Login

Brisbane

Today
20°C

Photo of Brisbane

About Brisbane

If it's not enough for Brisbane to be right up against the beaches of one of the world's most beautiful coastlines, it has also made a beach of its riverbank! The Brisbane River has a meandering route through town and carves up the city into distinct neighbourhoods. Choosing the best places to stay in Brisbane is a matter of following the river along and deciding whether you'd prefer chic Paddington on the hill, exclusive New Farm on the peninsula, or the fun-loving, low-lying West End. There are a whole raft of accommodation options to choose from: hip design hotels, cosy B&Bs and family friendly properties alongside apartments, resorts and more. Our gurus have scoured the city and come up with what they believe is the definitive collection, with a property to suit every taste and budget.

With Brisbane's surfeit of beaches and glorious sunshine, the often humid city has a tropical feel which fuels a laid-back, relaxed vibe and a great open-air dining (and drinking) scene. The shiny casinos and visitor attractions are relatively new - money was poured into the city for Expo '88, and Dream World, Sea World and Movie World lend Brisbane a 'Florida Down Under' feel - hence the local nickname, Bris-vegas. But that is just one part of town. If you're looking for charming old Queenslanders, colonial architecture and local arts and culture then you'll not be disappointed. You will also find a city rich with tropical gardens and welcoming public spaces - Brisbane is a wonderful place for a stroll.

Brisbane is well located just a short drive from national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and, of course, that long, exquisite strip of sand. Many of our selection of best places to stay in Brisbane make equally great bases for exploring the great outdoors as they do the city.

The best places to stay in Brisbane

For a hip design hotel

  • W Brisbane features a fun fusion of trendy contemporary touches with lovely luxurious details -- as expected from this popular hotel collection. Stay here for top-notch food, a smart spa and the funky vibe. The zebra print pool and bar area is a real highlight! A stylish hotel for couples or groups of friends.
  • The Fantauzzo is a glamorous art hotel showcasing the works of acclaimed artist Vincent Fantauzzo. Rooms include sofas upholstered in emerald velvet, beautiful views and slick modern fittings. Pick this place for its cool urban style and spectacular rooftop pool. Swish and sophisticated, ideal for design lovers and cleverly built around Story Bridge.
  • Ovolo The Valley is a beautiful design hotel in hip Fortitude Valley. Rooms are glamorous and romantic, with upholstered headboards in rich jewel tones, huge rain showers and quirky in-room cocktail mixing sets. Atmospheric and luxurious, this is an indulgent choice for couples eager to explore one of the city's coolest districts, with an abundance of bars, boutiques and eateries.
  • The Johnson is a bold base near the CBD, featuring statement artwork by abstract artist Michael Johnson. Think clean, crisp lines, bright colours popping against white walls in cosy bedrooms, and excellent facilities for couples or families. Take a dip in the swimming pool, hit the gym or hire bikes to cycle around Brisbane. Sleek and modern.
  • The Calile is a superbly soothing urban resort, boasting retro-inspired rooms and an extensive spa. Think pastel-hued interiors, brass fittings and a chic, minimalist feel. A zen choice for hip grown-ups.

For heritage luxury

  • Treasury Hotel is an opulent choice, set within an grand heritage edifice in the heart of Brisbane. Expect high ceilings, sash windows and enormous bedrooms with marble bathrooms. With a fine dining restaurant and casino on-site, this is one for the grown-ups!
  • Ovolo Inchcolm fuses heritage glamour with a trendy renovation in an impressive historic building. Rooms have sash windows and 1950s-inspired furnishings, whilst communal areas are bold and atmospheric, with plush upholstery and eclectic wallpapers. Offers old-school charm in spades.
  • Adina Apartment Hotel is a striking Art Deco building in central Brisbane. Following a recent renovation, the very reasonably-priced rooms and apartments are sleek and luxurious. Minimalist interiors include bold splashes of colour, there's an appealing outdoor pool, and apartments are brilliant for families. Stylish and ideal for exploring the city.

