Rating: 🌟 Highly Recommend

I lived here for 2 years and it was amazing! It's great middle between the busy Sydney and the quiet Perth! Laid back life style and the people here are super friendly!

There's few cool things to do in the city but really this is a great hub for some amazing adventures around the city!

Top Things to Do

• Moreton Island - Stunning island where you can snorkel shipwrecks or go down sand dunes.

• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary - Get up and close with Aussie animals. You can h and feed kangaroos and get up close with koalas.

• South Bank Parklands - Lush gardens, public pools, art galleries, and riverside strolls.

• Story Bridge Climb - Epic views over the city and river from the top.

• Riverwalk – Scenic walking/cycling path along the Brisbane River, perfect at sunset.

• Mount Coot-tha Lookout – Sweeping views over Brisbane and a gateway to forest hikes.
  

How Many Days to Spend

• Minimum: 2–3 full days – Stroll South Bank, visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, cruise the Brisbane River, a Moreton Island day trip.

• Ideal: 4–5 days – Add a trip to North Stradbroke Island, hike Mt Coot-tha and to Mount Tamborine

• More time? Base yourself in Brisbane to explore South East Queensland: Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and the Scenic Rim are all nearby.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (Sep–Nov) – Warm, dry, and full of events.

• Autumn (Mar–May) – Ideal for exploring with fewer crowds.

• Summer (Dec–Feb) – Tropical and humid with afternoon storms—great for water-based fun.

• Winter (Jun–Aug) – Dry and sunny with cooler mornings.
  

Where to Stay

• South Bank – Walkable, riverside, and great for first-timers.

• Fortitude Valley – Trendy, nightlife hub with boutique hotels.

• West End – Artsy and alternative, near great cafés and vintage shops.

• CBD – Business district with luxury stays and easy transport.

Where to Eat & Drink

• Eat Street Northshore – Food truck vibes, global eats, fairy lights, and live music.

• Felons Brewing Co. – Riverside brewery with casual eats and views.

• Many restaurants in Fortitude Valley and West End
  

Travel Tips

• Public transport: Get a Go Card or use contactless tap-on for buses, ferries, and trains.

• CityCat ferries: Super scenic and affordable way to get around.

• Weather: Pack for sun and possible afternoon rain in summer.

• Bug spray: Especially if you're heading into nearby forests or islands.
  

Budget Breakdown (per day)

• Accommodation: $80–$250 AUD

• Food: $15–$50 AUD

• Transport: $10–$20 AUD

• Attractions: Many are free or low-cost
    Tip: CityHopper ferries are free and run along the inner river loop.