South Bank

Brisbane

South Bank
South Bank which includes night scenes, a temple or place of worship and modern architecture
South Bank showing a city, street scenes and flowers
South Bank which includes night scenes
South Bank which includes modern architecture, a city and a bridge

This iconic public waterfront parkland is a lush haven in the city, with tropical pools, restaurants, cafés, a Ferris wheel, markets and free BBQs with playgrounds.

Enjoy the Queensland sunshine in a lush, inner-city setting. Have a BBQ, go for a swim, discover the local flora and fauna and shop for souvenirs. Visit one of the restaurants to enjoy alfresco dining with river views.

South Bank was developed for the World Expo in 1988 and has been maintained as free parklands for everyone to enjoy. Set aside a day to explore the riverfront venue, which is just a mile wide (1.6 kilometres) wide but packed with entertainment.

Start at the Maritime Museum at the foot of the Goodwill Bridge. Its historic dry dock harbors a significant World War II naval frigate. Across the road, the former sailor’s drinking den The Ship Inn from 1864 is now a classy pub.

The Arbor, South Bank’s iconic bougainvillea arch, guides you through the parklands. You’ll pass a creek and playground and can take a little detour to some chic riverfront restaurants.

In the heart of the parklands are the tropical outdoor pools of Streets Beach. Cool off in the water or rest under a palm tree while the kids explore the water-play park. Rent a locker for your bags outside the free showers and change rooms.

Visit a typical Australian pub to try the local fare, enjoy a BBQ picnic on the lawn or have lunch on a terrace. The kiosks, cafés and restaurants sell everything from sandwiches to eclectic European cuisine.

Visit the tourist office on Stanley Street Plaza to find out what is on. Browse the weekend market, with locals selling crafts and clothing, or be entertained by street artists. Join free sports events or visit a festival in or near the public stadium.

Board the huge Ferris wheel see Brisbane from above. At its base, almost hidden in the rainforest, is a beautiful Nepalese Pagoda. From here, continue west to visit some of Queensland’s major museums and theatres.

It is best to reach South Bank by public transport, including ferries. South Bank Station is on the east end and the Cultural Centre bus station is on the west end. There is parking available on site however it is reasonably expensive.


Popular places to visit

Things to do


Top hotels in South Bank

Novotel Brisbane South Bank Hotel

Novotel Brisbane South Bank Hotel

4.5 out of 5
38 Cordelia Street, South Brisbane, QLD
The price is €116 per night from 7 Sept to 8 Sept
€116
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Brisbane. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)
"Great place to stay , short walk to Southbank and convention centre."

Reviewed on 3 Aug 2025

Novotel Brisbane South Bank Hotel
Hotel Diana South Brisbane

Hotel Diana South Brisbane

4 out of 5
46-50 Water Street, South Brisbane, QLD
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly aparthotel in Brisbane. Enjoy free WiFi, room service, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (281 reviews)
"Great apartment, comfy and nice views. `Only negative was the traffic outside was a bit noisy"

Reviewed on 11 Aug 2025

Hotel Diana South Brisbane
Rydges South Bank

Rydges South Bank

4.5 out of 5
9 Glenelg Street, South Bank, South Brisbane, QLD
The price is €130 per night from 17 Aug to 18 Aug
€130
17 Aug - 18 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Brisbane. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 bars/lounges, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,003 reviews)
"Very handy to convention centre. Ground floor bar nice and casual. Easy to order."

Reviewed on 13 Aug 2025

Rydges South Bank
Courtyard by Marriott Brisbane South Bank

Courtyard by Marriott Brisbane South Bank

4.5 out of 5
218 Vulture Street, South Brisbane, QLD
The price is €99 per night from 17 Aug to 18 Aug
€99
17 Aug - 18 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star business-friendly hotel in Brisbane. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (669 reviews)
"Clean room, friendly staff, easy parking"

Reviewed on 14 Aug 2025

Courtyard by Marriott Brisbane South Bank
Emporium Hotel South Bank

Emporium Hotel South Bank

5 out of 5
267 Grey St, South Brisbane, QLD
The price is €216 per night from 17 Aug to 18 Aug
€216
17 Aug - 18 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Brisbane. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the bar in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,002 reviews)
"The hotel is unique and it was enjoyable to experience the various features. The minibar options are extensive and the food we ordered to the room was generous and delicious. Breakfast was also lovely and good value."

Reviewed on 16 Aug 2025

Emporium Hotel South Bank
Arena Apartments by CLLIX

Arena Apartments by CLLIX

4 out of 5
9 Edmondstone Street, South Brisbane, QLD
The price is €156 per night from 17 Aug to 18 Aug
€156
17 Aug - 18 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Brisbane. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions XXXX Brewery and Suncorp Stadium ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,784 reviews)
"Excellent communication from reception confirming arrival details day prior. Spacious property. Privacy was limited when blinds open with large windows directly facing apartments on opposite side of road"

Reviewed on 13 Aug 2025

Arena Apartments by CLLIX
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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South Bank showing a river or creek, flowers and a city

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Default Image

Brisbane Central Business District

4.5/5(124 area reviews)

Are you interested in beautiful gardens, stunning river views and popular shops? A visit to Brisbane Central Business District might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like ANZAC Square War Memorial and Anzac Square.

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Kangaroo Point which includes a high-rise building, a bay or harbour and a city

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The ample dining options and beautiful river views are top of the list for many visitors to Kangaroo Point. A stop by Holman Street Ferry Terminal or Dockside Ferry Terminal might round out your trip.

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Milton showing signage and a city

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Unique features of Milton include the river views and restaurants. Make a stop by XXXX Brewery or Suncorp Stadium while you're exploring the area.

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South Bank

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