Whether you’re looking for a day of shopping, or want to try your hand at a new sport, Brisbane has plenty to offer. Check out our guide to The Best Places to Visit in Brisbane for a trip you’ll never forget!
For some serious retail therapy, head to Queen Street Mall. Home to more than 700 retailers, this vibrant complex has something for everyone from local boutiques to high-end labels like Chanel and Louis Vuitton.
Queen Street Mall
At the heart of downtown Brisbane, the pedestrian-only Queen Street Mall is an iconic destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. It's one of the city's busiest areas and a popular inclusion on walking tours.
It's also home to a range of attractions and activities, including art galleries and parks. Head to the Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) for an excellent selection of contemporary Australian and international works.
Alternatively, take a break at the 17-hectare heritage-listed City Botanic Gardens for lily-topped ponds, fountains, bamboo groves and river views. The botanical complex is a great spot for a picnic and includes a restaurant.
If you're feeling more energetic, hop over to the 5.3-kilometer Brisbane Riverwalk. This scenic promenade parallels the river and offers sweeping views of the city skyline. You'll also find a range of restaurants and cafes.
The Nepalese Peace Pagoda
One of the most tranquil places to visit in Brisbane is the Nepalese Peace Pagoda. This Buddhist temple was built in Nepal and is a popular attraction for tourists to enjoy its spiritual beauty.
Designed to promote compassion and understanding, the Nepalese Peace Pagoda is an important landmark of Buddhism and a must-visit attraction in Brisbane. It is open to everyone and provides an excellent opportunity for people of all religions to learn about the history of Buddhism and its principles.
A three-tiered replica of Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, it was one of the most popular exhibits at Expo 88 and remains a popular tourist destination in Brisbane today. Visitors can relax in the pagoda and take in the stunning views of the city. The pagoda also hosts events, including meditations and talks on Buddhism and other spiritual practices.
The Glass House Mountains
One of Australia’s most awe-inspiring attractions, the Glass House Mountains rise out of the Sunshine Coast plains and are recognised as a national heritage site. The molten lava volcanoes of the region have shaped Indigenous Australian mythology, inspiring artists and enriching the soil of this farming area that was once home to tobacco but now produces kiwi fruit, avocados and pineapples.
The mountains are also a popular destination for hikers and climbers with fabulous bushwalking trails and rock climbing opportunities. The area is also a significant meeting place for First Nations Peoples, with many ceremonial sites still protected today.
There are plenty of day-use areas for hikers and climbers nearby in Beerburrum West State Forest (Glass House Mountains lookout) and Beerwah State Forest (Coochin Creek day-use area). These have toilets and picnic facilities as well as gas barbecues.
Brisbane River
Brisbane’s sweeping river is a defining feature of this sophisticated big-city city. There’s a world-class museum to visit, an iconic landmark to climb, and some of Australia’s best restaurants and bars right on the waterfront.
- The Brisbane River also offers a refreshing escape from the city. Take a kayak, row, SUP or go for a walk along its shoreline.
- One of Brisbane’s most popular attractions is the infamous Story Bridge, a popular vantage point for sunrise and sunset views over the city skyline. Alternatively, a trip to Kangaroo Point Cliffs for panoramic city views is a must.
- There are also plenty of other fun activities to get involved in, from rock climbing to abseiling the Kangaroo Point cliffs and a night kayak tour with a delicious grazing platter. It’s all available at the Riverlife Adventure Centre, only a short ferry ride from the CBD.
