Best Things To Do in Brisbane

A visit to Brisbane is synonymous with sunbathing on the shores of paradisiacal beaches, tasting delicious local wines, meeting Aboriginal people and unwinding in the vastness of the rainforests.

Ana Caballero

Ana Caballero

13 min read

Best Things To Do in Brisbane

Brisbane | Broderick

Brisbane is a magical destination, located on Australia's Blue Coast. It is known for its paradisiacal beaches, family-friendly entertainment, adrenaline-filled getaways and outdoor activities. It's definitely a destination worth visiting, with its relaxed atmosphere and warm climate, it's sure to give you the best holiday ever. It is an ideal city for those who enjoy wine tasting, water parks and cruises.

The most recommended months to visit are from November to March. In general, it has good weather all year round, allowing you to pack light. However, from April to June tropical storms hamper outdoor plans. As a recommendation, I'd say it's a city to spend at least 5 days wandering the streets and taking advantage of the best local excursions.

1. Walk the streets of Brisbane

Brisbane Botanical Gardens| ©Shannon McCrory
Brisbane Botanical Gardens| ©Shannon McCrory

Brisbane is a huge city, so it's a good idea to find the best way to get around. If you want to enjoy every corner at your own pace, you can take advantage of the best local tours. There are affordable options starting at 15 euros, which usually include a map and audio guide. It will take you approximately two hours to get to know this Australian city, and if you want to make unlimited stops, a pre-recorded guide will be your lifesaver.

This is the best option for getting to know the most emblematic local monuments, as well as soaking up their history. There are over 22 spaces with free WiFi in Brisbane, however I recommend downloading the guide beforehand so you can listen to the audio without any inconvenience.

Without a doubt, it's a tour that will connect you with fascinating anecdotes. You will get to know Brisbane City Hall, also known as Brisbane City Hall. This building was built between 1920 and 1930 and is just three minutes away from the Shrine of Remembrance and St Sebastian's Cathedral. Other places I recommend you visit include:

  • The Brisbane Botanic Garden: it is a preservation space, where there are millenary trees bordering the river. Every Sunday there is the Riverside Market, which offers food stalls, crafts, clothing and more. From here you can enjoy a segway tour to explore the city in depth.
  • Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Buddhist Temple: in Brisbane there is an important representation of the Asian community, in this temple you can see fragments of this culture. It is notable for its walls, a museum of paintings, Chinese gardens and a room where you can make wishes.
  • Mount Coot-tha Viewpoint: Mount Coot-tha Viewpoint is located on a mountain at 287 metres above sea level. It is one of the most peaceful places, where you can enjoy the most impressive views of the city.

Book a self-guided tour

2. Attend Brisbane's Aboriginal Red Sand Spirits show

Streets of Brisbane| ©Steven Penton
Streets of Brisbane| ©Steven Penton

The most interesting part of a trip is to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. In Brisbane you can attend an Aboriginal show, which is performed in a travelling theatre. You can enjoy the cultural demonstrations, which showcase the lifestyle of a 19th century village. It usually lasts about an hour, and I promise you it's totally worth it.

The actors are descendants of real Aborigines, which makes this show even more special. You can find options from 74 euros, which usually include a traditional dinner after the show. You will witness songs, dances, rituals and feel part of the tribe as it is an interactive experience.

3. Abseil off the cliffs at Kangaroo Point in Brisbane

Kangaroo Point Cliffs| ©fatalbeauty1956
Kangaroo Point Cliffs| ©fatalbeauty1956

Brisbane' s scenery is amazing from anywhere, but from the cliffs of suburban Kangaroo Point, you can get the best views. The city's best tours allow you to enjoy an adrenaline-fuelled experience, where you'll unwind for approximately two hours. It is advisable to do it with an expert guide for safety, who will give you all the instructions and explain how to descend.

No experience is necessary, but it is important to be in average physical condition. From 48 euros you can find options that take you to the heights, to enjoy the city from another perspective. As you descend, you'll see the river at your feet and Brisbane's towering skyscrapers.

