Brisbane

Understand

The Greater Brisbane region has a population of about 2.2 million people and is Australia's third-largest city. Brisbane, colloquially known as Brissie (pronounced Briz-ee), gained international exposure through multiple international sporting events and political summits, including the upcoming 2032 Summer Olympics. It is also known as the main setting of the animated kids TV series Bluey. Tipping is not part of the local culture. A simple 'thank you' is sufficient for good service.

History

For many thousands of years prior to British settlement, the Brisbane area was inhabited by the Turrbal and Jagera Aboriginal people. They knew the area that is now the central business district as Mian-jin, meaning "place shaped as a spike". The Australian English phrase "hard yakka" – meaning "hard work" – comes from the Jagera people, and is certainly what the British settlers faced in Brisbane's humid subtropical climate. The Moreton Bay area was explored by English navigator Matthew Flinders. On 17 July 1799, Flinders landed at what is now known as Woody Point which he named "Red Cliff Point", now Redcliffe after the red-coloured cliffs visible from the bay. In 1823, Governor of New South Wales, Sir Thomas Brisbane, instructed that a new northern penal settlement be developed, intended to house dangerous prisoners in a remote location and an exploration party led by John Oxley further explored Moreton Bay. The original penal settlement was established in Redcliffe but was later moved to a location further down the bay where freshwater supplies were more reliable. Oxley named this new settlement "Brisbane" in honour of the Governor. A series of major immigration events took place in the following decades which brought with it strong industry and commercial development in the region. In 1838, non-convict free settlers moved to the area and pushed to close the jail and to release the land in the area. In 1859, a gold rush led to the establishment of the colony of Queensland with Brisbane as its capital even though Brisbane was not incorporated as a city until 1902. In 1925, the Queensland State Parliament created the City of Brisbane Act that set up a single government for the city of Brisbane, still the largest metropolitan authority in Australia and one of the largest in the world by area. Over twenty small municipalities and shires were amalgamated to form the City of Brisbane. 1930 was a significant year for Brisbane with the completion of Brisbane City Hall, then the city's tallest building and the Shrine of Remembrance in ANZAC Square which has since become Brisbane's main war memorial. These historic buildings along with the Story Bridge which opened in 1940 are key landmarks that help define the architectural character of the city. During World War II, Brisbane became central to the Allied campaign when the AMP Building - now MacArthur Central was used as the South West Pacific headquarters for General Douglas MacArthur, chief of the Allied Pacific forces. In 1942, Brisbane was the site of a violent clash between visiting US military personnel, Australian servicemen and civilians which resulted in one death and several injuries. This incident became known colloquially as the Battle of Brisbane. Postwar Brisbane had developed a "big country town" stigma, an image the city's politicians and marketers were very keen to remove but despite steady growth, Brisbane's development was punctuated by infrastructure problems. The State Government began a major program of change and urban renewal beginning with the central business district and inner suburbs. Trams in Brisbane were a popular mode of public transport until the network was closed in 1969, leaving Melbourne as the last Australian city to operate a tram network. The 1974 Brisbane flood was a major disaster which temporarily crippled the city. During this era, Brisbane grew and modernised rapidly becoming a destination of interstate migration. Some of Brisbane's popular landmarks were lost sometimes demolished in controversial circumstances with much media coverage and public protest. Major public works included the Riverside Expressway, the Gateway Bridge and later the redevelopment of South Bank after the city hosted World Expo '88 starting with the Queensland Art Gallery and Performing Arts Centre. In subsequent years there has been strong immigration into Brisbane and the surrounding region, both domestically and internationally with large influxes from Asia, Europe, New Zealand and Polynesia. This was driven by cheaper house prices than in other Australian cities, a pleasant climate and good employment opportunities, especially within the mining and tourism sectors. Brisbane's population growth has exceeded the national average every year since 1990 at an average rate of around 2.2% per year. Since 2000, Brisbane has gone from drought to flooding rains. In the mid-2000s, lower dam levels led to severe water restrictions for residents. The campaign to lower water usage was so successful that the city now boasts some of the lowest average water use per resident of any developed city in the world. These days you're not likely to find the tap dry or see any visible signs of the shortage. However out of respect for the locals, keep your showers relatively brief, try your best to conserve water and expect the locals to be horrified if you walk away from a running tap. A number of extremely wet summers broke the drought and culminated in the January 2011 flood which devastated the city. In typical Queensland fashion, one of the largest volunteer workforces ever amassed: over 100,000 Brisbane locals and Queensland volunteers descended on the city to aid in the clean-up, earning the nickname the "Mud Army" and allowing the city to return to business just a week after the flood. The Mud Army were honoured with the naming of a new CityCat Ferry, the "Spirit of Brisbane" and then Prime Minister of Australia Julia Gillard described Brisbane residents as "the best of humankind", gifting a monument to the city to honour the volunteers.

Climate

When the wet season hits the northern Australian tropics, Brisbane experiences hot and clear summer days with stunning afternoon thunderstorms. Brisbane does not experience the distinct "four seasons" like the other Australian capital cities of Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. When winter arrives towards the southern capital cities, temperatures are sent into the low tens (°C), while Brisbane's climate stays mostly dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures usually remaining above 20°C.

Getting there

By plane

Brisbane can be accessed by plane via Brisbane Airport (BNE IATA), or via the less convenient but often cheaper Gold Coast Airport.

