1 Day in Brisbane Itinerary: Two Easy Ways to Spend a Short Stop

Only have a short stay in Brisbane? If you’re tight on time, this 1 day in Brisbane itinerary walks you through exactly how to spend a full day in the city, from morning coffee to dinner by the river.

This guide is written exactly how I’d explain Brisbane to a friend who’s passing through for a quick stop.

I lived in Brisbane for almost six years, so this isn’t a tourist checklist—it’s a realistic, easy day that actually works. Let’s dive in!

Two Itinerary Options

In this 1 day in Brisbane itinerary, you’ll find two solid ways to spend the day::

• One that keeps everything walkable in the CBD (Central Business District)
• One that includes koalas and kangaroos during the day, then dinner by the river at night

Pick the version that fits your travel style, evergy level and arrival time best.

Option 1: 1 Day in Brisbane (CBD + River Walk – No Car Needed)

This option is perfect if you’re staying in the CBD, arriving on a cruise, or just want to keep things simple and central.

Morning: Coffee + River Walk

Start your day with a proper coffee. Brisbane has a strong café culture, and you don’t need to go far to find something good.

If you’re in or near the CBD, these are reliable, easy choices:

• Coffee Anthology – right in the city, consistently good, no fuss
• Felix For Goodness – tucked into a laneway, relaxed breakfast vibes
• John Mills Himself – quiet, great if you want a slower start

Once you’ve got coffee sorted, head straight to the Brisbane River and start walking toward South Bank.

This walk is one of the best ways to get a feel for the city. It’s flat, scenic, and easy—even if you’re jet-lagged or short on energy. You’ll pass river views, bridges, and locals heading about their day.

If you like art galleries, you can stop at QAGOMA (entry is free). If not, skip it and keep walking—no pressure.

Midday: South Bank + Lunch

By lunchtime, you’ll naturally end up in South Bank.

This area is one of Brisbane’s best spots to slow down. You’ve got river views, shady paths, and Streets Beach, the city’s lagoon-style pool. Even if you don’t swim, it’s fun to see and very Brisbane.

For lunch, keep it easy. You don’t need anything fancy here.

Good lunch options in South Bank:

• Sage Yellowfin – relaxed sit-down, modern Australian
• Olé Restaurant – tapas-style, good for sharing
• Calida Steak & Wine – steak and wine, slower pace

Eat when you’re hungry, take a break, and enjoy the river views. This part of the day shouldn’t feel rushed.

Afternoon: CityCat Ferry + Views

After lunch, hop on the CityCat ferry.

This is one of the easiest and best-value things you can do in Brisbane. It’s public transport (for a flat fee of 50 cents!), but it also feels like a mini sightseeing cruise.

Sit back, enjoy the breeze, and watch the city go by from the water.

Get off near Kangaroo Point Cliffs if you want one of the best views in the city. From here, you’ll see the skyline, the river bends, and how green Brisbane really is.

If you feel like a short stop, grab a drink nearby or just sit along the river path and rest your feet.

Evening: Dinner by the River

For dinner, head to Howard Smith Wharves.

This area sits right under the Story Bridge and is an easy choice for your last stop of the day. It’s lively without being overwhelming and perfect for a relaxed night out.

Good dinner options here:

• Felons Brewing Co – casual, relaxed, great atmosphere
• Greca – sharing-style plates by the water
• Stanley – more polished if you want something nicer

If you’d rather stay central, South Bank also works well for dinner.

Option 2: 1 Day in Brisbane with Koalas + Kangaroos

If seeing koalas and kangaroos is high on your list, this option is absolutely worth it—especially if it’s your first time in Australia.

Morning: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Start your day by heading to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

It’s the world’s oldest koala sanctuary and one of the easiest places to see Australian wildlife up close.

Koalas nap in trees, kangaroos roam freely, and the whole place feels calm and green.

Getting there is straightforward:

• Uber or taxi from the CBD (fast and simple)
• River cruise from the city if you want a scenic ride

Take your time here. Walk among the kangaroos, watch the koalas, and enjoy a slower pace to start the day.

Midday: Light Lunch + Return to the City

Have a light lunch at the sanctuary café or grab something simple on your way back to the city.

You don’t need a big lunch today—the wildlife visit is the main event.

Afternoon: South Bank Walk

Once you’re back in Brisbane, head to South Bank for an easy walk.

Sit by the river, walk past Streets Beach, or just relax for a bit. This is a good moment to slow down before dinner.

Evening: Dinner at South Bank or Howard Smith Wharves

For dinner, you’ve got two easy options:

• Stay in South Bank for convenience
• Head to Howard Smith Wharves for a great night setting under the Story Bridge

Both are easy to reach and perfect for ending the day without stress.

FAQ: 1 day in Brisbane Itinerary

Got questions? Here are quick, no-fluff answers to the most common things you’ll want to know before you go.

The Wrap Up: 1 Day in Brisbane Itinerary

If you’ve only got 1 day in Brisbane, both of these itineraries work—you just need to decide what matters more to you.

You want everything close and walkable? Stick to the CBD plan.
You want to see koalas and kangaroos? Build your day around Lone Pine.

Either way, Brisbane is easy to enjoy, relaxed, and welcoming—and it often leaves you thinking you could’ve stayed longer.

And if you do decide to stay longer, I’ve got you covered. You might want to check out these guides next:

• Is Brisbane Worth Visiting? 15 Best Reasons to Go in 2026
• Where To Stay in Brisbane: Best Areas for Every Traveler
• 5 Best Moreton Island Day Trips: How to Plan the Perfect Adventure with Top Tours and Tips

They’ll help you plan what’s next if one day in Brisbane turns into something more. Safe travels!