3. Sightsee on a River Cruise
One of the best ways to go sightseeing in Brisbane is aboard a river cruise. The Brisbane River runs through the heart of the city, and many of the city’s top attractions line its banks, vying for your attention. This is an excellent way to gain a fresh perspective of Brisbane landmarks such as the Story Bridge, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, and even some of the wildlife, like the fruit bats that gather along the mangroves on the riverbank.
Once you experience a scenic overview of the city on the water, you can get your bearings, and pinpoint places to spend more time during your visit.
River City Cruises run some of the most popular tours. They range from 90-minute morning or afternoon cruises to sunset cruises and longer excursions. A great choice is the 3.5-hour Cruise to Lunch Package. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating stories about Brisbane’s history, and point out key Brisbane attractions, all while you enjoy Devonshire tea with glittering river views.
4. Stroll through Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha
Visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to gardens in Brisbane. Lush parks and gardens punctuate every corner of the city, and Brisbane’s botanic gardens are renowned for their impressive collections of subtropical plants.
First stop should be the stunning Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha (Mt. Coot-tha Road, Toowong), about seven kilometers from the city. Offering panoramic city views, this top tourist attraction is a favorite place to visit with locals and visitors alike.
Diverse themed gardens take you on a journey through 128 acres of horticulture. Highlights include the beautiful Japanese gardens and the largest collection of Australian rainforest trees in the world, as well as sections dedicated to fragrant plants, bamboo, cactus, indigenous plants, and more.
Budding botanists will love the Hide ‘n’ Seek Children’s Trail through the rainforest, and you can take advantage of the free guided walks and minibus tours. Best of all, entry to the gardens is free. While you’re in the area, stop by the Brisbane Lookout Mount Coot-tha, about a four-minute drive from the gardens.
Garden lovers should also save time to check out the 17-hectare, heritage-listed City Botanic Gardens (147 Alice Street, Brisbane). This serene oasis and prime picnic spot sits smack bang in the center of the city. Lily-topped ponds, fountains, bamboo groves, river views, and giant fig trees provide the perfect escape from the city buzz.
