Queensland’s riverside capital, with warm weather year-round and parklands along the Brisbane River; most museums and galleries are free and public transport costs a flat 50 cents.
Clear and mild — ideal for riverside walks, the bridge climb and day trips. source
Summer (December–February)
Cool off at Streets Beach, South Bank’s free man-made beach. source
Weather: Seasons are reversed: December–February is hot and humid. April–October is clear and mild, the most comfortable time; summer afternoons bring storms. source
Times to avoid: Streets Beach closes for maintenance for a period each winter; check before you go. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Brisbane
South Bank and Streets Beach A free man-made beach in the riverside parklands, patrolled by lifeguards. source
Queensland Museum Kurilpa Natural history and culture, including dinosaurs, free to enter (some exhibitions ticketed). source
QAGOMA Two galleries at South Bank where most collection displays are free. source
Story Bridge Adventure Climb A guided climb to the top of the steel bridge for views over the city. source
Where to stay in Brisbane
City (CBD)
The centre of shops, ferries, buses and trains.
South Bank
Across the river: parklands and the free museums and galleries.
What to eat in Brisbane
Moreton Bay Bugs — Queensland slipper lobster, like a small lobster
Queensland Prawns — Local prawns served chilled or grilled
Mud Crab — Queensland’s big mud crabs, in season
Brisbane tips and things to watch out for
Brisbane travel tips
Buses, trains, ferries and trams cost a flat 50 cents; the CityCat ferry makes a cheap river tour. source
Airport to city: the Airtrain reaches the city stations in about 20 minutes; the 50-cent fare does not apply to Airtrain. source
Good to know in Australia
In Sydney you can tap on and off public transport with a bank card or phone. Check the operator’s guidance in other cities. source
Tipping is not expected; leave one only for great service. source
Watch out for in Australia
At patrolled beaches, swim between the red and yellow flags and follow local signs and lifeguard advice. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Brisbane are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in Australia.
Brisbane attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.