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✓ Updated January 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Brisbane, Australia: Apr or May 2026

Brisbane, Australia travel destination - scenic view of Sunrise Kayak on the Brisbane River during ideal visiting season
Image: Brisbane CBD seen from Kangaroo Point, 2024, 01 (2).jpg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

April to June offers a truly captivating experience in Brisbane, Australia, as the humidity of summer gently recedes, leaving behind wonderfully mild days perfect for exploring. Imagine strolling through the South Bank Parklands under a clear, azure sky, perhaps catching the golden sunsets that paint the cityscape. The winter months (June to August) are also delightful, with crisp, sunny days ideal for outdoor adventures and enjoying the city's vibrant cafe culture without the intense heat. This period provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere to discover Brisbane's many charms.

Best Months to Visit:

AprMayJunJulAugSepOct

Airport Code

BNE

Coordinates

-27.47°, 153.03°

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Top Things to Do

Sunrise Kayak on the Brisbane River

Paddle along the tranquil Brisbane River as the city awakens, catching the first golden rays glinting off the skyscrapers. It's a unique perspective to witness the city's transformation from dawn to day, often with playful dolphins making an appearance.

Explore the laneway Art Scene in Fortitude Valley

Wander through the vibrant laneways of Fortitude Valley, discovering an ever-changing canvas of stunning street art and independent boutiques. Keep an eye out for hidden bars and cafes tucked away, offering a true taste of Brisbane's creative pulse.

Picnic with Koalas at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Get up close and personal with Australia's iconic marsupials at the world's first and largest koala sanctuary. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the eucalyptus trees and consider a koala cuddle for an unforgettable Australian encounter.

Savor South Bank's Culinary Delights

Stroll along the South Bank Parklands and indulge in a diverse culinary journey, from casual riverside cafes to upscale restaurants showcasing Queensland's freshest produce. Don't miss the chance to sample some local seafood with a view of the Story Bridge.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

transport

Get a 'go card' for public transport. It's a rechargeable smartcard that gives you cheaper fares on buses, trains, and ferries across South East Queensland. You can buy and top them up at most convenience stores and train stations, making hopping around Brisbane a breeze.

food

Embrace the 'food truck' scene, especially at South Bank Parklands. You'll find some of the best and most affordable eats here, from gourmet burgers to international street food. It's a fantastic way to sample diverse cuisines without the restaurant price tag.

money

Take advantage of free activities like exploring the City Botanic Gardens or swimming at Streets Beach in South Bank. Many of Brisbane's best attractions are completely free, so you can save your cash for delicious local produce at the Jan Powers Farmers Markets.

culture

Learn a few Aussie slang words before you go! Locals appreciate the effort, and it'll help you understand conversations better. Try 'G'day' for hello, 'arvo' for afternoon, and 'no worries' for 'you're welcome' or 'it's okay'.

packing

Pack light, breathable clothing and definitely bring sunscreen and a hat. Brisbane can get quite warm and humid, even outside of summer, and the sun is strong. A reusable water bottle is also a must to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.

safety

Be aware of the sun, especially during midday. Always wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, even on cloudy days. If you're out exploring, take breaks in the shade or air-conditioned cafes to avoid heatstroke.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan
12 days
Feb
11 days
Mar
10 days
Apr
8 days
May
6 days
Jun
4 days
Jul
3 days
Aug
4 days
Sep
5 days
Oct
7 days
Nov
9 days
Dec
11 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan30°C22°C86°F72°F150mm
12 days
13.5h
Feb29°C22°C84°F72°F160mm
11 days
13.1h
Mar28°C21°C82°F70°F130mm
10 days
12.6h
Apr26°C17°C79°F63°F80mm
8 days
12.1h
May23°C13°C73°F55°F50mm
6 days
11.6h
Jun21°C10°C70°F50°F30mm
4 days
11.3h
Jul20°C9°C68°F48°F20mm
3 days
11.5h
Aug22°C10°C72°F50°F30mm
4 days
12.0h
Sep25°C13°C77°F55°F40mm
5 days
12.5h
Oct27°C16°C81°F61°F70mm
7 days
13.0h
Nov29°C19°C84°F66°F100mm
9 days
13.4h
Dec30°C21°C86°F70°F130mm
11 days
13.6h

Brisbane, Australia Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Brisbane, Australia? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Brisbane, Australia

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

12 days rainy days • 150mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

Feb in Brisbane, Australia

Weather

29°C°C / 84°F°F

11 days rainy days • 160mmmm

What to Expect

Late winter, beginning to warm up. Good for budget travelers seeking lower prices.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Feb sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

Mar in Brisbane, Australia

Weather

28°C°C / 82°F°F

10 days rainy days • 130mmmm

What to Expect

Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Mar sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

