As a place that is bustling with life and diversity, Brisbane has rightfully been named a world city in Australia, despite being smaller than Sydney or Melbourne.
Within the city, there is a collection of beautiful neighborhoods, lush green gardens, incredible galleries and museums, great nightlife, and so much more, depending on what you are looking for!
Brisbane is the capital city in the Australian state of Queensland, and is the third most populous city within the country.
Boasting its history with the Queenslander architecture present in many neighborhoods, Brisbane is a very laid-back and accessible city with a lot of things to do in its’ surrounding too.
Table of Contents
- Where To Stay In Brisbane For First Timers And Tourists: CBD & Spring Hill
- Where To Stay In Brisbane For Families: South Bank
- Where To Stay In Brisbane For Nightlife: Fortitude Valley
- Where To Stay In Brisbane For Backpackers: West End & Roma Street
- Where To Stay In Brisbane For Food/Trendy Local Spots And Markets: New Farm & Teneriffe
- Where to stay in Brisbane – Frequently asked questions
You may be asking yourself, ‘where’s the best place to stay in Brisbane?’.
To answer that question, I’ve compiled a list of great neighborhoods, hotels and activities that will help to guide you on your search.
Where To Stay In Brisbane For First Timers And Tourists: CBD & Spring Hill
When staying in a completely new place for the first time ever, there’s no doubt at all that you would like to be accommodated as comfortably as possible, and to try out some new things and activities that are right in your area that you’re not aware of.
If you are coming to Brisbane as a tourist or first timer, the area I would recommend the most to attend to is the CBD and Spring Hill area.
Read also: Short On Time? The 48 Hour Guide To Brisbane
The Neighborhood + What To Do
Spring Hill is situated in Brisbane's oldest inner city suburb, so while walking around you get a wonderful feel of the heritage that has thrived there.
It is located right next to Brisbane's central business district (CBD), making it a rather busy area for multiple reasons.
Keeping yourself occupied in the Spring Hill and the CBD area is no problem whatsoever.
Everywhere you turn, there is something for you to do, parks, restaurants, shopping, cozy cafes and hidden bars. I think the CBD and Spring Hill are the best areas to stay in Brisbane for tourists visiting the city for the very first time.
One of the most common things for first timers in Brisbane to do is to take a dip in the heritage-listed Spring Hill Baths. If you didn’t already know, Brisbane’s temperatures get quite hot in summer, and it’s nice and warm almost all year round.
At the Spring Hills Baths, you can take a dip in the in-ground pool or get yourself a change room with a nice bath, or both! The choice is yours!
If you find yourself with an itching for some exquisite food, you can be sure to check out La Cache A Vin, one of the most renowned French food establishments in the country. In Brisbane’s crowded French food establishment population, La Cache A Vin is one that stands out. With rock walls, a marble bar and a French wine cellar, the atmosphere is almost unmatched.
Looking for some nature to help boost your mood? Look no further than Wickham Park and the connecting Roma Street Parklands, nestled close to the CBD area.
The Jacobs Ladder, a long pedestrian staircase going from Edward and Turbot Streets up to Wickham Terrace, takes you from higher to lower levels, or vice versa.
Best Hotels In Brisbane CBD & Spring Hill
Searching for the best hotel to stay at in Brisbane, or more specifically, the Spring Hill or CBD area, should be no problem for you at all.
There’s an excess of great choices, and it’s likely that one is the perfect fit for you and your travel needs.
Next Hotel Brisbane
Within the hotel is a restaurant, pool and fitness center. It is a 7-minute drive from South Bank, and just over 15 minutes away from the Brisbane Airport.
Each room comes accommodated with a 48-inch flat screen TV with satellite channels and movies. The room also includes an espresso machine.
Capri by Fraser Brisbane
Located only a few blocks away from the Queen Street Mall, Brisbane’s main shopping street, this hotel boasts a pool sauna, and a 24/7 gym.
Capri by Fraser is within a 10-minute walk of many places in the CBD, such as the City Botanic Gardens, Eagle Street Pier, and the Museum of Brisbane.
Hotel Grand Chancellor Brisbane
Located in the heart of Brisbane, Grand Chancellor Hotel offers a bar with views of the city, a rooftop pool, fitness room and an on-site restaurant.
The restaurant offers modern a la carte for evening dining, and extensive buffets for lunch and breakfast.
Where To Stay In Brisbane For Families: South Bank
There’s no shortage of activities and places to visit in Brisbane, making it a perfect place to bring the family with you.
If you are still unsure if Brisbane CBD or South Bank is the right place for you to stay, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in both areas.
South Bank is a little more laid back with its extensive South Bank Parklands than the CBD, which is also busier with corporate people and shoppers all days of the week.
