Where to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ in Brisbane
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is almost here, and Brisbane is getting ready to kick goals! Whether you're a diehard supporter that’s never missed a game, or a casual fan that’s excited to cheer on the Socceroos, Brisbane has no shortage of great spots to catch the action this World Cup.
But when watching a game from the comfort of your couch isn’t quite the vibe you’re chasing, Brisbane has you sorted.
From the World Cup Live Site in South Bank, where you’ll be shoulder to shoulder with fellow supporters, to local pubs, bustling bars and buzzing breweries, here are the best places to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026™ in Brisbane.
Before Kick Off
If you’re gearing up to support Australia during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, you’re in luck, with a majority of the Socceroo’s games kicking off at times that are perfectly placed to enjoy early morning activities. For those heading out to watch Australia vs Türkiye on Sunday 14 June, or Australia vs Paraguay on Friday 26 June, you've got the whole morning free, with both games kicking off after midday.
With all that extra time up your sleeve, why not start your day at one of Brisbane’s best cafes or restaurants, grab a pre-game pint at one of the city’s best breweries, or make a full day of it, by checking out one of Brisbane’s countless morning activities?
Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) are both a short walk from the South Bank Forecourt where all the action is taking place this year, and make for a genuinely great way to spend a couple of hours. For early risers, The Story Bridge Adventure Climb offers dawn climbs, Riverlife Adventure provides Sunrise Kayak tours on the Brisbane River and SOAK Bathhouse in West End opens its doors early, providing the perfect way to ease into the day.
Where To Watch The Games
World Cup Live Site, South Bank Cultural Forecourt
This FIFA World Cup 2026™, the South Bank Cultural Forecourt is the only place to be. For those looking to truly immerse themselves in all the football fandom, the forecourt will transform from an iconic meeting place to Brisbane's ultimate free fan zone, with screens to catch all the action, food trucks and pop up bars to keep your fuelled up during halves and kids activities to keep the whole family entertained. With close proximity to public transport, restaurants, bars and the entire South Bank precinct, the World Cup Live Site has been specifically designed to be a gathering place for thousands of fans to get loud and experience the FIFA World Cup 2026™ the way it was meant to be experienced - together.
Fans keen on experiencing the tournament from the World Cup Live Site are encouraged to arrive early to ensure you don't miss out on accessing the site. Security will be on site at all times to assist with attendees, ensure prohibited items such as flares, projectiles, large bags, BYO alcohol and lawn chairs do not enter the site, and to keep the World Cup Live Site a fun, family-friendly zone.
The Rose & Crown, South Bank
If you're cheering on England this World Cup, or you simply appreciate a proper British pub done right, The Rose & Crown on Grey Street is your spiritual home for the next few weeks. This South Bank gem serves up pump-pulled pints, hearty pub food, and an atmosphere that'll have you feeling like your in a home away from home. With the World Cup Live Site just a short stroll away, it also makes for a brilliant pre or post-match stop if you want to start the day with strong energy before joining the broader Brisbane celebrations.
The Rivergarden, Howard Smith Wharves
Tucked beneath the Story Bridge, with sweeping views of the Brisbane River, Howard Smith Wharves is one of the city's most atmospheric settings at any time, but come World Cup time, it gets even better. Pull up a spot in the Rivergarden, cold drink in hand, and watch the game with one of Brisbane's most iconic backdrops.
Winghaus, The City
Wings, cold beers, and wall-to-wall screens, Winghaus on Edward Street was practically designed for occasions like this. The central location has an infectious energy on game days, and with bottomless wings on the menu, you really have no excuse to leave between the first whistle and the last.
Grand Central Hotel, The City
A proper Brisbane pub right in the heart of The City, Grand Central Hotel is a reliable and well-loved spot for watching the big games. With a classic pub menu on hand, cold beer selection on tap and Central Station positioned right next door, it’s the ideal location for those commuting via train.
The Port Office Hotel, The City
A heritage-listed gem right in the heart of The City, The Port Office Hotel is one of Brisbane's most beautiful pubs, and come World Cup time, it becomes one of the most energetic. With a warm, well-run venue, a quality food menu, and an impressive drinks list, it's a step above your average game day pub. The kind of place where the surroundings make the match feel like more of an occasion.
The Sports Bar, The City
With massive screens, quality sound, and a purpose-built atmosphere for exactly this kind of occasion, The Sports Bar at The Star is the perfect location to experience the World Cup, with the added bonus of positioning you close to some of The City's best restaurants, including Dark Shepherd and Pompette.
The Boundary Hotel, West End
A West End institution with an easy, unpretentious vibe that's perfect for a big game day. The Boundary Hotel has a dedicated downstairs sports bar area alongside an upstairs garden for those who prefer their football with a bit of fresh air.
