Queensland's sunny river city — a subtropical metropolis that serves as the gateway to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.
Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is Australia's third-largest city and a vibrant subtropical metropolis built along the winding Brisbane River. Known for its laid-back outdoor lifestyle, more than 300 days of sunshine a year, and friendly locals, Brisbane has evolved from a sleepy country town into a sophisticated, world-class city in just a few decades.
The city's greatest asset is the Brisbane River, which curves through the city center and is lined with parks, boardwalks, and restaurants. The iconic Story Bridge, South Bank Parklands with its man-made beach, and the vibrant cultural precinct at South Bank define the city's outdoor, river-oriented lifestyle.
Brisbane serves as the gateway to Queensland's most famous destinations. The Gold Coast is just an hour south, the Sunshine Coast an hour north, and the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays are a short flight away. The city itself offers a growing food scene, world-class galleries, and a subtropical climate that encourages alfresco dining year-round.
Nature is never far in Brisbane — Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world's oldest koala sanctuary, and the city is dotted with lush subtropical parks. Fortitude Valley is the city's entertainment hub, with live music venues, rooftop bars, and Chinatown. From November to February, thunderstorms roll in most afternoons, creating dramatic sunset skies over the river.
From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, these are the experiences you won't want to miss.
Brisbane's premier riverside precinct with a man-made beach, lush gardens, weekend markets, and the Wheel of Brisbane offering panoramic city views.
See the city from the water on a leisurely river cruise. The CityCat ferries are an experience in themselves, or join a sunset dinner cruise for something special.
The world's first and largest koala sanctuary, where you can cuddle a koala, hand-feed kangaroos, and see a wide range of Australian native animals.
Brisbane's highest point with spectacular 360-degree views of the city, Moreton Bay, and the Glass House Mountains. Includes a botanic garden and planetarium.
Climb Brisbane's iconic Story Bridge for breathtaking views of the river, city skyline, and surrounding areas. Dawn, twilight, and night climbs are available.
Brisbane's nightlife and entertainment hub, with Chinatown, live music venues, rooftop bars, street art, and some of the city's best restaurants.
Discover the flavors that define this city, from local specialties to world-class dining.
With access to Moreton Bay and the Pacific, Brisbane excels at fresh seafood — try Moreton Bay bugs (a local delicacy), barramundi, and prawns at riverside restaurants.
Brisbane has one of Australia's best craft beer scenes and an obsession with rooftop bars, perfectly suited to its subtropical climate. Fortitude Valley and New Farm are the hotspots.
Brisbane's dining scene has matured dramatically, with award-winning restaurants serving creative, produce-driven menus using Queensland's exceptional local ingredients.
Brisbane takes its coffee seriously — the city is dotted with specialty roasters and hole-in-the-wall cafés. Try a flat white at one of the many local roasteries in West End or Fortitude Valley.
Curated itineraries to help you make the most of your time, whether you're staying a few days or a full week.
Day 1: Explore South Bank — Streets Beach, Gallery of Modern Art, and the Wheel of Brisbane. Lunch at a riverside café. Sunset river cruise on CityCat.
Day 2: Morning at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary — cuddle a koala and feed kangaroos. Afternoon: Fortitude Valley, Chinatown, and shopping on James Street. Dinner and drinks in the Valley.
Day 3: Day trip to the Gold Coast — visit the beaches, try a theme park, or explore Surfers Paradise. Return to Brisbane for a sunset rooftop bar experience.
Day 1: South Bank Parklands — Streets Beach, Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, weekend markets if visiting Saturday. Dinner at a South Bank restaurant.
Day 2: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in the morning. Afternoon: Mount Coot-tha botanic gardens and summit for sunset views. Dinner in Paddington.
Day 3: Day trip to Gold Coast — spend the day at one of the theme parks or explore the beaches and shopping of Surfers Paradise. Return to Brisbane in the evening.
Day 4: Morning: Story Bridge climb or Brisbane Powerhouse. Afternoon: Explore Fortitude Valley, Chinatown, and James Street. Evening: Dinner and rooftop drinks in the Valley.
Day 5: Relaxed morning at New Farm Park and Powerhouse. Moreton Island day trip optional — sand dunes and snorkeling the Tangalooma wrecks. Farewell dinner at a celebrated Brisbane restaurant.
From luxury resorts to boutique stays, find your perfect accommodation with Trip.com.
Luxury hotel in the Treasury Building heritage complex, with casino, multiple restaurants, and a central CBD location.
Upscale riverside hotel with pool, spa, and panoramic river views from the executive lounge.
Boutique apartment-style hotel with kitchenettes, perfect for longer stays, just a short walk from the CBD.
Affordable, compact hotel rooms in the heart of the city, ideal for budget travelers exploring Brisbane.
Everything you need to know before you go — from getting there to getting around.
The best time to visit Brisbane is during the dry season from May to October, when days are warm and sunny (20-28°C) with low humidity. Summer (Nov-Feb) is hot and humid with afternoon storms.
Brisbane Airport (BNE) is Australia's third busiest airport, 13 km from the CBD. The Airtrain takes 20 minutes to Central Station. Taxis and rideshares take 20-30 minutes.
Brisbane's TransLink network covers trains, buses, and ferries (CityCats). The free City Loop bus services the CBD. The river ferries are both practical and scenic.
Mid-range travelers should budget AU$140-230 per day. Brisbane is generally cheaper than Sydney. Day trips to the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast will add to your budget.
Brisbane has a humid subtropical climate with hot, wet summers (28-35°C) and mild, dry winters (10-22°C). Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. It receives over 300 days of sunshine per year.
Everything you need to know before planning your trip to Brisbane.
The best time to visit Brisbane is during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is warm, sunny, and less humid. Summer (November to February) is hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms, but still enjoyable if you like hot weather.
Brisbane Airport (BNE) is 13 km from the CBD. The Airtrain takes about 20 minutes to Central Station. Taxis and rideshares take 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Several shuttle bus services also operate.
Top attractions include South Bank Parklands, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the Story Bridge, a river cruise on CityCat, Mount Coot-tha for sunset, and exploring the nightlife and dining of Fortitude Valley.
Brisbane is generally safe for tourists. The CBD and tourist areas are well-patrolled. Exercise normal precautions with personal belongings. Be sun-smart and stay hydrated — the Queensland sun is strong.
Budget accommodation starts around AU$100-150 per night, mid-range hotels cost AU$180-300, and luxury options range from AU$350-500+. Prices are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne.
Yes, most international visitors need a visa to enter Australia. New Zealand citizens receive a visa on arrival. Eligible tourists can apply online for a Visitor Visa (subclass 600) or an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).