Is this walking tour Brisbane suitable for children?

Yes, it is very family-friendly. The paths are wide and separated from car traffic on the bridges, and there are many parks and spots to rest along the South Bank side.

What is the best time for photography on this route?

Sunset is the ideal time. The 'golden hour' provides stunning light on the CBD skyline, and you can see the Kurilpa Bridge light up as evening falls.

Are there any hills on this walking route?

The route is mostly flat, though there are gentle inclines when ascending the bridge ramps. It is considered a moderate walk due to its total length.

Can I do this walk at night?

Absolutely. The bridges are well-lit and very safe at night. The Kurilpa Bridge and the Victoria Bridge offer spectacular views of the illuminated city.

Is there a cost to cross any of these bridges?

No, all the bridges are free for pedestrians and cyclists. The Go Between Bridge has a toll for vehicles, but walking is free.

Where can I get water along the way?

There are several public water fountains located in the South Bank Parklands and near the entrance to the State Library and GOMA.

Is the Gallery of Modern Art free to enter?

Entry to GOMA is generally free, though some special major exhibitions require a paid ticket. You can always enjoy the architecture and the cafe for free.

How do I get back to the start from the end point?

From the Go Between Bridge, it is a 10-minute walk to Milton Station, where trains run regularly to the CBD. Alternatively, a CityCat ferry from West End is a scenic way to return.

The Great River Bridge Loop | Self-Guided Walking Tour

About This Guided Walking Tour

Brisbane's identity is inextricably linked to the winding curves of the Brisbane River, or Maiwar. This self-guided walking route offers a comprehensive exploration of the city's architectural evolution through its bridges. Starting at the bustling Victoria Bridge, you'll traverse the cultural heart of the city, moving between the heritage-listed structures of the past and the avant-garde designs of the present. This neighborhood stroll is perfect for those who appreciate structural design and the way a city interacts with its waterway. As you navigate the loop, you will encounter the Kurilpa Bridge, a marvel of engineering known as the world's largest solar-powered footbridge of its kind. Its 'tensegrity' design provides a sharp contrast to the solid, Art Deco curves of the William Jolly Bridge. Along the way, the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) stands as a monument to contemporary aesthetics, framing the river through its massive windows. This walking route isn't just about the bridges themselves; it is about the vistas they provide. From the elevated walkways, you can capture the Brisbane CBD skyline, the lush greenery of the South Bank Parklands, and the rhythmic flow of the CityCats below. For photography enthusiasts, this route provides endless angles and lighting conditions, especially during the 'golden hour.' Whether you are a local resident rediscovering your city or a visitor seeking a deeper understanding of Brisbane's layout, this walking tour Brisbane offers a flexible, independent way to see the sights. There is no need for a schedule; simply follow the path and let the history of the river unfold. The loop connects the vibrant South Bank precinct with the historic North Quay, making it easy to stop for a coffee or visit a gallery along the way. By the time you reach the Go Between Bridge, named after one of the city's most beloved bands, you will have gained a new perspective on how Brisbane has grown from a colonial outpost into a modern metropolis. This self-guided walk ensures you don't miss the subtle details that make the riverfront unique.

Tour Highlights & Things to See

The world-renowned tensegrity design of Kurilpa Bridge
Panoramic CBD skyline views from the Victoria Bridge
The elegant Art Deco architecture of the William Jolly Bridge
Modernist riverfront aesthetics at the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)
The musical heritage behind the Go Between Bridge
Heritage sites and transport history at North Quay

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour.

Tour Stops & Points of Interest (6)

1

Victoria Bridge

Victoria Bridge serves as the primary gateway between the Brisbane CBD and the South Bank cultural precinct. The current bridge, opened in 1969, is actually the fourth permanent crossing at this location. As you stand here, look for the remaining stone abutment of the 1897 bridge on the South Bank side, which serves as a memorial to the city's history. The bridge offers one of the best vantage points for photographing the Brisbane skyline and the busy river traffic. It has evolved from a simple timber structure in the mid-1800s to a sophisticated modern link that prioritizes pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport, reflecting Brisbane's shift toward a more sustainable and accessible urban center.

2

North Quay

North Quay is one of the oldest and most significant riverfront areas in Brisbane. Originally a landing site for the penal colony, it has transformed into a major transport hub and a scenic promenade. From this vantage point, you can see the contrast between the historic Treasury Building and the modern skyscrapers that dominate the skyline. The area is also home to the Commissariat Store, one of only two surviving buildings from the convict era. Take a moment to observe the CityCats—Brisbane's iconic high-speed ferries—zipping across the water. This spot offers a unique perspective on the intersection of the city's colonial roots and its bustling contemporary life.

3

Kurilpa Bridge

The Kurilpa Bridge is a standout feature of the Brisbane skyline, looking more like a complex web of masts and cables than a traditional river crossing. Completed in 2009, it is the world’s largest hybrid tensegrity bridge. Tensegrity is a structural principle where the shape is maintained by a balance of tension and compression. For photographers, the bridge is a dream, especially at night when its LED lighting system illuminates the structure in a variety of colors. The name 'Kurilpa' honors the Indigenous name for the area, meaning 'place of the water rats.' As you walk across, notice how the bridge feels light and airy, offering panoramic views of the city’s North Quay and the nearby Gallery of Modern Art.

4

Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)

The Gallery of Modern Art, or GOMA, is an architectural masterpiece designed by Architectus. Opened in 2006, the building was designed to interact seamlessly with the river and the surrounding landscape. Its massive roof overhangs and floor-to-ceiling glass walls are intended to blur the lines between the interior galleries and the exterior environment. The building's design emphasizes transparency and openness, reflecting the contemporary art it houses. Even if you don't head inside, the exterior plazas and the way the building frames the river views make it a highlight for any photography enthusiast. It stands as a symbol of Brisbane's growing reputation as a global hub for contemporary Pacific art and culture.

5

William Jolly Bridge

Named after the first Lord Mayor of the Greater Brisbane Council, the William Jolly Bridge is a heritage-listed Art Deco gem. Opened in 1932 during the Great Depression, its three graceful arches are made of steel-reinforced concrete, finished with a render that gives it a stone-like appearance. The bridge is famous for its elegant silhouette and the way it is often used as a canvas for light projections during city festivals. Its design was quite innovative for its time, aiming to provide a monumental entrance to the city. As you walk across, pay attention to the geometric details and the classic lamp posts that evoke the glamour of the early 20th century.

6

Go Between Bridge

The Go Between Bridge is a contemporary addition to Brisbane's river crossings, opened in 2010. It is unique for being named after the iconic Brisbane indie rock band, The Go-Betweens, following a public poll. This bridge connects the West End to Milton, serving as a vital link for the city's western suburbs. Architecturally, it is sleek and functional, but its cultural significance lies in the tribute to the city's musical heritage. Walking across this bridge provides an excellent view back toward the William Jolly Bridge and the Kurilpa Bridge, allowing you to see three distinct eras of bridge design in one frame. It marks the final point of our loop, where the city's creativity and infrastructure meet.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The total walking distance is approximately 4 to 5 kilometers. Depending on how long you stop for photos or at GOMA, it typically takes about 3 to 4 hours.