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Brisbane Shines As A World-Class City: TIME Magazine Names It One Of The World’s Greatest Places

Brisbane’s journey from a laid-back river city to an internationally recognized urban destination reflects effective city planning, cultural investment, and an appetite for growth.

Blog / News / 2025 July 31, 2025
Brisbane

Brisbane is stepping into the global spotlight. In its annual World’s Greatest Places list for 2023, TIME Magazine recognised Brisbane as the only Australian city among the world’s top destinations—including Barcelona and Vienna.

This prestigious acknowledgment arrives as Brisbane fast-tracks development ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, affirming its emergence as a vibrant, modern city worth exploring.

Why TIME Selected Brisbane

TIME highlighted Brisbane’s dynamic growth, prioritising experiences that blend urban vibrancy, cultural innovation, and climate-driven leisure. Named under the theme, “Sports and sun,” the piece celebrated the city’s momentum in the lead-up to the Olympics and its expanding cultural precincts like James Street and Fortitude Valley.

Projects like the $3.6 billion Queen’s Wharf development—set to feature luxury hotels, bars, restaurants, and a 300‑foot rooftop sky deck—were central to TIME’s behind-the-scenes admiration. Brisbane’s Queen’s Wharf, the revitalised South Bank, and upcoming green bridges highlight its commitment to contemporary leisure and infrastructure.

Beyond 2023: Continued Recognition in 2025

Brisbane’s global appeal remains strong. In early 2025, Time Out Australia ranked Brisbane 37th in its World’s Best Cities list, the only Australian capital included after Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth. The ranking was rooted in surveys of over 18,500 Australians, with South Bank, Howard Smith Wharves, and Fortitude Valley cited as standout precincts.

Similarly, American Express Travel’s “Trending Destinations” list for 2025 named Brisbane among the top 10 must‑visit global cities—a nod to its attractiveness for Millennials and Gen Z travellers, thanks to its nightlife, arts festivals, and outdoor lifestyle.

What Makes Brisbane Stay on Trend

  1. Food & Culture: Brisbane’s food scene is booming, with venues like Gerard’s Bistro on James Street and dumpling bars in Fortitude Valley gaining international clout. Its expanding lineup of festivals—such as Night Feast, Melt Festival, and international art exhibitions—bolsters its cultural appeal.
  2. Urban Renewal & Design: Transformative projects like Queen’s Wharf reimagine the riverfront. Precincts like Moreton Bay fig–lined promenades in James Street blend local boutiques with lush greenery—creating a distinctive sense of place.
  3. Major Events: Brisbane is gearing up to host major sporting events as early as this decade, including the 2032 Olympics. This timeline anticipates further tourism infrastructure and investment.
  4. Accessible Lifestyle: With abundant outdoor attractions—like the South Bank Parklands, riverwalks, botanic gardens, and nearby islands—Brisbane delivers the laid-back, nature-connected lifestyle international travellers often seek.

Senior-Friendly Travel in Brisbane’s Spotlight

Seniors in Victoria may soon enjoy free weekend public transport and a 50% weekday discount statewide—policies that align closely with age-friendly travel ideals. Brisbane’s accessibility and expanding rail-transit network position it as a model for senior-friendly urban mobility.

When seniors decide to stay in Brisbane—whether for family holidays or medical visits—self-contained accommodation near central transit hubs makes travel simpler. Services like Corporate Keys furnished apartments in Southbank or Fortitude Valley combine safety, space, and proximity to public transport and medical precincts. These apartments, with step-free access, in-room kitchens, and laundry, reflect age-friendly infrastructure and complement mobility initiatives like fare-free transport. Together, they contribute to travel independence and confidence for older visitors.

Final Thoughts

Brisbane’s journey from a laid-back river city to an internationally recognised urban destination reflects effective city planning, cultural investment, and an appetite for growth. Its repeated inclusion in global listings—from TIME to Time Out and AMEX—underscores a broader shift: Australia’s fastest-growing city is now competing on the world stage for authenticity, liveability, and creative energy.

With major events, safe transport enhancements, and welcoming neighbourhoods, Brisbane represents a city not just worth visiting—but one increasingly defined by comfort, culture, and connection. For extended stays or travellers seeking a more home-like experience, furnished apartments in Brisbane—such as those offered by Corporate Keys—provide spacious, self-contained accommodation ideal for business trips, relocations, or leisurely exploration.

As travel opens post-pandemic, Brisbane offers more than sunshine—it offers substance. And for seniors, travellers, and food lovers alike, there’s never been a better time to explore what Brisbane has to offer.



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