Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and the starting point of the Queensland Pacific Coast Way. Don’t let its size intimidate you! Brisbane is a relaxed, vibrant, and cosmopolitan city with a true Aussie vibe. It’s full of art galleries, museums, parks, pubs, and countless activities to enjoy—plus it’s superbly connected by public transport.
Fall in love with the Brisbane lifestyle while also staying connected to nature. The mighty Brisbane River runs through the heart of the city, surrounded by hills and the stunning Springbrook and Tamborine National Parks. All of this makes Brisbane a perfect destination for outdoor adventures. If you’re looking to escape the buzz of city life and the Gold Coast, Moreton Island is your go-to spot for top-notch beaches and surfing close to Brisbane.
Lastly, Brisbane is the perfect place to rent a campervan and stock up before hitting the road. For context, we used Brisbane as our base for two weeks to prepare for our journey along the Queensland Pacific Coast Drive.
Brisbane is the capital of Queensland, also known as “The Sunshine State,” and sits along the Brisbane River in southeastern Queensland. The Queensland Pacific Coast Way officially starts here. On a map of Australia, Brisbane is located on the east coast, roughly midway up the continent.
Its location offers a milder climate compared to the tropical north of the state, with year-round temperatures between 16°C and 26°C. This weather is one of the many reasons Brisbane is considered one of the best cities to live in Australia.
Brisbane is home to over 2.5 million people, making it the third-largest city in Australia after Melbourne and Sydney.
Brisbane is home to over 2.5 million people, making it the third-largest city in Australia after Melbourne and Sydney.
When to Visit Brisbane
Unlike far northern Queensland, Brisbane enjoys a drier, sunnier (subtropical) climate, making it a great year-round destination.
That said, the best time to visit really depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you’re planning on water activities like surfing, snorkeling, or swimming, aim for the summer months—December to February.
If you’d prefer to enjoy the city’s attractions while avoiding peak tourist season, winter (June to September) is your best bet.
Finally, if you’re planning to explore the Queensland Pacific Coast Way over a few months, it’s wise to plan your trip so you arrive in Cairns before the Mango Winds in September or jellyfish season in October. So, for a two-month road trip, we recommend starting your journey in Brisbane in June or July.
We know that the subject of visas can be somewhat confusing, especially for India, where obtaining one is an essential requirement for entry. In the article on how to obtain an Australian visa step by step (coming soon) you have information on how to apply for one online for up to 5 years.
It’s essential to travel to Australia with comprehensive insurance. We were among the first to offer the popular 5% IATI discount, and you can now get it with Heymondo Travel Insurance as well. You can find more information about both companies through the links provided above, or you can access the discount directly using the buttons below (in both cases, you’ll see the reduced final price on their website):
You can fly internationally into either Brisbane or Cairns. There are no direct flights from Spain, so you’ll need to make at least one stop.
Get ready for long-haul travel, you’re going to the other side of the world. For example, the quickest route from Madrid to Brisbane takes about 15 hours, usually with a stopover in Dubai.
You can also get there by boat, but we’ll leave that for blogs dedicated purely to sailing.
Both Brisbane and Cairns are connected by direct flights from major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth. A flight from Sydney to Brisbane takes around 1.5 hours, while flights from Perth to either Cairns or Brisbane take about 4.5 hours.
If you’re considering a road trip, the highways are in excellent condition, making it entirely possible to drive to any point along the Queensland Pacific Coast Way. Driving from Sydney to Brisbane takes just under 10 hours. From Perth, it’s a serious journey—expect around 45 hours or three full days of driving.
Prefer public transport? Trains and buses are options too. From Sydney, the journey to Brisbane takes about 14 hours by bus or train. From Melbourne, expect around 29 hours. Coming from Perth, though? Unless you’re carrying lots of luggage and really dislike flying (how did you even get to Australia?), we wouldn’t recommend the bus—it takes over 80 hours, including stops. The train is a better alternative, getting you to Brisbane in only 40 hours.
Nowadays, finding hotels, guesthouses, or restaurants with free Wi-Fi is pretty common. However, there are still those who prefer (or need) to stay connected at all times.
That’s why we’ll show you how to get an eSIM Australia card with internet— now also available with unlimited data.
Just 15 minutes from the city center, you’ll find this green oasis tucked among the high-rises: the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at Mt. Coot-tha. These are Queensland’s premier subtropical botanic gardens—and an absolute must-visit.
Admission is free, and the gardens often host events and activities open to the public. For example, when we visited, there was a Japanese Cultural Day celebration.
But of course, the true highlight is the garden itself. Wander through lush displays of rainforest flora, Australian desert plants, towering bamboo groves, and a peaceful Japanese garden complete with bonsai trees.
Our recommendation? Pick up a map at the entrance and explore everything these beautiful gardens have to offer.
