Brisbane

Brisbane is a dynamic and relaxed city characterized by its vibrant atmosphere, diverse events, exceptional culinary options, and lively nightlife. While many tourists may opt to bypass Brisbane in favor of the glitzy Gold Coast, this city offers a wealth of experiences on its own, whether you are enjoying a live band in Fortitude Valley, kayaking on the Brisbane River, or witnessing the talented fire-twirlers at the monthly West End Fire Festival. Visitors will discover that Brisbane is a unique destination brimming with character, welcoming locals, and a plethora of activities.

Subtropical Brisbane’s fantastic weather is one of its biggest claims to fame. The city enjoys around 280 days of sunshine each year, and it never gets really cold – even in July, Brisbane’s coldest month, daytime temperatures range from 11–23°C.

Brisbane is a patchwork of very different enclaves. From the cute Queenslanders sprinkling suburbs like Paddington to dark underground venues hosting the next-big-thing in Oz music to the glassy towers in “the CBD” (city center) sparkling in the Queensland sun. You can pick your pleasures in this diverse city.

While many Brisbanites drive from A to B, Brisbane’s integrated transport system, along with shared bike and pedestrian trails, means that you don’t need a car to explore the city. The transport network provides easy access to Brisbane’s best galleries, restaurants, bars, and live music venues, particularly in the vibrant inner neighborhoods including the Central Business District (CBD), South Bank, West End, Fortitude Valley, and Newstead.

The sun is never in short supply in Brisbane, and the balmy weather keeps Brisbanites outside year-round. Locals love to skate, cycle, swim, and run in the sun, and when it’s time to cool down, they know that Brisbane’s shady green spaces are the best spots to beat the heat.

Brisbane is a place made for lazy ambling, languid rides on river ferries and cooling beers sipped on subtropical sandy beaches. Whether you’re in search of tucked-away private paradises, dog-friendly coves or the perfect sandy location for kids to build their masterpiece sandcastles, Brisbane has a perfect beach for every occasion. Here are some of our favorites for when the urban heat becomes overwhelming and the ocean beckons.