If you ask an Aussie, “What is Brisbane like?”, they will probably chuckle with delight or give a wistful smile and say, “Ah, Brisse is a cracker, you will love it there!” 

And rightly so. With its year-round sunshine, waterfront landscape featuring riverside trails, award-winning restaurants, and vibrant art scenes, Brisbane has a unique charm that draws in both locals and tourists alike. Unlike Sydney and Melbourne, which are known for their moody vibes and vibrant energy, this sunny capital of Queensland has a laid-back charm and feels open, friendly and wonderfully relaxing.  

Brisbane is a pretty relaxing place to be, even if you are in the mood for a local pastime. Add to that the countless things to do in Brisbane that will keep you occupied throughout your stay.  

For Australians, Brisbane is a huge part of their history and heart. Before the skyscrapers, Brisbane was home to the Yugara, Quandamooka and Turrbal Aboriginal tribes, who called the city “Meanjin”, a place shaped like a spike. The local heritage continues to shape the city’s identity today. After their displacement, Brisbane was established as a British penal colony and later as the capital of the separate British colony of Queensland. The city was freely settled in 1842, and through its art and architecture, tells the story of the events that unfolded during the years.  

Best Things to Do in Brisbane 

Done with the chronicle of history, let us take a look at the best things to see and do in Brisbane.

• Story Bridge Views 
• Whale Watching in Brisbane’s Moreton Bay 
• Kayaking, Snorkelling and Sandboarding on Moreton Island 
• Retail Therapy at Queen Street Mall 
• Town Hall 
• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary 
• Unwind at Rooftop Bars and Riverside Dining Spots  

Story Bridge Views 

Among the top tourist attractions in Brisbane, the Story Bridge provides the most spectacular views of the city. The steel structure provides an incredible bird's eye view of the City, the distant mountain ranges and Kangaroo Point. Views from the Stony Bridge are some of the bucket-list-worthy moments, especially during sunset when the city turns a soft shade of gold. 

Whale Watching in Brisbane’s Moreton Bay 

If you are searching for something unforgettable to do in Brisbane, look no further than Whale Watching in Morton Bay. Each year, hundreds of humpback whales pass through the Bay between June and October, making Moreton Bay one of Australia’s best whale-watching locations. Morton Bay is just a short drive or ferry away from the main city and provides a stunning marine ground for whale watching and cruises.  

Kayaking, Snorkelling and Sandboarding on Moreton Island 

Besides whale watching, Moreton Island is a thrilling venue for adventurers. You can kayak and snorkel at the Tangalooma Wreaks, through coral reefs, sandboard on the dunes, and engage in countless other activities that offer the best options for outdoor activities near Brisbane. Make sure to book ahead of time, especially during peak season, from September through May. Several Brisbane tour packages allow you to book and include day trips to Moreton Island and customise your holiday as per the fun and relaxation you want to experience.  

Retail Therapy at Queen Street Mall 

For shopping lovers, the Queen Street Mall offers an excellent location. The open-air promenade features over 500 retailers and departmental stores selling everything from local wares to rich and international designs. But the Queen Street Mall is more than just a shopping district; it is a central social hub, often buzzing with live music, street performers, and pop-up markets. 

Town Hall 

As the city evolved, landmarks like the Brisbane City Hall, also known as the Town Hall, became a symbol of pride for the locals. Located adjacent to King George Square, the Town Hall was opened in 1930 and speaks of the story of the city’s evolution. The Brisbane City Hall has a distinctive Italian Renaissance-style architecture and a museum on the top floor. The clock tower and copper dome remain among the top attractions and places to visit in Brisbane.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary 

If you are looking for places to see in Brisbane that offer a true Australian experience, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary should top your list. It is one of the oldest and largest Koala sanctuaries in the country and allows visitors to come up close and cuddle with Koalas and watch native Australian species. You can also visit the free-range grounds to hand-feed kangaroos, and spot wombats, dingoes, and platypuses. It is easily one of the most family-friendly things to do in Brisbane. 

Unwind at Rooftop Bars and Riverside Dining Spots  

Brisbane is bustling with cafes and restaurants that offer one-of-a-kind gastronomic experiences. Many of these restaurants are run by award-winning chefs, connoisseurs, cocktail mixologists and chefs who have worked at leading Michelin-starred restaurants across the world. Whether you want to grab a cuppa or plan to surprise your better half with a cosy dinner date at a riverside restaurant, Brisbane rarely disappoints.  

Riverbar & Kitchen 

Ambient with river views and al-fresco dining. 

Where: 71 Eagle St, Brisbane City, QLD 4000 

Tuck Into Eats: Spanner Crab Spaghetti, Chargrilled Cauliflower, Tiger Prawns with Spicy Cocktail Sauce, Rome Away From Rome, Cocktail jugs with Cherry Pie, with Sailor Jerry and Rosé 

The Terrace Rooftop Bar 

Known for its luxury with jaw-dropping views across the Brisbane River. 

