Brisbane, Australia: The Best Attractions for One Day

Brisbane was the grand finale of our Australia road trip from Cairns all the way down south. On the last day before our flight home, we wanted to fully enjoy the city one last time - and we were completely surprised! Brisbane is modern, youthful, laid-back, and immediately secured a place in our travel hearts.

Even though we only had one day, we discovered so many highlights: impressive views, cool neighborhoods, relaxing ferry rides on the Brisbane River, and great spots to hang out. The city is transforming, as Brisbane is preparing for the 2032 Olympics - and you can feel it. So much feels new, fresh, and incredibly modern.

In this post, I will show you how to make the most of one day in Brisbane, Australia - with our personal highlights, the main attractions in Brisbane, genuine insider tips, and plenty of enthusiasm packed, just before we took the flight home just before midnight.

We started our day at South Bank - and that was the right decision. The promenade along the Brisbane River is not only green and spacious, but also packed with culture, architecture, and relaxing spots to hang out.

Before we set out, we had breakfast - at Poppies. A little, cozy spot with delicious coffee and really good avocado toast or Eggs Benedict. Just the right thing to start the day off right.

After that, we strolled along the beautiful riverside promenade - partly a shady boardwalk with palm trees and bougainvillea, partly a green promenade with a view of the Brisbane River and the city skyline.

The South Bank Parklands with the free Streets Beach - a lagoon-style beach right in the city, perfect for relaxing or a quick cool down - was particularly wonderful.

The big 'BRISBANE' sign, the Nepalese Peace Pagoda, and the Wheel of Brisbane are other highlights that you can conveniently explore on foot. From the Ferris wheel, we had a fantastic view over the city.

We spontaneously bought a ticket and enjoyed a few spins on the Ferris wheel.

Next, we crossed the modern Neville Bonner Bridge to the new neighborhood of Queen's Wharf. Our destination: the Sky Deck at The Star Brisbane.

The visit there was one of our absolute highlights: free access, glass floor, and a 360-degree view of the entire city. Simply impressive and still a real insider tip. Because The Star recently opened and you won't find it in any current travel guide.

After the Sky Deck, we headed to the Brisbane City Hall - a beautiful, historic building with a free museum. Right next door is the Queen Street Mall and Queen Street, the heart of downtown with plenty of shopping options, cafés, and small boutiques. Perfect for a break or a little shopping spree.

We couldn't miss a stop at HeyTea - a trendy matcha café from China that has just opened in Brisbane. Our matcha there was really good (mine with mochi) and the atmosphere was super authentic.

Along Queen Street, you will find little side alleys with street art, cafés, and bars. Feel free to pop in.

For a new perspective on Brisbane, we took the ferry across the river. The rides currently cost (as of 2025) just a few cents and can be conveniently paid using a credit card when getting on and off. The view of the skyline from the water is unique! Our ride only cost 10 cents.

We rode to the stop after the Story Bridge and enjoyed the journey in pleasant weather, taking in views of modern architecture, the Ferris wheel, and the waterfront promenades.

At the Howard Smith Wharves under the Story Bridge, we ended our last evening in Australia. First, we had oysters and champagne at sunset, later pizza and a glass of wine at Felons Brewing Co.. The restaurants here are diverse: whether Greek at Greca, Japanese at Yoko Dining, or casual at the brewery - everyone will find something here. There are also live concerts or movie nights. Really cool.

To conclude, we strolled along the waterfront promenade back to the CBD and then returned. The city lights, the water, and the relaxed atmosphere made that evening unforgettable. Brisbane is truly cool.

If you have a little more time or want to add more highlights during your stay, these places are highly recommended:

These places were visited by Isa on her 4-week trip along the East Coast of Australia.

Brisbane - or lovingly called 'Brissie' - really impressed us. The city is modern, creative, and incredibly livable. Even if you only have one day, you can still experience a lot and get a real feel for the special atmosphere of this metropolis. By the time the 2032 Olympics come around, you can bet I will be back in Brissie!

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