Main article: Brisbane Airport Brisbane Airport has direct flights from all Australian capitals and many Queensland centres. Major domestic carriers include Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Qantas. The airport is serviced by many regional airlines and it is possible to fly daily to most Asian centres (and on to Europe), the United States and New Zealand, without flying via Sydney or Melbourne. You can travel from the Gold Coast Airport to Brisbane for 50c by taking the 760 bus to Varsity Lakes station and transferring to the train.

By ship

The 1 Brisbane International Cruise Terminal is located in Pinkenba.

Getting around

By public transport

Translink is responsible for all trains, buses, ferries and trams in South East Queensland and regional urban buses. The website and app can be used to plan a journey, including full navigation and real time updates. Apple Maps and Google Maps provide a similar experience.

Fares

A 50-cent flat fare applies to any journey, regardless of mode or distance, with a limit of 3 transfers. The only exception is an Airtrain journey to or from Brisbane Airport which costs $22.30 (June 2025), with a 15% discount for booking online. Refer to the website for other discounted fares. You can be fined $261 for travelling without a valid fare. There are three ways to pay for your journey:

Contactless credit or debit card. A Mastercard or Visa is accepted, including those in a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Your fare is deducted from your card as you touch on and touch off each mode of transport. Trains and trams have fare gates or distinctive pink validators to touch before you board and after you alight. Buses and ferries have validators to touch as you board and alight. A failure to touch off each mode of transport will result in a fixed fare of $2.50. Go card. A go card is available at train station ticket counters, busway and tram fare machines, and selected newsagents and convenience stores. The card requires a $10 deposit. The card can be topped up with travel credit at the same locations, including train station fare machines. The maximum travel credit you can top up is $250. Refunding the deposit and travel credit can be a hassle. If you last topped up using cash it can be processed at Brisbane Airport and selected newsagents and convenience stores. If you last topped up using credit or debit card it can only be processed via an Australian bank account transfer. Paper ticket. A paper ticket is available at train station ticket counters and fare machines, and busway and tram fare machines.

See

Buildings and landmarks

1 Brisbane City Hall and King George Square, between Adelaide and Ann Streets. The City Hall is Brisbane's most significant historical landmark and was restored in 2010–2013. The area has free public Wi-Fi. 2 Brisbane City Hall Clock Tower, Museum of Brisbane. A 92-metre clock tower with Australia's largest analogue clock face. Opened in 1930, it offers a tour through Brisbane's oldest operating cage lifts. 3 The University of Queensland, St Lucia, ☏ +61 7 3365 1111. One of Australia's oldest and most prestigious institutions, situated on a bend of the Brisbane River. Its majestic sandstone buildings are surrounded by ornamental lakes, jacaranda-lined boulevards and some of the finest architecture. Visitor attractions include the Great Court, the UQ Art Museum at the James and Mary Emelia Mayne Centre, the Eleanor Schonell Bridge, and wildlife in the UQ lakes. It can be reached by CityCat, or bus route 66 from the CBD along Busway. (updated Jun 2025) 4 Wheel of Brisbane, Russell St, South Bank. Daily 10AM to 10PM. A Ferris wheel that allows you to observe the city from 60 m with views across the Brisbane River. The trip is a 15-minute ride in an enclosed, climate-controlled gondola. Adult $22, student $18, child 4 to 11 years $14.50. (updated Jun 2025) 5 Cathedral of St. Stephen, 249 Elizabeth St. Daily 8AM-6PM. Heritage-registered Gothic Revival Catholic cathedral and seat of the Archbishop of Brisbane with regular services and guided tours on weekday mornings. Nearby is St. Stephen's Chapel, which was built in the 19th century and lays significance as being the oldest surviving church building in Queensland. 6 Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Glenelg St (South Bank), ☏ +61 7 3308 3000. Named as the world's best convention centre, this purpose-built convention centre and event venue plays its host to an average of 1,300 yearly events and contains four exhibition halls. 7 State Law Building, 50 Ann Street. The office and headquarters of the Attorney-General of Queensland. The structure of the skyscraper, an iconic landmark since 1995, is dubbed the Batman Building, modelled after the Gotham City skyline in the Batman comic book series.

