Great Barrier Reef
World's largest coral reef system off the Queensland coast
On this page
About Queensland
Queensland is Australia's Sunshine State, home to the Great Barrier Reef — the world's largest coral ecosystem — alongside ancient Daintree Rainforest, the stunning Whitsunday Islands, the cosmopolitan city of Brisbane, and the surf-and-theme-park playground of the Gold Coast. The state offers an unmatched diversity of landscapes, from volcanic tablelands and red-rock gorges to tropical islands and white-sand beaches.
- Capital
- Brisbane
- Largest city
- Brisbane
- Population
- 5.3 million
- Languages
- English
- Currency
- Australian Dollar
- Time zone
- AEST (UTC+10)
Explore Queensland by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Queensland
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Daintree Rainforest
World's oldest tropical rainforest near Cairns
Whitsunday Islands
74 tropical islands with white sand beaches
Gold Coast
Famous beach strip with theme parks and surf culture
Fraser Island (K'gari)
World's largest sand island with freshwater lakes
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Queensland Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Queensland, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Queensland
- Days 1-2Queensland city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Queensland
- Days 1-3Queensland comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Queensland, departure
Where to stay in Queensland
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $80-120 AUD
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $180-280 AUD
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $400+ AUD
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Qualia Resort Hamilton Island
Australia's most awarded luxury resort, occupying the northern tip of Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays. All-inclusive pavilions with private plunge pools, two infinity pools, and direct access to the Coral Sea.
Sofitel Brisbane Central
Brisbane's most celebrated luxury hotel occupying a 30-storey tower in the CBD, directly connected to Central Station. Known for exceptional French-inspired service, the Patio bar, and superb city and river views.
The Langham Gold Coast
The Gold Coast's newest luxury beachfront hotel with direct beach access — the first new beachfront hotel built in over 30 years. Features 17 room types, a stunning infinity pool, and the award-winning Supernova restaurant.
Pullman Reef Hotel Casino Cairns
Cairns' premier hotel adjacent to the Esplanade lagoon and steps from reef tour departure points. Features a rooftop pool with Coral Sea views, multiple restaurants, and the Reef Casino entertainment complex.
Where to eat in Queensland
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Aria Restaurant Brisbane
Brisbane's most celebrated fine dining venue on Eagle Street Pier, offering stunning Brisbane River views. Chef Matt Moran's restaurant presents refined Modern Australian cuisine using premium Queensland ingredients.
Esquire Brisbane
One of Brisbane's most acclaimed fine dining restaurants, offering a creative degustation menu that pushes boundaries with innovative techniques and exceptional Queensland produce.
Ochre Restaurant Cairns
Cairns' most iconic restaurant, specialising in native Australian ingredients including crocodile, kangaroo, emu, and local tropical seafood, presented in beautifully crafted contemporary dishes.
Hellenika Brisbane
Simon Gloftis' acclaimed Greek restaurant at The Calile Hotel on James Street, celebrated for exceptional seafood, wood-fired proteins, and an exceptional wine list focused on Greek varietals.
Stokehouse Brisbane
An elegant waterfront restaurant on the banks of the Brisbane River at South Bank, offering refined Modern Australian cuisine with spectacular river views and a sophisticated bar scene.
Rick Shores Gold Coast
Burleigh Heads' most celebrated restaurant overlooking the surf break, combining South East Asian flavours with exceptional Queensland seafood. Consistently rated among Australia's best restaurants.
Getting around Queensland
Queensland is a vast state and getting around requires planning. Domestic flights are the fastest option between major cities. Within cities, public transport is good in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. A hire car is essential for exploring the hinterland, Whitsundays hinterland, Cape York, and many national parks.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in AUD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $30-60 AUD | $100-160 AUD | $250+ AUD |
| Food (per day) | $25-40 AUD | $50-80 AUD | $100+ AUD |
| Transportation | $15-25 AUD | $30-50 AUD | $80+ AUD |
| Activities | $20-30 AUD | $50-80 AUD | $100+ AUD |
| Daily total | $80-120 AUD | $180-280 AUD | $400+ AUD |
Best time to visit Queensland
Essential travel tips
- Book reef tours in advance during peak season
- Hire a car to explore beyond major cities
- Pre-book accommodation during school holidays
Safety information
Swim only at patrolled beaches between the flags
Use marine stinger suits or enclosures in tropical waters
Apply SPF50+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours
Stay hydrated in Queensland's heat
Be aware of crocodiles in northern waterways
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Queensland?
Entry requirements follow Australia rules. Most visitors need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Queensland?
The currency in Queensland is the Australian Dollar (AUD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Queensland?
The main language(s) spoken in Queensland: English. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.