Australia & Pacific · Australia
Brisbane Travel Guide
Brisbane is Australia's sunniest state capital — a riverside city of outdoor dining, cultural precincts, and easy access to the Gold Coast beaches and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. It's more relaxed than Sydney and Melbourne but no less rewarding.
How Do You Get to the City?
Shuttle from Portside Wharf (20 min) or City Cat ferry from Hamilton Wharf. Taxi about $30 AUD.
What Can You See in 6 Hours?
South Bank — Man-made beach, pools, GOMA, and riverside dining. The cultural heart of Brisbane. All free.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary — Cuddle koalas and feed kangaroos. 30 min from CBD by bus 430 or City Cat. $49 AUD.
City Cat river cruise — Take the ferry along the Brisbane River for a scenic tour of the city.
Brisbane Botanic Gardens — Tropical gardens at Mount Coot-tha with panoramic views from the lookout.
Where Should You Eat?
Moreton Bay bugs: A type of slipper lobster unique to Queensland. Grilled with butter at any good seafood restaurant.
Smashed avo: Avocado on sourdough toast. An Australian brunch institution. Any Brisbane cafe.
Lamington: Sponge cake coated in chocolate and desiccated coconut. Queensland's iconic cake.
Is Brisbane Worth Exploring Independently?
City Cat and buses make it easy. South Bank is excellent and free. Lone Pine is a highlight for animal lovers.
Useful Local Phrases
G'day
Hello
(guh-DAY)
No worries
You're welcome
(as written)
Brekkie
Breakfast (Aussie slang)
(BREK-ee)
Local Tips
- •South Bank has a man-made beach, pools, parklands, and GOMA (Gallery of Modern Art). All free.
- •Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world's oldest and largest. Hold a koala and feed kangaroos ($49 AUD). 30 min by bus.
- •Brisbane's City Cat ferries are a scenic way to travel along the river.
- •The Story Bridge Adventure Climb ($149 AUD) offers 360-degree city views.