Travel to Brisbane

Travel to Brisbane

As Queenslands vibrant capital city, Brisbane offers the very best in food, wine, arts, entertainment and major sporting events, with a relaxed sub-tropical ambiance. It is home to several interesting districts, a good street caf scene, a great riverside park, a busy cultural calendar and thriving nightlife. The city is a mix of the past and the future, with lower, older heritage buildings such as the Town Hall and Customs House interspersed with modern skyscrapers.

Transportation to Brisbane

Brisbane International Airport is 13kms from the city and offers frequent connections to many domestic, Asian and international destinations. Ground transportation options to the city are excellent including a direct train and public buses. Trains arrive from Sydney and Melbourne in New South Wales (NSW), and from afar as Cairns in northern Queensland. Buses also connect Brisbane with all major destinations in Australia as well as many smaller places. If you prefer to drive yourself, be aware that distances in Australia are enormous. The drive from Sydney is nearly 1,000kms.

What to see

Many of Brisbanes landmarks and attractions celebrate the citys historical heritage, going back to the first white settlers and the native inhabitants before them. There are many parks and open spaces that provide shady resting places. A ride up to the tower of City Hall offers some good views of the surrounding city. St Johns Anglican Cathedral is being renovated and is near completion. Even so, it is a popular attraction, as most parts of the 100-year-old structure are accessible to visitors.

Daytrips

The Queensland coast features some of the finest natural environments in Australia and there are various options within 1 or 2 hours drive. The Burleigh Heads National Park is the nearest natural sanctuary. This small but diverse reserve on the north side of the Tallebudgera River offers walking trails and good views from a rocky promontory. Bird lovers can head for Currumbin Sanctuary, featuring plenty of colourful tropical varieties in addition to kangaroos, koalas and emus. The Fleays Wildlife Park and Olsons Bird Garden are also nearby.

Activities and leisure

A good way to get around Brisbane is by bike, and the city is crisscrossed by an extensive network ofcycling paths. Water sports also feature prominently on the agenda, with surfing being one of the most popular choices. Surfers Paradise is only 77kms from Brisbane. Climbing Brisbanes Story Bridge is another exciting activity.

Safety issues

Australia is a relatively safe country, though Brisbane is home to its fair share of pickpockets who prey on tourists that might have dropped their guard. Queensland is also home to some of the worlds deadliest snakes and spiders as well as sharks and jellyfish. Be wary of accepting drinks from strangers. We highly recommend travel insurance when travelling in Australia.