Museums and galleries

8 Commissariat Store Museum, 115 William St, ☏ +61 7 3221 4198, info@queenslandhistory.org.au. Tu–F 10AM to 4PM. Occupying the oldest habitable building in Queensland, the museum highlights both the building and aspects of Brisbane and Queensland's convict, colonial and more recent history. Run by The Royal Historical Society of Queensland. Audio tour can be downloaded from website in advance. Adults $7, concession $5. (updated Jan 2016) 9 The Cube, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), 2 George St, Gardens Point, thecube@qut.edu.au. Daily 10AM to 4PM. The Cube is one of the world's largest digital interactive learning and display spaces dedicated to providing an inspiring, explorative and participatory experience of QUT's Science and Engineering research. Here you will find one of the world's largest digital interactive and learning environments in the Science and Engineering Centre at the QUT Gardens Point campus. You can view research-inspired projects across science, engineering, maths and technology displayed on more than 40 multi-touch screens and 14 high-definition projectors. The Cube is inspiring and engaging the next generation of thinkers and doers with its extensive outreach to schools, including their hands-on and interactive workshops and public programs for high school students and QUT undergraduate and postgraduate students. Free. (updated Jun 2025) 10 MacArthur Museum, Level 8, MacArthur Chambers, 201 Edward St, ☏ +61 7 3211 7052. Tu Th Su 10AM to 3PM. This museum occupies what was during the Second World War the Office of General Douglas MacArthur. Travel back in time to the early 1940s in this niche Brisbane museum. Adults $8, seniors $5, child $4. (updated Jan 2016) 11 Museum of Brisbane, Level 3, Brisbane City Hall. Daily 10AM to 5PM, F till 7PM. Hosts a permanent display on the history of Brisbane and rotating exhibits by local artists that touch on Brisbane's lifestyle and culture. Daily tours into the clocktower and observation deck, bookings essential. Free. (updated May 2019) 12 Queensland Art Gallery, Stanley Place, South Bank, ☏ +61 7 3840 7303, gallery@qagoma.qld.gov.au. 10AM to 5PM. Housed in two buildings in the cultural precinct. Free, except for some special exhibitions. (updated Jan 2016) 13 Gallery of Modern Art. Part of the Queensland Art Gallery and a short walk from the Main Gallery. Opened in 2006 the gallery regularly hosts exhibitions featuring internationally famous artists (such as Warhol and Picasso) as well as many local contemporary artists. (updated Jan 2016) 14 Queensland Maritime Museum, cnr Stanley and Sidon Streets, South Bank, ☏ +61 7 3844 5361, info@maritimemuseum.com.au. Daily 9:30AM to 4:30PM. Has a range of exhibitions and vessels. Step aboard HMAS Diamantina and experience life as a Navy sailor. Be sure to see Ella's Pink Lady, the yacht Queenslander Jessica Watson sailed solo unassisted during her record-breaking journey to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world. Adult $16, concession $14, child $7. (updated Jan 2016) 15 Queensland Museum, cnr Grey and Melbourne Streets, South Bank, ☏ +61 7 3840 7555. 9:30AM to 5PM. A large museum featuring several exhibitions that generally focus on natural history and Queensland history. Free, except for some special exhibitions. (updated May 2019) 16 Museum of Lands, Mapping and Surveying, 317 Edward St. Spotlights a historical collection of resources in exhibits relating to surveying techniques and maps. Sciencentre, Level 1 of the Museum. A hands-on, interactive science facility particularly popular with families and children. Adult $15.50, concession $13.50, child $12.50. (updated May 2019) 17 Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, Mt Coot-tha Road, Toowong, ☏ +61 7 3403 2578. Hours vary – from 10AM weekdays and 11AM weekends. Open Tu-Su with free admission to astronomy and space displays and a mini theatre. Admission fees apply to the Cosmic Skydome which features a wide variety of astronomy and space programs. All shows feature a "live" segment recreating the current Brisbane night sky. On weekdays (closed M and public holidays), the doors open at 10AM with school shows at 10:30AM and noon. Members of the public are welcome to attend the earlier school shows when space permits (children must be school age). The 1:30PM and 3PM sessions (Tu-F) are public programs, although the 1:30PM program may be booked for dedicated school programs (check with the Planetarium's Booking Office). During Queensland school holidays there are extra public shows on weekdays. On weekends, the Planetarium opens at 11AM and shows are also presented on Saturday night with "Saturday Night Live" at 6PM being a very popular show. There is a shop with a wide variety of astronomical/science merchandise and souvenirs. There is free parking, an adjacent bus stop and a separate cafe/restaurant. Adult $16.10, child $9.80, concession $13.20. (updated Jun 2025) 18 UQ Anthropology Museum, 9 Chancellor Pl, ☏ +61 7 3365 3111. First opened in 1948, this museum houses a display of ethnographic objects, including modern Indigenous Australian and Pacific Island artwork. (updated Jun 2025)

Nature and wildlife

19 Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, Mt Coot-tha Rd, Toowong. 8AM to 5:30PM (Sep to Mar); 8AM to 5PM (Apr to Aug). Beautiful subtropical gardens with many walks. Free. (updated Jan 2016) 20 City Botanic Gardens (10–15 min walk from the city centre and Central or Roma Street railway stations). 24/7. Free 1-hr guided tours M–Sa 11AM and 1PM (no need to book). Walking and cycling tracks. Exhibits. Free tours are a mix of the history of the gardens and the city whereas the garden tours at Mt Coot-tha are more focused on the wide variety of plants. Free. (updated Jun 2025) 21 Japanese Garden, Toowong, Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, Mount Coot-Tha Rd, Toowong. Designed by the Japanese architect Kenzo Ogata with the theme of mountain-pond-stream with a combination of both Japanese and Australian plants. (updated Nov 2021) 22 Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket (via the Western Freeway), ☏ +61 7 3378 1366, service@koala.net. 9AM to 5PM. Reduced hours 25 April. World's first and largest koala sanctuary, with over 130 koalas. Cuddle a koala, hand feed kangaroos and see other Aussie wildlife. Admission $32 adults, $21 children 3–13 years, with discounts for families and students. If you prefer not to drive, you can catch the hourly 445 or 430 buses from the city or the Mirimar boat cruise from South Bank at 10:20AM. Adults $36, child $22, concession $24. Family rates available. Discounts if purchased online in advance. (updated Jun 2025) 23 Mount Coot-tha, Sir Samuel Griffiths Drive. Brisbane's tallest mountain. A popular make-out spot with a great view and good but overpriced cafe and restaurant. Large TV and radio antennas line some of its broad peak. You can take a scenic drive through the heavily forested Mount Coot-tha Reserve to the peak to see the almost-360° views of Brisbane and the surrounding region. The mountain is 287 m (941 ft) above sea level and forms the eastern extent of the Taylor Range. It is the most northern part of Australia to record snow. It is a prominent landmark approximately 6 km (4 mi) to the west of the Brisbane central business district and is visible from much of the city. Before the Moreton Bay penal settlement, Mount Coot-tha was the home of the Turrbal Aboriginal people. Early Brisbane people called it One Tree Hill when bush at the top of the mountain was cleared except for one large eucalypt tree. The Aboriginal people of the area used to come to the mountain to collect ‘ku-ta’ (honey) that was produced by the native stingless bee. Mount Coot-tha (Place of Honey), a derivative of the indigenous term, replaced the title ‘One Tree Hill' in 1880 when the area was declared a Public Recreation Reserve. Car is the most effective way to enjoy Mount Cootha at your own pace. There is ample parking at the peak. One can also hike the marked trail from the mountain's foot. See one of the best views of Brisbane. It is best to arrive just before dusk or dawn so you can enjoy the transition from day to night. Drive to the peak for a picnic dinner and admire the views. There are several walking tracks through the forests that surround the summit; some are difficult. It is a great place from which to watch the Riverfire fireworks in Sep.

