Discover Brisbane’s best shopping destinations

The last few years have seen an explosive revival of Queen Street’s retail calibre, seeing some of the world’s most iconic luxury and high street brands calling the iconic CBD shopping mall home.

Located in the heart of the CBD, Queen Street’s pedestrianised shopping hub has created the perfect shopping hub that connects to each end of the city’s centre. Featuring four department centres, The Myer Centre, Wintergarden, Queen’s Plaza and MacArthur Central, here you’ll find big name brands and high-end designer fashions, the likes of Dior, Chanel, Saint Laurent and Louis Vuitton.

Connecting these mega centres, you’ll find a slew of international brands and Australian labels including Uniqlo, Zara, Zimmermann and Scanlan Theodore, as well as open air bars, cafes and dining options for when you (read: your wallet) needs a break.

Local tip: Explore the famous Brisbane Arcade and Tattersall’s Arcade to capture some of Brisbane’s heritage, and detour along Charlotte and Edward Street to find independent boutiques and cafes.

Latrobe Terrace, Paddington

Just moments from the city you’ll find a treasure trove of stores lining the streets of bustling Latrobe Terrace in Paddington. One of Brisbane’s most famous breakfast spots, Paddington is a charming city-fringe suburb where food and fashion is king.

Double down on flat whites before hitting up the dozen or so fashion boutiques, homeware pop ups, and specialist antique and vintage stores.

Local tip: For vintage treasures, make sure to allow plenty of time inside Empire Revival. Housed inside the heritage-listed Plaza Theatre, this is one of the city’s most beloved vintage shopping destinations.

James Street, Fortitude Valley

James Street has long established its reputation as Brisbane’s high-end shopping district. Its tree-lined streets feel relaxed and ooze European character and charm (which, coincidentally, helps to relax the purse strings).

Dotted with an enviable mix of luxury independent boutiques, beauty and artisan homeware stores and niche Australian fashion labels, if your serious about shopping, or fashion in general, this is the place to drop some serious cash. Check out fashion stalwarts Calexico, Camargue and Maryons Shoes for the latest designers drops including Isabel Marant, Acne and Comme de Garçons, or drop in to The Venroy, By Baby and Wolf & Ordnance for luxury linens, fine jewellery and Australian accessories.

Adding to its international reputation, James Street recently welcomed boutique hotel, The Calile into the fold. Bringing new life and next-level luxury into the precinct, as well as a number of award-winning dining options and a luxury day spa, the complex has elevated James Street to compete with the world’s best.

Check out this guide for all the best places to drink and dine in Fortitude Valley.

Local tip: Make reservations at Lobby Bar, inside The Calile. Not only is it an enviable spot to take a break from shopping, this beautiful bar looks out onto Ada Lane. Order yourself an Aperol Spritz and take in the views.

Oxford Street, Bulimba

Right in the heart of Brisbane’s inner east, Bulimba’s Oxford Street is a haven from the bustling CBD—and guaranteed to satisfy your retail habit.

Offering an eclectic mix of homeware, fashion and vintage stores, dozens of cafes and restaurants, and a beautiful park in the middle (a hot spot for picnicking under the jacaranda trees), Oxford Street is a unique shopping destination just minutes from the city by CityCat. With all the vibes of a small local village, Bulimba is perfect for a weekend shopping trip if you want to find something that little bit special.

Local tip: For chic homewares hit up Indigo and for book lovers, Riverbend Books is a must-visit for coffee and a read.

Winn, California and Bakery Lane, Fortitude Valley

Thought it was only Melbourne that boasted a bustling laneway scene? Guess again.

Brisbane’s laneway scene has exploded in recent years, with small bars and local independent boutiques breathing new life into Brisbane’s original alternative shopping destination.

Connecting Ann, McLachlan and Brunswick Street, shop here for innovative local fashion brands, eclectic vintage threads, vinyl, handmade homewares, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Showcasing Brisbane up and coming art, music and dining talents, Winn Lane, California Lane and Bakery Lane connect the Valley’s vast bar, cafe and live music venues, creating a unique hub for shoppers looking for something out of the ordinary.

After a solid food recommendation? For some of the city’s best burgers, head to Ben’s Burgers down Winn Lane or stop in at TSO Lounge and Dining down Bakery Lane for cocktails and live music.

Searching for places to shop? Here's how to unearth Brisbane's hottest homewares trail in a day.