Apr in Brisbane, Australia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

26°C°C / 79°F°F

8 days rainy days • 80mmmm

What to Expect

Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Apr is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

May in Brisbane, Australia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

23°C°C / 73°F°F

6 days rainy days • 50mmmm

What to Expect

Late spring, excellent weather. One of the best times to visit for most travelers.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: May is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jun in Brisbane, Australia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

21°C°C / 70°F°F

4 days rainy days • 30mmmm

What to Expect

Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jun is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jul in Brisbane, Australia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

20°C°C / 68°F°F

3 days rainy days • 20mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Aug in Brisbane, Australia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

22°C°C / 72°F°F

4 days rainy days • 30mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Sep in Brisbane, Australia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

25°C°C / 77°F°F

5 days rainy days • 40mmmm

What to Expect

Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Sep is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Oct in Brisbane, Australia

⭐ Best Time

Weather

27°C°C / 81°F°F

7 days rainy days • 70mmmm

What to Expect

Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Oct is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Nov in Brisbane, Australia

Weather

29°C°C / 84°F°F

9 days rainy days • 100mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Dec in Brisbane, Australia

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

11 days rainy days • 130mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

All Things to Do in Brisbane, Australia

Sunrise Kayak on the Brisbane River

activity

Paddle along the tranquil Brisbane River as the city awakens, catching the first golden rays glinting off the skyscrapers. It's a unique perspective to witness the city's transformation from dawn to day, often with playful dolphins making an appearance.

Best time: Mar-May, Sep-Nov

Explore the laneway Art Scene in Fortitude Valley

cultural

Wander through the vibrant laneways of Fortitude Valley, discovering an ever-changing canvas of stunning street art and independent boutiques. Keep an eye out for hidden bars and cafes tucked away, offering a true taste of Brisbane's creative pulse.

Best time: Year-round

Picnic with Koalas at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

nature

Get up close and personal with Australia's iconic marsupials at the world's first and largest koala sanctuary. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the eucalyptus trees and consider a koala cuddle for an unforgettable Australian encounter.

Best time: Year-round

Savor South Bank's Culinary Delights

food

Stroll along the South Bank Parklands and indulge in a diverse culinary journey, from casual riverside cafes to upscale restaurants showcasing Queensland's freshest produce. Don't miss the chance to sample some local seafood with a view of the Story Bridge.

Best time: Year-round

Hike to the Summit of Mount Coot-tha

nature

Ascend Mount Coot-tha for panoramic vistas of Brisbane city, Moreton Bay, and the surrounding hinterland. The walking trails offer a refreshing escape into nature, and the sunset views are particularly spectacular.

Best time: Apr-Oct

Discover Local Treasures at the Jan Powers Farmers Markets

shopping

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Jan Powers Farmers Markets, a haven for foodies and those seeking unique artisanal products. Sample local cheeses, freshly baked goods, and handcrafted souvenirs while chatting with passionate producers.

Best time: First Sunday of each month (various locations)

Catch a Show at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)

cultural

Experience world-class theatre, opera, ballet, and live music at QPAC, a cultural hub nestled within South Bank. Check their schedule for touring international productions and local masterpieces that showcase Brisbane's thriving arts scene.

Best time: Year-round

Sunset Drinks at Howard Smith Wharves

nightlife

Enjoy a sundowner at one of the stylish bars or restaurants nestled beneath the iconic Story Bridge at Howard Smith Wharves. The twinkling city lights reflecting on the river create a magical ambiance, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Best time: Year-round

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GoWithGuide Tours and Experiences

Getting Around Brisbane, Australia

CityHopper Ferries

Brisbane's CityHopper ferries are a fantastic, free way to see the city from the river. They operate on a loop, stopping at key points between Northshore Hamilton and Apollo Road.

Cost:Free
Tip:These are not commuter ferries, so expect them to be popular with tourists. Don't expect them to be on a strict timetable like a bus; they run roughly every 30 minutes. The best way to use them is for a scenic hop between South Bank, the Cultural Precinct, and the CBD. Avoid trying to rely on them for time-sensitive travel.

Go Card

This is Brisbane's integrated public transport smartcard for buses, trains, and ferries (excluding the free CityHopper). It's the most convenient way to pay for most of your travel around the city and its surrounds.

Cost:Card purchase $10 (non-refundable), fares are zone-based and cheaper than paper tickets. A typical inner-city trip might cost around $3-$5.
Tip:You can buy and top up Go Cards at most convenience stores, train stations, and some newsagents. Always 'tap on' and 'tap off' with your card at the reader, even on buses. Forgetting to tap off will result in being charged the maximum fare, which is a common traveler mistake. Download the 'Translink' app for real-time journey planning and fare information.

