Queensland’s capital city is a welcoming destination home to great food, cultural experiences and unique encounters. Get up close with fascinating Australian wildlife, enjoy stunning panoramic views, explore heritage-listed locations and soak in all that golden Queensland sunshine. Whether you’ve got a few days to spend or a bit longer up your sleeve, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your time in Brisbane. To get you started, here are 21 things you absolutely must do in Brisbane!
Planning your trip?
•••
Hotels, I use Agoda
Insurance: Cover-More
Rentals: Discover Cars
RVs: Motorhome Republic
Transfers: Welcome Pickups
SIM Cards: Simify
I register as an affiliate for anything I use and recommend. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means if you click these links and make a purchase I may earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you, and in some cases, these links may even unlock savings or give you bonuses I’ve negotiated. You can find out more about this here and here.
You might also like to read:
- Where to stay: Rydges South Bank
- 21 Things: Sunshine Coast Hinterland
- PERFECT 3-night Gold Coast itinerary!
Where to stay: Rydges South Bank
21 Things: Sunshine Coast Hinterland
PERFECT 3-night Gold Coast itinerary!
1. Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary opened in 1927 as a safe refuge for sick, injured and orphaned koalas. Since then, it has grown into a sanctuary for more of Australia’s gorgeous wildlife including birds of prey, platypus, Tasmanian devils, dingoes, crocodiles, kangaroos and more! There’s a lot to do at Lone Pine, including a must-see free-flight raptor show, a sheepdog show, the chance to grab a photo with a Koala and various feeding times. Best of all, Lone Pine is only around a 20-minute drive from Brisbane CBD so it’s easily accessible for overseas visitors. Spend a few hours as part of a quick itinerary or make a day of it, the choice is yours!
We booked our tickets for Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary here
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary here
2. Enjoy a 4-course degustation at Bacchus
If you’re a true gourmand or just appreciate a fine-dining experience to remember, be sure to visit Bacchus for their 4-course degustation. Located within Rydges South Bank, the award-winning restaurant is headed up by Chef Massimo Speroni who joined Bacchus from the 2-Michelin-starred Ristorante San Domenico. On our visit, Matt tucked into the traditional degustation menu while I sampled the vegan/vegetarian option and we were both blown away by how delicious each and every course was. From start to finish, it was an unforgettable meal. An unexpected highlight for me was the wine selections by the sommelier! I’m not usually a big wine drinker yet I thoroughly enjoyed each of his selections down to the very last drop. Find Bacchus here.
3. Cruise the Brisbane River on a Private Electric Boat
Cruise the Brisbane River on a Private Electric Boat
Looking for a fun and unique way to explore Brisbane? Hire an electric GoBoat for two hours and enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Brisbane River—no licence or boating experience required! Glide past iconic landmarks like the historic Woolstores, the WWII Submarine Base, the vibrant Brisbane Powerhouse, and the lush greenery of New Farm Park. Pack a picnic, relax on board, and soak up the beautiful scenery. Whether you’re after a peaceful escape or a fun day out with friends, this is the perfect way to experience Brisbane from the water.
We booked our private boat with GoBoat here
4. Explore the laneways in Fortitude Valley
‘The Valley,’ as known locally, is Brisbane’s ultimate nightlife spot! This is the place to come for great bars, live music, pubs and clubs of all shapes and sizes. During the day, it’s a great spot to grab a bite to end from trendy cafes and quirky eateries or explore boutiques, vintage stores, and laneways. Be sure to check out California Lane, Winn Lane, and Bakery Lane or simply hit up the Laneway Markets held on the first Saturday of each month. During the daylight hours, the Valley can be a bit grungy but that’s how it is! Find Fortitude Valley tips here.
the
Find Fortitude Valley tips here.
5. Climb the Story Bridge for unmatched views of Brisbane
Climb the Story Bridge for unmatched views
The Story Bridge Adventure Day Climb is a must-do for anyone wanting to see Brisbane from a whole new perspective. From the sparkling waters of Moreton Bay in the east to the stunning Scenic Rim in the west, the 360° views from the top are breathtaking. The climb is a guided experience, so you’ll have an expert to lead the way and share fascinating insights about Brisbane’s history and landmarks. You’ll also be in safe hands with world-class safety measures in place. As one of only three bridge adventure climbs in the world, it’s a rare and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Story Bridge Climb is the perfect way to soak in the city’s beauty from above!
Story Bridge Adventure Day Climb
We booked our Story Bridge Adventure Day Climb here
Story Bridge Adventure Day Climb here
6. Check out the Brisbane Botanical Gardens
Founded in 1970, the Brisbane Botanic Gardens are nestled beneath majestic Mt Cootha. Entry is free so a visit to the gardens is the perfect addition to any budget-friendly itinerary or simply for those who love to visit gorgeous gardens! spend a few hours exploring the Japanese Garden, Bonsai House, Fragrant Garden and Tropical Dome (which, by the way, looks like a mini version of Jewel at Changi Airport!) There are two botanical gardens in Brisbane with the second located in Brisbane CBD. Find the Brisbane Botanical Gardens here.
