Brisbane Australia 6 Day Itinerary

6 Day Brisbane Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival & City Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Brisbane (consider arriving at the Brisbane Airport (BNE) for direct access to public transport). Settle into your accommodation.
  • Places to Stay: The Emporium Hotel (luxury), Rydges South Bank Brisbane (stylish and convenient), or a well-rated Airbnb in the city center.

Things to do:

  • Explore the vibrant South Bank Parklands: Stroll through the lush gardens, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Brisbane River and the city skyline, and visit the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) for a taste of local art and culture.
  • Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the Queen Street Mall: This pedestrian-friendly shopping and entertainment hub is perfect for browsing souvenirs, enjoying live music, or simply soaking up the lively Brisbane atmosphere.

Day 2: History & Culture

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in history at the Queensland Museum, a treasure trove of fascinating exhibits showcasing Australia’s natural and cultural heritage.

  • Afternoon: Wander through the historic streets of the city center, visiting the heritage-listed buildings along Queen Street and the Brisbane River.

  • Things to do:

  • Explore South Bank: Take in the vibrant street art scene at the Fish Lane Markets or enjoy the stunning views from the Wheel of Brisbane.

  • Cultural Immersion:

    • Visit the Queensland Museum: Immerse yourself in the natural history of the state, with exhibits on dinosaurs, Aboriginal artifacts, and natural wonders.
    • Explore South Bank Parklands: Discover the beauty of the parklands, including the Nepalese Pagoda, a vibrant reminder of Brisbane’s multicultural heritage.

Things to know:

  • Consider a CityCat (ferry) ride or ferry trip along the river for a scenic journey.

Places to eat:

  • Fortitude Valley: Explore the diverse culinary scene with trendy cafes and restaurants offering everything from modern Australian cuisine to international flavors.

Day 3: Nature & Wildlife

  • Enjoy the Brisbane Botanic Gardens: Visit the beautiful and serene gardens, stroll through the lush landscapes and discover a wide variety of plants and flowers.

  • Things to do:

  • Explore the different themed gardens within the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, such as the Japanese Garden or the Tropical Dome.

  • Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Get up close and personal with adorable koalas and other native Australian animals.

Day 4: South Bank & Culture

  • Lunch at a Fortitude Valley cafe: The area boasts numerous charming cafes offering diverse cuisines, from international flavors to local favorites.
  • Things to eat: Try the delicious “Aussie tucker” like meat pies at a local bakery, fish and chips by the river, or a gourmet burger at one of the many eateries in the city.

Day 5: Arts & Entertainment

  • Explore South Bank Parklands: Visit the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) or enjoy a performance at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC).

  • Things to do:

  • Visit the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC): Enjoy a world-class performance and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene.

**Day 6: Brisbane River & Nature

  • Cruise on the Brisbane River: Take advantage of your last day to experience the beauty of Brisbane from the water, enjoying a scenic cruise or a ride on the CityCat ferry.

  • Things to do:

  • Relax at the Botanical Gardens: Enjoy the serenity and beauty of the gardens with a picnic by the lake.

Things to know:

  • Brisbane has a subtropical climate, so pack accordingly.

Transportation:

  • Public Transport: Brisbane has a comprehensive public transport system including buses, trains, and ferries. The “Translink” network connects the entire city and is an efficient way to get around. Consider purchasing a Go Card for convenient travel on all public transportation.
  • Walking: Brisbane’s City Botanic Gardens are easily navigable by foot.

Things to know:

  • Public transport options:

    • Walking: Explore the parklands at your own pace and enjoy the scenic views of the city skyline.
    • Cycling: Hire a bike to cycle along the river paths or through the gardens.

  • CityCat ferries: These are a great way to get around the Brisbane River, with numerous stops at different attractions.

  • Cycling paths: Many dedicated cycling paths crisscross the city, and you can easily navigate the parklands on two wheels.

Things to do:

  • Explore the CityCat network: Enjoy the river views and breezes as you cruise through the picturesque Brisbane River landscape.

  • Visit other attractions:

  • The CityCat is a convenient and enjoyable mode of transport for enjoying the sights along the river.

  • Explore the South Bank Parklands, a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Things to know:

  • Public transport: Enjoy the convenience of public transportation in Brisbane with their easy-to-use ferry system!

Day 1: Brisbane River & Cityscape

  • Things to do:
    • Arrive in Brisbane and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the South Bank Parklands, taking in the city views.
  • Cruising the river: For a truly memorable experience, take a scenic ride on the “CityCat” (a ferry that travels up and down the Brisbane River) during your last day.