Do

Activities and trips

1 Kangaroo Point. The walls along the Brisbane River are a popular spot for rock climbing and give an excellent view of the CBD skyline just across the river. Activities carry on after dark, when the walls are well-lit. Abseiling and rock climbing classes on the cliffs with an instructor are available from Riverlife Adventures, as well as kayak, kick-bike, rollerblade and bicycle hire. There are also barbecue and picnic spots in the area. 2 Story Bridge Adventure Climb, toll-free: 1300 254 627Country code missing, climbs@sbac.net.au. Scale the top of Brisbane's iconic bridge. You can enjoy 360° views of Brisbane, the mountain ranges and Moreton Bay Islands at dawn, afternoon or night. Jan Powers Farmers Markets. Buy fresh fruit, vegetables and cuts of meat from one of the many farmers markets across Brisbane including the Powerhouse at New Farm, Manly, Mitchelton and the newest market at Reddacliff Place at the top of the Queen Street Mall. Balloons over Brisbane, ☏ +61 7 3844 6671. You can gain an aerial perspective as you float over Brisbane in a hot air balloon. It's often possible to see as far off as the magnificent Glasshouse Mountains, to the Gold Coast and out to the islands of Moreton Bay. (updated Jun 2025) Cruise the Brisbane River. There are various companies offering a range of river cruises and tours to take in the sights. These include cruises to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, and the BrisVegas floating nightclub. Explore Brisbane's Moreton Bay and Islands. The bay is 25 km (16 mi) from Brisbane's CBD and stretches from Bribie Island to the Southern Bay Islands. Enjoy sand tobogganing, 4-wheel driving, diving or snorkelling or go marine watching and spot turtles, dolphins, dugongs and whales. Explore Greater Brisbane Country. Take a day trip to the surrounding regions around an hour from Brisbane and discover wineries, national parks, lakes and country living. The Scenic Rim including Ipswich, Beaudesert and Boonah is a vast region of mountains, rainforest and valleys embracing the World Heritage wilderness of the McPherson Range. The Lockyer Valley provides a perfect blend of town and country living, with experiences ranging from guided tours and bush camping to hot air ballooning and sky-diving. The Scenic Rim. This describes the large arc of mountains, to a height of 1,375 m (4,511 ft), from the Mistake Ranges (south of Gatton) across the Main (Great Dividing) Range to the MacPherson Range that terminates at Currumbin on the Gold Coast. Apart from some well known locations on the Rim, such as Binna Burra and O'Reilleys guesthouses, Springbrook and Cunningham’s Gap, the largest proportion of these ranges are unspoilt and much of it near-wilderness. Many forest areas were previously logged, but the forest recovery has been excellent, and virtually all the logging tracks have disappeared except for those still used for foot access. At the previously mentioned sites, graded paths offer a taste, but for the more adventurous there are many hiking possibilities from day trips to sustained multi-day exercises. More information can be found on the web. Hikers should be properly prepared and conversant with navigation in difficult country and the rules of National Parks. Riverlife Adventure Centre. Brisbane's riverside adventures. Kayaking, abseiling the Kangaroo Cliffs, a rollerblade session and bike rentals. They also organise evening activities such as kayak paddle and prawns. 3 The Star Brisbane, 33 William St, ☏ +61 7 3306 8885. 24/7. Full featured casino with a wide variety of slots and table games, in a brand new resort precinct that was opened in August 2024.

Music

Brisbane's Fortitude Valley has the highest concentration of bars, pubs and clubs anywhere in Australia and in 2005, was given Australia's first and only "Special Entertainment Precinct" zoning, which protects and promotes the live music scene. In 2007, influential US entertainment Billboard magazine named Brisbane in the world's top 5 hotspots for live music. And in 2010 the city opened the Go-Between Bridge, named after the popular Brisbane indie rock band The Go-Betweens. There is no doubt that the locals love their music and a night out in Brisbane is not complete without experiencing some of the live music on offer. If you are looking for what's happening in Brisbane, most music and entertainment stores as well as some restaurants and cafés offer free entertainment magazines that list what's coming up within the next month or so. Brisbane and the surrounding South East Queensland region plays host to a myriad of music and arts festivals and are advertised in these magazines. Though you might find most musicians playing in the numerous bars and clubs around the CBD, West End and the Valley, there are some venues which are geared specifically toward hosting bands or artists that are on official tours. Some events allows under-18s in, but not all, so it's best to check beforehand.

