Welcome to Brisbane
Brisbane is one of Australia’s fastest-growing and most liveable cities — combining waterfront precincts, subtropical parks, riverfront cycling paths, island adventures and an emerging culinary scene. Its year-round warm climate makes it ideal for outdoor travel, photography, wildlife experiences and day trips to some of Queensland’s most iconic natural areas.
This Brisbane Destinations Hub gives travellers everything they need: regional images, suggested itineraries, nearby nature escapes, island activities, downloadable guides and seamless links to check tour availability with Cooee Tours. Whether you're here for culture, the outdoors, or a relaxing break, this hub helps you explore Brisbane with confidence.
Brisbane City Highlights
Brisbane City blends modern riverfront precincts with cultural icons, weekend markets, rooftop bars, historic laneways and family-friendly attractions. It's walkable, scenic and filled with experiences that suit couples, families and solo travellers alike.
Riverfront Experiences
Join river cruises, guided city walks or cultural experiences around South Bank and the Brisbane Powerhouse. Tour highlight: Laneway Ghost Walk.
Cultural Precincts
Visit art galleries, museums, live theatre and outdoor festivals centred around QPAC, QAGOMA and the riverfront cultural strip.
Food & Markets
Brisbane is full of markets and foodie pockets. Explore Eat Street, riverside dining, weekend farmers markets and craft breweries.
Family-Friendly Attractions
South Bank’s swimming lagoons, parks, playgrounds and ferries make Brisbane ideal for families — especially with free public spaces.
Brisbane City offers countless ways to explore: rent a scooter, cycle the river loop, browse artisan markets or join a guided local tour. Travellers often pair Brisbane with a day trip into nature — and that’s where the next sections help you plan.
Nature & Wildlife Near Brisbane
Brisbane is surrounded by world-class wildlife experiences — from koala sanctuaries to forest walks, waterfalls and birdwatching hotspots. These experiences require little travel time and are ideal half-day or full-day adventures.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
The world’s oldest and most respected koala sanctuary. Hand-feed kangaroos, meet native wildlife and join keeper-led talks.
Mt Coot-tha Lookout & Forest
Panoramic city views, botanic gardens, short walks and photography spots only 15 minutes from the CBD.
Brisbane Forest Park
Waterfalls, creeks, birdwatching and tranquil rainforest trails accessible from the north-west corridor.
Moreton Bay Islands
Crystal-clear bays, shipwreck snorkelling, dolphins at dusk, whale-watching season, pristine beaches and Indigenous cultural tours — Brisbane’s island network feels like a tropical getaway but sits right on the city’s doorstep.
Moreton Island
Perfect for snorkelling, sandboarding, dolphin feeding and marine-life experiences.
North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah)
Famous for Point Lookout, migrating whales, cliff walks and rich Indigenous heritage.
Whale Watching (June–October)
Depart from Brisbane or Redcliffe for unforgettable seasonal encounters.
Hinterland Escapes
Within 40–60 minutes you can leave the city and enter the cool mountain air of Brisbane’s hinterland — a region filled with waterfalls, wineries, rainforest walks, country pubs and charming villages.
Tamborine Mountain
Rainforest skywalks, wineries, craft shops and scenic lookouts. A favourite day trip from Brisbane.
Glass House Mountains
Iconic volcanic peaks, lookouts, and hiking routes suitable for all skill levels.
Samford & Dayboro
Country charm, cafes, scenic drives and peaceful forest pockets just north of Brisbane.
Nearby Coastal Escapes — Sunshine Coast & Gold Coast
Within an easy drive you can reach the Sunshine Coast’s Noosa and hinterland towns, or the Gold Coast’s surf beaches and rainforest hinterland. These coastal escapes pair well with city-based itineraries when you want a mix of beach and culture.
Sunshine Coast
Noosa’s beaches and hinterland towns for relaxed seaside days and national-park walks.
Gold Coast
Surf beaches, family attractions and easy hinterland drives to waterfalls and lookouts.
Bribie Island
Calmer beaches and nearby national parks for quick half-day escapes from Brisbane.
Suggested Itineraries (Half-Day, Full-Day & Weekend)
Half-Day — City + River
Morning: South Bank & cultural walk. Lunch at Howard Smith Wharves. Afternoon CityCat ferry and an early skyline lookout at Mt Coot-tha.
Full-Day — Moreton Island Adventure
Early ferry, snorkel the wrecks, sandboard, beach picnic and late return to Brisbane. Ideal for families and snorkellers.
Weekend — Scenic Rim & Wineries
Day 1: Tamborine Mountain wineries and skywalk. Day 2: Lamington NP walks and waterfall circuits. Combine with a farmstay or B&B.
📝 Brisbane Travel Guides & Blogs
Planning Resources & Downloads
These downloadable guides help you plan your Brisbane adventures offline, whether you're exploring the city or venturing into the surrounding forest, mountains or islands.
Seasonal clothing tips, sun protection, rain gear and photography suggestions.
Includes Moreton Bay, Mt Coot-tha, Stradbroke, Tamborine & Glass House Mountains.
Curated itineraries, wildlife tips and day trip essentials.
Quick Book with Cooee Tours
Use the form below to send a quick enquiry — our bookings team replies with availability, pricing and optional extras.