Login
Brisbane skyline with Story Bridge at sunset

Brisbane Arrival Guide
(BNE – Brisbane Airport)

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is known for its sunny weather, outdoor lifestyle, and gateway access to the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Great Barrier Reef. Landing at Brisbane Airport (BNE).

Brisbane Airport Overview

  • Location: 14 km northeast of Brisbane CBD.
  • Terminals:
    • International Terminal (T1)
    • Domestic Terminal (T2)
  • Connection between terminals: Airtrain (5 min), or free shuttle bus.
  • International Arrivals: Located in T1 — immigration, baggage claim, SIM card kiosks, and transport options are all in the arrivals hall.

Arrivals Process

Passport Control & SmartGate

  • If you hold an eligible ePassport and are 16+, you can use SmartGate kiosks for faster entry.
  • Otherwise, proceed through manual passport control.

Incoming Passenger Card

  • Required for all travellers.
  • Used for customs declarations: food, plants, animal products, over AUD 10,000 cash, medicines, etc.

Customs & Biosecurity

  • Australia enforces strict biosecurity laws. Declare all food, natural products, seeds, or animal goods.
  • Heavy fines apply for undeclared items.

SIM Cards & Connectivity

Available in T1 arrivals hall:

  • Telstra: Best national coverage, especially for road trips north/south.
  • Optus: Strong coverage in Brisbane/Gold Coast areas.
  • Vodafone: Cheapest, but less reliable outside cities.
  • Plans start from AUD 20–40.

Free airport Wi-Fi is also available.

ATMs & Currency Exchange

  • ATMs: NAB, ANZ, Westpac, and Commonwealth available in arrivals.
  • Currency exchange: Travelex kiosks in T1.
  • Better exchange rates available in Brisbane CBD.

Transport from Brisbane Airport to the CBD

There is no direct train line (currently under construction). Here are your options:

Airtrain (Fastest & Most Popular)

  • Time: 20 minutes to Central Station.
  • Cost: AUD 21 (cheaper when booked online).
  • Frequency: Every 15 minutes during peak hours.
  • Tickets: Buy online, at machines, or tap on with a Go Card/contactless card.

Public Buses (Budget Option)

  • Routes connect the airport to suburbs and city interchanges.
  • Slower than Airtrain, not ideal with luggage.
  • Requires Go Card (Queensland’s transport card).

Taxis (Direct)

  • Taxi ranks at both terminals.
  • Cost to CBD: AUD 40–55.
  • Time: 20–35 minutes depending on traffic.
  • Reputable taxi companies:
    – Black & White Cabs (☎ 13 32 22)
    – Yellow Cabs (☎ 13 19 24)

Rideshare

  • Pickup zones signed outside terminals.
  • Providers: Uber, Ola, DiDi.
  • Cost to CBD: AUD 35–50.
  • Time: 20–35 minutes.

Go Card – Brisbane Transport Card

For public transport in Brisbane (buses, trains, ferries):

  • Card name: Go Card
  • Where to buy: Train stations, convenience stores, airport stations.
  • Benefits: Cheaper than paper tickets, daily/weekly caps.

Tip: Airtrain is cheaper with a Go Card.

Accommodation Options

Near the Airport

  • Budget: Ibis Budget Brisbane Airport.
  • Mid-Range: Novotel Brisbane Airport.
  • Premium: Pullman Brisbane Airport.

In the City (CBD & South Bank)

  • Budget: Brisbane City YHA, Base Backpackers.
  • Mid-Range: Ibis Styles, Meriton Suites.
  • Premium: W Brisbane, Stamford Plaza.

City Essentials for First-Timers

  • Climate: Subtropical, hot summers and mild winters. Bring sunscreen, hat, and light clothing.
  • Safety: Brisbane is safe, but take normal precautions in nightlife areas.
  • Emergency Number: 000.
  • Culture: Laid-back, outdoor lifestyle. No tipping required.

Special Notes

  • Cruise terminals: Brisbane International Cruise Terminal at Luggage Point, and Portside Wharf.
  • Events: Riverfire fireworks festival, Brisbane Festival, Ekka (Royal Queensland Show).
  • Day trips: Gold Coast (1 hr south), Sunshine Coast (1.5 hrs north), Byron Bay (2 hrs).

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Brisbane

Once you’ve settled in, here are Brisbane’s must-see attractions:

  • South Bank Parklands – Beaches, gardens, and restaurants along the Brisbane River.
  • Story Bridge Adventure Climb – Stunning views of the city skyline.
  • Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – Cuddle koalas and see kangaroos.
  • Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) – Leading art institutions.
  • Roma Street Parkland – Lush gardens in the heart of the city.
  • Brisbane River Cruise – See the city from the water.
  • Mount Coot-tha Lookout – Panoramic city and river views.
  • City Botanic Gardens – Scenic walks and riverside paths.
  • Eat Street Northshore – Vibrant food market with global street food.
  • Moreton Island (Day Trip) – Snorkel shipwrecks and enjoy pristine beaches.
Adelaide

Quick Tips for Smooth Arrival

  • Book Airtrain tickets online for discounts.
  • Save taxi/rideshare numbers before arrival.
  • Always declare food/natural products.
  • Use a Go Card for cheaper public transport.
  • Carry sunscreen — Brisbane is sunny year-round.
  •