The Best Things to See and Do in 48 Hours in Brisbane:
If you only have 48 hours in Brisbane, there is definitely a lot you can see and do. The laid back capital of the ‘Sunshine State’ never disappoints and has over 300 days of sun per year. Luckily a large majority of things to do are outside and free, which makes it a fun destination for everyone. We love the quirky arts scene, the hip neighbourhoods and the nearby islands. Get ready to explore ‘Brissie’ or Bris Vegas as the locals call it, the 3rd largest city in Australia.
Use our list to create your personal complete itinerary for 48 hours in Brisbane. Whether you have visited the city frequently or it’s your first time – you’ll always find something fun to do in this laid-back city. We have created a list of affordable attractions and another of free things you can do in the city.
How to get to Brisbane
Brisbane is one of the nearest destinations for international travellers in Australia and Brisbane airport (BNE) is award winning.
To get from the airport into the city the most convenient way is to use the Airtrain. This will take 20 minutes to reach the centre from both the domestic and international terminals. Also, it’s useful to know that children 14 and under travel free!
When is the best time to spend 48 hours in Brisbane
Brisbane is definitely a year round destination, due to the beautiful weather it is blessed with. It can be very hot in the summer though, therefore if you are able to visit in the shoulder season in April and May this would be an ideal time.
How to get around Brisbane
There are many options to get around Brisbane. There’s a free inner city loop bus, which runs Monday to Friday 7am-6pm. Alternatively, you will need a Go Card, which will allow you to touch on and off on buses, trains, CityCats and ferries. You will need to purchase the Go Card in advance and you can buy one at the Translink office, or most 7-Eleven or Night Owl shops.
Top Things to do for 48 hours in Brisbane
Take a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane
You will have 360-degree panoramic views of the city for around 15 minutes. Next to it is the famous BRISBANE sign, so don’t forget your camera and queue with the tourists to get that perfect snap.
Have fun in Fortitude Valley
Better known as ‘The Valley’, this is the epicentre of Brisbane’s entertainment district and is known to be one of the best live music joints in Australia. Here you will be able to eat, drink, and dance in a mix of elegant, grimy and modern venues whilst seeing some of the most artistic graffiti in the city.
Conquer the Storey Bridge Adventure Climb
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you can always do this fun activity. It is one of only 3 bridge climbs in the world and costs much less than its sister in Sydney ($129) and the best part? You get to abseil down!
48 Hours in Brisbane - Go on a Day Trip
If you have 48 hours in Brisbane then why not visit a true local favourite?
North Stardbroke Island (Minjerribah) is a paradise just 30km from Brisbane. ‘Straddie’ as it’s better known, offers so much to see and do. It’s easily accessible by car (40mins) or by ferry (30mins), which is an affordable ($17) return journey.
Walk the North Gorge path (1.5km) and look out for whales, turtles and surfers swimming in the tranquil waters. The walk only takes about 20 minutes; depending on how many photos you take of course. You’ll be rewarded with pristine beaches; rugged coastal cliffs and you may see one of the 2000 koalas on the island.
From June to November, you might be able to catch the whale’s dance from one of the many viewing platforms. Also, you can fish, surf, soak up the rays or have a tipple at one of the bars. It’s a holiday on a holiday…
The Best 10 free things to do for 48 hours in Brisbane:
If you’re looking for fun but free things to do for 48 hours in Brisbane, then this list won’t fail to keep you entertained. Also, if you’re looking for tips to travel cheaply in Australia then read this post!
Wander down the Riverwalk
With enough room for pedestrians and cyclists, this 870m scenic path that connects New Farm to the CBD is one of Brisbane’s highlights. Indeed, Brisbane has many beautiful walks but this is one of our favourites, with views of the impressive Storey Bridge.
Catch the City Hopper
You’ve probably seen or heard of the little red boats that transport locals and visitors along the Brisbane River for free. You can get on between Sydney St Terminal and North Quay and you can access Brissie highlights such as New Farm. It’s amazing to be on the water, but it can be slower and busier than the normal ferries so plan accordingly.
Swim at the Southbank
The World Expo in 1988 led to the transformation of the city’s spacious southern bank. The 17 hectares by the river attracts over 10 million visitors every year. It’s arguably one of the best places to spend an afternoon, whether that’s using the free BBQ facilities or having a dip in the man made swimming pool. Soak up the sun at an inner city beach, with the skyline as a backdrop.
Make sure you bring a towel and a good book to enjoy the Queensland sun. It’s not Trip Advisor’s number 1 thing to do in Brisbane for no reason; you’ll be surprised just how much you’ll want to return. We did almost every day…
BBQ at Kangaroo Point
No, you probably won’t see any kangaroos here so don’t let the name fool you, but make sure you don’t leave this place off your Brissie bucket list. As a popular spot, it may be busy at the weekend, so if you can go during the week then you won’t have to compete for space with others.