Book an abseiling experience

4. Cruise or kayak around Brisbane

Kayak Day| ©eGuide Travel
Kayak Day| ©eGuide Travel

Brisbane's river is an amazing river trip, where you can admire the city from a completely different and enchanting perspective. You can enjoy its beauty on board one of the city's best cruises. It's certainly a peaceful and entertaining plan, far from the crowds and bustle that surrounds the tourist areas. In addition, these types of tours usually provide maps, so you can see where you are in real time.

If you're more adventurous, you can take a kayak tour, either by day or night. The best time will depend on what you want to see, with night tours featuring the lights of skyscrapers and the hustle and bustle of the city. On the other hand, in broad daylight it is easier to appreciate the monuments and enjoy the calm.

Either way, as the tour progresses, the guide will make stops for you to appreciate the monuments and learn a little about their history. It's a safe activity, as you'll be provided with the essential safety equipment, such as a life jacket. It's a great plan if you're travelling with friends or family, as it's designed for small groups. Brisbane 's best tours have a range of options from 47 euros.

Book a kayak tour

5. Brisbane's Story Bridge

Story Bridge| ©Robyn Lombardo
Story Bridge| ©Robyn Lombardo

Most of Brisbane's activities focus on adrenaline-filled adventures. That's because Australians are friendly, fun-loving and enjoy trying new things. On the Story Bridge you can admire the breathtaking scenery, as it has 360° views of the entire city. It crosses the city's river, so it has become a tourist destination par excellence.

You can climb to the top on your own, or book an adventure-filled climb. There are options from 80 euros, ideal for small groups. When it comes to risky activities, it's best to prioritise the quality of the experience. The best tours from Brisbane usually offer an experienced guide as well as an audio guide. This way, you'll enjoy autonomy but with professional advice. In addition, you'll get a glimpse of iconic locations such as Glass House Mountain, Moreton Island and Lamington National Park. The minimum age is 6 years old and it can be done day or night.

Book an adventure climbing experience

6. Visit Sea World at Main Beach

Sea World Spectacular| ©Jeremy Thompson
Sea World Spectacular| ©Jeremy Thompson

Brisbane is no short of water adventures, in fact many people take advantage of the good local weather to visit Sea World. Sea World is a themed amusement park located on Main Beach. It's about an hour's drive from the city centre, but it's totally worth it. There are options for all ages, so adults and children alike will have a great time. This family-friendly activity allows you to explore different areas focusing on marine species.

The entrance fee starts from 62 euros and allows you to explore all the facilities. Here you will learn about life, conservation, feeding and other interesting facts about the animals. Some options allow you to skip the queues, as it is a very busy attraction. The park is open from Monday to Sunday, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

7. Have fun at the Wet'n'Wild water park in Oxenford

Wet'n'Wild entrance| ©eGuide Travel
Wet'n'Wild entrance| ©eGuide Travel

Another water park you can enjoy near Brisbane is Wet'n Wild in Oxenford. It's located less than an hour away, so it's quite accessible. It is a unique experience with attractions for the whole family. It has around 40 slides and is one of the largest parks in Australia. It has a farm, where you can interact with exotic Australian animals, such as emus and kangaroos.

The main attraction is The Tornado, famous for the sensations it produces. You'll fall from a height of about 40 metres, with adrenaline pumping through your veins. If you like twists and turns and slides, you can line up at the Kamikaze and AquaLoop rides. On the other hand, if you want to slide at 40 kilometres per hour, then Kaboom! is the best option. There is also a children's area, known as Buccaneer Bay. I invite you to live this experience, you can find tickets from 61 euros.

Buy tickets for Wet'n'Wild

8. Experience an adrenaline rush on Brisbane's beaches

Brisbane Beach| ©brewbooks
Brisbane Beach| ©brewbooks

Brisbane is surrounded by breathtaking bays, whose beaches will blow your mind. The best excursions from the city take you to experience all the activities that these paradisiacal destinations have to offer. For example, you can explore Moreton Island, located an hour away. Here you can spend an unforgettable day and take advantage of the adventure attractions.

You can go kayaking or snorkelling and explore the deep sea. The best way to get there is by ferry, so it's best to book an experience that includes transfers. The sun in Australia is very strong, so if you plan to relax on the beach, buy a high coverage Australian sunscreen. This way, you'll be able to enjoy the paradisiacal surroundings and tour the Tangalooma Island Resort.