With choices ranging from boat tours to visiting the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, it’s highly unlikely that the kids or those hard-to-impress family members will find themselves bored.
The Neighborhood + What To Do
The area known as South Bank takes up about 17 hectares of space, and is located along the southern banks of the Brisbane River.
Located in the heart of Brisbane, within a stones throw of the CBD which is accessible via the Victoria Bridge, South Bank is home to a melting pot of cultural, educational and recreational activity, and is the best place to stay in Brisbane while with family.
From the get-go, you should be aware of the infamous South Bank Parklands that would make a great day for some family fun. The South Bank Parklands consist of many different attractions and places to visit, including a mix of water, rainforest and grass areas with plenty of place to sit and have a picnic.
While at the South Bank Parklands, you and the family can visit the man-made beach, the Wheel of Brisbane, the various markets which are on during the weekends, and so much more.
Aside from the South Bank Parklands, you can take the family to the city’s cultural precinct, where you’ll find destinations such as the Queensland Art Gallery, the Queensland Museum, the South Bank Collective Markets, and more.
The Arbour is a display of a beautiful mixture between greenery and architecture. The kilometer long stretch of walkway that is embedded with 443 steel posts that help to form a canopy of gorgeous flowers and vegetation, complementing the skillful architecture that surrounds it.
Best Hotels In South Bank
In such a lively area, it’s no wonder that there’s an excess of great hotel options.
Just for you, I've listed the best ones that you can find in the area.
The Emporium
One of the best 5 star hotels in Brisbane, The Emporium is a family friendly hotel situated only minutes from the South Bank Parklands.
Located a short distance from multiple locations, you’ll be accommodated with a flat screen TV, a desk, a shower and free toiletries in your room.
Rydges South Bank Brisbane
The Rydges offers rooms with city views. Each guest is offered free WiFi, a private safe, flat screen TV, cable, and a private bathroom.
Vine Apartments South Brisbane
Perfect for family accommodation, the Vine Apartments in South Brisbane offer various apartment options with a kitchen, air conditioning, free WiFi, dishwasher and a microwave.
Where To Stay In Brisbane For Nightlife: Fortitude Valley
No kids? No family? No problem. When it comes to having a fun night out on the town, Fortitude Valley has got your back.
With loads of fun options ranging from great bars and restaurants to clubs where you can dance until the early hours of the morning, Fortitude Valley may just be the perfect pick for where to stay in Brisbane for a weekend warrior.
The Neighborhood + What To Do
Affectionately known as ‘The Valley’ by the locals, the area is a combination of heritage, grunginess and cultural blends. For the first time in its history, Australia has prioritized Fortitude Valley as an entertainment district, and believe me, it’s nothing short of that.
This inner city suburb is home to a wide array of club venues, shopping areas, rooftop bars and so much more. In fact, you may have some slight trouble trying to fit it all in while you’re there.
Wanna grab some food before you head out for the night?
Be sure to check out Ze Pickle, a local and tourist favorite that is bound to satisfy your taste buds.
The Judith Wright Centre is constantly presenting a bunch of shows, with acts ranging from circus, to dance, to performance art.
If you’re interested in catching great views of the city while also catching some drinks, check out the rooftop bar crawl that goes from Elixir, to Eleven Rooftop Bar, to the rooftop bar on top of the Limes Boutique Hotel. This string of rooftop bars will make you feel like you’re on top of the world as you sip your favorite drink overlooking the sparkling city of Brisbane.
In the mood for some cultural dancing? Go do some Salsa dancing at Cloudland! Every Thursday night, they transform their downstairs dance area into a Latin nightclub! Come get your salsa on!
More dancing can be found at The Beat! Known as the oldest LGBT-friendly club in the area's existence, any person who walks in there will only have to worry about having as good of a time as possible. Other clubs to give a go are Ei8ht, Laruche and Barbara.
Best Hotels In Fortitude Valley
Of course, in such an entertaining area, you’re going to need somewhere to kick back and relax for a little before getting out on the town.
Here are some of the best hotels to stay at while in Fortitude Valley.
The Calile Hotel
With such an elegant design, this hotel will catch anyone’s eye, who happens to be walking by.
This hotel features a bar, pool and restaurant, and offers various styles of accommodation. If you’re looking for luxury or a couples retreat, The Calile is your pick.
Art Series – The Fantauzzo
The Fantauzzo actually sits right underneath Brisbane’s Story Bridge and it not right in Fortitude Valley but literally just a stone’s throw away and therefore makes it an ideal place to stay if you’re looking for the best of both worlds, city and party.
Located within 3 miles each are the Brisbane Showgrounds and the New Farm Riverwalk.