In this popular spot you’ll find locals and tourists enjoying the view across the city as it lights up at night. You can easily see the Botanical Gardens, the Captain Cook Bridge and observe people rock climbing and abseiling down the cliffs.
Watch the sunset at Mt-Coot-tha
Located outside of the city centre in the west, you can visit Mt Coot-tha, lookout for sunset. At 387 metres above sea level, marvel at the best sunset in Brisbane over the city skyline. Whether you want a challenge and walk to the top, drive or catch the 471 bus, you’ll not be disappointed when you reach the viewing platform. It offers a unique experience and you can see how the famous Brisbane River twists and turns amongst the greenery. If you have time, explore the planetarium at the top too.
Meander through the Botanical Gardens
The oldest park in Brisbane is quite close to Mt Coot-tha, so why not combine the two places? They were founded in 1970 and boast free entry to its 56 hectare sub-tropical gardens, with a plethora of fauna to appreciate. Free-guided tours leave daily at 11am and 1pm and you can arrange a private viewing if you’re in a group.
Roam New Farm Park
The locals love New Farm, so why not join them? This heritage-listed park covers 15 hectares and sits on the Brisbane River allowing you to experience its youthful and relaxing way of life. You will experience a small community feel with a great proximity to the city. You can sit on the grass with a picnic or watch the boats cruise down the river.
Enrich your mind at QAGOMA
The two galleries located at the Southbank, are home to over 17,000 pieces of art, showcasing Australian and international exhibitions. They are usually open from 10am until 5pm, which leaves you with plenty of time to see what it has to offer. Get ready to go on an intellectual journey to discover the many impressive historical collections. You can cast your eyes on some incredible indigenous art displays. It’s the largest gallery of modern art in Australia and they change exhibitions regularly too.
Rise with the clock tower at the Town Hall
Bribane’s City Hall is heritage listed and offers free trips up to the top of its clock tower every 15 minutes from 10:30am-3:30pm (in its original lift). You will be rewarded with views over King George’s Square and be surrounded by the city’s skyscrapers. Whilst you’re here be sure to visit the Museum of Brisbane to learn about what shaped the city. It will help you appreciate your trip more!
Relax in Roma Street Parkland
Last but not least, make sure you take the time out of your busy day to unwind; just 10 minutes walk from the CBD. Discover creative gardens that cover 16 hectares of eye-catching parklands in an urban setting- a great contrast to the busy city. At dusk, you’ll get to witness the bats emerge from their slumber, not uncommon for Australia, but still a magnificent sight.
48 hours in Brisbane will absolutely fly by with this list. We already want to return to the laid-back environment. Let us know in the comments if we missed anything!
Alternatively, you could always take a day trip and:
- Embrace Surfer’s Paradise on the Gold Coast
- Travel through Lamington National Park (O’Reilly’s Treetop Walk)
- Discover Springbrook National Park
- Unwind at Noosa Heads
- Enjoy the Gold Coast Theme parks
The possibilities are endless.
Also, if you’re travelling Australia then read our guides to Melbourne, Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef too.
Photo Credit: Averagelives.com and unspalsh.com
The 300 days of sun per year convinced me to visit haha! Brisbane looks like such a fun city that I’d love to visit in the future!
This is a thorough comprehensive guide. There’s so many great suggestions, but I’d love to take a ride on the Brisbane wheel, or go to the Parkland. I’ll save this for sure!
Wow! Brisbane looks AMAZING. The wheel of Brisbane also looks like the London Eye to me. Would you say there are some similarities between London and Brisbane? They look oddly similar in some ways.
Wow, Kangaroo Point looks beautiful! Even if there aren’t any kangaroos! I bet witnessing the sunset from Mt Coot-tha is an incredible experience too. Thanks for the great guide!
Sounds like a lovely place! Would love to visit Australia one day so adding this to my list too 😀
It’s amazing that in Brisbane you can swim right in the middle of the city. You are right, that skyscrapers backdrop is pretty impressive. I would love to do this when I visit Brisbane.
Looks like an amazing city! I hope I’ll get to visit one day. I’d love to see the Botanical Gardens and watch the sunset.
You got me at 300 days of sunshine! Definitely will be visiting when we make it to Australia one day!
Brisbane looks like an amazing city! I cannot wait to go at some point. Definitely keeping this article handy. 🙂
I really want to spend a few months exploring Australia in the near future, so will definitely visit Brisbane! I love to do free things in a city so I can both have fun and explore it on a budget!
Looks like such a lovely city! I have never been to Australia, but hope to one day. I would so enjoy the North Gorge Path, Queensland and sunset at Mt-Coot-tha. Your pictures are fantastic and so inviting.