4 The Tivoli, 52 Costin St, Fortitude Valley. Has a very relaxed, noir-styled interior with sizable floor space and a mezzanine. Highly rated venue among locals and only a 10-minute walk from The Valley train station. 5 Crowbar, 711 Ann St, Fortitude Valley. This live music venue is one of the more famous music venues when it was known as "The Zoo". The Zoo folded in 2024 and was subsequently reopened as a similar live music venue known as Crowbar. Indie rock, hipsters and that alternative vibe. Host to local and international acts. 6 The Triffid, 7–9 Stratton Street, Newstead. Owned by John Collins, former Powderfinger bassist and stalwart of the Australian music scene, the converted World War II aircraft hangar is enjoying a second life as one of Brisbane’s coolest-looking hangouts. Host to all kinds of international, national and local music acts including plenty of Brisbane bands. (updated Jun 2025) The Valley Fiesta is an annual three-day event. It was launched by Brisbane Marketing to promote Fortitude Valley as a hub for arts and youth culture. It features free live music, market stalls, food and drink from many local restaurants and cafés, and other entertainment.

Shopping

Late night shopping is Thursday evenings in the suburbs, and Friday evening in the city centre. Other nights, expect most shops to close at 5PM.

1 Queen Street Mall. Main shopping mall in Brisbane, large variety of shops, contains several shopping centres. 2 Uptown. Runs the gamut from jeans shops to specialty knife stores. Internet kiosks are available. 3 The Wintergarden. A fashion centre connected to the foot of the Hilton Hotel. Also contains a licensed day or night bowling alley. 4 QueensPlaza. A fashion centre, with more expensive, big brand stores. 5 Brisbane Arcade. A secluded narrow shopping strip which acts as a pass way between Adelaide and Queen St. It contains many unique stores. It is one of the few remaining heritage shopping arcades in Brisbane. 6 Queen Adelaide Building. One of Brisbane’s oldest buildings is home to Queensland’s flagship Sportsgirl store, Adidas and Rebel Sport.

7 Treasury Brisbane (The Conrad Treasury Casino) (at the George Street end of the mall). Adelaide Street. Downtown's dress circle 8 Elizabeth Street Arcade. Arcade that spans between Elizabeth and Charlotte streets. Lots of independent boutiques to suit various prices, and lots of cheap Asian food. Albert Street. Has many adventure and sports-type retailers, lots of bookstores. Eagle Street. The centre of law and finance in Queensland, holds the Eagle Street and Riverside markets. Edward Street. Mostly covered by 9 Queens Plaza, 10 MacArthur Central and 11 Wintergarden street fashion stores. There are also a couple of jewellery, take-away restaurants, bars and night clubs. Edward St. has been transformed into a luxury brands precinct, with stores such as MaxMara, Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Bulgari, Bally, Mont Blanc, Chanel, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Oroton, Ralph Lauren, L'Occitane, and Hermes. Apple opened its Brisbane flagship store in the heritage-style MacArthur Chambers building, (which acted as U.S. General Douglas MacArthur's regional headquarters in World War II), and is similar to Apple's other heritage building refurbishments in London, Paris, Amsterdam and Berlin. Brisbane's MacArthur Chambers store was ranked among the best. (updated Dec 2016) 12 South Bank markets. Held at the South Bank Parklands every Sunday. 13 Brunswick Street Mall. Located in the heart of China Town, there are many Chinese retailers, fast food restaurants, cafes and bars. Markets are run on Sundays. 14 Indooroopilly Shopping Centre (322 Moggill Road), ☏ +61 7 3378 4022, info@indooroopillyshopping.com.au. Large shopping centre sprawled over three massive levels. Large variety of retailers. (updated Jun 2025) 15 Westfield Garden City, Corner of Logan and Kessels Roads, Upper Mt Gravatt, ☏ +61 7 3135 5450. Large shopping centre with two levels. Contains a large variety of fashion retailers and book stores. Outdoor food section based around a water feature, that's busy into the evening. (updated Jun 2025) 16 Westfield Chermside, Corner of Gympie and Hamilton Roads, Chermside, ☏ +61 7 3117 5300. Brisbane's largest shopping centre. Popular among youth culture for its Megaplex Movie Cinema. (updated Jun 2025) 17 Westfield Carindale, 1151 Creek Road, Carindale, ☏ +61 7 3120 5400. The largest shopping centre in the Eastern Suburbs. (updated Jun 2025) 18 Northside Flower Market, Unit 3, 27 Windorah St, Stafford. M to Sa. (updated Jun 2025) 19 West End Markets, Montague Rd & Jane St, West End (Davies Park). Sa 6AM to 1PM. An expansive farmers-style market with an alternative vibe that sells fruit and vegetables, meats, cheese, and handicrafts. Also has food vendors, including a crêperie. (updated Jun 2025) James Street, Fortitude Valley. Small strip with high-end fashion, furniture and electronics retail, plus a couple of nice bars and cafes. 20 Valley Markets. Sa Su 8AM to 4PM. A shopping must for locals and tourists. Operating every weekend, find jewellery, fabulous handmade accessories and artwork. Home to emerging fashion designers. (updated Jun 2025) Ann St. Along Ann Street in the Valley there are many independent fashion boutiques for mid-range shopping. Some of them are spread out around the corner of Brunswick Street too.

