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Brisbane 2-Day Itinerary on a Budget (2025 Guide)

Discover Brisbane on a budget! This 2-day Brisbane itinerary is perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers who want to explore the city without overspending. From free attractions, scenic lookouts, cheap eats, and affordable transport options — this guide helps you enjoy the best of Brisbane for less.

Why Visit Brisbane on a Budget?

Brisbane is one of Australia’s most affordable major cities. With free museums, budget-friendly public transport, low-cost attractions, and plenty of free nature experiences, it’s easy to explore without spending much.

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Day 1: Explore the City, South Bank & Brisbane River

1. Start at South Bank Parklands (FREE)

South Bank is Brisbane’s most famous riverfront precinct and offers plenty of free attractions.

Things to do in South Bank on a budget:

  • Swim at Streets Beach (free lagoon)
  • Relax in the rainforest walk
  • Visit the Epicurious Garden
  • Explore the Arbour walkway, covered in bougainvillea

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2. Stroll the Brisbane Riverwalk (FREE)

Walk or cycle along the Riverwalk for spectacular views of the CBD, Story Bridge, and New Farm.

Budget tip: Use CityCycle or e-scooter for cheap, scenic transport.

3. Visit the Queensland Museum (FREE)

Perfect for families and budget travellers.

Highlights:

  • Natural history exhibits
  • Dinosaurs
  • Queensland cultural displays

4. Check Out the Queensland Art Gallery & GOMA (FREE)

Both are within walking distance and contain world-class art exhibitions.

5. Dinner at South Bank – Cheap Eats

Top budget-friendly food options:

  • Roti Place
  • Motto Motto
  • Guzman y Gomez
  • Pig & Kraut food truck (when operating)

Average spending: $10–$18 per person.

Day 2: Nature, Lookouts & Affordable Local Spots

1. Visit Mount Coot-Tha Lookout (FREE)

Enjoy one of Brisbane’s best views. It’s the perfect spot for sunrise or mid-morning sightseeing.

How to get there on a budget:

  • Take public bus Route 471
  • Fare: Very affordable using Go Card or contactless payments

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2. Explore Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-Tha (FREE)

Located below the lookout, these gardens are filled with stunning themed sections:

  • Japanese Garden
  • Tropical Dome
  • Lagoon area
  • Native Australian plants

This is one of the best free attractions in Brisbane.

3. Wander Through Brisbane City Botanic Gardens (FREE)

Wrap up your Brisbane adventure with a relaxing walk along the river boardwalk. Ideal for families and couples.

4. Cheap Brisbane Lunch Options

  • Pho Hung (CBD) – Affordable Vietnamese
  • Betty’s Burgers
  • Little Singapore
  • Food courts in Queen Street Mall offer meals for $10–$15

5. Evening at Kangaroo Point Cliffs (FREE)

Finish Day 2 with a sunset overlooking the Brisbane River and Story Bridge.

Optional low-cost activity:

  • Try the Cliffside Walk
  • Rent a kayak for a budget-friendly adventure

Budget Tips for Brisbane (Save More Money!)

✔ Use Public Transport

Brisbane’s buses, CityCat ferries, and trains are affordable with a Go Card or contactless payment.
Cheap ferry option: CityHopper (FREE)

✔ Take Advantage of Free Attractions

Brisbane has dozens of free experiences, including:

  • Museums
  • Beaches
  • Lookouts
  • Walking tracks
  • Botanic gardens

✔ Book Accommodation Early

Search for budget-friendly stays around:

  • South Brisbane
  • Fortitude Valley
  • Woolloongabba
  • Bowen Hills
  • Spring Hill

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✔ Look for Meal Deals

Lunch specials (Mon–Fri) around the CBD and South Bank are often $10–$15.

Sample 2-Day Brisbane Budget Itinerary (Quick Summary)

Day 1

  • South Bank Parklands
  • Streets Beach
  • Brisbane Riverwalk
  • Queensland Museum
  • QAGOMA
  • Cheap dinner at South Bank

Day 2

  • Mount Coot-Tha Lookout
  • Brisbane Botanic Gardens
  • City Botanic Gardens
  • Cheap lunch in CBD
  • Kangaroo Point Cliffs at sunset

Final Thoughts

Brisbane is the perfect city for travellers looking for an affordable yet memorable getaway. With this SEO-optimized 2-day Brisbane itinerary, you can explore top attractions, enjoy local food, and experience Brisbane’s beautiful riverfront — all without breaking the bank.

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