You'll find options from 74 euros, ideal for exploring this island that was once inhabited by Aboriginal communities. Here the sunsets are breathtaking and there is a variety of animals, such as dugongs.

Book an excursion to Moreton Island

9. Visit the Tangalooma Island Eco Centre Resort from Brisbane

Tangalooma Island Resort| ©Andy Mac
Tangalooma Island Resort| ©Andy Mac

Tangalooma Island Resort is a resort located on Moreton Island, where you can enjoy an exotic experience surrounded by the beauty of the sea and mountains. It offers a variety of water activities and a rich biodiversity that is well worth a look.

Please note that children must be over 6 years old to snorkel, and at least 10 years old to ride a quad bike.

Dolphin feeding from a cruise ship at Tangalooma Island Resort

If you're an animal lover, you definitely need to take advantage of a dolphin feeding cruise. This usually takes place at Tangalooma Island Resort. Here you can get as close as possible to these friendly cetaceans and, while feeding the dolphins, hear fascinating stories about the Quandamooka Aboriginal people. This is a community that inhabited the island for thousands of years.

Take a cruise to Tangalooma Island Resort from Brisbane

To make the most of the best Brisbane cruises, you have to enjoy a trip to the Tangalooma Island Resort. Here you can visit the Eco Centre, a marine life education centre, take a 4WD beach safari in the region's dunes, explore shipwrecks or venture out to sea beyond the shipwreck limit.

Book a cruise to Tangalooma Island Resort from Brisbane

10. Explore Australian winemaking at Gold Coast wineries from Brisbane

Enjoying the Wine| ©USDA China
Enjoying the Wine| ©USDA China

Viticulture is very important in Australia, in fact it was first practised in 1788. Its grapes are exported to many parts of the world, so during your time in Brisbane you'll want to stop by the local wineries. The best place to learn about grape production is the Gold Coast, whose vineyards are located about an hour from the city. They offer some of the best local tours, ideal for small groups.

You'll need to spend at least eight hours on this activity to taste a variety of wines and learn about local winemaking. Generally, this type of tour starts at 131 euros and is usually accompanied by cheese tasting, traditional sweets and a tasty lunch. I recommend booking a tour that includes transfers, although Greyhound Australia's Greyhound bus and Translink tram, connect perfectly with the area.

Book a Gold Coast Winery Tour

11. Escape to Moreton Island from Brisbane

Moreton Blue Lagoon| ©Halans
Moreton Blue Lagoon| ©Halans

Feeling the sun and wind against your skin is one of the best holiday feelings, especially in warm cities like Brisbane. I invite you to put your worries on the back burner and enjoy the crystal clear waters of Moreton Island. There are many local excursions ideal for exploring this island, but the choice will depend on what you want to do.

Some focus on spotting whales and dolphins, while a leisurely getaway allows you to lounge on sun loungers and join quad biking, kayaking or sandboarding tours. If you go on an organised adventure you'll have around 11 hours, so you'll be left to enjoy the sunset. You can also surf the calm waters, and even enjoy iconic anecdotes told by local guides. You can find this type of excursion from 105 euros. If you prefer, you can go on your own to arrange a more personalised itinerary to suit your needs.

This bay is famous for its huge dunes, as well as water activities that take you to explore unique coral reefs. So take advantage of a diving trip to Moreton Island from Brisbane to experience the marine biodiversity.

Book a trip to Moreton Island

12. Taste the most delicious Australian wines in Tambourine from Brisbane

Tambourine| ©Andy Mac
Tambourine| ©Andy Mac

Among the most important Australian areas close to Brisbane are the award-winning wineries of Tambourine. It's a location known for its variety of wine flavours, as well as offering some of the best local tours. This beautiful valley, located an hour from the city, offers rewarding wine tasting experiences on beautiful walking trails. Other spirits such as vodka, beer and schnapps are also produced here, all of which are handcrafted.

I recommend setting aside at least 8 hours to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities and see every corner of the postcard-perfect scenery. They are also famous for the friendliness of the locals, who will be happy to provide you with information about wine production. If you just want to enjoy yourself, you can book a guided experience from 123 euros. Please note that in Australia you must be over eighteen years of age to take part in this type of activity.

