Solo Travel / Solo Travel in Australia

How To Spend 24 Hours In Brisbane

TLDR: Spend 24 hours in Brisbane, Australia’s vibrant river city, known for its sunny weather, cultural landmarks, and outdoor lifestyle. Perfect for solo travelers, Brisbane offers a mix of exciting activities, great dining, and a relaxed urban vibe.

Related Guides

Highlight

Stroll through South Bank Parklands, Brisbane’s cultural and recreational hub.
Take in panoramic city views from Mount Coot-tha Lookout.
Visit the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) for world-class exhibitions.
Relax on the city’s artificial beach, Streets Beach, right in the heart of South Bank.

About Brisbane

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is a city that thrives on its connection to the outdoors. Built around the Brisbane River, the city is a blend of modern skyscrapers, green spaces, and a thriving arts scene. Its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere make it a favorite for travelers seeking a mix of urban exploration and natural beauty.

For solo travelers, Brisbane offers numerous opportunities to meet others, whether at vibrant night markets, social hostels, or outdoor activities.

Where to Sleep In Brisbane

For budget travelers, Bunk Brisbane is a fantastic choice with its lively bar, pool, and social events. Another excellent option is Somewhere To Stay Hostel, offering a cozy atmosphere and great communal spaces.

For luxury seekers, The Calile Hotel combines elegant design with modern amenities in Brisbane’s trendy Fortitude Valley.

Getting to and From Brisbane

By Plane:
Brisbane is served by Brisbane Airport (BNE), located about 20 minutes from the city center. The Airtrain is a convenient option to reach the CBD.

By Train:
Roma Street Station is Brisbane’s main hub for interstate and regional trains, connecting to major destinations in Queensland and beyond.

By Bus:
Brisbane’s public bus network is extensive, and intercity buses like Greyhound connect Brisbane to other cities along the east coast.

Travel Tip: The city’s free CityHopper ferry is a scenic way to explore Brisbane’s riverfront attractions.

Nearest Airport and Popular Connections

Brisbane Airport (BNE) is the main gateway to the city, offering flights from domestic and international destinations.

Estimated Flight Costs:

From Southeast Asia: Around €300 to €500 for a return flight (Bangkok, Singapore).
From Europe: Around €1,000 to €1,500 for a return flight (London, Paris).
From the USA: Around €800 to €1,200 for a return flight (Los Angeles, New York).
From New Zealand: Around €200 to €400 for a return flight (Auckland, Wellington).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Brisbane enjoys a subtropical climate, with warm summers (December to February) and mild winters (June to August).

The best time to visit is during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), when the weather is pleasant and the city’s outdoor attractions shine.

Meeting Fellow Travelers

Brisbane’s social vibe and outdoor culture make it easy to meet others:

Hostel Social Events: Hostels like Bunk Brisbane host pub crawls, trivia nights, and BBQs.
Markets and Cafés: Visit the West End Markets or South Bank’s Collective Market for casual interactions.
Tours and Activities: Join a river kayaking tour or a group hike at Mount Coot-tha to bond with fellow adventurers.
Nightlife: Explore Fortitude Valley’s bar scene, including spots like The Wickham and Cloudland, which are popular with travelers and locals alike.

Testimonials from Fellow Travelers

Anna, 26, from Germany:
“Brisbane was such a surprise! I loved exploring South Bank and meeting new friends on the hostel pub crawl. The city has such a fun and welcoming vibe.”

Tom, 31, from Canada:
“The kayaking tour on the Brisbane River was unforgettable. The views were amazing, and I met so many cool people during my stay. Can’t wait to return!”

Budgeting for 24 Hours in Brisbane

Accommodation:

Hostels: Bunk Brisbane offers dorm beds from €20 to €30.
Hotels: The Calile Hotel offers luxury rooms starting from €250 per night.

Transportation:

A daily public transport pass costs around €5.

Food and Drink:

Breakfast: €5 to €10 for coffee and pastries.
Lunch and Dinner: €15 to €30 for meals at local cafés or casual restaurants.

Attractions / Entertainment:

Entry to GOMA and the Queensland Museum is free, while tours like kayaking cost around €30 to €50.

Miscellaneous:

Budget €10 to €20 for drinks, snacks, or souvenirs.

Total Estimated Budget: A day in Brisbane typically ranges from €70 to €150, offering a mix of cultural exploration, outdoor fun, and urban adventures.

Morning

Begin your day with breakfast at Miss Bliss Wholefoods Kitchen, a café in West End known for its wholesome dishes and excellent coffee. Afterward, head to South Bank Parklands, where you can stroll along the riverside, visit the famous Streets Beach, and enjoy the lush gardens.

Next, explore the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), home to cutting-edge exhibitions and a celebration of contemporary art.

Lunch

For lunch, visit Eat Street Northshore, a bustling food market with global cuisines and vibrant energy. Try classic Aussie dishes or experiment with international flavors while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Alternatively, dine at Riverbar & Kitchen, a riverside spot offering great views and a relaxed vibe.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon at Mount Coot-tha Lookout, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Brisbane and beyond. Take a short hike on one of the many trails or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

If you’re staying in the city, hop on the free CityHopper ferry for a scenic ride along the Brisbane River, stopping at key attractions like Howard Smith Wharves and Kangaroo Point.

Evening

As the sun sets, head to Fortitude Valley, Brisbane’s nightlife hub. For dinner, try The Vietnamese Restaurant, a local favorite offering delicious and affordable dishes.

After dinner, explore the bars and clubs in the area. Start at The Wickham, known for its friendly atmosphere, or dance the night away at Cloudland, a visually stunning venue.

Departure Morning

On your departure morning, grab a light breakfast at Brew, a hidden laneway café popular with locals. Take a final stroll along the Brisbane River or through the CBD before heading to your next destination.

Where Next?

After exploring Brisbane, consider heading to Gold Coast for its beaches and nightlife or Noosa for a laid-back coastal escape. For more travel ideas, explore our ’24-hour guides’ series on the Hostelworld app to plan your next adventure!