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Explore Before You Board - Brisbane

Posted on 24 Mar 2023, updated 1 Nov 2024
'Brisbane' sign at Southbank Parklands is a popular selfie location
'Brisbane' sign at Southbank Parklands is a popular selfie location
With the opening of the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal in 2021, Brisbane is becoming a big player in the Australian cruise industry, offering year-round cruising. With its s tropical climate, picturesque parks, and collection of historically rich architecture, there is something for everyone in Brisbane - whether your visit is just for a day - or longer pre or post cruise.

The Brisbane Central Business District itself is located approximately 30 minutes drive from the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal.

There is no public transport between the cruise terminal and CBD, so the best option to get from one to the other is rideshare or taxi. Some cruise lines will also offer CBD or Airport transfers through their shore excursions.

Brisbane CBD

Things to see
Located within Brisbane City Hall in King George Square, this museum offers a range of Exhibitions and tours.
Things to see

Popular shopping destination in the heart of the Brisbane CBD. Major retailers include Myer, Zara, Uniqlo, with many of other retailers in one vibrant strip.

Things to see

Inner city oasis with a variety of plants, picnic spaces, ponds and more, in the heart of the Brisbane CBD.

Things to see
Iconic cantilever bridge that spans the Brisbane River. Take in breathtaking views of Brisbane city.

South Brisbane

South Brisbane, including the South Bank precinct is the tourist heart of Brisbane, with easy access to the CBD straight over the river. This area includes a large range of attractions, hotels and restaurants and is very pedestrian friendly thanks to the South Bank parklands which include gardens, swimming beaches and a wide variety of shops and eateries.

Streets Beach at Brisbane's South Bank precinct
Streets Beach at Brisbane's South Bank precinct
Things to see

Museum featuring exhibits highlighting Science, Culture and the natural world.

General entry is free, though there are costs to enter special exhibitions and some experiences.

Things to see

Vibrant public parklands including gardens, swimming areas with lagoons, artificial beaches. Close to hotels, restaurants, cafes and shopping - directly next to the Brisbane River overlooking the CBD.

Things to see

Landmark of the South Bank precinct, the Wheel of Brisbane offers stunning panoramic views of the Brisbane CBD from 60 meters above the ground.

Getting Around

Explore Brisbane from its vantagepoint of the winding Brisbane River. Taking in sights including Customs House, Story Bridge, Southbank and Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park.

Further Afield

Staying a little longer in Brisbane and have time to escape the city? There is no shortage of places to visit in all directions, from the tourist hotspots of the Gold Coast, to the mountains and wilderness of Tambourine National Park.

Things to see
Australia Zoo is home to the crocodile hunter Steve Irwin. The zoo features way more than crocodiles with a range of wildlife from around the world including Cheetahs, Cassowary, Anacondas, Dingos, Komodo Dragons and more. The zoo is set across a large property with a zoo train to get between different points in the zoo. There are keeper talks to learn more about the animals, and chances to get up close and personal with some of the furry critters. Watch a breathtaking crocodile show in the 'crocoseum'. Australia Zoo is located about an hour north of Brisbane, so remember to factor in travel time and car hire.
Things to see
The world's largest Koala sanctuary, also houses a range of other native Australian animals. You can also do a cruise from Brisbane CBD to the sanctuary to make transport easier.
Things to see

National Park set amongst tropical rainforest, around an hours drive from Brisbane. The park features a number of hikes with scenic lookouts, gorges, waterfalls and picnic areas.


Explore More of Brisbane

Australia

Brisbane is reinventing itself to be one of Australia's major cruise ports with the introduction of the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal, located close to the Brisbane Airport.

Ship Stalking in Brisbane

Brisbane International Cruise Terminal
Brisbane International Cruise Terminal

In Brisbane but not cruising? You can do your ship stalking and see which cruise ships will be in port at https://www.portbris.com.au/cruise/cruise-ship-schedule/.

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