Located on the third floor of Brisbane City Hall, the Museum of Brisbane blends the city’s rich history with its contemporary arts scene. You’ll find both local and international exhibitions on display.
The museum’s mission is to share Brisbane’s culture and history through a variety of exhibits and events. And best of all? Admission is completely free—so there’s no excuse not to stop by and soak up some local culture.
Yes, you read that right—you can walk (or cycle!) right along the Brisbane River thanks to the floating wooden boardwalk that hugs part of the shoreline. The nearly 1-kilometer route starts at the historic Howard Smith Wharves in downtown Brisbane and stretches to the New Farm neighborhood.
It’s a must-do in Brisbane, offering a unique way to experience both the river and the city.
As Australia’s first and largest koala sanctuary, Lone Pine is home to over 100 koalas and more than 70 other native Australian species. You might spot kangaroos, wallabies, crocodiles, wombats, and more—but of course, the koalas are the stars.
Keep in mind: the sanctuary always prioritizes the welfare of its animals. So, if a koala seems uncomfortable during an encounter, the experience may be ended early.
Moreton Island is a beautiful and versatile getaway just 45 minutes by ferry from Brisbane. This tropical island is perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and cruising on crystal-clear waters—or simply relaxing on its white sandy beaches. Tempting, right?
But wait, there’s more! Here you can also snorkel around the iconic Tangalooma shipwrecks, go off-roading along the beaches, or (my personal favorite) try sandboarding down giant dunes at speeds of up to 60 km/h. It’s absolutely thrilling—a must-do while visiting Moreton Island.
If you’re itching to surf during your time in Brisbane, head to the Gold Coast. This beach city, often compared to Spain’s Benidorm, is located just under 1 hour and 20 minutes south of Brisbane by car. It’s world-famous among surfers, especially for the legendary “Surfers Paradise.”
With a name like that, you already know what to expect: perfect waves, sunshine all day, and soft sandy bottoms—no reef hazards here.
But the Gold Coast isn’t just about surfing. It’s also famous for its intricate canal system, lively nightlife, and theme parks (yep—there are three major ones!). It’s one of Queensland’s top leisure destinations, and one of Australia’s too.
Speaking of gems, Brisbane is also the gateway to iconic Byron Bay, less than a two-hour drive south. And what’s Byron Bay all about? This legendary coastal town marks the easternmost point of mainland Australia—Cape Byron—crowned by its iconic lighthouse.
Byron Bay is also a haven for surfers, with golden beaches perfect for catching waves—or catching sunsets (one of our favorites). The town hosts international festivals and has a laid-back, welcoming vibe that will make you feel right at home.
If you’re loving Byron’s free-spirited atmosphere, then don’t miss Nimbin—a quirky, colorful little town just 20 minutes north.
Hop aboard a giant 4×4 bus to Moreton Island—the world’s third-largest sand island—just a 45-minute ferry ride from Brisbane. Feel the thrill of racing along the beach while soaking in the island’s lush, tropical scenery.
This tour also includes the chance to join a snorkeling adventure at the famous Tangalooma shipwrecks. Here, coral grows on rusted iron, peaceful wobbegong sharks glide below, and vibrant schools of fish dart through the water.
After lunch (included in the price), the tour continues with a transparent kayak ride, offering a stunning view of the underwater world. And last but definitely not least, you’ll get to try sandboarding—or as we like to call it, dune surfing. It’s an unforgettable experience!
After the excitement of Moreton Island, this next excursion offers a more relaxed vibe—a scenic cruise along the Brisbane River. Peaceful, yes, but definitely not boring. You’ll be hooked by the guide’s engaging commentary, full of local insights.
The cruise passes by iconic landmarks like Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park and the South Bank. It’s the perfect way to explore downtown Brisbane while sitting back and enjoying the view—no walking shoes needed, haha.
This is one of our favorite tours—it explores the stunning Springbrook and Tamborine National Parks, both part of the UNESCO-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. That alone is worth the visit—but there’s so much more.
With limited group sizes and a full-day itinerary, this tour lets you fully experience the magic of these parks. Think: natural jungle pools, cascading waterfalls, glow worm-filled caves, and even treetop Sky Walks through the vibrant rainforest. Simply incredible!
Ever seen a massive bridge and thought, I want to climb that? Well, this tour makes it happen. Join a local guide and safely ascend the iconic Story Bridge for one of Brisbane’s most unique adventures.
From the 80-meter-high summit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the entire city. Pro tip: book the sunset climb for a golden-hour experience you won’t forget. Trust us, it’s breathtaking.
Escape for a day to peaceful North Stradbroke Island and follow an experienced guide on a scenic hike along the rugged coast to North Gorge. This route is perfect for wildlife spotting—keep your eyes open for kangaroos, dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles, and more.