Things to know:

  • Public transport:

  • Public transportation is readily available in Brisbane, with excellent bus, train, and ferry networks.

  • CityCat: Consider a Go Card for easy access to public ferries.

Things to see:

  • The Story Bridge (climb it for stunning views!)

  • The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary! Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city’s markets and festivals.

Things to do:

  • Explore the variety of experiences at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)
  • Visit the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, enjoy the parklands.

Things to consider for your itinerary:

  • Public transport: Use the CityCat ferries for a scenic and efficient way to travel around Brisbane and explore the city’s many attractions.
  • The Story Bridge: The views from the top are breathtaking!

Things to see:

  • South Bank Parklands: This vibrant parkland offers numerous activities, including museums, galleries, and a rainforest walk.

  • Enjoy the CityCat for a unique perspective: Take a ride on this Brisbane icon to see the city from a different angle.

  • Consider: Enjoy the views of the city while you enjoy your journey on the CityCat.

Day 2: Explore the South Bank Parklands

  • The River Stage hosts live music and performances throughout the year, so check their schedule to see what’s on.

Things to do at the South Pine Koala Sanctuary:

  • Visit the koalas: They are the main attraction! Enjoy a close encounter with these adorable creatures.
  • Check out the art galleries: The Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) is a great place to see some of the best contemporary art in Brisbane.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy the variety of events at the South Bank Parklands, which are often free and open to the public.
  • Explore the city’s cultural offerings: Check out museums like the Queensland Museum and check the schedule for the latest performances.
  • Enjoy a show at QPAC: The Queensland Performing Arts Centre offers a range of theatrical experiences, from musicals and plays to opera and ballet.

Things to see:

  • The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Catch a show or performance by one of the local artists.

Other things:

  • Enjoy a picnic in the parklands while watching the koalas!

Day 1: Day trip:

  • Visit the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) for a taste of local and international art.
  • Enjoy the cultural experiences: The Empyrean Theatre is known for its world-class productions and the parklands are a great place to relax.

Food & Drink:

  • Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in Brisbane’s South Bank Parklands.

Things to see:

  • The Wheel of Brisbane: Get a fantastic view of the city.
  • Catch a show or event at QPAC: It’s a cultural hub with exhibitions, performances and events throughout the year.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of South Bank: Enjoy the many restaurants, cafes, and bars in the area.

Things to do:

  • Explore the various attractions of Brisbane’s South Bank: Enjoy a meal or drink at one of the parkland’s cafes.
  • Enjoy the scenic views of the city skyline from the top of the wheel.
  • Enjoy a unique dining experience: There are many restaurants on the Brisbane River that offer amazing food and drinks, with stunning views of the city.

Things to do:

  • Experience the cultural scene:

  • The Wheel of Brisbane is located on the South Bank and offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

  • Enjoy a variety of entertainment and dining options at the parklands.

Things to do: *

  • Explore the vibrant atmosphere of the South Bank: Enjoy a variety of free or cheap activities, like:

  • Walking along the riverwalk:

  • Enjoy the beauty of the Brisbane River while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

  • Visiting the Queensland Museum and the Museum of Queensland:

  • South Bank Parklands:

  • Enjoy the many exhibits and attractions at these museums.

  • Enjoying the cultural scene:

  • Visit the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) for a variety of performances, including:

    • Theatre productions:

  • Enjoying the many activities offered on the South Bank:

  • Enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful views of the Brisbane River.

  • Enjoy the following:

    • Live theatre performances at various venues:

  • This is a great place to see local talent.

    • Theatrical performances:

  • Enjoy the variety of shows and events available:

  • Catch a show on the river, enjoy a picnic with a view, or explore the shops and restaurants along the South Bank.

Things to do in Brisbane:

  • Enjoy the many restaurants and cafes on the South Bank

  • Visit the South Bank Parklands:

  • This is a great place to see the city’s skyline.

  • Explore:

  • The vibrant atmosphere of the South Riverwalk, with its numerous shops and restaurants.

Enjoy the South Bank Parklands: Enjoy a walk through the parklands and check out the cafes and restaurants.

Things to remember:

  • Pack for all types of weather: The weather in Brisbane can change quickly.

  • Consider:

  • Visiting the Wheel of Brisbane, which is located on the South Bank.

Enjoy the variety of experiences:

  • Enjoy the views from the top of the wheel and explore the city from a different perspective.

Things to consider: *

  • The weather in Brisbane can be unpredictable:

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around.

  • Book tickets for events online in advance, especially if it’s a popular event or attraction.