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Brisbane, the capital of Queensland and Australia’s third-largest city, wasn’t even on my radar the first time I came to Australia. It took a job offer to get me there, and at first, it just looked like a pleasant town with palm trees, a few tall buildings and a river. So, is Brisbane worth visiting?
After more than a decade living here and showing countless visitors around, my answer is: yes – but with some caveats. Here’s what I mean.
Why I sometimes say Brisbane is not worth visiting
Don’t get me wrong; I love living in Brisbane. It’s relaxed, green, and easy-going. When I ask the question, “Is Brisbane worth visiting?” I am not judging the city itself and our lifestyle there. Visiting a place and living in it are two different things. And when you’re planning a trip to Australia, time is often tight, so you want the “wow” factor and some bucket list items.
If you only have a few days in the country, I’d recommend other places first – like Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef, K’gari, Tasmania and of course Sydney. For me, Australia is all about stunning nature and fascinating Aboriginal history. Brisbane does have a few museums, but apart from South Bank and the cliffs at Kangaroo Point, if you don’t have time to explore the bay or South East Queensland, Brisbane doesn’t feel particularly scenic as a city. I found Sydney a lot more scenic and interesting for travelling (see my Sydney vs Brisbane article).
When Brisbane is worth visiting
That said, Brisbane becomes a great place to visit when you give it enough time, or use it as a base to explore the region. If you prefer to unpack once and avoid moving around too much, staying in Brisbane (see tips here) and planning day trips is a smart move. It’s a good option if you’re travelling as a couple or family and want flexibility.
Here’s what makes Brisbane worth visiting:
- It has a nice, relaxed vibe with a few busy places for enjoying brunch and evenings outside.
- It’s perfectly located between the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.
- One day, you are admiring beautiful corals at Flinders Reef or Cook Island, and the next day, you are chasing waterfalls in the Springbrook National Park rainforest. You can spend the day in the wild on Mulgumpin (Moreton Island), one of the world’s largest sand islands, or explore villages in the countryside of the Sunshine Coast hinterland. And the stunning Minjerribah (Stradbroke Island) may be the highlight of your stay in Brisbane, unless you prefer the museums and art galleries at South Bank. You can even find koalas in Brisbane.
- Winter is mild and sunny – ideal when the southern parts of Australia are cold.
What to do in Brisbane
Here’s the itinerary I share with overseas friends. Every single one of them said Brisbane was worth visiting – but we always included day trips to explore the region.
Is it raining? Have a look at this list of things to do in Brisbane on a rainy day!
Explore the city on foot or by ferry
Start from the CBD, walk down Queen Street, and stop by Queen’s Wharf, Brisbane’s newest entertainment precinct. Head up to the Skydeck for free city views, then cross the pedestrian bridge to South Bank.
Relax by the lagoon with city views, then hop on a CityCat ferry to Riverside. From there, stroll along the river through the Botanic Gardens, and if you can, grab a free ticket to go up the Brisbane City Hall clock tower for another great view.
If you feel like more walking, head towards the Story Bridge and follow the Riverwalk to New Farm. Make sure you look back at the great views of the Story Bridge with the City behind it. The New Farm Park is a great place to chill. Have a look at what’s on at the Powerhouse, as they sometimes have good shows and exhibitions. You can then catch a boat or a bus back to the city.
If you’re up for more, head to the Story Bridge (Howard Smith Wharves are great for a drink or food). You can continue all the way to New Farm via the Riverwalk, chill at New Farm Park, and see what’s on at the Powerhouse. If you’re visiting on a weekend, the ferry will take you all the way to Eat Street for dinner and entertainment.
Not a fan of walking? Hire a Beam or Lime e-scooter; they’re everywhere.
New to Beam? You can download their app here and use the referral code ydXTF (it’s case-sensitive). We’ll both get free credits!
New to Lime? Register here or use the coupon code RJARISMYS5J, and we’ll both get $7 credit.
Discounts to move around Brisbane on an e-scooter or e-bike
Enjoy Brisbane at night
This loop is just as good after dark. The city lights reflected in the river are beautiful. Stop at Howard Smith Wharves under the Story Bridge for a drink with a view, and don’t miss the lookout on Bowen Terrace for night photography. If you’re visiting during the weekend, the ferry can take you to Eat Street for a variety of food and entertainment options.
Sunset and climbing at Kangaroo Point
Kangaroo Point is one of the best spots in Brisbane to watch the sunset. Locals head there with a picnic or BBQ.
It’s also a popular outdoor climbing spot, with bolted routes along the 20m cliffs just across the river from the CBD.
Scared of heights? I know the feeling! Check out how I overcome my fear of heights.
Get a bird’s eye view from Mount Coot-Tha
You can either hike or take a bus (timetable here) or car to Mount Coot-Tha lookout. The Brisbane Botanic Gardens at the base of the hill are my favourite gardens in the city, less crowded and more diverse than the CBD ones.
From the top, you’ll get a sweeping view of Brisbane that helps put the whole city in perspective.
Shopping or casino?
I don’t shop or gamble, so this isn’t where I usually spend time in Brisbane. But if it’s yours, Queen Street Mall has all the big brands, and the Queen’s Wharf casino is shiny and new. I only go there for the Skydeck views!
Preparing a trip to Brisbane? Check out these tips about where to stay in Brisbane.
When is the best time to visit Brisbane?
Brisbane’s weather is a big drawcard.
- Spring (Sept – Nov) and Autumn (April – May) are my favourite seasons
- Winter (June – August) is sunny and dry, perfect for hiking and day trips
- I’d avoid late summer (Nov – March) as it can be hot, humid and stormy
If you can time your visit for late September, you’ll get:
- Warmer days
- The Brisbane Festival with fireworks, drone shows and free art shows
- The start of jacaranda season, painting the city purple!
So, is Brisbane worth visiting?
If you’re after dramatic landscapes or a classic Aussie road trip, Brisbane may not blow you away at first glance. But if you give it a chance or use it as a gateway to explore Southeast Queensland, it’s absolutely worth a spot on your itinerary.
You might just fall for its laid-back charm, sunny weather, and easy access to rainforest, reefs and islands.
Have you been to Brisbane? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Where is Brisbane?
Brisbane is the second biggest city on Australia’s East Coast. It is around 900km north of Sydney.
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