It’s stylish, comfortable, has a great rooftop bar, as well as a fitness center and pool.
Tryp Fortitude Valley
Right in the heart of the cultural center of Fortitude Valley sits Tryp Hotel. All rooms in this hotel are unique due to their own street art interiors.
Located an 8-minute drive from Suncorp Stadium, and a 13-minute drive to the Brisbane Airport.
Sage Hotel James Street
Guests at this hotel will have complimentary access to the fitness center and pool that is right nearby, and can also eat at the on-site restaurant, offering a New American dinner menu with a Mediterranean touch. What a combo!
Each room comes with a flat screen TV, desk, coffee machine and a private bathroom.
Where To Stay In Brisbane For Backpackers: West End & Roma Street
Looking for the next destination on your stop, but not exactly sure where that should be? If you’re a backpacker and traveling on a budget, consider West End or Roma Street.
Known as an area with a mixture of alternative and vintage appeal, this area is one of the best places to stay in Brisbane city for a short stop during your ongoing travels.
The Neighborhood + What To Do
In the area stretching from the West End to Roma Street, you’ll come across numerous amounts of coffee houses, hole-in-the-wall art collectives, and much more that will keep you occupied during your stay.
West End is nestled right in the heart of South Brisbane, just a short distance from the South Bank Parklands, and Roma Street sits across the bridge right next to Roma Street Station, Brisbane’s biggest transport interchange with trains and buses leaving in all sorts of directions.
If you’re staying in West End, head to the Davies Park Markets, happening every Saturday from 6am to 2pm, to stock up on some fresh produce, local jewelry and vintage clothes, and get the chance to listen to some nice music on the river!
To get a taste of the local flavor, you can check out the two microbreweries that Brisbane is a proud home to.
Conveniently both located on Boundary Street, a visit to Catchment Brewing Company or Brisbane Brewing Company will have you thirsting for more!
To kill that hunger, there’s a collection of wonderful cafes and places to eat during your stay. The cafe scene in this area is a force to be reckoned. Be sure to check out either The Gunshop Cafe, The Burrow or head to Miss Bliss or Morning After Cafe, just to name a few!
In the suburban alleys in this area, you’ll come across some wonderful street art that you can check out!
Ready to unwind and begin having some more fun? The small bar scene in West End and Roma Street is more prevalent than ever before! To grab some great drinks and cocktails, check out The End Bar, Jungle Tiki Bar, or The Bearded Lady!
Best Accommodation In West End & Roma Street
During your stay in West End and Roma Street, you’ll to find the best Brisbane city accommodation to rest your head.
Here are some of the best accommodation options for backpackers in the area.
Backpackers can also consider a Brisbane Airbnb – get $55 off your first stay when you sign up to Airbnb through my link.
Brisbane City YHA
Just a short walk from multiple locations like the Transit Center, Suncorp Stadium and the Brisbane River, this hostel offers shared, air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi.
The guests are also able to enjoy a TV room, a communal kitchen, on-site bar and cafe, and even a billiard table. Also has an amazing rooftop bar and pool!
Chill Backpackers
This hostel, within stones throw of the Roma Street bus and train terminal, offers its guests the option of air-conditioned shared or private rooms.
Within you’ll find 24-hour reception, free WiFi, and a stainless steel guest kitchen to prepare meals. The hostel also offers free daily movies in their movie room.
Brisbane Backpackers Resort
Located in the West End area, this backpacker resort has a swimming pool, spa, bar and beer garden.
Guests can enjoy free WiFi and a basic breakfast in the morning, with access to recreational activities such as tennis, basketball, football and more.
All rooms have a bathroom, fridge, air-conditioning and a fan.
Breeze Lodge
Breeze Lodge is technically neither in West End nor in Roma Street, however, it’s located just over a mile from the CBD and a great alternative if you are on a budget but couldn’t find the right place to stay in West End or Roma Street.
Kangaroo Point has two big sights to explore: the Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs, which are known for rock climbing with city views!
Guests have the option of shared or twin rooms, all air-conditioned with bathrooms equipped. Guests also have access to a shared kitchen and laundry facilities.
Where To Stay In Brisbane For Food/Trendy Local Spots And Markets: New Farm & Teneriffe
You enjoy all of the other activities mentioned above, but in the end, you’re mostly just interested in spending time in a more chilled-out area that has local markets, trendy food spots and are close to the Brisbane River.
If this is you, the best place to stay during your time in Brisbane city would be the area of New Farm and Teneriffe. The two neighborhoods are next door to each other and located about 2 miles northeast of Brisbane's CBD.
