Getting around Brisbane
With riverside expressways and an extensive public transport system, getting around Brisbane is straightforward and efficient.
By Mark Sariban
Brisbane is an easy city to get around. The metropolitan area has a great range of options for public transport, driving, cycling and walking. Here’s how to move around the city with ease.
Transport in Brisbane
River City Cruises, Brisbane, Queensland © Tourism Australia
Brisbane has an extensive public transport system of buses, trains and ferries. To use the network, it’s recommended that you purchase a TransLink Go Card. You can also purchase pre-paid paper tickets at stations and fare machines before boarding a bus, train or ferry service.
- Use a Go Card on the TransLink network throughout southeast Queensland, including services from Brisbane to the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast.
- Purchase a Go Card and load it with funds at designated retailers at Brisbane Airport and convenience stores, and at train stations throughout the city. Go Card also has specific offers for visitors and tourists. You can add money to the card at fare machines and Go Card retailers across the city.
- Tap your Go Card on the reader when you board your selected mode of transport and be sure to tap off when you disembark.
- You can also pay for selected train fares with contactless credit cards, debit cards and mobile devices, with smart ticketing being rolled out across the public transport network.
Tip: If you are using a credit card, debit card or mobile device instead of a Go Card, be sure to use the same payment method when you tap on and tap off.
Getting around Brisbane on public transport
City Cat, Brisbane, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland
Brisbane’s rail network is a great way to visit attractions across the city and reach the surrounding suburbs. Use the Journey Planner tool to map your route.
- Major stations in the city include Central Station and Roma Street Station. From either of these stations, you can catch a train to reach attractions including the Queensland Museum or the Gallery of Modern Art, and destinations such as South Bank or Fortitude Valley.
Getting around Brisbane by car
James Street, Brisbane, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland
Driving in Brisbane is straightforward and safe, but you may want to check whether your hotel charges a daily parking fee.
- Brisbane City Council operates two centrally located car parks, at King George Square and Wickham Terrace.
- You can also book tours to many of the stunning destinations outside of Brisbane and leave the driving to someone else.
Other forms of transport in Brisbane
River Walk, Brisbane, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland
Joining a sightseeing river cruise is a great way to get to know Brisbane.
- River City Cruises offers daily sightseeing cruises along the Brisbane River.
- Mirimar Cruises runs Koala and Brisbane River Cruises that include a visit to nearby Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
- Both cruise companies operate from the Cultural Centre Pontoon, South Bank.
