Why? Being in the centre of Australia's fabled 'Gold Coast', a holiday in Brisbane means fun in the sun. The city has a relaxed atmosphere, making a Brisbane holiday a popular choice filled with attractions and within easy access of Australia's east coast resorts and theme parks on the Pacific Motorway. Like most holiday cities Brisbane also has a lively nightlife and good shopping opportunities.
When? A sub-tropical climate ensures that a holiday in Brisbane will be a sunny experience no matter what time of year is chosen. Most of the rain falls in summer, but not enough to deter holidaymakers. Winter temperatures are mild.
Who for? Most of those who travel to Brisbane come for leisure and pleasure. It is an ideal destination for a family holiday offering an artificial beach surrounded by shops, restaurants, museums and theatres. Surfers also travel to Brisbane to access the Sunshine Coast to the north, and the city is also a good base for anyone wanting to visit the nearby National Parks.
More Info: To find out how to travel to Brisbane and what to expect when you get there, make use of our comprehensive Brisbane travel guide, which is updated regularly.

Brisbane © Tourism Queensland

Australia's third largest city has a relaxed, easy-going ambience that is well suited to its moniker 'The City of Sundays'. As the capital of the state of Queensland, however, it has a serious side too and despite it's laid-back aura it is filled with the cosmopolitan hustle and bustle of a major urban hub. Brisbane has several interesting districts, a good street cafe vibe, a wonderful riverside park, a very full cultural calendar and a vibrant nightlife. Arts and culture vultures head for the South Bank, where one finds the Queensland Museum with its interactive displays; the Queensland Art Gallery with its magnificent collection of works; and the Performing Arts Centre, where international theatre companies and performing artists take to the stage.

There is plenty to keep shopaholics busy too, with the designer boutiques and department stores of Queens Street Mall ready to welcome visitors and numerous bustling markets dotted around the city. Sport, as everywhere in Australia, is also well catered for at the Gabba sports ground (cricket tests) and Suncorp Stadium, where the Wallabies often take on the world at rugby. The city is easy to explore on foot, and being at the centre of the region's favoured tourist attractions it provides the perfect base from which to make daytrips to surrounding areas.