For an Intimate Stay

  • Spicers Balfour is a stylish boutique hotel in a charming 19th-century house near the river in New Farm. Nine swish rooms are set around a courtyard and tropical gardens, there's a lovely onsite spa, and the The Balfour Kitchen specialises in fresh seasonal produce. An intimate, adults-only spot just 15 minutes' walk from the centre of town.

For city style & great nightlife

  • Limes Hotel offers 21 ultra-modern rooms in the heart of Brisbane's nightlife district -- Fortitude Valley. Small, but comfortably furnished, rooms have their own kitchenettes, perfect for mixing cocktails, or you can have one mixed for you in the rooftop bar with its two plunge pools and impressive views. One for sophisticated partgoers!
  • Emporium Hotel is a vibrant contemporary spot with swish suites featuring big comfortable beds, marble bathrooms and magnificent city views. The rooftop pool area is perfect for lively evening drinks, there's delicious food to savour, and live music in the piano bar. A luxurious choice with a plethora of bars and restaurants just moments away, offering great nightlife.
  • Next Hotel is the perfect launchpad for a lively visit to the sunny city. Rooms are stylsih - pods are great for guests in transit - and there are buzzy live DJ evenings by the rooftop bar and pool in the summer. With 24-hour check-in, this is an ultra-convenient hotel choice, as well as a fun one for night owls looking to hit the town.
  • Gambaro Hotel is a smart luxury spot close to some of Brisbane's best nightlife. Rooms are sumptuously-appointed, there are two award-winning restaurants, and the hotel is very well-priced. Great for business or leisure travellers on the hunt for a chic city pad.

For a B&B

  • Heal House is an elegant three-bedroom B&B in a quiet residential part of Brisbane. Expect fresh, airy interiors with plenty of traditional features, as well as big rain showers and free-standing tubs. Watch the world go by from the pretty veranda before strolling into the city. An award-winning, adults-only B&B for romantic couples.
  • Number 12 B&B is a charming, antique-filled spot, with four cosy bedrooms and laid-back communal areas. Think wrought-iron beds, a gorgeous piano, and lots of mismatched ceramics. Indulgent breakfasts are served on the balcony. Old-school, intimate and well-priced!
  • One Thornbury is a pretty cottage in a tranquil neighbourhood. The six bedrooms are brightly painted, and have a cosy, contemporary feel. Charming, reasonably-priced and child-friendly, this is a great B&B for the whole family.

For Families

  • Alex Perry Hotel & Apartments is a brilliant family choice, with self-catering one and two-bedroom apartments. Expect chic urban style, a rooftop pool and a well-equipped gym. Close to the CBD, studios or smaller apartments are also great for couples or long-stay business travellers. The fully-equipped kitchens are a big plus for families eager to have some extra independence!
  • The Point is an airy, minimalist choice with 201 rooms in Kangaroo Point. This stylish city hotel is well-located for family ferry trips out on the water, as well as picnics on the Kangaroo Point Cliffs. There's a large pool, too, and the restaurant serves modern Aussie cuisine. Great for couples or families, especially those with kids eager to enjoy the great outdoors.
  • Edward Lodge is a chic little guesthouse with ten thoughtfully-decorated rooms, featuring blue and yellow ikat-patterned touches against a crisp white background. Breakfasts are fresh and filling, served in the garden or a sunny room, and the vibe is friendly -- an ideal B&B for groups of friends or families. The trendy New Farm setting is a big sell, too!

For a private flat or apartment

  • For a place all to yourself in the city, visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to Brisbane Airport, and hop into a taxi to the city centre, or arrange an airport pickup with your hotel in advance.
  • If you would like to hire a car, we recommend visiting our online partner Rentalcars.
  • The best time to visit Brisbane is from August to November, when temperatures average around 23 - 29°C and you can expect plenty of sunshine!

