Whoever thought everything in Australia is expensive thought wrong, as there are many free things to do in Brisbane. Brisbane is the capital of the Australian state Queensland, and with a population of nearly 2,5 million it is the third largest city of Australia.
I lived in Brisbane for four months, and as I was on a tight backpacker budget I didn’t have an awful lot to spend. Luckily, there are many fun free things to do in Brisbane, and these are the 8 best ones.
1. South Bank Beach Lagoon
Probably one of the prettiest man-made beaches I have ever seen – that’s South Bank’s Beach Lagoon. The closest beach to Brisbane is about an hour drive, and getting there by public transport is nearly impossible. So what did the inventive Brisbanites do? Create a beach! Soaking up the sun while looking out on Brisbane’s skyscrapers is completely free.
Fun fact: did you know my South Bank picture was the cover of the 2018 Brisbane City Guide? *Proud*
2. Ferry around the CBD
Brisbane’s CBD is surrounded by the Brisbane river. There are a few bridges you can cross to get from one of the suburbs to the CBD, but the Brisbane council also introduced another way: the free ferry. Board the CityHopper ferry in Sydney Street and disembark at North Quay. This way you’ll peacefully sail across the Brisbane River, giving you great views on the CBD from different angles.
3. Sunset at Kangaroo Point Cliffs
I used to live just around the corner from the Kangaroo Point Cliffs and saw many amazing sunsets from here. The reason this spot is one of Brisbane’s greatest sunset spots are the amazing views over the Brisbane River and the CBD. When the sky turns purple and pink, the water and skyscrapers adopt the colors like a kameleon. Spectacular sunsets guaranteed.
4. Botanical Gardens
One of the things I love so much about Australia is that every (big) city has its own botanical gardens, and so does Brissy! Wander around and learn more about the (tropical) plant species that are native to this area. For a moment you’ll forget you’re in a big city and feel like you’re wandering through the jungle.
5. Walk over the story bridge
The Story Bridge is one of Brisbane’s most famous landmarks, so when you’re in Brissy walking over the bridge is a must. I’d recommend starting in Fortitude Valley and walk towards Kangaroo Point Park. Right next to Kangaroo Point Park you’ll find Bar Spritz where you can enjoy a well-deserved cup of coffee or some lunch when looking out at Brissy’s skyline.
6. Mount Coot-Tha
Mount Coot-tha Lookout is one of Brisbane’s coolest lookouts, as you can literally see the entire city from up there. Getting to Mount Coot-Tha might probably cost you a few bucks (unless you want to walk or cycle there), but trust me: the views are worth it.
7. South Bank Markets
There’s just something so cozy about markets, and this definitely goes for the South Bank Markets as well. Three days a week you’ll find vendors selling fresh food, beauty products, clothing and much more.
8. Queenslands Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art
I’m going to be honest with you. I’m not a big fan of museums. I can’t help it. It’s just not my thing. Buuut I actually really enjoyed this museum! Check out the QAGOMA’s website to see what exhibitions they have on this month.
Told you – with plenty of free things to do in Brisbane traveling around Australia doesn’t always have to be expensive 🙂 Enjoy your time in Brisvegas!
All pictures in this article are edited with Eef’s Presets – get yours here.
❤ Eef
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