Brisbane tours

Things to do in Brisbane

Brisbane presents itself not just as a city, but as a canvas of vibrant life, where the Brisbane River winds its way through a tapestry of experiences. As you meander through its eclectic neighbourhoods, the city reveals itself through the eyes of a local guide. Imagine a stroll through South Bank, the river’s breeze accompanying you as you navigate art-laden streets and sprawling parklands. A private tour offers more than surface-level exploration: immerse yourself in a culinary journey, sampling local fare, or bypass the crowds to delve into Brisbane’s storied past and burgeoning art culture. Brisbane is not merely a stop on your travels; it is an unfolding narrative inviting your participation. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Brisbane. Explore Brisbane your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Brisbane tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Brisbane for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Hand‑feed kangaroos and, if you like, hold a koala under staff supervision at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, then stroll the Mt Coot‑tha Botanic Gardens’ rainforest paths to spot water dragons by the ponds. Or join your guide for an early birding walk along the Boondall Wetlands boardwalks to look for herons, spoonbills, and tiny kingfishers. Day trip tours: Ride the ferry to Moreton Island for a private 4WD beach run, sandboarding on the big dunes, and a snorkel over the Tangalooma Wrecks. Prefer the hinterland? A day trip to Tamborine takes you along the Rainforest Skywalk, with time for Gallery Walk artisan shops and a tasting at a local distillery. Layover tours: Get picked up at Brisbane Airport for a timed loop that fits your connection—cruise the river on a CityCat to see Story Bridge, grab a coffee on Fish Lane, and wander South Bank Parklands before your drop‑off back at the terminal. Your guide can store luggage in the vehicle and keep an eye on traffic so you’re back with buffer time. Brisbane’s centre is easy to walk, and TransLink trains, buses, and CityCat ferries connect major sights; for spread‑out spots like Mt Coot‑tha or Lone Pine, you can book chauffeured tours or ask your guide for a tour with private transportation. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Brisbane inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Join a private walking tour in Brisbane and explore its dynamic neighborhoods with the help of a local guide. You’ll experience the city’s unique blend of culture and modernity. - South Bank: Perfect for families and cultural tourists, this vibrant area offers parks, museums, and a bustling food scene. It's a great place to soak up the local culture and enjoy leisurely walks. - Fortitude Valley: Known for its lively nightlife and diverse music scene, this neighborhood is ideal for those seeking entertainment and unique shopping experiences. Your guide will highlight the area's best spots. - Kangaroo Point: Adventure seekers and nature lovers will appreciate the stunning views from the cliffs and the walking paths along the river. It's a peaceful escape within the city, perfect for outdoor activities. Day trip ideas from Brisbane Use Brisbane as your launch pad and plan easy day trips to islands, rainforests, and mountain lookouts that fit your pace and interests. Moreton Island: clear water, long beaches, and the Tangalooma Wrecks make this a simple island escape, and if you like snorkelling, sandboarding, or 4WD tracks, your tour can lean into the activities you enjoy most. North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah): walk the Gorge Walk for dolphin and turtle spotting, relax on Cylinder or Main Beach, and add a swim in Brown Lake if you want a quiet freshwater stop. Tamborine Mountain: short rainforest trails, waterfalls, and broad lookouts pair well with small wineries and local produce, so you can mix easy nature time with a tasting or two without a long drive. Sunshine Coast and Noosa: follow the coastal track in Noosa National Park for koala sightings and ocean views, then spend time in the village for casual cafés and shops that suit a slow afternoon. Glass House Mountains: if climbing and photography appeal, pick a summit walk like Mount Ngungun for big views, or keep it lighter with base trails and scenic pullouts that still feel rewarding. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Brisbane most travellers miss.