Still not sure?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Brisbane

Best Hotels in Brisbane

  • Gambaro Hotel Petrie Terrace Brisbane 68 rooms from $87

    Local exploring  -  Well positioned just a 30 minute walk into CBD and close to Suncorp Stadium and a number of restaurants
    Value chic  -  With rooms starting at just over $80 (without breakfast) this is a lot of bang for your buck!
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A smart luxury hotel located in Brisbane's most famed nightlife district. Sleek rooms feature crisp white linen, floor to ceiling windows, muted tones, and luxury bathrooms. Housing no less than two award-winning restaurants, this is a suitable stay for either business or leisure. See More

    Check Availability
  • Adina Apartment Hotel, Brisbane Brisbane City 220 rooms from $90

    Local exploring  -  Perfectly located just 10 minutes from Central station and within easy access of Victoria Bridge and Southbank
    Value chic  -  Despite its obvious grandeur, with rooms starting at $90 this is an affordable spot
    Luxury  -  A heritage Art Deco building beuatifully converted into a very smart luxury hotel
    Sailing  -  Take a cruise down the river and enjoy the city views
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolParkingNo pets

    This striking art deco building in central Brisbane has been cleverly converted into a sleek luxury hotel. Spacious apartments are utterly modern with large picture frame windows lending glorious city views. The old bank's vaults have been converted into a bar and there's a fabulous restaurant too. See More

    Check Availability
  • Number 12 B&B Brisbane (Hawthorne) 4 rooms from $93

    Local exploring  -  Located 3km from the city centre and within walking distance of the dining precinct of Oxford Street
    Short break  -  Just 15 minutes from Brisbane airport this is a convenient option for a short stay
    Traditional  -  Cosy and traditional, a property that really takes you back in time
    Sailing  -  Hop on a cruise boat and take a serene sail down Brisbane River
    Air conditioningGardenParkingNo pets

    An utterly charming B&B that has the feel of staying at your favourite Grandma's place. Interiors are very retro, filled with antiques and perfectly miss-matched. Indulgent breakfasts are taken on the verandah. A homely and great value stay, well located to access central Brisbane. See More

    Check Availability
  • One Thornbury Brisbane 6 rooms from $104

    Local exploring  -  Well positioned right on the edge of the city centre offering easy access to the city's restaurants, shops and to Chinatown
    Value chic  -  Smart contemporary interiors and plenty of space offered at surprisingly reasonable rates
    Sailing  -  The hotel organises rivercruises with a partner company
    Air conditioningGardenParkingNo pets

    A heritage cottage well situated in a quiet neighbourhood just on the edge of the city centre. Individually styled interiors are gone with the old and in with the new. Bright and bold with large modern artworks and sleek bathrooms. Breakfasts are served on the terrace. A homely, yet chic, stay. See More

    Check Availability
  • Emporium Hotel Brisbane (Fortitude Valley) 102 rooms from $137

    Swimming Pool  -  Rooftop pool with sauna and loungers
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViews
    Recommended by  -  Fodors

    This contemporary hotel is vibrant and fun inside which adds to the character and charm. A rooftop swimming pool with views across the city is the perfect way to unwind. Easy access to shops within the precinct and the city's top bars, restaurants and sights. See More

    Check Availability
  • The Johnson Brisbane (Spring Hill) 96 rooms from $118

    City Style  -  A very luxurious contemporary hotel offering spacious suites an enormous pool and superb restaurant
    Boutique  -  The hotel takes its design cues from famed Australian abstract artist, Michael Johnson
    Short break  -  Located just 14km from Brisbane airport this is a great option for short stays
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A sleek modern hotel set beside the CBD district. Interiors have been styled by famed abstract artist Michael Johnson; the lines are sharp, with bright white walls, bold modern art, and floor to ceiling windows. Complete with a pool and restaurant, this is a chic choice. See More

    Check Availability
  • Edward Lodge Brisbane (New Farm) 10 rooms from $122

    Local exploring  -  A chic stay in the gentrified area of New Farm, surrounded by trendy cafes, bars, and boutiques
    Boutique  -  A chic boutique decorated with ikat fabrics and featuring added luxury touches
    Sailing  -  Use the city's ferries to explore the city from the river
    Air conditioningGardenParkingNo pets

