern Art, both host to regularly rotating exhibitions - alongside QPAC, the Queensland Museum and the adjoining SparkLab, which promise to keep kids entertained. But it’s not all arts - spend some time pre-show wandering the neighbouring South Bank Parklands, host to the state’s only city beach, or catching a bird’s eye view of the CBD aboard the Wheel of Brisbane.

Thornton Street Ferry

Back on board this Brisbane by CityCat tour, you’ll make your way down stream to the Thornton Street Ferry, which sits at the base of the eye-catching Kangaroo Point Cliffs. These heritage-listed cliffs were formed by convicts mining the volcanic rock, but now attract outdoors enthusiasts in their droves, with climbers regularly using them for abseiling practise. If you’re not quite a climbing veteran, join Riverlife Adventure Centre instead who will lead the way, as well as offer you a chance to depart on one of their regular kayaking cruises on the river.

Eagle Street Pier

Drift across to the bank opposite where you’ll come to greet Eagle Street Pier. You’re now in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD, surrounded by skyscrapers wherever you turn. But Eagle Street isn’t just corporate types, but a place to get a great feed thanks to the array of restaurants flooding this precinct. Grab a casual bite to eat at Grill’d, a sophisticated tipple at Mr & Mrs G or Riverbar, or embrace a fine dining experience at the Latin-inspired Rico Bar and Dining.

You’ll find further temptation not far, with Howard Smith Wharves a short stroll away. The dining precinct is bursting at the seams with restaurants and bars, as well as a brewery, and a design hotel to call its own in Crystalbrook Vincent.

Holman Street Ferry: Story Bridge Climb

Get a little more active at Holman Street Ferry, your next stop. It’s here you can embark on the Story Bridge Climb, a clamber up the top of one of Brisbane’s most famous creations. If you’re not yet familiar, the Story Bridge is a heritage-listed steel bridge that can claim to be the longest cantilever bridge in the country. It’s also one of only three bridge climbs globally that offers a chance to abseil your way back down. Make the most of the opportunity to hike to its top tip, taking in the surrounding views of the Glass House Mountains, Moreton Bay, and the Scenic Rim.

New Farm Park Terminal

One of the River City’s most popular offerings forms the next leg on this Brisbane by CityCat tour.

New Farm Park is a green haven beloved by locals and visitors alike. Pack a picnic bag, as you’ll want to spend plenty of time sprawling on these expansive grounds which contain plenty of grassy knolls, barbecues, manicured rose gardens, and football fields. The Brisbane Powerhouse also resides here, a repurposed tram power station which today hosts an eclectic collection of performances, from comedy festivals to music gigs and art exhibitions, as well as riverside eatery, Bar Alto.

On Saturdays you’ll also find a farmers market taking place, with the Jan Powers Farmers Market one of the most popular outlets for purchasing local produce.

Teneriffe

The Teneriffe terminal is on the horizon - a historic suburb which was once primarily industrial and today firmly one of the coolest places to settle within Brisbane’s borders. Heritage-listed woolstores dominate the landscape here, most of which have now been converted into loft-style apartments, alongside restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Breweries are particularly plentiful - sample local creations at the likes of Green Beacon Brewing Co or Newstead Brewing where food trucks are regular visitors. Or take a turn on the Riverside Walk which winds its way to New Farm park, meandering through the historic buildings and leafy streets that call the suburb home.

Northshore Harbour

Northshore marks your final stop on this Brisbane by CityCat foray. You’re best timing your arrival to coincide with Eat Street Markets hosted on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. This popular gathering sees 180 repurposed shipping containers take over a disused wharf, serving up cuisine from around the globe. There are more than 70 traders each week, including 5 themed bars, and micro restaurants, alongside live music performances.

Post-feast, take the ferry back to the city, letting the newly illuminated skyscrapers guide your way.