Top 10 best things to do in Brisbane
Brisbane is the sunny and relaxed capital of Queensland. We stayed in Brisbane quite a few times during our stay in Australia and we enjoyed it every time. Here we have collected our top 10 best things to do in Brisbane. Brisbane is usually one of the destinations during the East Coast road trips, but it is also a good place to stay a bit longer or to start your Working Holiday as Paula did.
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We have gathered the 10 best things about Brisbane and created a guide for you to make sure you get the best out of this friendly city! Grab your sunnies and enjoy it!
How to get there and around
You can get to Brisbane by flying, bus or train depending on where from you are arriving. Brisbane is an easy city to explore on foot, but it has also good bus connections and you can go around the river by ferries. If you plan to use public transportation more often, grab yourself a GoCard. Take advantage of the free bus in the inner city and the free CityHopper ferry services!
Where to stay
There are a lot of options in accommodation in Brisbane, but as budget travelers, we would recommend Base Backpackers Brisbane Uptown, Brisbane City YHA or Brisbane Bunk.
If you wish to upgrade from basic backpacker hostel, check out Meriton Suites Adelaide Street.
South Bank
South Bank is a relaxed and popular spot, where you can enjoy good food, culture and green parklands right next to the Brisbane River. With that said, South bank is a must-see for budget backpackers whereas for luxury travelers too. You can enjoy it for free and for example use the barbeques or strolling around the markets and the lovely riverside. If your budget holds, you can also grab a bite from one of the many South Bank´s restaurants or hop on to the Wheel of Brisbane to admire the view.
$: FREE
Streets Beach
You can´t visit Brisbane without having a dip in the iconic man-made beach, the Streets Beach. This beach in the middle of the city makes a great place to escape the heat of the city and it is free to use all around the year. Put on your swimmers, rub on that sunscreen and relax!
$: FREE
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City Botanic Gardens
We are suckers for Botanic Gardens so obviously, we found ourselves strolling in the City Botanic Gardens too. Located right next to the city center, makes the botanic gardens perfect for a picnic or just for an easy walk along with the lush greens. You might even catch a band playing live music, what would be a better way to spend a lazy afternoon?
$: FREE
Story Bridge
Make sure to go see the full view of the Brisbane River and the city from the Story Bridge – we would recommend heading there when the sun goes down to enjoy the city lights! If you are after thrills, go for the Story Bridge Adventure Climb and experience the city and its surroundings from the heights. The climb is not cheap, so the budget travelers are most likely to skip this one.
$: FREE, Adventure climb from $129 up.
Kangaroo Point
Kangaroo Point is located on the opposite side of the river from CBD. It is the oldest suburb of Brisbane with a rich history. It is a popular spot for walks and picnics and you can also do rock climbing in the cliffs.
$: FREE, rock climbing from $59 up.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
The world´s largest koala sanctuary is located about 10kms aways from Brisbane and therefore gives a great opportunity to see the Australian´s most typical native animals. The sanctuary was opened to refuge sick, orphanage or injured koalas over 90 years ago. You can get to the sanctuary by boat, bus or car.
$: Tickets $42/adult, $25/student, child
Mt Coot-Tha
If you want to get away from the buzz of the city, take a day to visit Mt Coot-Tha. Here you can experience the bushwalks trails for different levels or have a walk in the Brisbane Botanic Gardens. The very best thing to do in the Mt Coot-Tha though is the panoramic lookout, which gives you the best view you can get from Brisbane city. There are also a few cafes on the lookout to grab yourself a refreshment. You can get to Mt Coot-Tha by bus from the center or by a car.
$: FREE
Eat Street Northshore
If you are visiting Brisbane during the weekend, a must-do is going to Eat Street Northshore! This vibrant food market doesn’t only fill your belly with amazing food, but it is also a colorful place to enjoy live music, absorb the festive atmosphere and hang out with friends. You can get to Eat Street by bus or a car.
$: Entry $3 Bring cash!!
Enjoy culture
Brisbane is often referred to as a cultural hub of Queensland. Take in the arts and the culture by visiting Queensland Cultural Center in the South Bank which is the home for example Queensland Art Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art, Queensland Museum and State Library of Queensland. Brisbane also hosts multiple events throughout the year.
$: Depending on the event
Do a day trip to the surrounding areas
Brisbane also makes a great location to go explore the surrounding areas. Go enjoy the white beach of Surfers Paradise, take a little getaway to Moreton Island and snorkel around the Tangalooma shipwrecks or admire the stunning beauty of the Lamington National Park.
We hope you found something to do on this list of top 10 things to do in Brisbane and that you’ll enjoy your trip to Brisbane.
