How to tackle Brisbane during the Rugby World Cup
Before the 2027 Rugby World Cup officially kicks off, there’s just one thing you need to know; Brisbane delivers just as much action off the field as it does on it. So, it’s time to get your game plan sorted!
There are very few cities on earth where you can kayak down the river at sunrise, explore a world-heritage rainforest by midday, and raise a glass at a rooftop bar by sunset. Thankfully, Brisbane’s not just any city.
Whether you're here for a boys weekend, a quick getaway with the family or you’re looking to experience everything the city has to offer, Brisbane delivers that perfect balance of big-city energy and easy-going charm.
From pre-match beers on Caxton Street to post-game celebrations at Howard Smith Wharves, island-hopping beach trips and hidden laneway gems, here's everything you need to know to plan your ultimate Brisbane experience during the Rugby World Cup 2027.
Where to stay:
Before you find your seat in the stands, you’ll want to sort out where you’re laying your head at night. The good news? Brisbane’s got accommodation options to suit every style and budget.
For those looking to be as close to the action as possible, look no further than the suburbs of Milton, Paddington, Spring Hill and The City, all of which put you just a quick walk or short bus ride from the heart of it.
In Spring Hill, The Johnson Brisbane offers a unique interior style while The Inchcolm - known for its eclectic 1920s-40s style - is the perfect place for anyone seeking something a little bit quirky on their vacay. But, if you’re looking to roll out of bed and step straight into the Caxton Street pre-match atmosphere, it doesn't get more convenient than the Beetson Hotel, which is less than a four-minute walk from the stadium.
For those wanting to be in the thick of Brisbane's urban energy, The City offers plenty of choice. Sofitel Brisbane Central combines French luxury with practical features like interconnecting rooms, which are perfect for groups or families travelling together. The Westin Brisbane features its signature Heavenly Beds designed for optimal rest, while W Brisbane brings bold contemporary style to the riverfront. The Pullman in King George Square positions you right in The City with modern rooms and excellent transport connections to the stadium, while Marriott Brisbane and Amora Hotel Brisbane both offer reliable accommodation that keeps you central to everything.
South Bank puts you close to Brisbane's cultural precinct with quick access to the stadium. Novotel South Bank delivers pure comfort near the parklands and riverside dining which is ideal if you're bringing family members who want activities beyond rugby. Emporium Hotel South Bank steps it up with fine dining options, a rooftop pool, day spa facilities and spectacular views that make post-match recovery feel decadent.
For serious style, The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley is nothing but green, leafy luxury in one of Brisbane's most vibrant neighbourhoods. The poolside bar, exceptional design and proximity to James Street's shopping and dining make it perfect for those who want more than just a place to sleep between matches.
Where to eat:
Win or lose, you're going to need to eat, and thankfully Brisbane's dining scene caters to both extremes. Victory demands celebratory feasts at restaurants worthy of the occasion, while close losses require comfort food and venues that understand emotional eating.
Morning After in West End delivers exactly what its name promises: hearty feeds that remedy excesses and prepare you for matches, while Felix For Goodness in The City, Industry Beans in Newstead, NODO in South Brisbane and Gramps in Red Hill all serve quality coffee alongside substantial Aussie breakfasts.
When hunger strikes between matches, Brisbane's casual dining also kicks goals. Hot spots like Unbearable Bagels, Sunny Side Sandwiches and The Twin offer killer options for carb loading, while pizza lovers can choose from a wide range of top-tier slices, from Little G in Woolloongabba to the iconic Julius Pizza in South Brisbane. But if it’s a burger you’re craving, look no further than the city’s most beloved burg’s by making a trip to Ben’s in Fortitude Valley, Broken Hearts Burger Club in New Farm, or Dumbo in Hamilton. Wing Haus combines wings and sport in a riverside setting, while Momo Chicken brings cult-favourite Korean fried chicken.
When victory demands celebration or you just want to eat well, Brisbane's restaurant scene steps up. Massimo delivers Italian fine dining, Dark Shepherd brings contemporary cuisine with Queensland ingredients, and Hellenika on James Street offers Greek-inspired dishes in stylish surrounds. Cartel Del Taco in New Farm and Mama Taco in West End also elevate tacos and tequila to a level that you’ll think you’re dining in Mexico.
If you’re looking for something extra special during your trip, make sure to check out some of Brisbane’s best restaurants, from a lush, open-armed take on Middle Eastern flavours at Golden Avenue, to a contemporary take on Cantonese classics at The Fifty Six.
Where to drink:
When you need something beyond beer, whether that's a well-crafted cocktail to celebrate a win or a glass of wine to process a close loss, Brisbane's bar scene is sophisticated without stuffiness. These venues understand that rugby fans aren't just about pints and pub atmosphere; sometimes you want quality drinks in spaces designed for conversation rather than shouting over crowds.
