Brisbane holidays

Mild winters and tropical summers make this city famous for outdoor living. Plan to pack light on your holiday to Brisbane. The city boasts countless alfresco dining spots, ample green spaces and more than 280 days of annual sunshine. Hike scenic trails at Mt Coot-tha, chill out with a cool drink at Howard Smith Wharves or cruise out to Moreton Bay to glimpse whales, turtles and dolphins.

Your holiday to Brisbane will be a buffet of food and drink options, from waterfront seafood to rooftop happy hours. Sample street food from around the world at Eat Street Northshore or savour a cool beer and epic sunset at Felons Brewing Co. overlooking the river. Come hungry and leave happy — Brisbane's dining scene won’t disappoint.

Tucked between the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast, Brisbane is within easy reach of natural wonders, including some dazzling national parks. Venture to the Scenic Rim for breathtaking landscapes, fresh produce and Australian wine. Or explore the Sunshine Coast hinterland for rainforest strolls and quaint markets. In this part of Queensland, hiring a car is a no-brainer.

One of the best areas to stay in Brisbane, South Bank is a riverside paradise and traveller’s delight. Brimming with greenery, gastronomy and glistening city views, it’s the perfect launchpad for your Brisbane adventures. Check out the lineup at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC). Shoppers should stroll across the bridge to the Central Business District (CBD) for a spot of retail therapy, or attempt to decide which of the seemingly endless restaurants to try next.

Good for: Riverside walks, dining, performing arts

‘The Valley’, as locals call it, is the gritty heart of Brisbane’s nightlife scene. When it comes to filling your belly, you’ll find everything from cheap Chinatown bites to upscale dining experiences. It’s one of the best areas to stay in Brisbane for foodies, night owls and culture seekers. Sip artisan coffee by day or dance the night away.

Good for: Clubs, restaurants, entertainment

Brunch lovers rejoice, New Farm is Brisbane’s cafe capital, the quieter flipside to The Valley’s neighbouring bustle. In this riverside enclave, leafy parks brush shoulders with gourmet delights and funky shops, and locals are always out parading their pooches. Jump on the free CityHopper ferry at the Sydney Street terminal for a quick ride up the river to all the excitement of the CBD and beyond. 

Good for: Coffee, parks, shopping

Holidays to Brisbane come with a bonus: some of the world’s best beaches. To get to the beaches near Brisbane, hire a car or hop on an express train and head south to the Gold Coast where you’ll find perfect waves and pure sands that stretch away forever. Drive north for an hour to family-friendly Bribie Island or keep going to the gorgeous beaches of Mooloolaba and Noosa.

Folks with an appetite for retail therapy won’t be disappointed by the shopping in Brisbane. Wander Queen Street Mall to splurge on designer fashion or explore the boutique-lined streets of Paddington for antique treasures. And remember, a Brisbane weekend market is never too far away – they're perfect for snagging fun keepsakes and local crafts.

This city isn’t just sunshine and scenery; it’s a cultural treasure trove. The museums in Brisbane feature fascinating history and art. Discover the marvels of nature at the Queensland Museum, or be dazzled by contemporary creations at the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA). And don’t forget The Old Windmill at Spring Hill, which is older than the city itself.

No matter what you’re hungry for, you’ll find a restaurant in Brisbane to satisfy every craving. Chinatown in Fortitude Valley turns up the heat with sizzling Asian cuisine. West End serves craft beer and pub delights that’ll hit the spot. Or if you feel like something unique, don’t miss Gasworks in Newstead, a hub for new and trendy dining options.

The nightlife in Brisbane has options for all kinds of after-dark adventures. Hit up Fortitude Valley for thumping beats and neon streets. Fancy a classy sip? Eagle Street Pier's chic bars serve views with their cocktails. For live music lovers, the Triffid in Newstead has a calendar packed with local talent and world-class artists.

Finding free things to do in Brisbane is a breeze. At South Bank’s Streets Beach, your only expense will be sunscreen. Dive into culture with free exhibits at Queensland Museum and GOMA. And for a lush and wallet-friendly escape, bask in the Southern Hemisphere's largest subtropical city gardens, Roma Street Parklands.