Flights to Brisbane (BNE), Book economy, business, first class

Bright, beautiful Brisbane

Book flights to Brisbane to explore a haven of art and adventure where man-made beaches and botanical gardens sit alongside creative galleries and indigenous landmarks.

Drenched in year-round sunshine, Brisbane is a city of peaceful parks, bustling markets and the shimmering Brisbane River.

Whether it’s cycling the city’s green spaces or soaking up the culture of an international arts festival, there’s plenty to see and do.

Take time to wander its iconic South Bank, where a packed calendar of events will keep you entertained.

Relax by the glittering lagoon of Streets Beach or head to nearby Stanley Street Plaza where vibrant markets are held each weekend – perfect for picking up souvenirs.

Book your Brisbane flights with Etihad Airways and experience the delights of this great Australian city.

What's the weather like in Brisbane?

Average temperature Average rainfall

25°C

19cm

25°C

16cm

24°C

12cm

21°C

8cm

18°C

9cm

16°C

6cm

15°C

3cm

16°C

5cm

19°C

4cm

21°C

8cm

23°C

10cm

24°C

13cm

Brisbane enjoys a subtropical climate, usually with plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Summer (December to February) is hot but can be wetter and more humid, while the winter months (June to August) are mild and dry.

If you book your flight tickets to Brisbane for the Australian autumn – between March and May – you can expect minimal rainfall and pleasant temperatures. But Brisbane is truly a year-round destination.

Reasons to visit Brisbane

paddle ferry at a dock on the brisbane river

Cruise the Brisbane River

At 214 miles long, the winding Brisbane River is one of Australia’s most impressive waterways. Starting in the mountains of the Great Dividing Range, this river flows through Brisbane’s heart and out to Moreton Bay. As the city’s standout natural feature, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a scenic cruise.

Catch sight of the Central Business District (CBD) as you sail along the river’s length. Enjoy dinner and live music on one of the vintage paddle wheel boats, or board after sunset to see the city’s lights glitter on the water.

Meet a koala

Travel 15 minutes from the city and you’ll find Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. As the world’s largest koala refuge, this is the best place to meet some of Australia’s cutest residents. A day ticket gains you entry to the sanctuary, along with the chance to stand beside a koala and learn all about these iconic creatures from sanctuary staff.

A series of interactive shows offer insight into other native species, while alongside the koalas you can spot as many as 70 different varieties of Australian wildlife. Kangaroos, wombats, emus, kookaburras and crocodiles can all be found here.

Discover indigenous traditions

Indigenous culture is an important part of Australia’s heritage. In Brisbane, there are plenty of opportunities to learn about Aboriginal traditions, with various experiences on offer across the city. The State Library of Queensland features ‘kuril dhagun’ and the Talking Circle – indigenous spaces where visitors can grow their knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

At Boondall Wetlands – a 20-minute drive west of the city – an Aboriginal art trail demonstrates how indigenous people traditionally used art to document events, pass on information, and map the land.

Things to know before you fly to Brisbane

Airport transfers

Brisbane Airport (BNE) is around 11 miles from the city centre. Transfers into the city are straightforward, with a range of options available. Pre-book your transfer with Etihad and a driver will be waiting for you when you land. Alternatively, catch a train to the city, which should take around 20 minutes, or you can take a taxi, rent a car, or book a shuttle bus.

Getting around in Brisbane

One of the best ways to get around Brisbane is with a Translink Go Card. Available to purchase in train stations and some shops, this card allows you to travel on all Translink buses, ferries and trains. Within the city centre, there is also a free bus service that operates on weekdays from the early morning to early evening.

Travelling in Queensland

As it’s the state capital, flying to Brisbane is an ideal starting point for exploring tropical Queensland. The sun-drenched Gold Coast is just an hour’s drive south, while the biodiversity of Fraser Island is easily enjoyed on a day trip. To see the famous Great Barrier Reef, head north to Cairns or to Proserpine where the Whitsundays offer prime snorkelling and diving.

Festival season

September sees Brisbane come to life for its international arts festival. Arrive early in the month to enjoy a packed schedule of events – everything from live musical performances to innovative art installations. With the city at its busiest during this time, you may need to book your accommodation and flights a little further in advance.

Flying to Brisbane: FAQs

How much time do I need to visit Brisbane?

Brisbane is packed with attractions and activities that could keep you occupied for at least a couple of weeks. A day trip to Moreton Island is a great addition to your holiday itinerary, while exploring wider Queensland is well worth it too.

Where should I stay in Brisbane?

Many of the main attractions are in or close to the centre, so it’s worth staying centrally for easy access. For a more relaxed location, base yourself in New Farm where tree-lined avenues and independent cafes await.

What’s the food like in Brisbane?

Brisbane’s food scene is both thriving and diverse. Brunch is big here and you’ll find many welcoming cafes offering Australian classics such as smashed avocado on toast. Restaurants feature flavours from around the world – offering everything from Japanese sushi to hearty American-style burgers.

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