This capital city was one of only two Australian inclusions in TIME Magazine’s top 50 destinations to explore in 2023.
Brisbane was named as one of 50 extraordinary destinations to explore in TIME Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places of 2023 list in a major coup for the capital city as it prepares to host the Summer 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and welcome visitors from around the world.
Brisbane was singled out for “sports and sun” with TIME highlighting the city’s urban experiences, including premium dining and retail precinct James Street and the highly anticipated Queen’s Wharf Brisbane, a new $3.6 billion entertainment and leisure destination on Brisbane River.
The list also noted United Airlines’ debut direct service between San Francisco and Brisbane – the first route of its kind for an American carrier.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said TIME’s recognition of Brisbane was not a moment too soon.
“While this is a fantastic accolade for our city, it’s also about time!” Cr Schrinner said.
“It’s no accident that Brisbane is the fastest growing capital city in the country with people recognising that our city’s incredible climate, lifestyle and liveability is second to none.
“TIME magazine’s acknowledgement is another example of the world recognising that Brisbane just keeps getting better.”
Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) CEO Anthony Ryan said it’s no surprise that Brisbane is taking its rightful place as a global must-visit destination.
“There’s an infectious momentum behind Brisbane at the moment, creating a city alive with opportunity in every way,” Mr Ryan said.
“The city’s latest visitation figures show domestic tourism has experienced significant growth post-pandemic with hotel occupancy up almost 20 per cent compared to 2021.”
The magazine’s annual travel guide – curated by TIME’s global editors and travel industry experts – lists 50 destinations that offer visitors extraordinary experiences.
Alongside Brisbane, Kangaroo Island was also recognised for “rising from the ashes” after the 2019–20 bushfire season devastated the wildlife haven and for its focus on sustainable stays.
TIME’s 2023 World’s Greatest Places guide was published online and in print on Thursday 16 March 2023.
To read the full list, head to time.com/collection/worlds-greatest-places-2023
