Itineraries for Your Trip to Brisbane
2 Days in Brisbane for First Timers
Brisbane offers the best of both worlds—it’s got the provisions of a major city as well as the breathing room and green spaces of somewhere much smaller. I got to know the city during a semester abroad in college, when I had the opportunity to experience Brisbane at its own laid-back pace.
Don’t let the chill energy fool you, though. There’s still plenty to get up to, whether you’re spending a couple of days or a year. From checking out local neighborhoods to, yes, hanging out with Australia’s unique wildlife, here’s how to see the best of this city during two days in Brisbane.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a trip to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to meet the sanctuary’s wildlife.
Weather in Brisbane is usually balmy, but summers bring serious heat and humidity—pack sun protection and be sure to stay hydrated.
A good chunk of Brisbane’s sights are clustered in the walkable city center, so there’s no better way to get to grips with the city than a walking tour. Pass through landmarks such as Queen Street Mall, home to local goods and international brands; King George Square, whose clock tower you’ll hear chiming throughout your visit; and examples of Brisbane’s old-world architecture such as the Treasury Building and City Hall.
After you’ve gotten oriented, take advantage of Brisbane’s pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly roadways to hit some of the city’s best green spaces. The City Botanic Gardens house subtropical trees, flowers, and a lily pond in the CBD (Central Business District). After spending some time there, head across the pedestrian-only Goodwill Bridge to Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park, where you can walk or ride between the Brisbane River and the cliffs.
Finish your first day in the city with a trip to one of its most recognizable structures: the Story Bridge. The Story Bridge has both car and pedestrian lanes from which to take in the glittering city lights. If you want to take your view to the next level (literally), climb 260 feet (80 meters) up to the top of the bridge, where you’ll see panoramic views of the Brisbane area.
Today, head just outside of the city center to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and spend your morning with native Australian animals. There are several options to feed, pet, or hold the animals, which include kangaroos, dingos, and—of course—koalas. It’s about a 20-minute drive from the city center, but if you’re looking for a more scenic way there, book a river cruise to the sanctuary.
Once you’ve made it back to the city, relax and explore the South Bank Parklands, one of the most bang-for-your-buck areas of Brisbane, which includes rainforested walking paths and the Wheel of Brisbane—a 197-foot-tall (60-meter-tall) ferris wheel. Afterwards, cool off at Streets Beach, home to a pool that’s big enough for lap swimming and a sandy shoreline perfect for a low-key afternoon.
Finish your visit to Brisbane by getting a new perspective on the River City—from the river itself—and float alongside Brisbane’s sights, including the Story Bridge that you climbed yesterday. On a guided sunset boat tour, enjoy an open-air deck; or, try kayaking the river yourself to experience it at your own pace. Either way, soak up the city views and lights as you close your trip with some tranquil sightseeing.