Eat

Budget

1 Kadoya, 73 Mary St, ☏ +61 7 3229 3993. M–Th 10:30AM to 8PM, F 10:30AM to 8:30PM, Sa 11AM to 9PM, Sunday closed. A casual Japanese eatery and takeaway dishing up rice bowls, noodle soups and bento boxes. Cooked fresh, tasty, cheap. Popular lunch spot for city-workers. (updated Apr 2019) 2 Beach House (Beach House Bar & Grill CBD), Shop 58, Level E, Myer Centre Corner Elizabeth and Albert St, ☏ +61 7 3003 0017. Su–Th 11AM–9PM, F Sa 11AM–9:30PM. Located on the corner of Albert and Elizabeth St, Myer Centre, 2F. Licensed bar, large meals and live entertainment at value for money. (updated Jun 2025) Bar Merlo. Various outlets throughout the city, their first being opened in the QUT Gardens Point campus. Regarded as one of the leaders in the Brisbane café society boom since the 1990s, their coffee is served at countless cafes and restaurants throughout Brisbane. 3 Pancake Manor, 18 Charlotte St (just down from George Street), ☏ +61 7 3221 6433. A Brisbane institution, open 24 hours. Tends to fill up with nightclub revellers on their way home after about 3AM on a Saturday or Sunday morning. (updated Jun 2025)

Mid-range

4 Le Bon Choix, 379 Queen St, ☏ +61 7 3229 9260. Near the golden triangle. Great French bakery. Sells a good variety of sandwiches, cakes, tortes, macarons, fresh bread, croquettes, quiches and coffee. M–F 7AM to 6PM, Sa Su 7AM to 5PM. (updated Jun 2025)

Splurge

5 Alchemy, 175 Eagle St, ☏ +61 7 3229 3175. Located in a little hideaway on Eagle St, this restaurant has one of the most impressive views in Brisbane, looking across the river to the Story Bridge. Well known for its "liquid nitrogen nibbles", Alchemy lives up to its name. (updated Jun 2025) 6 E'cco Bistro, 63 Skyring Tce, ☏ +61 7 3831 8344. Founded and run by the internationally renowned and acclaimed chef Philip Johnson, it is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane and Australia-wide. (updated Jun 2025) 7 Moda, The Barracks 61, ☏ +61 7 3221 7655. Huge selection of wines and a varied menu including seafood, duck, rabbit and pork cheeks. By no means cheap but amazing food. (updated Jun 2025) 8 Vintaged, Elizabeth St (Hilton Brisbane). Serving carefully aged meat within luxe surroundings, this is one of the better hotel restaurants in Brisbane.

Drink

Brisbane's drinking and nightlife scene is separated into some distinct areas. Anyone planning a night on the town should be aware that after 3AM, no more patrons are allowed into pubs and clubs. This is a safety measure, coupled with increased security presence at taxi ranks. Additionally, smokers should beware of strict anti-smoking regulations. Smoking is now banned in "all areas where food & drink are served", both indoors and outdoors. This means that smoking is banned in all hotels, clubs, and cafés except in designated smoking areas. The drinking age in Australia is 18 and only an Australian driver's licence, 18+ card or a foreign passport is accepted as proof of age. Other forms of ID such as a student card are not accepted. These regulations are strictly enforced – for nightclubs in particular, your ID will always be checked at the door, and while venues serving food may let you in, most are very prudent in checking ID if you wish to purchase alcohol.

Suburban

Toowong:

1 Regatta, 543 Coronation Drive, Toowong (adjacent to the Regatta CityCat terminal), ☏ +61 7 3871 9595. Expect a wait to get in on Th, F and Sa nights, but a must-go for the best sessions on W and Su nights when the venue is completely taken by students. (updated Jun 2025) 2 Royal Exchange (RE) Hotel, 10 High St, ☏ +61 7 3371 2555, royal.exchange.hotel@alhgroup.com.au. Generally a good, down-to-earth pub, more so than the Regatta, which tends to cater to a slightly trendier crowd (updated Jun 2025) Regatta and the RE have reputations (which they more than live up) as student haunts, being located reasonably close to the St Lucia campus of the University of Queensland. Bulimba: Catch a citycat to Bulimba for some trendy shopping on popular Oxford Street, great cafes, hip bars or for a picnic in the park.

Sleep

Budget

1 Banana Backpackers (Banana Benders), 118 Petrie Terrace (500 m from Roma St Transit Centre), ☏ +61 7 3367 1157, reception@bananabenders.com. Check-in: 1PM, check-out: 11AM. A small, clean & friendly hostel on the fringe of Brisbane CBD. 10 minutes walk from Brisbane Transit centre and an easy walk to South Bank & CBD. Can be a little quiet but a great place to relax and meet new people. $25-75. (updated Sep 2025) 2 Brisbane City Backpackers, 380 Upper Roma St (400 m from Roma St Transit Centre), ☏ +61 7 3211 3221. Clean, relaxed hostel with a pool and friendly staff. (updated Jun 2025) 3 Brisbane City YHA, 392 Upper Roma St (600 m from Roma St Transit Centre), ☏ +61 7 3236 1004, brisbanecity@yha.com.au. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 10AM. From $29. (updated Jun 2025) 4 Bunk Backpackers, 21 Gipps St, Fortitude Valley, ☏ +61 7 3257 3644, info@bunkbrisbane.com.au. Check-in: 1PM, check-out: 10AM. Modern, clean, very popular, swimming pool, and one of Brisbane's popular (but more expensive) night clubs, Birdee Num Num. (updated Jun 2025) 5 Cloud 9 Backpackers Resort, 350 Upper Roma St, ☏ +61 7 3236 5007, info@cloud9backpackers.com.au. New, modern, industrial-space conversion. (updated Jun 2025) 6 ibis budget Brisbane Airport, 18 Navigator Place, Cnr. Nudgee Road, ☏ +61 7 3868 3457, h3512@accor.com. From $89. (updated Jan 2016) 7 ibis budget Windsor, 159 Lutwyche Road, ☏ +61 7 3857 0488, h5403@accor.com. From $74. (updated Jan 2016) 8 Kingsford Riverside Inn, 114 Kingsford Smith Drive, Hamilton, ☏ +61 7 3862 1317, toll-free: 1800 777 590, k.r.inn@optusnet.com.au. Close to the airport. A few minutes’ walk from the Breakfast Creek Hotel. The accommodation can be accessed via door-to-door transport services. From $99. (updated Jun 2025) 9 Manly Harbour Backpackers, 45 Cambridge Parade, Manly, ☏ +61 7 3396 3824. Next to the ocean, in a bayside suburb. 40 min train ride from the Brisbane CBD. Can organise activities like surfing, sailing, fishing and diving. Dorms and private rooms, internet access, airport and train transfers. (updated Oct 2024) 10 Somewhere to Stay Backpackers Hostel, 47 Brighton Rd, Highgate Hill, ☏ +61 7 3333 2964, toll-free: 1800 812 398. (updated Jun 2025)