    A chic little boutique guesthouse set in Brisbane's trendy New Farm district. The ten rooms feature whitewashed walls, ikat fabrics and small but modern bathrooms. Breakfasts are served in a sunny room or in the garden. A great value and convenient stay. See More

    Check Availability
  • Limes Hotel Brisbane (Fortitude Valley) 21 rooms from $158

    Sights nearby  -  Close to Brisbane River and central Brisbane
    Restrictions on children  -  Must be over 18
    Lively  -  Hip and happening.
    Sea Views  -  From some rooms.
    Air conditioningDisabled access
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    Situated in the centre of the city's entertainment and nightlife district "the valley", this is a designer hotel for the sophisticated party-goer. Comfortable rooms with kitchenettes are uniquely furnished. Have a cocktail in the buzzing rooftop bar with two plunge pools. See More

    Check Availability
  • Spicers Balfour Brisbane (New Farm) 9 rooms from $159

    Sights nearby  -  Only a 15 minute walk to Brisbane city centre
    Restrictions on children
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Boutique
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Fodors

    This chic and stylish boutique hotel in Brisbane offers nine large, spacious contemporary rooms. The rooms are set around gardens and a courtyard. With a luxury spa and an in-hotel personalised service to match, this is the perfect place for both business and pleasure. See More

    Check Availability
  • The Point, Brisbane Brisbane (Kangaroo Point) 201 rooms from $134

    Local exploring  -  Kangaroo District sits conveniently between CBD and New Farm areas giving easy access to the best museums, restaurants and bars
    Weddings  -  A range of event spaces and catering arranged, this is a great choice for an urban wedding of upto to 120 people
    Sights nearby  -  Stroll up to Kangaroo Point Cliffs and enjoy a picnic and the city views
    Sailing  -  Jump on the complimentary CityHopper ferry and explore the city by boat
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A sleek hotel offering spacious rooms and suites in the central area of Kangaroo Point. Rooms feature sliding glass doors leading onto private terraces, luxurious bathrooms and minimalist style with a touch of retro. Featuring a large pool and a restaurant serving modern Aussie dishes; a chic stay. See More

    Check Availability
  • Alex Perry Hotel & Apartments Brisbane (Fortitude Valley) 143 rooms from $135

    Families  -  With a private feel, fully equipped kitchens and different sized units - this is ideal for a family city crashpad
    City Style  -  Contemporary urban spaces - that apartments offer the feel of your own pad in a luxury setting
    Value chic  -  Studio apartments are offered at surprisingly reasonable rates for the facilities you get
    Swimming Pool  -  Roof terrace pool
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolParkingNo pets

    A collection of sleek contemporary apartments located minutes from Brisbane CBD. Ranging from studios to two-bed apartments the property offers flexible stays for couples or groups. Featuring fully-fledged kitchens, a gym, and a rooftop pool. A smart urban stay. See More

    Check Availability
  • Next Hotel Brisbane 304 rooms from $174

    City Style  -  We love the funky Brisbane-themed artworks, fantastic food, city views from the rooftop pool and laid back chic vibe.
    Great walks  -  This hotel sits right in the centre of the action, head out the door and wander in any direction to discover Brisbane.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Lively  -  Hip and happening.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A chic contemporary hotel in a fantastic downtown location. The simple, modern bedrooms feature crisp lines, lovely bathrooms and city views. Small fitness suite and a rooftop pool with bar. Convenience is top priority with 24 hour check in option and loads of restaurants and shops on the doorstep. See More

    Check Availability
  • Ovolo The Valley Brisbane (Fortitude Valley) 103 rooms from $166

    City Style  -  As hip as the precinct that it is set in - think full cocktail making equipment in-room, vibrant design, and a roof terrace pool
    Local exploring  -  Located in the cool Fortitude Valley surrounded by boutiques, restaurants and Brisbane's best galleries and museums
    Restaurant  -  Za Za Ta, Middle Eastern & Mediterranean
    Swimming Pool  -  Roof terrace pool
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