The Waterloo Hotel, Fortitude Valley
The Valley's go-to for a big night, and World Cup season is no exception. The Waterloo Hotel is a spacious pub with plenty of screens and a crowd that knows how to get behind a game. Whether you're heading in before or after a game, wander through the Valley's famous dining and entertainment strip; it's a reliable, high-energy option that rarely disappoints. While you're in Fortitude Valley, why not check out some of the precincts best eat and drink spots.
Finn McCool's, Fortitude Valley
An Irish pub on Brunswick Street Mall that knows exactly what it is, and does it brilliantly. Finn McCool's has the kind of lively, welcoming atmosphere that makes every game feel like an event, and the outdoor seating on the mall means you can take in the Valley's famous street energy between halves. A great pick for fans who like their football with a bit of character.
The Jubilee Hotel, Fortitude Valley
The newly renovated Jubilee Hotel, or The Jube as the locals know it, is one of Fortitude Valley's most underrated spots for a big game day. With a lofty, light-filled design, a solid sports bar, and a food and drinks menu that punches above its weight, it's the kind of place you can settle into early and won’t want to leave.
The Prince Consort, Fortitude Valley
If there's one pub in Brisbane that could genuinely be described as eight venues in one, it's The Prince Consort. With an extraordinary range of spaces spread across the venue, from lively bar areas to quieter nooks and everything in between, it's the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure World Cup experience. Find your spot, settle in, and let the atmosphere do the rest.
The Osbourne Hotel, Fortitude Valley
The Osbourne Hotel is one of Fortitude Valley's most loved amongst locals, and its dedicated sports bar makes it a brilliant choice for World Cup season. With plenty of screens, cold beers on tap, generous pub meals at great prices, and a crowd that genuinely gets behind the big moments, it's exactly what a game day pub should be. Relaxed, welcoming, and reliably good fun.
The Lord Alfred, Caxton Street
A Caxton Street institute with a bit more personality than your average sports pub, The Lord Alfred leans into its Scottish heritage this FIFA World Cup™, with Scottish Breakfast and football colliding in one location. Come for the football, stay for the craic.
Regatta Hotel, Toowong
One of Brisbane's most beloved hotels, the Regatta Hotel brings a little bit of grandeur to game day. With river views and a sprawling multi-level venue, it draws a loyal local crowd and has the space and screens to match the occasion. If you're watching from the western suburbs, this is your spot.
The Ballpark Portside, Hamilton
For World Cup fans in Brisbane's north, The Ballpark at Portside Wharf in Hamilton is the pick of the bunch. A dedicated sports bar with a massive screen, great craft beer and cocktail selection, and a genuinely electric atmosphere on game days, it also has baseball batting cages, darts, and pool tables to keep things interesting before and after the match. With the beautiful Portside Wharf precinct right on the doorstep, it's a brilliant full-day destination for groups looking to make a proper event of it.
After The Game
Win, lose or draw, the game might be over, but Brisbane is just getting started. Whether you want to debrief over a long dinner, keep the energy up at a rooftop bar, or make a full night of it, here's how to extend the celebrations once the final whistle has blown.
Brisbane's rooftop bar scene is genuinely world-class, and post-match is the perfect excuse to take advantage of it. The Terrace at Emporium Hotel South Bank puts you 21 floors above the city with sweeping views of the river and skyline, which is ideal for a celebratory cocktail or two. If you're heading across to The City, The Sky Deck at Queens Wharf is a jaw-dropping vantage point and one of Brisbane's most talked-about new additions. For something a little more tucked away, Fiume Rooftop Bar at Howard Smith Wharves offers Story Bridge views and a relaxed, riverside atmosphere that's hard to beat on a warm afternoon. Or, alternatively, check out Brisbane’s best cocktail bars for a full list of the best spots to drink with a view.
If the adrenaline has worn off and your stomach is catching up, Brisbane has you covered. Pizza lovers can choose from a wide range of top-tier slices, from Little G in Woolloongabba to the iconic Julius Pizza in Fish Lane. But if it’s a burger you’re craving, look no further than the most beloved buns by making a trip to Ben’s in Fortitude Valley, Broken Hearts Burger Club in New Farm, or Dumbo in Hamilton. Or, if you’re chasing something a bit more premium, why not check out one of Brisbane’s best restaurants.
And, if nightlife is more your thing, check out Brisbane’s best nightlife spots, where you can spend countless hours reliving the magic of the World Cup, or check out some live music at The Tivoli, The Princess Theatre or any number of amazing live music venues across Brisbane.