Scoot & Ride Share (Lime, Neuron)

Electric scooters and bikes are dotted around the CBD and inner suburbs, offering a fun and flexible way to cover short distances. They're great for exploring areas like South Bank or getting between train stations and your accommodation.

Cost:Typically a small unlock fee (around $1) plus per-minute charges (around $0.40-$0.60 per minute).
Tip:Download the respective apps (Lime, Neuron) and set up your account before you need them, as registration can take a few minutes. Always check the designated parking zones on the app – leaving them haphazardly is illegal and incurs fines. Be mindful of pedestrians and stick to bike lanes where available; it's a common mistake to ride on busy footpaths.

Brisbane Metro (Future - Check Status)

While still under development, the Brisbane Metro aims to be a high-frequency, high-capacity public transport system connecting key inner-city areas. It will operate on dedicated lanes, offering a faster alternative to buses.

Cost:Expected to be similar to existing Go Card fares.
Tip:Keep an eye on official Brisbane City Council or Translink updates for its official launch and operational details. This will likely become a primary mode of transport for many, so understanding its routes and how to use your Go Card on it will be crucial.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing (Uber, Didi)

For door-to-door convenience, especially late at night or when traveling with luggage, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available. They offer a reliable option when public transport routes or times are inconvenient.

Cost:Metered taxi fares vary, but expect around $20-$30 for a trip across the CBD. Ride-sharing prices fluctuate based on demand but are often competitive.
Tip:Book taxis through apps like '13cabs' or 'Silver Service' for ease. For ride-sharing, compare prices between Uber and Didi as they can differ. A common mistake is assuming ride-sharing will always be cheaper; surge pricing during peak times can make taxis more economical. Always confirm the license plate and driver details before getting in.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When's the absolute best time to visit Brisbane to soak up the sunshine without the sticky humidity?

For me, the sweet spot is definitely Brisbane's spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). You'll get those gorgeous sunny days perfect for exploring the South Bank Parklands or taking a ferry up the river, but without the intense heat and humidity that can make summer feel a bit overwhelming. Plus, the evenings are usually pleasant enough for alfresco dining.

I'm keen to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. Any insider tips for discovering Brisbane's hidden gems?

Absolutely! Skip the main shopping streets and head to West End for its eclectic mix of independent boutiques, quirky cafes, and vibrant street art – it feels like a different city altogether. Also, don't miss a wander through the New Farm Park on a Saturday morning; it's where locals go for the farmers market and a relaxed vibe, often with live music.

Getting around Brisbane seems easy enough, but are there any local transport hacks I should know?

The CityHopper ferry is your best friend for scenic and free transport along the Brisbane River! It's a hop-on, hop-off service that connects key spots like South Bank, the CBD, and Kangaroo Point, offering fantastic city views without costing a cent. Just remember it's for short trips, not long commutes, and runs until about 10 PM.

What's the deal with 'Brisbane's weather'? I hear it can be unpredictable.

Brisbane is known for its sunshine, but it's wise to be prepared for anything, especially during the warmer months. A sudden, intense downpour can happen out of nowhere – it's part of the subtropical charm! Always pack a light umbrella or a rain jacket, and stay hydrated, as the humidity can sneak up on you even on seemingly mild days.

Are there any local customs or etiquette I should be aware of as a visitor?

Australians are generally pretty laid-back, but 'mateship' is a big thing. If you're invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift, like a bottle of wine or some chocolates. Also, be mindful of 'taking a G'day' – a friendly greeting is always appreciated, and don't be surprised if people strike up a conversation while you're waiting in line.

Beyond the obvious South Bank, where can I find a truly authentic Brisbane dining experience?

For a real taste of Brisbane, venture into the suburbs a bit. Paddington and Rosalie offer charming cafes and restaurants tucked away in Queenslander-style houses, often with lovely garden settings. You'll find more locally sourced ingredients and a less tourist-centric atmosphere than in the immediate CBD.

What is the cheapest month to visit Brisbane, Australia?

The cheapest months to visit Brisbane, Australia are typically Feb during the off-season. You can save 30-40% on hotels and flights compared to peak summer months. While weather may not be ideal, you'll enjoy fewer crowds and significant savings.

How many days do you need in Brisbane, Australia?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Brisbane, Australia to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

What should I avoid in Brisbane, Australia?

Avoid visiting Brisbane, Australia during Feb if possible, when weather conditions are less favorable. Also, be cautious of tourist traps in heavily visited areas - research attractions beforehand and consider booking skip-the-line tickets for popular sites.

Is Brisbane, Australia expensive to visit?

Brisbane, Australia can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Apr and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Brisbane, Australia famous for?

Brisbane, Australia is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Apr or May for the best experience.

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