New to Brisbane
Coming to Brisbane for the festival? Welcome! Let's show you around.
Coming just for the day, or staying overnight?
Not sure how much time you’ll have? We’ve got tips for quick visits and longer stays. For those trying to do Brisbane in a day, we have city-spanning events across the iconic sites and cultural institutions of the river city. Or make a weekend of it with Festival favourites and city spectacles worth travelling for!
Where to stay
For the full Festival experience, you'll need a base of operations – somewhere to call home while you explore everything Brisbane has to offer. For those looking to have the action on their doorstop, consider staying around South Bank, Brisbane CBD, or Fortitude Valley. If you want to have a quieter escape while still within a stone's throw of everything, we recommend New Farm, West End, or Kangaroo Point. With easy transport links around Brisbane, you’re never far from the Festival fun.
Getting around
Brisbane is a breeze to explore, with plenty of ways to get from A to amazing. And while you will have a blast losing yourself as you discover the city, we want to make sure you get to where you need to be. Luckily, there are multiple options for visitors to get around. Surrounding the iconic river, Brisbane’s CBD and many Brisbane Festival venues are within walking distance.
At the heart of public transport in Brisbane is the Go Card, which can be used on ferries, buses, and trains. Individual ride tickets can also be purchased, and contactless payment is also available with the use of a debit card, credit card, or linked smart device. Make sure to check the TransLink website to plan your route when using public transportation. CityCycle, e-scooters, taxis, and plentiful rideshare services are also available to make getting around a breeze.
For event-specific information on travel and accessibility, please visit our venues page.
For public transport information, please visit:
Using public transport | Translink
Public transport | Brisbane City Council
Make the most of Your Festival Experience
What’s your vibe? Who are you travelling with, friends or family? Need to know about access? Want to know more about what’s on at the Festival this year?
We have a guide for that!
Extend your stay, Things to do beyond the Festival
With so much to see, experience, and do, Brisbane Festival has an incredible amount on offer. But while you're enjoying the main event, why not extend your stay and explore the unique beauty and character of South East Queensland!