The laid-back tropical city of Brisbane is one of the highlights of Queensland thanks to its pleasant weather, festive atmosphere and cosmopolitan style. It’s known as ‘River City’ for the wide Brisbane River which snakes around its urban boundaries before emptying itself into Moreton Bay. Lush coastal countryside creates a garden-like setting both in the city and beyond.

But it’s really the understated social scene that draws most people deeper into Brisbane’s realm. Among the friendly people of Australia, Brisbane’s residents rank as some of the most welcoming and open. Visitors will feel this warmth the moment they start exploring the lively city centre, waterfront paths of the Riverside Precinct and the beach environment of South Bank Parklands. Whether you meet a local strolling through the City Botanical Gardens or sitting next to you in a leafy beer garden along the water, expect plenty of good vibes.

Being the capital of Queensland, Brisbane has plenty of attractions and entertainment. This amazingly green city is filled with tropical trees and charming Queenslander cottages, many of which house trendy cafés, bars and boutique shops. Head to Eagle Street Pier to engulf yourself in top wining and dining options, or over to the Riverside Centre on Sundays for the massive Craft Market.

Bridges stretch across the Brisbane River making it easy to move between neighbourhoods, and the range of accommodation provides something for every budget and taste. This city is particularly known for its quaint inns and bed and breakfasts, with most suburbs having their share of lodgings. For luxury offerings, the city centre houses well-known establishments such as Sheraton and Sofitel.

With its ideal location in the southeast corner of Queensland, Brisbane is bordered by the Gold Coast to the south and the Sunshine Coast to the north. Moreton Bay, which fronts the city, offers easy access to dozens of beautiful little islands waiting to be explored.

The first settlers who made their way to the mouth of the Brisbane River found a boggy land inhabited by mosquitoes and reeds. This geography suited the Moreton Bay penal colony, which was established in 1824 to house convicts. It was these very convicts who built the foundations of Brisbane, starting with stone structures such as the Wickham Terrace Observatory Tower and the Colonial Stores Building which still stand today.

The penal colony period ended in 1839, opening Brisbane up to free settlers who slowly moved into the area. These small colonies eventually merged into Queensland around 1859. The bustling prosperous port of Moreton Bay, which is now Brisbane, became its capital. By 1888 the city’s main boulevard Queen street was beginning to take off, marking the start of modern Brisbane’s evolution into a popular city.

WWII brought thousands of American servicemen to Brisbane since General MacArthur was running his Pacific campaign against the Japanese from the city. This infusion of energy propelled Brisbane into a new era of innovation and vibrancy, and the city has never looked back. The 1950s brought waves of migrants to the city that helped boost the economy and provide greater cultural diversity.

When Brisbane hosted the Commonwealth Games in 1982, the city gained global recognition. Expo 88 followed soon after, its site eventually becoming the well-loved South Bank Parklands still enjoyed today. The social life of Brisbane still centres on its wide meandering river, enticing residents and visitors to enjoy its relaxed beauty and atmosphere. Brisbane’s reputation as one of Australia’s most friendly and festive cities continues to attract people from all over the globe looking for fun in the sun.

Many people come to Brisbane specifically for its warm tropical weather. Summers in the city can be hot and humid, but winters are wonderfully mild and dry. Although temperatures regularly top 40°C during the summer months of December and January, sea breezes often help to keep conditions tolerable. Humidity, however, is a major factor during the summer so come prepared to sweat.

Winters, on the other hand, are just about perfect. With little precipitation, humidity levels drop noticeably, and sunny skies make it an ideal time to get out and about. Most of the rain comes in the period from late spring through early autumn (October through March). Dramatic thunderstorms are common afternoon occurrences all around the greater Brisbane area, occasionally bringing powerful winds and hail. But these storms usually leave as fast as they appear, so in truth there really is no bad time to visit Brisbane. Just keep in mind that it’s the winter season that sees the city the most crowded with tourists.