Brisbane One-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Morning: Begin at South Bank Parklands, strolling along the riverside promenade and enjoying the lush gardens and iconic Streets Beach. Continue to the nearby Queensland Museum for a quick immersion in natural history and cultural exhibits (allow about 1.5 hours).

Afternoon: Hop on a Brisbane River Cruise from the CityCat terminal for a scenic 1‑hour journey showcasing the skyline and historic bridges. Disembark at Eagle Street Pier for a waterfront lunch, then head to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to cuddle a koala and meet native wildlife (≈2 hours).

Evening: Ascend to Mount Coot‑tha Lookout for panoramic sunset views over the city and Moreton Bay. Return to South Bank for dinner at a riverside restaurant, soaking in the vibrant night atmosphere.

Time and Cost Estimates

• South Bank Parklands – 2 hours – Free
• Queensland Museum – 1.5 hours – $15
• Brisbane River Cruise – 1 hour – $30
• Eagle Street Pier (Lunch) – 1.5 hours – $35
• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – 2 hours – $45
• Mount Coot‑tha Lookout – 1 hour – Free
• Dinner at South Bank – 1.5 hours – $35
• Total Estimated Cost: $125

Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) or a bike ride along the Riverwalk. To shorten the day, skip the koala sanctuary and enjoy a longer lunch or additional shopping at Queen Street Mall instead.