If you have a day in Brisbane City, you’ll soon find that there are endless ways to spend your time. It’s a beautiful city, optimised for walking around and with many attractions within close proximity. There are always exciting new adventures to be had – and we’ve listed some of our favourites.
With only 24 hours to spend, you’ll be spoiled for choice! Here are some of the top ways to spend your time in Brisbane.
Getting Around
Brisbane is a beautiful city for walking, with many dedicated paths showcasing the best the area has to offer. Multiple bridges cross the river, offering a scenic outlook to view the city as well as different points to travel to the other side.
The public transport system in Brisbane consists of trains, buses, and ferries to get across the river. The CityCat ferries are an awesome way to see the city, travelling up and down the river with plenty of stops along the way. There are many options for purchasing tickets and to plan your journey – see our blog for more information.
If you have a car, you’ll find it relatively easy to drive in Brisbane. Parking can be tricky to find at certain times of the day, and paid parking is often cheaper if you pre-book online. Pay attention to parking signs, which may have hourly limits or parking meters that will need to be considered.
24 Hours in Brisbane
Breakfast
Start your stay in Brisbane with a delicious breakfast. Whether you prefer a sumptuous sit-down brunch or a light meal to-go, there are so many options dotted around Brisbane that will fulfill all your breakfast dreams. For more ideas on where to go, here are some other favourite breakfast spots.
O Bagel
It’s been a Gold Coast institution but now you can get your breakfast bagel on at O Bagel. You’ll find a wide range of hand-rolled, artisan bagels on Elizabeth Street to start your morning off right.
The Gresham
It has previously held the title of Bar of the Year, and it’s not hard to see why. The bar oozes old world charm and serves up some of the highest calibre rum, whiskey and wine in the country. They also offer a café! Open from 7 am on weekdays, check out their brunch menu and premium coffee, and maybe return later to sample some of those drinks.
Joedys By Sinclair
With a host of awards and an exquisite menu, visit the iconic Joedy’s locations and indulge in the incredible brunch options.
Morning Activities
Get out and about and make the most of the sunshine, gaining a new perspective on the city. There are plenty of walking tours, arts and culture, and adventure activities to try – but here are some of our favourite new ways to spend a day in Brisbane.
Black Card Cultural Tours
Connect with Brisbane in a new way, with a cultural tour that will help you see Brisbane from an indigenous perspective. Explore the history of the city, get introduced to some hidden artwork, and immerse yourself in a rich cultural experience.
Brisbane Greeters
If you’re on a budget, the Brisbane Greeters offer free walking tours of the city. Learn more about some hidden gems and historical tales as you join one of more than 100 volunteer greeters as they show off the River City.
Miramar Cruises
Traverse the Brisbane River on a Koala and River Tour. You’ll get to see the city from the water, and get dropped off at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary where you’ll meet some Aussie wildlife. The price of your ticket includes your return trip and entry into the park.
Lunch
Experience culinary delights from leading restaurants. Brisbane has a wide range of internationally acclaimed chefs, along with some incredible local talent. For more lunch ideas, here are some of the lunches the locals love.
Babylon Brisbane
Over three levels and different dining options, this opulent restaurant is inspired by the seven wonders of the world. With Middle Eastern cuisine created with modern flair, you’ll be truly amazed.
Sunshine
Get some Sunshine in your life with this breezy, delicious Mediterranean restaurant, offering a range of food that caters to differing dietary requirements. Dine in, take away, or get your food delivered so you can enjoy Brisbane along with your amazing meal.
Go Boat Cruises
For a picnic with a difference, you can hire a Go Boat and cruise around the river yourself! BYO picnic and experience the river as you coast along. No boat license required.
Afternoon Activities
Brisbane is full of adventure! Spend a long afternoon discovering new ways to enjoy the area. If you are looking for some adventurous options to explore our city, check out our blog.