    A luxury hotel set in the hip Fortitude Valley precinct. Spacious rooms feature indulgent bathrooms complete with rain showers, superb city views and added quirks such as a complete cocktail making set. A french cafe serves up barista-crafted coffee and there's a roof terrace pool. Very chic. See More

    Check Availability
  • The Fantauzzo Brisbane CBD 166 rooms from $174

    City Style  -  A luxury art hotel offering some of Brisbane's finest views across Story Bridge
    Artworks  -  Vincent Fantauzzo's superbly realistic portraits adorn the walls
    Great walks  -  Take a stroll along Brisbane's riverwalk that starts right outside the property
    Swimming Pool  -  Roof terrace pool
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A luxury art hotel situated in one of Brisbane's best localities, built under and around Story Bridge. Grown-up interiors feature the works of acclaimed artist Vincent Fantauzzo. An atmospheric bar, excellent restaurant, and heated infinity pool seal the deal. See More

    Check Availability
  • Ovolo Inchcolm Brisbane (Spring Hill) 50 rooms from $180

    Local exploring  -  Located beside the cbd district and offering easy access to both the city and the Golden Coast beaches
    City Style  -  A heritage building with cool 50s inspired design
    Full of character
    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A grand heritage building, once a medical centre, and now a trendy stay in the CBD district. Rooms keep their traditional feel with high ceilings and old sash windows but there's music inspired art and all the mod-cons. The atmospheric salon-bar is a real draw. A convenient and desirable stay. See More

    Check Availability
  • Heal House Brisbane (New Farm) 3 rooms from $191

    Boutique  -  Chic interiors mix colonial-style traditional design with a fresh contemporary feel
    Short break  -  Located just 20 minutes from Brisbane airport this is ideal for a short stay
    Sailing  -  Take a boat trip to Portside Wharf and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
    Adult Only
    Air conditioningGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    An elegant three-bed guesthouse located in a central, yet quiet, part of Brisbane. Each suite is individually styled but the interiors throughout have a fresh take on traditional design. The bathrooms are particularly impressive with rain showers and free-standing tubs. An intimate and chic stay. See More

    Check Availability
  • Treasury Hotel, Brisbane Brisbane CBD 125 rooms from $236

    Luxury  -  A luxury hotel in one of the city's heritage buildings - a very grand stay
    City Style  -  A glamorous hotel complete with trendy restaurant and a casino!
    Sailing  -  Hop on one of the ferries and explore the city by river
    Adult Only
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A grand heritage building, in the heart of Brisbane, now converted into a luxury hotel. Enormous rooms feature very high ceilings, expansive sash windows and antiques in keeping with the building's history. Complete with a fine dining restaurant and an attached casino - this is a grown-up stay. See More

    Check Availability
  • The Calile Brisbane (Fortitude Valley) 175 rooms from $244

    Designer  -  This luxury resort mixes pastel hues with brass fittings in the bedrooms - find photo worthy touches around every corner
    Spa breaks  -  The fully-fledged spa offers everything from medical treatments such as IV-vitamin drips to relaxing body wraps
    City Style  -  A very stylish fiftees inspired stay offering contemporary design with a real touch of glamour
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    An undeniably cool urban resort featuring an enormous pool and fantastic Greek restaurant. Retro-inspired rooms are decked out in pastel hues with brass fittings. The spa is extensive and really worthy of a visit alone whether you fancy an IV-vitamin boost or something a little more relaxing! See More

    Check Availability
  • W Brisbane Brisbane 312 rooms from $341

    City Style  -  A five-star with that signature W Hotel design where luxury and fun merge perfectly
    Great walks  -  Take a stroll through the nearby City Botanical Gardens
    Sailing  -  Hop on the CityCat and explore the city by boat
    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    The W Hotel collection is well known for its unique style which mixes contemporary verve with luxury touches. The Brisbane offering is a perfect example. Bright and bold throughout and complete with a zebra print adorned pool area and bar. The food is always on-point and there's a spa too. See More

    Check Availability