Where: Emporium Hotel South Bank, Level 21/267 Grey St, South Brisbane 

Tuck Into Eats: Cucina Regina, Black Hide Steak & Seafood, Lúc Lắc, gourmet bites and signature cocktails 

Fiume 

Enjoy spectacular views, Italian cuisine with a twist, colourful share-style bites and contemporary dishes. 

Where: Level 3/5 Boundary St, Brisbane City 

Tuck Into Eats: Rooftop Ruby, Miss Rosa, Natural Oysters, Baked Sourdough Cobs, Burrata, Wagyu pastrami plate 

Soko Rooftop Restaurant 

Contemporary and vintage appeal with Amazonian-themed decor. 

Where: Above Jubilee Hotel, Fortitude Valley 

Tuck Into Eats: A La Carte menu inspired by Peruvian-Japanese cooking. Enjoy a plate of signature ceviches, pork katsu bao buns, Genghis Chicken Yakitori and Shiitake Mushrooms 

Mary Mae’s

Sun-drenched terrace, all-day dining with a relaxed atmosphere. 

Where: 119 Lamington St, New Farm 

Tuck Into Eats: Beef Brisket Tortillas, Eggs Bunny, Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Oyster Po'Boy Sliders, and Calamari, Tuna Heirloom Grain Salad with Pomegranate with Kale and Almond 

Best Time to Visit 

Brisbane has a humid subtropical climate tempered by cool sea breezes. The best time to visit Brisbane is from March to May or September to November.  

• Spring (September to November) is one of the best times to visit Brisbane. You will see the city streets come alive with Jacaranda trees. The mildly sunny days and comfortable temperatures make for an ideal time for outdoor activities and water adventures.  

• Summer (December to February) is fairly hot and humid, and there may be occasional afternoon storms.    

• Winters (June to August) in Brisbane are mild and dry, with clear mornings, cool nights, which makes the city ideal for exploring without the consistent heat. 

No matter when you plan to go, you will always find something to do in Brisbane thanks to its outdoor-friendly vibe.  

Know This Before You Go 

• Brisbane experiences around 280 to 300 days of sunshine, which makes the city ideal for outdoor activities, riverside walks, parks and exploring the suburbs throughout the year. 

Quick Tip: Stay sun-safe, carry sun protection and drink plenty of water, especially when exploring the city's open-air lifestyle 

• Some of the best spots to see Jacarandas are the New Farm Park, City Botanic Gardens, Wilson Outlook Reserve, The University of Queensland and Taylor Bridge Reserve if you are up for an idyllic riverside escape and a suburb dappled with a soft, whimsical backdrop. 

• People of Briggs are big on enjoying green spaces. Since the city sits along the Brisbane River, you will have quick access to nature spots, riverfronts, rainforests, caves, and so much more. 

• The Central Business District (CBD) is neatly organised along the Brisbane River. So is the open-air market precinct Eat Street Northshore, which is best for street food in the city.  

• September kicks off with major events and festivities, including Brisbane Festival and BIGSOUND Festival, Night Feast and Melt in October and November. 

• Some local restaurants and cafes may be closed on Mondays. You may want to confirm on the very day. 

• The famous Aussie dessert, Lamington, was first made in Brisbane. 

• If you plan to utilise the city’s extensive transportation network, you can check Translink for schedules, delays and fares. 

Whether you are chasing sunshine, adventure, or just looking for a laid-back holiday, Brisbane is a great place to be. Unlike the other metropolises, the city of Brisbane is not chocca and greets with open skies and sweet smiles.  

FAQs 

Q1. Why do locals call Brisbane “Brissie”, and why does it sound so casual? 

Because that’s the Brisbane way! Locals shorten almost every word, say “Brissie,” “arvo,” “brekkie.” It reflects the city’s easygoing character. Brisbane is Australia’s big city with small-town friendliness i.e. where strangers still chat at bus stops and baristas remember your coffee order. 

Q2. Can you really cuddle a koala here, legally? 

Queensland is one of the few states in Australia where it’s legal. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world’s oldest koala sanctuary, lets you hold one (briefly) for a photo, but it’s carefully supervised to protect the animals. Locals recommend visiting early morning when the koalas are awake and the park is calm. 

Q3. What’s Brisbane’s most underrated adventure? 

Climbing the Story Bridge. Few tourists realise you can actually climb it - safely harnessed, with panoramic views from the top. At dusk, the city lights up beneath you, and you can see as far as the Glass House Mountains. For locals, it’s a rite of passage, and for visitors, a memory that sticks forever.

Q4. What’s something locals do that most tourists miss? 

They catch a ferry, not just for transport, but for fun. The CityCat ferries glide up and down the Brisbane River, offering a breezy, scenic ride through the heart of the city for the price of a bus ticket. Locals love doing a full loop at sunset with takeaway fish tacos - it’s Brisbane’s best-kept budget “cruise.” 

Q5. Is there really a secret rooftop planetarium view in the city? 

You’ll find it at the Mount Coot-tha Lookout, where the Brisbane Planetarium is nearby. After dark, the lookout gives a sweeping city panorama, while the planetarium hosts stargazing nights. Locals often drive up late, grab a coffee from the 24-hour café, and watch the constellations that guided the Turrbal people long before skyscrapers appeared.