Dash of Brisbane Brewery Tour
Jump on a bus and get introduced to three iconic breweries in Brisbane. You’ll learn about their history and what gives each brewery its distinctive flavour – with plenty of opportunities to sample the wares!
Prestige Day Tours
The ultimate in luxury, experience Brisbane from the comfort of your Mercedes Benz and get introduced to the finer things the city has to offer. Specialising in small groups and luxury private tours, Prestige Day Tours will show you a new side to the city.
The Wheel of Brisbane
Nestled in the gorgeous South Bank Parklands, the Wheel of Brisbane is now offering VIP packages so you can add food, beverages, and a private gondola option as you view the city from up high. Watch the sun set over the city skyline as you enjoy the iconic attraction.
Soak Bathhouse
This new, luxury experience will pamper your mind and body. Choose from a range of wellness experiences and indulge in a restful afternoon that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and ready to explore.
Dinner
Watch the lights sparkle on the water as you eat, choose a rooftop with cityscape views, or enjoy some incredible indoor architecture. Here are some of the top new restaurants and bars to discover in Brisbane – or try our suggestions below for a taste experience.
Tillerman
Queensland is famous for its seafood, and Tillerman provides a world class menu that is designed to bring out the best of the exceptional produce and delight your senses.
Howard Smith Wharves
Nestled under the iconic Story Bridge, the Howard Smith Wharves are a local favourite hang-out spot. Choose from 13 bars, restaurants, and cafes as you eat delicious food in truly beautiful surroundings.
Eat South Bank
South Bank doubles as an unmissable attraction and a dining destination. There are streets filled with high quality restaurants just waiting to be discovered. You can always add a walk by the river or even a swim at Streets Beach to make it a night to remember!
Night time Activities
The Brisbane night-life is vibrant and fun, and there are some new and interesting ways to spend your evening in the city. Opt for a rich historical adventure, play the night away at adult-focused games centres like Strike Wintergarden, or head out for a spot of dancing. Don’t forget a stroll by the water – it’s stunning at night time!
Fort Lytton at Night
An incredible historical re-enactment at Queensland’s leading heritage military exhibit, you’ll be transported to the past as you explore the fort and learn the lost story from the Great War. Performance dates vary, and bookings are essential.
Fortitude Valley
Affectionately called “The Valley” by local Brisbane residents, Fortitude Valley has plenty of night life and lots of locations to choose from. Dance the night away at Hey Chica!, a Latin-inspired Valley venue with food, drink, and lots of fun. Or indulge in some vinyls and vino at Stranded, a vintage venue with a punk rock heart. You’ll be spoiled for choice, with so many drink, dine, and dance options available in the area.
Escape Rooms
Challenge yourself with some of Brisbane’s best escape rooms! Visit The Escape Manor for a creepy horror vibe to get that adrenaline pumping, or head to Strike Bowling at the Wintergarden for a assortment of fun activities in the one location.
New Accommodation Options
Brisbane has many much-loved hotels to choose from, but there are a few new places to stay that have recently arrived on the scene. Visit the Hotel Indigo, located near the Howard Smith Wharves and very handy to the CBD. Or head to the banks of the Brisbane River where you’ll find modern art, brand new rooms and a comfortable stay at the voco Brisbane City Centre. Hotel X provides a five-star, luxury accommodation in the heart of the Fortitude Valley, for an indulgent stay. For comfort and style perfectly placed in the South Bank parklands, the Courtyard by Marriot have beautiful rooms and a location that lets you explore.
New Ways to Spend A Day in Brisbane City
We love Brisbane, and everything the city has to offer! No matter how you like to spend your time, there are so many ways to experience the River City. If you’re travelling to or from Brisbane, let us help you get to your destination.
Airtain offers a reliable, comfortable service that bypasses those unexpected delays and helps make your travel easier. Whether you’re coming, going, or staying here in Brisbane – Airtrain is your connection between Brisbane and the rest of the world!
