What to do in Brisbane

Activities, attractions and tours

A river with a bridge, surrounded by greenery and modern buildings.
A waterfront cityscape at dusk with illuminated buildings, a bridge, and a calm river.
A city skyline with modern skyscrapers, a bridge, and a river with boats.
A city skyline with tall buildings reflected in calm water.
A cityscape at dusk with a colorful sky, illuminated buildings, and a crescent moon.

Brisbane Tourist Attractions & Activities

Are you looking for a destination that perfectly combines action-packed adventures, adorable animals, and world-class shopping, dining, and nightlife? Perhaps you’re thinking that such a place couldn’t possibly exist. But it does, and you don’t even have to leave the country. In fact, you might already live near beautiful Brisbane. The capital of Queensland is chockablock with friendly people, arts and culture, and plenty of sun. Yes, sunseekers will love the city’s warm, subtropical climate, which is just the bow on top of this all-in-one package. You can soak it in at the South Bank Pools or one of many outdoor Brisbane attractions, or you can take advantage of the gorgeous weather with an outdoor adventure. Whatever you choose, Expedia.com.au is here to help you plan your best holiday yet.

Fun Things to Do in Brisbane

The Brisbane area is home to several of Australia’s biggest draws. Like what, you ask? Only the Australia Zoo and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world’s first and biggest of its kind. Day trips to the Australia Zoo, 75km north of the city, are always a top option. Befriend wombats and kangaroos, climb through a three-storey treehouse, and watch unique wildlife shows. For another animal-themed day, stop at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, another of the most popular places to visit in Brisbane. You’ll have photos of yourself hand-feeding emus and petting cute koalas to add to your holiday scrapbook.

Don’t even want to leave city limits? You don’t have to! Grab a ticket to a hop-on/hop-off bus tour and see the sights at your own pace. Head to the CBD and iconic Post Office Square, where skyscrapers are your backdrop. Make a stop at Anzac Square, then pop over to the South Bank for a spin on the Ferris wheel. Grab a bite in Chinatown or refuel at a café on Park Road. Better yet, enjoy a dinner cruise along the Brisbane River, complete with live music, and take in famous landmarks like Story Bridge and Brisbane Botanic Gardens from a new vantage point. You’re sure to see some things you’ll want to explore further when you return to land.

On Expedia.com.au, you’ll surely see some things to explore, as well. We have loads of great activities for you to discover, plus a great selection of hotels and flights, too. You can plan your whole holiday right here, right now, and know you’re getting the best deals out there. All we know is, don’t wait—bustling Brisbane stops for no one.

Activities


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What to do in Brisbane


Stay near popular Brisbane attractions

Our guide on where to stay in Brisbane

Find the best Brisbane areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Brisbane
Learn more about Brisbane

South Bank

South Bank is a destination visitors seek out for its abundant dining options, interesting museums and stunning river views. You might want to check out attractions like Streets Beach or Queensland Conservatorium while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Fortitude Valley

Fortitude Valley is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Brunswick Street Mall and Fortitude Music Hall while in the area.

Brisbane Central Business District

Are you interested in beautiful gardens, stunning river views and popular shops? A visit to Brisbane Central Business District might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Brisbane Customs House and Waterfront Brisbane.

New Farm

Unique features of New Farm include the river views and coffee shops. Make a stop by Brisbane Powerhouse or Howard Smith Wharves while you're exploring the area.

Spring Hill

You'll love the popular shops in Spring Hill, and you might want to stick around to check out Old Windmill & Observatory, a top place to visit.


 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Brisbane

Frequently asked questions

Is Brisbane worth visiting?
Known for its walking trails and nature, discovering fun things to do in Brisbane is a breeze. Don't forget to add XXXX Brewery to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Brisbane?
Start your day with a visit to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and Caxton Street. Then, explore different areas of Brisbane for a bite to eat and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Brisbane?
Don't leave without checking out XXXX Brewery, ranked the top tourist attraction in Brisbane.
Is three days enough to stay in Brisbane?
Three days in Brisbane is enough to visit the city's leading attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. XXXX Brewery, Queensland Performing Arts Centre and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary are top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to visit nearby hotspots like South Bank.
Is Brisbane a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you want to do and see in Brisbane. Several sights, like XXXX Brewery and Queensland Performing Arts Centre, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Brisbane's best neighbourhoods, Brisbane Central Business District is 0.32 kilometres away from downtown, while Spring Hill is 2 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Brisbane with kids?
Planning what to do in Brisbane with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or little ones, there are lots of family-friendly attractions to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Brisbane for adults?
XXXX Brewery and Castlemaine Perkins Brewery are just a few of the things to do in Brisbane. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Brisbane?
In Brisbane, Caxton Street is a popular spot for anyone planning to see the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Brisbane.

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