Find the Brisbane Botanical Gardens here.
7. Get your feast on at Eat Street Northshore
With around 180 dining and entertainment shipping containers, Eat Street Northshore is a must-visit for food lovers! There’s an entry fee of $5 per person (or 4 for $15) for anyone over 12 and dogs are welcome (yay!). Once inside, you’ll find an abundance of great eats to choose from including slow-cooked meat, cronuts, American-Korean fusion, Mexican and everything in between. The markets are located in Brisbane’s Northshore precinct and are only open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Find Eat Street Northshore here.
Find Eat Street Northshore here.
8. Explore South Bank
South Bank is Brisbane’s entertainment and cultural hub! For anyone visiting, it’s the perfect spot to stay or simply spend a day exploring. Here, you’ll find a large number of fantastic cafes, restaurants, and bars to choose from, especially along Gray Street. Wander along the pathway lining the Brisbane River then hop on the Wheel of Brisbane for great views of the city. Visit the beloved Streets Beach, a manmade beach in the heart of Brisbane! Catch a show at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), visit the State Library of Queensland, Science Centre, Queensland Art Gallery or Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) for a dose of culture. Find South Bank tips here.
Book your tickets for the Wheel of Brisbane here
9. Watch the sunset at Kangaroo Point
The heritage-listed Kangaroo Point cliffs offer spectacular views of Brisbane City and beyond, making them a must-visit spot for sunset. Getting a park can be tough so be sure to arrive early, be patient or find another way to get there to ensure you don’t miss golden hour. The cliffs are the ideal place to sit and breathe in the gooey afternoon light! If you really want to take things to the next level, pack some snacks and have yourself a lovely little picnic up there. Just remember, the cops will nab you if they catch you with booze! Find the Kangaroo Point Cliffs here.
Find the Kangaroo Point Cliffs here.
10. Visit the Howard Smith Wharves
Nestled along the Brisbane River with the iconic Story Bridge overhead, the heritage-listed Howard Smith Wharves is a great spot for food and drinks. There’s a range of restaurants to choose from including Ciao Papi (Italian), Yoko Dining (Japanese), Mr Percival’s (Overwater Bar), Arc Dining (Modern), Stanley Restaurant (Cantonese), Greca Restaurant (Greek), Felons Brewing Co., Fiume Bar, Goodtimes Gelateria and more. This spot is best enjoyed on a day when the weather is good and absolutely comes alive on weekends! Parking can be a bit tough so either book a spot or find your way here without driving.
Howard Smith Wharves
11. Unleash your inner lumberjack
Unleash your inner lumberjack
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned thrower, this 90-minute session guarantees adrenaline, laughs, and maybe even a little healthy competition. Don’t worry if you’ve never thrown an axe — the friendly coaches will have you landing bullseyes in no time. You’ll get a dedicated lane and the best part? You control the playlist, so crank up your favourite tunes while you throw, groove, and cheer each other on. Want bragging rights? Compete to see who can claim the title of ultimate Lumberjack or Lumberjill. Safety’s a top priority too, with expert coaching to help you throw with confidence. Whether you’re coming with friends, family, or your work crew, this is one unforgettable experience you won’t stop talking about.
Book your tickets for the Lumber Punks Axe Throwing here
Lumber Punks Axe Throwing here
12. Add a little Zouk to your Brisbane experience
Don’t let your two left feet stop you. If you’re anything like me, a lack of dancing skills will make this experience even more memorable! For over nine years, Cloud9 has introduced the rhythmic allure of Brazilian Zouk to countless individuals, creating an inclusive environment where everyone (and they mean absolutely everyone) is welcome. Beyond just dance classes, Cloud9 offers an array of activities, from weekend parties and social events to exhilarating hikes and camping trips. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a curious beginner, joining Cloud9 means finding your tribe, making lifelong friends, and immersing yourself in a lively and supportive community. Don’t miss it!
Book your Zouk Dance Lesson here
13. Soak in the views from Mt Cootha
At 287 metres above sea level, Mt Cootha is Brisbane’s highest peak! For visitors, it’s an excellent viewpoint, offering panoramic views of Brisbane CBD and beyond. It’s the ideal spot to watch the sunrise or sunset and you can pack a picnic and bring it with you for a scenic outdoor dining spot if you like. There’s plenty of free parking and a cafe on-site too so you can grab a coffee or bite to eat while you relax and enjoy the views. Find Mt Cootha here.
