Top Queensland Historical Tours

Learn all about the history of the beautiful city of Cairns on this small group walking tour. Your guide will talk about the history that is 40,000 year old, at least. Learn about the architecture, art, and landmarks, as well as outdoor aboriginal artworks. Talk about colonialism, pirates, the opium trade, and much more, giving you a rich picture of what Cairns is all about.

If you’re trying to choose between taking a bus tour or a boat tour of the Sunshine Coast you don’t have to with an amphibious Aquaduck tour. The one-hour tour starts with a land tour around Mooloolaba and then the duck becomes a boat and tours around the canals, and waterways. Learn more about the history and culture of the Sunshine Coast from the commentary and enjoy the excitement of riding in this special vehicle.

Discover the story of Brisbane on this expert-led small-group walking tour, while hitting all of the city’s main attractions. Perfect for those who have just arrived, as well as locals and those who want to go deeper in learning about Brisbane’s history, culture, society & First Nations people. Starting from the top of Queen Street, you’ll hear about Brisbane’s colonisation by the British – and how their arrival impacted the original inhabitants. Your guide will provide you with a range of perspectives on Brisbane’s development as you weave your way through the city. From tough penal colony origins to its more recent transformations as the city prepares to host the 2032 Olympics, you’ll discover the real Brisbane. Your tour ends with beautiful views of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge, finishing at a popular drinking spot with a small beverage included. Walk the streets in a small group so you’re not fighting to see & hear your guide or stay on the footpath.

Uncover the best of Brisbane—without being stuck on a busy sightseeing bus—thanks to this small-group guided walking tour. Along the way, pass by City Hall, the City Botanic Gardens, and Queensland Parliament House—all with entertaining stories from your guide that you’d miss out on if exploring alone. Enjoy included snacks and a gift during your intimate tour experience.

Travel back in time to the golden era of train travel with a journey on the Mary Valley Heritage Railway. Experience the old world nostalgia as soon as you step into the historic Gympie Station, where you’ll learn about the history of steam locomotives before boarding the Mary Valley Rattler. Enjoy the countryside views as you head out to Amamoor, where the train is turned around for the journey back.

Experience Brisbane in a new light on this after-dark true crime tour of the city streets. A great way for locals and visitors alike to uncover the secrets that lurk in the shadows of this thriving modern metropolis, this night tour includes visits to some of the city’s most historic places and oldest buildings. Your guide will also share lots of stories about Brisbane’s notorious past as you walk through the city center.

Uncover a spookier side of Brisbane CBD with a ghostly walking tour that reveals tales of the city's eerie past. Listen to historic stories that span 200 years of crime and tragedy as your guide leads you through the streets. Discover spots you'd otherwise miss and hear fascinating yet chilling anecdotes—all with a suitably macabre twist.

Delve behind the scenes at one of Queensland's best-loved breweries on this insider tour of Brisbane's XXXX Brewery. Walk through the production area, discover how the beers are created, observe the brewing process up close, then pour the perfect pint after learning from the pros. This tour includes tastings of three XXXX beers, with the option to upgrade to add burger and fries for lunch.

Visit the highlights of Magnetic Island on this guided afternoon tour. Learn about the history, culture, geography, flora and fauna of the island from your local guide. Take in views over Cleveland Bay, Horseshoe Bay and the mainland. See if you can spot allied rock wallabies and butterflies. Finish your day with a swim at Horseshoe Bay.

Magnetic Island has so much to offer travelers, it can be hard to know where to start. But if you’ve seen the Netflix show “Izzy’s Koala World”, you may already know your host for this tour. Visit a wealth of bays, including the wreck of the Presto, look out for wildlife including rock wallabies, turtles, and dugong, learn about the island’s World War II history at the forts, and more.

Discover the haunted history of Ipswich Cemetery including Buried Three Times, Hello Devil, The Missing Graves, The Headless Angel, The Car Won’t Start and more… Older than the state of Queensland, eerie Goodna Cemetery is one of the most haunted graveyards in Australia – home to mysteries and urban legends. Visit the children who leave their handprints on cars, hear of black magic, a terrible crime, the mystery of the asylum graves, and terrifying “Headless Angel.” on this 1.5 hour guided haunted history tour. Ipswich’s original historic ghost tours (est.1998) operated by haunted-historian Jack Sim, author of Ghost Trails Series HAUNTED IPSWICH.

Journey to the rain forest village of Kuranda via two unique transit options on this memorable full-day tour from Cairns or Port Douglas. Skip the line and enjoy Gold Class service aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway, winding through lush mountain passes and waterfall gorges along the way. In the opposite direction, glide above the treetops in a gondola and soak up spectacular views of the mountains and coastline on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. In Kuranda, enjoy leisure time to explore the heritage markets, learn about aboriginal culture or interact with native wildlife.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the outback as the sun sets over the horizon on this evening cruise from Longreach. Cruise down the mighty Thomson River on a unique paddlewheeler, designed for small groups rather than massive ferry crowds. Disembark at a campground in the heart of the local bush and continue your outback experience with intimate performances and a 2-course stockman’s dinner around the campfire.

