Major Highways & Driving Tips in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
1. Bruce Highway
A major north-south route connecting Brisbane to Cairns; offers scenic coastal views, but beware of heavy traffic during peak hours.
- Long Distance: Stretches over 1,700 kilometers
- Scenic Beauty: Passes through picturesque towns and national parks
- Heavy Traffic: Requires extra caution during peak holiday periods
2. Ipswich Motorway
Linking Brisbane's CBD to Ipswich; provides a fast route, but congestion can occur during rush hours.
- Fast Connection: Direct access to major destinations in the region
- Urban Congestion: Potential traffic delays during peak hours
- Multiple Exits: Allows for easy access to surrounding suburbs
3. Legacy Way Tunnel
An underground toll road bypassing busy inner-city traffic; offers a smoother journey but requires toll payment.
- Time Savings: Avoids congested city streets
- Toll Fee: Requires payment for use of the tunnel
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces carbon emissions by minimizing idling traffic
4. Gateway Motorway
Connecting Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast; offers a quick route but can be busy during weekends.
- Coastal Access: Provides a direct connection to popular coastal destinations
- Weekend Traffic: Increased traffic during holiday weekends and peak season
- Rest Areas: Offers convenient stopping points for rest and refreshment
5. Clem7 Tunnel
A tolled tunnel connecting the Inner City Bypass with the Airport Link; offers a fast route but requires toll payment.
- Time Savings: Avoids congested city streets and provides quick access to Brisbane Airport
- Toll Fee: Requires payment for use of the tunnel
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces carbon emissions by minimizing idling traffic
6. Inner City Bypass
A toll road that circles Brisbane's central business district; offers a quicker journey but requires toll payment.
- Time Savings: Avoids inner-city congestion
- Toll Fee: Requires payment for use of the bypass
- Circular Route: Allows for easy access to various destinations within the city
7. Airport Link
A toll road connecting Brisbane Airport with the CBD and Gold Coast; offers a fast route but requires toll payment.
- Coastal Access: Provides quick access to both Brisbane and the Gold Coast
- Toll Fee: Requires payment for use of the road
- Multiple Exits: Allows for easy access to nearby suburbs and attractions
8. Lovett Street Tunnel
A tunnel in Brisbane's CBD; eases traffic congestion but can be busy during rush hours.
- Urban Congestion: Alleviates inner-city traffic issues
- Rush Hour Traffic: Potential delays during peak hours
- Central Location: Connects key destinations within the CBD
9. Gateway Bridge
A cable-stayed bridge connecting Brisbane's north and south; offers stunning views but can be congested during rush hours.
- Scenic Drive: Provides breathtaking views of the city and river
- Urban Congestion: Potential delays during peak hours
- Multiple Lanes: Accommodates heavy traffic volumes
10. Story Bridge
A cantilever bridge connecting Brisbane's north and south; offers picturesque views but can be congested during rush hours.
- Scenic Drive: Provides panoramic views of the city, river, and harbor
- Urban Congestion: Potential delays during peak hours
- Walkway Access: Offers pedestrian walkways for a unique bridge experience
11. Victoria Bridge
A suspension bridge connecting Brisbane's north and south; offers scenic views but can be congested during rush hours.
- Scenic Drive: Provides stunning views of the city, river, and Kangaroo Point Cliffs
- Urban Congestion: Potential delays during peak hours
- Heritage Value: Listed on the Register of the National Estate for its historical significance
12. Kurilpa Bridge
A lift bridge connecting South Brisbane and West End; provides a unique experience but can be congested during rush hours.
- Scenic Drive: Offers views of the city skyline, Goodwill Bridge, and river
- Urban Congestion: Potential delays during peak hours
- Lift Bridge Experience: Allows you to witness the raising and lowering of the bridge
13. Eagle Street Pier
A riverside promenade offering dining, entertainment, and boat tours; provides an enjoyable break from driving but can be busy during peak hours.
- Relaxation Spot: Offers a tranquil space to unwind and enjoy river views
- Dining and Entertainment: Hosts numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes
- Boat Tours: Allows for river cruises and sightseeing tours
14. Dockside
A riverside dining precinct with various eateries; offers a chance to rest and refuel but can be busy during peak hours.
- Rest and Refuel: Provides numerous food and drink options
- Riverside Location: Offers picturesque views of the river, city skyline, and Story Bridge
- Boat Access: Allows for easy access to boat tours and ferries
15. CityCat Ferry
A public ferry service connecting various Brisbane destinations; offers an alternative mode of transport but can be busy during peak hours.
- Alternative Transport: Provides a scenic and eco-friendly travel option
- Riverside Views: Offers panoramic views of the river, city skyline, and notable landmarks
- Convenience: Connects key destinations within the city, including the CBD, South Bank Parklands, and suburbs