Mid-range

Brisbane hotels are listed in alphabetical order.

11 Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane Anzac Square, 255 Ann St, ☏ +61 7 3001 9888, anzacsquare@adinahotels.com.au. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11PM. Adina Hotel Brisbane Anzac Square is a modern hotel that overlooks the Anzac Square memorial gardens. From $104. (updated Jan 2016) 12 Albion Manor Apartments and Motel, 402 Sandgate Road (Cnr Sandgate Road & Camden Street), Albion, ☏ +61 7 3256 0444, toll-free: 1800 247 447, enquiries@albionmanor.com.au. Spacious and comfortable studio apartment. From $105. (updated Jun 2025) 13 Central Brunswick Hotel, 455 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley, ☏ +61 7 3852 1411, fax: +61 7 3852 1015, info@centralbrunswickhotel.com.au. Spacious apartments close to Chinatown and nearby to CBD area of downtown Brisbane. (updated Jun 2025) Choice Hotels – Brisbane Properties. Many locations in Brisbane outside of the immediate CBD area serving quality accommodation at affordable prices under the brands EcnoLodge, Ascend, Quality Inn and Comfort Inn. (updated Jun 2025) 14 Four Points by Sheraton Brisbane, 99 Mary Street, ☏ +61 7 3164 4000, fourpoints.brisbane@fourpoints.com. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 11AM. From $129. (updated Jan 2016) 15 Greenslopes Motor Inn in Brisbane (Greenslopes), 389 Cornwall Street (Cnr Dansie St), Greenslopes, ☏ +61 7 3394 3066, toll-free: 1800 441 144, fax: +61 7 3394 2936, info@gsmi.com.au. 18 rooms, easy access off the Pacific Highway, plenty of off-street parking. From $99. (updated Jan 2016) 16 Hilton, 190 Elizabeth St, ☏ +61 7 3234 2000, brisbane.info@hilton.com. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11AM. Overlooks Queen Street Mall. From $206. (updated Jan 2016) 17 Hotel Grand Chancellor, 23 Leichhardt Street, ☏ +61 7 3831 4055, reservations@hgcbrisbane.com.au. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11AM. From approx $160. (updated Jan 2016) 18 Mantra South Bank, 161 Grey St, South Bank, ☏ +61 7 3305 2500, southbankbris.res@mantra.com.au. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 10AM. New, modern, brash and very stylish. From approx $159. (updated Jan 2016) 19 Marriott Hotel, 515 Queen St, ☏ +61 7 3303 8000. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11AM. Comfortable hotel with lovely staff. From $163. (updated Jun 2025) 20 Mercure Brisbane King George Square, Corner Ann & Roma Streets, ☏ +61 7 3229 9111, H8780@accor.com. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 10:30AM. Walking distance to the Queen St Mall shopping precinct. From $143. (updated Jan 2016) 21 Novotel Brisbane Airport, 6–8 The Circuit, Brisbane Airport (follow signs to Skygate), ☏ +61 7 3175 3100, reservations@novotelbrisbaneairport.com.au. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11AM. From $229. (updated Jan 2016) 22 Pullman Brisbane King George Square, Corner Ann & Roma Sts, ☏ +61 7 3229 9111, H8784@accor.com. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 10:30AM. Within walking distance of the Queen St Mall shopping precinct. From $175. (updated Jan 2016) 23 Raceways Motel in Brisbane (Hamilton), 66 Kent St, ☏ +61 7 3268 4355, enquiries@racewaysmotel.com.au. Check-in: noon. Family run accommodation close to Brisbane City Centre and Brisbane International Airport. From $129. (updated Jun 2025) 24 The Great Southern Hotel, 103 George St, ☏ +61 7 3221 6044, reservations103g@greatsouthernhotel.com.au. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11AM. From $62. (updated Jan 2016) 25 Ridge on Leichhardt Hotel, 189 Leichhardt St, Spring Hill, ☏ +61 7 3831 5000, reception@ridgehotel.com.au. From $89. (updated Jun 2025) 26 Rydges South Bank Brisbane, 9 Glenelg St, South Bank, ☏ +61 7 3364 0800, reservations_southbank@rydges.com. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11AM. In the heart of Brisbane's arts and entertainment precinct, it is the closest hotel to the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. The Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre is immediately adjacent to the hotel and downtown Brisbane and the bohemian village of West End are a 10 min stroll away. From $169. (updated Jan 2016) 27 The Sebel Brisbane, Corner Charlotte and Albert St, ☏ +61 7 3224 3500, H8778@accor.com. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11AM. Distinctive refurbished boutique style rooms. From $159. (updated Jan 2016) 28 Story Apartments, 89 Lambert St, Kangaroo Point, ☏ +61 7 3392 1300, sales@storyapartments.com.au. Offers both short-stay and long-stay accommodation, and is just a few min ferry ride from the CBD. From $209. (updated Jun 2025) 29 iStay River City, 79 Albert St, ☏ +61 7 3246 1705, rivercity@theoaksgroup.com.au. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 10AM. This hotel offers free Wi-Fi, swimming pool access and gym facilities along with 1- and 2-bedroom apartments with views. (updated May 2017)

