Brisbane suburb guide
Whether you base yourself north or south of the Brisbane River, the Queensland capital’s pulsing food and art scenes are within easy reach.
By Natasha Dragun and Carly Spek
Brisbane’s snaking river is a landmark throughout its central suburbs. On the north bank, the city centre nestles alongside some of Brisbane’s most happening areas for wining and dining. South of the river, leafy residential streets and parklands reveal surprising cultural and sporting attractions. Find your favourite spot for a stay in this fun-loving city.
Central Brisbane
Streets Beach, South Brisbane, Queensland © Tourism Australia
Where: City centre, South Bank
Central Brisbane is home to some of the city’s oldest buildings and some of its most vibrant developments. On the north bank of the river in the city centre, grand colonial-era buildings house museums and shopping malls beside futuristic skyscrapers. Across the river, the relaxed South Bank precinct is home to the bulk of the city’s cultural institutions, with dining and entertainment options surrounding a lush man-made beach.
South of the river
Kangaroo Point picnic, Brisbane, Queensland © Brisbane Marketing
Where: West End, Woolloongabba, Kangaroo Point
Surrounding the South Bank precinct, Brisbane's southern neighbourhoods feel both residential and eclectic. Large Greek and Vietnamese communities contribute to multicultural restaurants and shops, while weekend markets and live music venues attract visitors through the day and well into the night. If you’re a sporting fanatic, this area is an ideal base – it’s home to the main sports stadium, urban abseiling and rock-climbing.
Northeast of the city centre
Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane, Queensland © Tourism Australia
Where: Howard Smith Wharves, Fortitude Valley, New Farm
If you want to be surrounded by the city’s most happening wining and dining establishments, the northeast pocket of Brisbane is for you. The Howard Smith Wharves precinct – beneath the Story Bridge on the Brisbane River’s north bank – is packed with arty hotels, restaurants and bars with water views. Neighbouring suburbs of Fortitude Valley and New Farm, to the north and east, are equally buzzing with activity.