Flying Colours in West End brings relaxed charm with natural wines and cocktails in an outdoor setting perfect for Brisbane's climate while The Alligator Club brings cocktail culture to The City, and Frog's Hollow Saloon serves drinks with character in a venue that doesn't take itself too seriously. For something more refined, Death and Taxes offers cocktails crafted with precision, while The Gresham remains one of Brisbane’s most beloved places to grab a totally unique cocktail.
If you're staying near Brisbane Stadium, Lefty's on Caxton Street provides an easy transition from match-day intensity to evening drinks without requiring travel across the city.
Of course, rugby and beer go together like scrums and rucks, and Brisbane's brewing scene is ready to host your celebrations. Felons Brewing Co. at Howard Smith Wharves has become iconic; riverside views beneath the Story Bridge with beers brewed on-site. The Charming Squire in South Bank pours small-batch James Squire brews alongside quality pub fare, while Stone & Wood Brewing in Fortitude Valley brings their renowned Pacific Ale to a venue that understands craft beer culture.
BrewDog offers their full range alongside shuffleboard and pinball machines, while Range Brewing, Sea Legs Brewing Co. and Slipstream Brewing Company each deliver unique experiences with signature brews worth exploring. The Valley's brewery scene includes Valley Hops Brewing and Green Beacon Brewing Co., both helping establish Fortitude Valley as Brisbane's craft beer heartland. Scratch Bar in Milton bridges both worlds: quality cocktails and carefully curated beer selection for groups who can't decide.
Things to do in Brisbane:
For those who can't sit still between matches, Brisbane's adventure options truly deliver. TheStory Bridge Adventure Climb puts you on top of one of Brisbane's most iconic landmarks with 360-degree views of the city, river and beyond. If you prefer staying closer to ground level, Riverlife Adventure Centre at Kangaroo Point Cliffs offers abseiling down the cliffs with city views, or you can casually kayak the Brisbane River for a different perspective on the city you've been exploring on foot.
Jet Ski Tours Brisbane brings high-speed thrills with guided safaris along the Brisbane River, with no licence required! When your group needs something competitive, but less physically demanding, MANIAX axe throwing venues across the city could be just the thing to let you channel any frustrations (looking at you, controversial referee decisions)!
Kingston Park Raceway is one of Australia's most famous go-kart circuits where you can race your crew and settle arguments about who's actually the fastest, and if you're looking for something uniquely Brisbane with a sporting connection, the XXXX Brewery Tour takes you through 135 years of Queensland brewing history at this iconic location. The 90-minute tour explores beer-making from raw ingredients through to packaging, teaches you how to pour the perfect beer, and lets you taste like a brewer.
No Brisbane visit is complete without getting to see Australian wildlife, and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary delivers the authentic experience. This is the world's oldest and largest koala sanctuary where you can get up close with Australian animals you've only seen on documentaries. The sanctuary's riverside location means you can even arrive by boat, and if you're staying for an evening session, the Nocturnal Night Tour brings the sanctuary to life after dark when many animals are most active.
Adventure in the regions:
Beyond the urban jungle of Brisbane, lie some of the world's most pristine beaches and World Heritage-listed wilderness. After days of stadium intensity and city exploration, Brisbane's surrounding regions offer the perfect counterbalance of island escapes, rainforest adventures, and coastal experiences that transform your rugby trip into a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Just north of the city, the Moreton Bay region delivers adventure set against stunning scenery and salty air. Hit the water with Moreton Bay Jetski Hire and Ride, or head offshore with Brisbane Whale Watching, where the World Cup timing aligns with peak humpback migration season, giving you a rare chance to see breaching whales between match days. Prefer land? Explore Bribie Island by 4WD with G’Day Adventure Tours or discover rainforest landscapes on a guided experience with Brisbane Nature Tours. It’s the perfect half or full day escape when you want wild coastal action without venturing far from Brisbane.
Ferry out to Moreton Island/Mulgumpin where crystal-clear waters meet white sand beaches stretching for kilometres. Day cruises with See Moreton or Tangalooma Island Resort pack in beach time, marine life encounters, and island exploration, getting you back to Brisbane by evening. Or turn it into an overnight stay at Tangalooma Island Resort and make the most of the island with experiences like ATV quad biking and scenic helicopter flights.
North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah offers a more laid-back island vibe with pristine surf beaches, coastal walks, and rich First Nations culture. While you’re there, why not book a tour with Yura Tours and learn more about the history and culture of this incredible corner of the world.
Hike through Lamington National Park in the Scenic Rim, where ancient trees tower overhead and bird calls replace stadium roars, or explore the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk that puts you above the canopy with views stretching to the coast. Discover glow-worm caves after dark where bioluminescence creates natural magic, or visit Canungra Valley Vineyards and Kooroomba Vineyard and Lavender Farm for wine tastings with mountain views.
For something truly unforgettable, book a dawn hot air balloon flight with Floating Images to watch the Greater Brisbane Region landscape unfurl below you as the sun rises over the mountains. It's thrilling without being physically demanding, and the kind of once-in-a-lifetime experience that elevates your rugby pilgrimage beyond just matches and celebrations.