Stay safe

Crime

Brisbane has a relatively low crime rate in comparison to other cities of such size. In most cases being aware of your environment and using common sense will keep you safe. Like Sydney and other large cities, trains and train stations are usually considered a common crime zone throughout the afternoons and nights, however trains and stations are patrolled by Police, Transit Officers, railway personnel and private security guards. Cameras are also used to increase security. It is advised to exercise caution when travelling on trains and buses during these periods of the day. Here are some particular areas of note:

Outer Suburbs: Tend to have a higher crime rate than inner suburbs which should be taken into account when visiting these areas. Days: Very safe during the day, but using common sense goes a long way. Avoid gangs of people, especially if they seem trashy or obnoxious and be mindful if a questionable person approaches you. Nights: Like most other places, outer suburbs to get more dangerous. Most suburban streets are poorly lit or have no lighting at all. It is recommended that individuals walking in these areas at night take extra precautions or venture within a group. City Central/CBD: Usually very safe at all hours. Days: Very safe during the day thanks to a good police presence and most people only being there for work. Though during school holidays groups of youths can congregate, especially around Queen St and South Bank and can get rather rowdy, but they usually mind their own business. Nights: Still relatively safe at night. Police presence isn't as strong, except on Friday and Saturday nights, but you're still urged to travel with others. Be careful if catching a train at night, even though the train stations and trains are well patrolled and watched by CCTV. Treasury Casino patrons often gather outside and unwanted attention can be received late at night due to drunks. However, security is tight and the entire area around the Casino is monitored by CCTV. Take extra caution if in South Bank at night due to groups of youths congregating there. Fortitude Valley: Police presence very strong here due to the concentration of bars. Days: Just as safe as the CBD during the day. Nights (especially Friday and Saturday): Taxi ranks in particular can be a little dangerous due to many frustrated drunks having to wait for cabs. Wait only at ranks that have a security guard. Stay to the well-lit busy streets and never venture off alone, especially down back-streets or far away from a crowd. Especially for women, it is recommended to travel in pairs or groups to avoid any unwanted attention from drunken revellers, especially in the early hours of the morning. Suburban pubs: generally less safe than inner-city pubs, bars and clubs due to less police and security. Drunks can be a hassle when in the vicinity of suburban pubs, especially around closing times. Fights in these venues are common.

Emergency numbers

Throughout Australia, the number for emergency services (Police, Fire and Ambulance) is 000. When using a mobile or cell phone, the numbers 000 and 112 are free of charge, and connect using any of the available networks. Emergency numbers such as 911 and 999 do not work within Australia.

Go next

Brisbane provides a base for day trips to explore the southeast of Queensland. The North Coast of New South Wales can also be reached in an hour if traffic is light, but allow up to two hours travel if traffic is heavy or there is an accident on the Pacific Motorway. Queensland Rail also provides extensive services out of Brisbane to the north and south of the city and to the Gold Coast. Northwest of Brisbane:

Samford Valley – about 30 mins drive north west of Brisbane CBD. A beautiful rural valley with a historic hamlet, Samford Village. A great day trip for the family. North of Brisbane:

Glass House Mountains – about an hour north of Brisbane. There is a scenic drive through the mountains with a couple of lookouts, or you can go for a hike - easy or difficult, depending on the mountain. (Mount Beerwah offers a stern but quick scramble and a good view of the area.) There are a few small roadside shops in the area that sell homemade jams and varieties of macadamia nuts. Beerwah – home of the Australia Zoo, run by the family of the late "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin. Admission is $57 for adults. Sunshine Coast – 90 minutes north of Brisbane, suitable for surfers without the clutter of the more famous beaches to the south. The city of Noosa and several derivatively-named cities (e.g., Noosa Heads, Noosaville) offer short and long-term accommodation, some restaurants and a few stretches of shops aimed at tourists with and without a budget. Sunshine Coast Hinterland – 90 minutes north of Brisbane. Crafts and galleries and cafes and lots of bushwalks and scenic views in the Blackall Ranges at Maleny, Montville, Flaxton and Mapleton. Eumundi – famous markets on Wednesday and Saturday. North Stradbroke Island and South Stradbroke Island – amazing beaches, 4WD and fishing, accommodation, all very close to Brisbane. Tangalooma on Moreton Island – Whilst located entirely within Brisbane - it's island location is unique to the city and a Holiday destination/neighbourhood in its own right due the need to access by scheduled boat. Dive and snorkel Tangalooma Wrecks, go sand tobogganing, 4wd safaris and day tours from Brisbane River to Tangalooma. K'gari – World Heritage listed site, offering pristine, unspoiled lakes, dunes, forests and wildlife. Camping is possible, or day-trips can be arranged from Noosa. World's largest sand island. Redcliffe – This peninsula located 45 minutes north is famous for its long stretch of beach, friendly locals and excellent food, shops and weather. South of Brisbane:

More pictures of Brisbane

From this destination's category on Wikimedia Commons. Each photograph is credited to its own author under its own licence.