And if the weather’s warm, we hope you packed your swimsuit—many of the island’s beaches are nearly deserted and perfect for a refreshing dip.
As always, we’ve got you covered with a curated selection of the best places to stay in Brisbane—so you don’t have to overthink it. And if you’re road-tripping by campervan, we’ve even included a few campsites (no complaints now!).
Our favorite budget accommodation is Mount Gravatt Guesthouse, thanks to its great location and very affordable price. It’s a cozy B&B-style hostel located just a 20-minute drive from downtown Brisbane and 40 minutes from the Gold Coast.
Public transport is a breeze, with a bus stop just 200 meters away. The guesthouse offers private rooms with shared bathrooms.
If you’re after a charming hotel with historical flair (the building dates back to 1912!), Edward Lodge is your spot. Located in the leafy New Farm neighborhood near the Brisbane River, it’s peaceful yet central.
We loved it for its proximity to shops, supermarkets, and public transport. The private rooms come with en-suite bathrooms, and there’s also a shared kitchen for guest use—a nice touch.
For a five-star experience, look no further than the Hotel South Bank. Located in the trendy South Bank neighborhood and just 400 meters from the lush South Bank Parklands, this hotel is all about comfort and indulgence.
The rooms are luxurious, the spa and pool are divine, and the hotel even includes a fitness center. What more could you ask for?
In addition to hotels, Brisbane offers several campsites and holiday parks where you can spend the night in your motorhome.
On one hand, if you’re looking for a comfortable night’s sleep for the whole family, Brisbane Holiday Village is a great choice.
On the other hand, if you’re on a budget but still want a hot shower, we recommend Stamford Showground, which offers special rates of AU$10 per person.
Our favorite, however, is the Scout Campsite at the Brisbane Marina. Unfortunately, this one isn’t always open to the public.
Finally, South Brisbane also has a couple of free campsites where you can spend a few nights relatively peacefully. Our pick was Hugh Muntz Park, although if your campervan is self-contained, you can also stay at Tully Memorial Park.
The best way to explore Brisbane and its surroundings is by public transport—whether by bus, metro, train, or ferry. Brisbane is well connected with a transport network that can even take you all the way to the Gold Coast. The easiest way to get started is by purchasing a Go Card at any store in the city, topping it up, and then using it on ferries, buses, or trains.
But there’s more. If you’d rather not deal with buying a Go Card, you can also use your credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express) and simply tap on when entering (and don’t forget to tap off when exiting) your chosen mode of transport. Just keep in mind that, at the time of writing, credit cards are not yet accepted on Brisbane ferries—but who knows, maybe they will be by the time you visit.
Lastly, as mentioned in our general guide to the Queensland Pacific Coast Way, you can organize your trip via public transport using the free mobile app MyTranslink.
Although we mostly explored Brisbane in our SUV, driving isn’t the best way to get around downtown. Aside from high fuel consumption, it’s also hard to find free parking.
That said, it’s not impossible—there are plenty of paid parking lots in the city center where you’re likely to find a spot.
If you’re traveling with your own vehicle, the best option is to leave it at your campsite or motel and use public transport to move around the city.
Brisbane is full of great places to eat, with food from practically every corner of the world. After spending more than two weeks living here, we’ve picked out some of our favorite spots and restaurants for you.
First, if you’re walking around downtown and suddenly get hungry, stroll through Eagle Street Pier to Burnett Lane, stop by Howard Smith Wharves, or check out King George Square. These areas are filled with restaurants, bars, cafés, and craft breweries—basically everything you could want.
If you’re looking for specific recommendations, here are some of our favorites. SOKO, located in Fortitude Valley, serves an unforgettable Japanese-Peruvian fusion. Craving Chinese? Donna Chang serves what we believe are Brisbane’s best pot stickers.
And finally, if you’re in the mood for traditional Australian fare, don’t miss the delicious meat pies and sausage rolls at Flor and Chocolate. Honestly, I’m getting hungry just thinking about them…
Queensland’s capital deserves this long post—and for good reason. With so many things to see and do, we couldn’t leave anything out. Its versatility means you can stay for as long as you like and still find something new to discover—be it a new restaurant, a hidden gem, or a perfect wave on the Gold Coast.
In summary, we recommend spending at least three days in Brisbane, or a couple more if you’re planning a trip along the Queensland Pacific Coast Way. Add an extra day for the Gold Coast, and two more if you’re curious to explore Byron Bay and Nimbin.
As for our personal highlights: Thea’s favorite spot was the Tangalooma shipwreck, with its coral and colorful fish (clearly, Thea’s an underwater world enthusiast!). My favorite moment was the unforgettable sunset we watched in Byron Bay.
To wrap up this Brisbane guide, here are a few final tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Click on the image and it will take you to a new Google Maps window with all the points of interest to travel to Brisbane.