Unlock the best of Brisbane with this self-guided smartphone quest. Riddles, puzzles, and local stories guide you through the city's most interesting corners, turning an ordinary walk into an adventure. Each challenge leads to the next location, keeping you entertained while you discover places and stories you'd never find on your own. Play anytime — this 1–2 hour private quest runs 24/7. Stop for food, photos, or detours whenever you like. Available in 5+ languages.

Experience Brisbane's vibrant mix of history, nature, and city life on this comprehensive 4-5 hour driving tour. We'll journey across iconic landmarks like the Story Bridge and visit Kangaroo Point Cliffs, explore the lush Brisbane Botanic Gardens, and delve into the cultural heart of South Bank Parklands. Discover hidden gems in charming neighborhoods like Paddington and New Farm, and admire stunning city views from Mount Coot-tha Lookout. This tour offers a perfect introduction to Brisbane's unique character and diverse attractions.

Explore some of the most incredible natural landscapes of far northern Queensland the easy way on this full-day group tour. Avoid the hassle of self-driving and just sit back and enjoy the views. Take a walk in Mossman Gorge, cruise in the Daintree Rainforest, check out Cape Tribulation Beach, and much more. This tour includes hotel pickup for added convenience and is a must for nature lovers.

Gravediggers say this is the creepiest cemetery in Brisbane… Be led by lantern on this 2 hour guided ghost tour through the graveyard to the “Devil’s Plot”; hear the stories of the ghosts of Boggo Road Jail and the mysterious Woman in Black – maybe she appear on the tour?; gravediggers tales and sextons stories. Tour includes book The Ghosts of SOUTH BRISBANE CEMETERY by Jack Sim. Brisbane’s original historic ghost tours (est.1998) operated by haunted-historian Jack Sim, author of the Ghost Trails Series HAUNTED BRISBANE Volume 1.

Discover the Kuranda Rainforest from a unique perspective on a Skyrail and train tour that saves you the hassle of booking separate activities. Marvel at panoramic views of the rainforest, and let expert guides introduce you to the culture of Kuranda village. Plus, you can tailor your tour according to your interests, and add on activities such as horseback riding and ATV experiences.

Discover the natural wonders of Tropical North Queensland on a full-day tour to Chillagoe Caves and Granite Gorge. Travel from Cairns by rugged 4WD vehicle with a naturalist guide, passing over the McAllister Ranges and the Great Dividing Range as you explore the Australian Outback. Visit Chillagoe-Mungana Caves National Park, drive near the wetlands to spot Australian native wildlife, and stop by historic mining towns. This small-group tour also included morning tea and a pub lunch.

Experience the thrill of an up-close encounter with migrating whales on this half-day cruise from Brisbane, available only between June and November. Set sail around Moreton Bay on a luxurious high-speed catamaran and tuck into a delicious buffet lunch on-board as you soak up the scenery. Finally, keep your camera to hand as you spot humpback whales swimming and breaching beside the ship – a rare opportunity to spot the gentle giants in their natural environment.

Discover Far North Queensland's rainforest on this self-guided Kuranda tour with return transfers from Cairns City. We combine two iconic attractions - the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Kuranda Scenic Railway - with flexibility to explore Kuranda Village independently. Journey above World Heritage Wet Tropics' rainforest on the Skyrail with panoramic views of waterfalls and dramatic landscapes. With four hours in Kuranda Village, browse the Heritage Markets, visit optional wildlife sanctuaries, enjoy the local eateries, and photograph the village. Return via the 1891 Kuranda Scenic Railway through 15 tunnels and 37 bridges whilst onboard commentary shares Queensland railway history. Your friendly driver ensures door-to-door service from Cairns City with Skyrail and Railway tickets included. This independent-style tour is perfect for travellers who prefer exploring at their own pace. Cruise passengers receive guaranteed timely return to Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal.

JACK SIM presents BRISBANE CRIME TOURS - Brisbane's original and longest running Crime Tours. Celebrating 25 years - as seen on TikTok & YouTube - Crime Tours Australia Discover the dark heart of the capital of the Sunshine State on this guided crime tour of Brisbane's CBD. Visit true crime scenes including the Arcade Murder, the site of the last public execution, the Regent Theatre shootout and more… Brisbane’s original true crime tours are researched and operated by crime-writer Jack Sim, publisher of the Murder Trails Series Podcast and the books BLOODY BRISBANE Volumes 1 & 2.

Experience the quintessential essence of Brisbane with our 3-hour walking tour, offering the ideal introduction to this dynamic city. Witness the seamless blend of Brisbane's rich history, vibrant present, and promising future as you explore iconic landmarks. Delve beneath the surface and truly immerse yourself in the heart of Brisbane's culture and heritage. With the guidance of a knowledgeable local guide, you'll have the opportunity to see the main tourist sights you desire while also discovering hidden areas and venues off the beaten path. This customizable tour allows you to tailor your experience to your interests, benefitting from your guide's familiarity with the areas that intrigue you most. Additionally, gain valuable insights and advice from your guide about other activities and attractions to explore during your time in the city.