The Neighborhood + What To Do
New Farm and Teneriffe neighborhoods are constantly growing. You’ll find new cafes, parks, bars and restaurants at an exponential rate. Here, you will find a beautiful mixture of greenery, trendy places to eat, parks to visit, and much more.
To get a feel of the beautiful scenery this area offers, head to New Farm Park, where you can have a nice picnic, or simply take a stroll and enjoy the wonderful views of the river, plants and vegetation that complement the park at every corner. Hang in the shade under some of the massive trees and have a picnic.
Getting the right start to your day will be made easy through the help of the various breakfast joints in the area. For some great breakfast eats, check out places like Kin & Co., Sourced or Miss Jones!
Any shopping itches can be scratched with a walk down James Street. Along this street you’ll come across restaurants, small boutiques, cafes, and some of the best boutique shopping options offered in the city.
Fresh produce, for everyone! Skip the regular grocery store and take a trip to Jan Power’s Farmers Market, where you’ll be able to get your hands on fresh local produce from 6am to
Noon every Saturday.
Getting that extra boost of energy will be make it super easy when you visit Death Before Decaf, a 24/7 coffee shop that has become both a local and tourist favorite.
There is an abundance of great dining options for your evening meal in this area too. With loads of different tastes and flavors available to you, with ease you’ll be able to find the place that’s right for you, including the choices of the Gerard’s Bistro, E’cco, and Allium!
Best Brisbane Hotels In New Farm
In such a trendy area as New Farm and Teneriffe, it comes to no surprise that there are some amazing hotel options for your stay.
Heal House
This hotel is one of the best luxury accommodations available in Brisbane. Set in a traditional Queenslander, this is a great place for a couples getaway.
Guests are offered elegant suites and a spacious terrace, with a private bathroom consisting of custom vanities, luxury toiletries and beautiful granite.
Spicers Balfour Hotel
Located just minutes from the Brisbane city center, you’ll easily be able to walk to or take a short drive to many popular locations. The Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane’s newest entertainment and lifestyle destination, are also within a few minutes walk.
The luxury rooms and suites will be a welcomed surprise after a full day of exploring.
Goldsborough Place Apartments
These apartment accommodations overlook the Brisbane River, and offer guests a swimming pool, a seafood restaurant and BBQ facilities.
In addition, they offer guests a secure parking spot. Located within a 10-15 minute drive to the Brisbane Airport, Suncorp Stadium, and the Treasury Casino.
Brisbane Airbnb: The Ansonia Woolstore Apartment
In Teneriffe, you’ll find multiple heritage-listed wool stores and warehouses that have today been restored into unique housing and offer an amazing experience to stay at when in Brisbane.
This beautiful and elegant woolstore apartment is located right in the heart of Teneriffe and offers almost any amenity you would need. Parking and WiFi included. Plus the waterfront is right at your doorstep and so are many of Brisbane’s best cafés.
Get $55 off your first stay when you sign up to Airbnb through my link.
Where to stay in Brisbane – Frequently asked questions
Is it better to stay in Gold Coast or Brisbane?
The answer to this question depends on what you are looking for in a trip.
If you are seeking a relaxed beach vacation with surfing, swimming, and beach activities, staying on Gold Coast might be a better option.
The Gold Coast is known for its beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and theme parks, making it a popular destination for tourists.
On the other hand, staying in Brisbane might be a better fit if you prefer a vibrant city experience with cultural activities, nightlife, and shopping.
Brisbane offers diverse cultural activities, such as museums, galleries, and festivals, a thriving culinary scene, and bustling nightlife.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preferences and what you want to get out of your trip. Gold Coast and Brisbane have unique charms, so it's worth considering your interests and itinerary before deciding where to stay.
Should you choose to stay in Brisbane or Sydney?
Choosing between Brisbane and Sydney depends on your preferences and the purpose of your trip.
Brisbane is perfect for those seeking a relaxed pace and proximity to natural attractions while staying in Sydney is ideal for those looking for a bustling city with iconic landmarks and a vibrant cultural scene.
Both cities offer unique experiences, so it's important to consider your interests before making a decision.
Final words on where to stay in Brisbane
In Brisbane, there is something to do for everyone, no matter your interests.
The city offers a vibrant mix of cultural, social, and recreational activities, along with pleasant weather all year round.
With plenty of accommodations, locations, and activities to explore, don't hesitate to book your stay and experience it for yourself.
Don’t Go Without Travel Insurance
Why buy travel medical insurance from SafetyWing?
- Get insured, even if you already left your home country
- Covers visits to your home country if you’re travelling long-term
- Buy one-off or choose a start date and let your insurance extend every 28 days like a subscription until you cancel (no more paying upfront for long trips or open-ended adventures)
- COVID-19 cover is included
Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!
