Australia's river city — 300+ days of sunshine, world-class arts, extraordinary wildlife, and the gateway to the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay, and Moreton Island. Named one of the world's trendiest travel destinations ahead of the 2032 Olympics.
Brisbane, Australia's vibrant river city, offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. As Queensland's sunny capital, Brisbane enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year, making it an ideal destination year-round. From world-class dining and cultural experiences to pristine beaches just an hour away, Brisbane serves as your gateway to both cosmopolitan excitement and natural wonders.
Since landing the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Brisbane has been recognised by the world's travel media as one of the most exciting and trendiest travel destinations on earth. The city's arts precinct (QAGOMA — two of the best-designed galleries on the planet), its riverfront dining, its boutique bar scene, and its extraordinary day trip circuit make it one of the finest bases for exploring eastern Australia.
Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures, cultural immersion, wildlife encounters, or relaxed exploration, Brisbane and its surrounds offer something for every traveller.
Discover the best activities and experiences across Australia's sunshine capital
Brisbane is one of Australia's finest bases for day trip exploration — spectacular destinations in every direction
56km of connected beach, four major theme parks (Movie World, Dreamworld, Sea World), a thriving arts precinct at HOTA, and Burleigh Heads' iconic café culture. Australia's most famous coastal city — big, bold, and brilliantly fun.
Gold Coast Guide →
Noosa's boutique national park beaches, Eumundi Markets (600+ stalls, Wednesday and Saturday), hinterland villages of Montville and Maleny, and Hastings Street dining — Queensland's most curated coastal experience.
Sunshine Coast Guide →
Australia's most easterly point — the Cape Byron lighthouse, The Pass surf break, Bangalow Farmers Market (Thursday), Stone & Wood craft brewery, and a bohemian cultural scene that's unlike anywhere else in the country.
Byron Bay Guide →
Steve Irwin's legendary wildlife park with 1,200+ animals — the world-famous Crocoseum live show, cheetahs, tigers, elephants, and the Crikey! Kids Corner. The best full-day wildlife experience in Southeast Queensland.
Book Tour →
Wild dolphin feeding at Tangalooma, epic sand dunes for sandboarding, clear-water snorkelling at the Tangalooma Shipwrecks, and 4WD adventures across one of the world's largest sand islands. No cars, no high-rises, no crowds.
Book Tour →
Gold Coast vs Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay vs Noosa, Australia Zoo vs Lone Pine — our honest comparison guides settle every major Brisbane day trip decision, written by people who guide these trips every week.
View Comparison Guides →Hand-picked experiences guided by local experts — hotel pickup included, max 14 guests
Paddle through the heart of Brisbane and discover hidden gems along the river. Early morning departures for the best light and calm water — an extraordinary way to see the city.
The world's oldest and largest koala sanctuary — 100+ koalas, free-range kangaroo feeding meadow, platypus, wombats, and Free Flight Raptor Show. Just 12km from Brisbane CBD via scenic river cruise.
Visit Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Burleigh Heads on this full-day coastal adventure. Hotel pickup, expert commentary, and the freedom to experience the Gold Coast without the driving stress.
Taste your way through Brisbane's best cafés, restaurants, and hidden culinary treasures in West End, South Bank and Fortitude Valley with an expert local food guide.
Eumundi Markets (600+ stalls, Wednesday or Saturday), Noosa National Park coastal track, Hastings Street dining, and optional hinterland village stop in Montville. The definitive Sunshine Coast day trip.
Explore Brisbane's rich history and heritage through its historic buildings, First Nations stories, and hidden laneways. City Hall, Customs House, Fortitude Valley and Fish Lane art — with a local expert guide.
Brisbane's event calendar in 2026 is exceptional — from world-class performing arts and sport to immersive experiences and street festivals. Here's what to know when planning your visit.
Sting's The Last Ship at QPAC's Glasshouse Theatre — the only Australian season of the acclaimed Broadway musical, with Sting performing in the lead role alongside Shaggy. Brisbane Comedy Festival (April) at the Powerhouse.
GOMA Friday Nights — Olafur Eliasson: Presence transforms QAGOMA into an after-dark art and cocktail destination every Friday. Paniyiri Greek Festival 50th anniversary at Musgrave Park, West End.
Wallabies v France at Suncorp Stadium (July). Brisbane International Film Festival 2026 relaunch with expanded program. Rugby League World Cup matches at Suncorp Stadium (October).
Rugby League World Cup Grand Final at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane — the biggest sporting event in the city's recent history. Bluey's World at Northshore Pavilion continues as one of Brisbane's most popular ongoing attractions throughout 2026.
Plan your Brisbane visit around seasonal highlights — there's genuinely no bad time of year
Everything you need to know about Brisbane tours and activities
Cooee Tours runs expert-guided day tours from Brisbane to the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay, Australia Zoo, Moreton Island and beyond. Hotel pickup, small groups, local knowledge.
Browse All Tours Call (07) 4194 3333