14. Discover the Magic of Moreton Island
Discover the Magic of Moreton Island
Treat yourself and your loved ones to the adventure of a lifetime with a full-day cruise to Moreton Island. Picture yourself snorkelling through vibrant coral reefs and exploring the famous Tangalooma wrecks, home to a kaleidoscope of marine life. Marvel at dolphins playing in the waves spot graceful turtles gliding beneath the surface, and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of gentle dugongs during the marine discovery tour. When it’s time to refuel, savour a mouthwatering tropical buffet lunch as you soak up the stunning views of Moreton Island’s crystal-clear waters and golden sands. With convenient transfers from Brisbane, it’s never been easier to escape to paradise for a day of exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
We booked our tickets with See Moreton here
15. Catch the free City Hopper
When it comes to getting around in Brisbane there are a few options including hiring a car, exploring on foot, using public transport and rideshare apps like Uber. But one of the best options has to be the City Hopper, a free ferry service that can help you move between South Bank, Brisbane CBD and beyond. Not only is it a great money-saver, it will also allow you to see Brisbane from the river, which is really gorgeous! Find the City Hopper here.
16. Dine at Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers
Located in trendy Paddington, Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers is one of my favourite spots for a laid-back yet delicious dinner that won’t break the bank. The menu here is dedicated to gnocchi and there are options for gluten-dodgers, meat lovers and vegans and vegetarians too. You can grab a delicious bowl of gnocchi for around AU$16 or less if you get it to-go and take it somewhere scenic to eat (like Mt Cootha or Kangaroo Point!). Find Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers here.
Find Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers here.
17. Watch a show at QPAC
If you love the theatre be sure to check out the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) website for current shows! We recently saw The Book of Mormon and loved it. An evening at QPAC is paired perfectly with a pre-show dinner and drinks in South Bank followed by an evening stroll along the waterfront. Find QPAC here.
loved
18. Grab brunch in West End
West End is Brisbane’s quirky, bohemian neighbourhood and a popular place to live for students. The main street, Boundary Street, is lined with cool boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and bars, with plenty of fantastic options to choose from! West End also has a legendary brunch scene with favourites like the Gunshop, the Burrow, Plenty and Miss Bliss. If you love markets, be sure to check out the Davies Park Markets held each Saturday in Davies Park. Find West End tips here.
19. Explore the James Street Precinct
James Street is definitely one of Brisbane’s more high-end spots! The precinct features a curated mix of over 130 specialty stores including design showrooms, fashion boutiques, award-winning restaurants, cafes, and art galleries. It’s a great spot to stroll and explore all the different shops, grab a bite to eat or indulge in a sweet treat from Gelato Messina and Jocelyn’s Provisions. Find James Street Precinct here.
Find James Street Precinct here.
20. Relax at New Farm Park and the Brisbane Powerhouse
New Farm is one of Brisbane’s trendiest suburbs, located perfectly along the Brisbane River. This area is home to a great range of cafes and restaurants as well as the beloved New Farm Park and Brisbane Powerhouse, a cultural events hub. Visitors can spend a lazy afternoon relaxing under the shade of trees in New Farm Park, perusing the Jan Powers Farmers Markets held Saturday from 6 am to midday or catch a comedy performance or show at the Powerhouse. Find New Farm tips here.
21. Stay at Rydges South Bank
When it comes to choosing a place to stay for your visit, there are loads of fantastic hotels in Brisbane! We recently stayed at Rydges South Bank and loved the hotel’s central location, perfect for staycationing locals and tourists. The hotel has recently undergone a refurbishment so the rooms are modern and elegant and offer great views of the Brisbane skyline. Read our full review of our stay here.
Read our full review of our stay here
Book your stay at Rydges South Bank here
Booking.com and Agoda.com are fantastic websites for finding accommodation in Brisbane. Below are a few more options worth looking into:
| Stay | Features |
|---|---|
| Rydges South Bank Brisbane | Read our review |
| The Sebel Brisbane | Central location, pool |
| Art Series – The Johnson | Spacious, great pool |
| Alex Perry Hotel Apartments | Read our review |
| Spicers Balfour Hotel | Luxury, fantastic food |
| Meriton Suites Herschel St | Comfort, CBD location |
| Mantra Terrace Hotel | Well-priced comfort |
| Stay | Features |
|---|---|
| Rydges South Bank Brisbane | Read our review |
| The Sebel Brisbane | Central location, pool |
| Art Series – The Johnson | Spacious, great pool |
| Alex Perry Hotel Apartments | Read our review |
| Spicers Balfour Hotel | Luxury, fantastic food |
| Meriton Suites Herschel St | Comfort, CBD location |
| Mantra Terrace Hotel | Well-priced comfort |
Get connected with a local SIM card from Simify.
Get it delivered before you leave home, ensuring you can connect and navigate as soon as you arrive + find great things to do on the go!
Get connected with a local SIM card from Simify.
before