Book the Tambourin Wine Tour

13. Visit the picturesque Sunshine Coast Hinterland and Noosa towns from Brisbane

Sunshine Coast Hinterland| ©Wayne Williams
Sunshine Coast Hinterland| ©Wayne Williams

If you still have time to explore Australia, take advantage of the best tours from Brisbane to visit iconic towns. For example, take the opportunity to visit the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, a subtropical area dominated by nature, wildlife and the beautiful beaches of Noosa surrounded by rainforest. It's the perfect destination for outdoor activities as well as koalas and kangaroos.

The main advantage of visiting Brisbane is that you can take advantage of quick getaways to explore the surrounding area. This way, while staying in one of **Australia'**s best cities, you optimise your time and get the most out of your itinerary. Getting to the most picturesque towns in the outback takes between one and two hours, depending on the type of transport you choose. You can organise this tour on your own, or book a guided experience from 85 euros which will allow you to:

  • Visit the artistic village of Montville, famous for its old-fashioned atmosphere with a variety of craft shops and quaint cafes.
  • Visit the Aboriginal village of Yandina, with a variety of stories and a rich cultural heritage, a product of its antiquity.
  • Tour Australia's largest open-air market, known as Eumundi Markets with massage parlours, live entertainment, shops of all kinds and art displays.
  • Take a dip at Noosa Beach, also known as Noosa National Park. It offers the best panoramic views in the area and is surrounded by water activities as well as cultural shows.
  • Explore The Ginger Factory, a popular attraction where you can play games, sample locally produced desserts and go behind the scenes with interactive tours. For example, you can take a boat ride, as well as ride the historic gingerbread train, which is over 100 years old. I also recommend taking advantage of the children's areas, entering the gingerbread village and tastings in the factory.

Book a tour to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland and Noosa

14. Venture to the rainforests and Firefly Cave from Brisbane

Firefly Cave| ©Multi Mexi
Firefly Cave| ©Multi Mexi

In Brisbane you can not only enjoy the beautiful beaches of Australia's Sunshine Coast, you can also venture into rainforest landscapes full of interesting secrets. The best local hikes take you to the Scenic Rim, whose trails allow you to breathe in the fresh air. It's about an hour away, but its natural beauty is totally worth it. You can venture out on your own by taking the Translink, or book a guided experience from 111 euros.

If it's your first time in Australia or you just want to enjoy yourself without any precautions, a guide is the best way to go. Here you can visit the Glow Worm Caves, a natural heritage site, where you'll witness the light show. It is an artificial ecosystem, which emulates the conditions necessary for the preservation of these glow worms. Additionally, I recommend spending at least 9 hours in the rainforest to visit:

  • Tamborine Mountain: a beautiful mountain, surrounded by trails, waterfalls and the Gallery Walk wine cellars.
  • Curtis Falls: this is an amazing waterfall, surrounded by lush forests, where there is a variety of species among the branches of the trees.
  • Springbrook National Park: part of the Gondwana Rainforests, where you can see plants that have been around since the time of the dinosaurs, look for volcanoes and hike the trails.
  • Canungra Village: if you are willing to climb to the top of the mountain, you can visit this picturesque village surrounded by volcanoes and wine cellars.

Book an excursion to rainforests and the Firefly Cave

15. Get into the wilderness of North Stradbroke Island from Brisbane

North Stradbroke Island| ©New Matilda
North Stradbroke Island| ©New Matilda

Another natural attraction near Brisbane, escape to explore Australia' s hidden gems. About an hour away is North Stradbroke Island, an island famous for its outdoor activities. Here you can spot dolphins, whales, kangaroos and koalas while recharging your batteries. This location fuses the best of the beach with the paradisiacal rainforest scenery.

I advise you to take advantage of the best tours from Brisbane and opt for a small group option. This way, the experience will be personalised and more private. There are a variety of tours from 79 euros, which will allow you to see a variety of locations, among them:

  • Brown Lake: a coastal ecosystem, where you can lie back and take in the scenery. It is noted for its tea trees, a heritage of the local flora.
  • Cylinder Beach: it is one of the best beaches for children, besides, different cetaceans usually approach, so you can be lucky and take a good picture.

Book a tour to North Stradbroke Island