Time Out’s Coolest Streets 2025: Brisbane’s Montague Road Shines in the Top Ten Worldwide, What Travelers Need To Know

Published on November 20, 2025

In a recent global ranking by Time Out, Montague Road in Brisbane’s West End has earned the prestigious title of Australia’s coolest street. Surpassing well-known streets in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, Montague Road now sits at No.6 in Time Out’s annual list of the world’s coolest streets. The ranking, which evaluates streets based on criteria like food, culture, fun, and community spirit, places Montague Road alongside some of the world’s most iconic locations.

This recognition for Brisbane’s West End is a significant boost to the city’s global reputation as a vibrant cultural and artistic hub. With its mix of creative venues, restaurants, boutiques, and eclectic offerings, it’s easy to see why Montague Road has been selected as one of the top 10 coolest streets. From its humble origins as a former industrial strip, this street has reinvented itself as a thriving center of Brisbane’s eclectic, free-spirited culture.

What Makes Montague Road Stand Out?

The appeal of Montague Road is rooted in its unique blend of art, entertainment, and local culture, which has transformed it into the heart of the West End. The street is home to cultural landmarks such as the Queensland Ballet and the Queensland Theatre Company, making it a prime destination for arts lovers. But what sets Montague Road apart is not just the theatres or galleries—it’s the dynamic and diverse mix of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and even more unexpected venues like axe-throwing and indoor rock climbing spots.

Davies Park, located on the road, plays a central role in this vibrant neighborhood, hosting the West End Market every weekend, where visitors can find local food vendors, organic produce, and handmade crafts. The lively atmosphere on Montague Road draws locals and tourists alike, making it a must-visit for anyone coming to Brisbane.

The street also boasts a strong community spirit, where new businesses, from independent coffee shops like Gerry’s Coffee to trendy fashion outlets, join a growing collection of local enterprises that make the street buzz with life. It’s the blend of creativity and local culture that makes Montague Road stand out from other streets in Australia, and around the world.

Road’s Global Ranking: What Does It Mean for Brisbane?

Being named as one of the coolest streets in the world places Brisbane on the map for global tourism. As cities around the world strive to increase their tourism and local economy, Montague Road’s inclusion on this prestigious list signals the growing appeal of Brisbane as a cultural destination.

For tourists, this means better access to local attractions, with Montague Road now a centerpiece of any visit to Brisbane. Travelers seeking a mix of culture, food, and community can easily explore this eclectic street while enjoying its proximity to the Brisbane River and other major city attractions like South Bank and Kangaroo Point.

The Global Cool Street Ranking

While Montague Road secured its spot as Australia’s coolest street, it was not alone in the prestigious list. The Time Out Coolest Streets list for 2025 features several international streets, including:

1. Rua do Senado, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Topping the list as the coolest street globally.
2. Orange Street, Osaka, Japan – Famous for its vibrant cultural offerings and shopping.
3. Rua do Bonjardim, Porto, Portugal – Known for its picturesque setting and local charm.
4. Fanghua Street, Chengdu, China – A street teeming with cultural diversity and local eateries.
5. Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, Canada – Celebrated for its blend of heritage and modernity.

Other notable streets in the rankings include Maybachufer in Berlin, Olympou Street in Thessaloniki, and Orchard Street in New York. Montague Road’s placement alongside these globally recognized streets is a testament to Brisbane’s cultural evolution and growing appeal as a tourist destination.

The Impact on Tourism and Local Businesses

The recognition of Montague Road as one of the world’s coolest streets is a major boost for tourism in Brisbane. For tourists, this means more accessible, vibrant destinations to explore. It also means that local businesses along Montague Road can expect an increase in foot traffic and a boost in sales as global travelers flock to see what the street has to offer.

This recognition also benefits businesses in the Brisbane West End. Restaurants, bars, cafes, and local stores are likely to see more visitors and increased exposure, while the ongoing development of the area will lead to further investments in infrastructure and community projects. The growing cultural scene is set to create a stronger local economy and further enhance Brisbane’s reputation as a global cultural hotspot.

Quick Tips for Tourists Visiting Montague Road

1. Explore on Foot:
   Montague Road’s charm is best appreciated on foot. Take your time to wander through its various boutiques, art galleries, and cafes for a true local experience.
2. Visit the West End Market:
   Held every weekend, the West End Market is a great place to experience local food, handmade goods, and artisanal products.
3. Check Out the Local Dining Scene:
   Don’t miss out on local eats and trendy dining spots. From Gerry’s Coffee for a quick pick-me-up to Chester Street Bakery for a relaxed meal, the street offers a variety of options.
4. Be Part of the Community:
   Attend local events and performances hosted by venues like the Queensland Theatre Company. There’s always something happening in the West End to immerse yourself in.
5. Take Advantage of Public Transport:
   Montague Road is well-connected by Brisbane’s public transport system, including buses and the CityCat ferry, making it easy to explore nearby attractions like South Bank and Kangaroo Point.

Key Points to Remember

• Montague Road in Brisbane’s West End has been ranked as one of the coolest streets in the world for 2025 by Time Out.
• It’s recognized for its diverse cultural scene, artistic spaces, and vibrant community atmosphere.
• The street is home to key landmarks like Queensland Ballet, Queensland Theatre Company, and the West End Market.
• Brisbane is emerging as a top cultural destination, attracting global tourists and local entrepreneurs.
• Local businesses along Montague Road will likely see increased exposure, benefiting from tourism and higher foot traffic.

Final Thoughts for Travelers

With its growing reputation, Montague Road has become a must-see destination for anyone visiting Brisbane. The street’s inclusion in Time Out’s list as one of the coolest streets globally reflects its status as a cultural hub in Australia. Whether you’re an art lover, a food enthusiast, or a history buff, Montague Road has something to offer. It’s a place where creativity meets community, making it a vibrant spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated