Posted: 2/10/2024 | February 10th, 2024
Perched on the banks of the Brisbane River, Brisbane is renowned for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, laid-back lifestyle, and bustling urban scene. Located on the eastern edge of the country, most people visit as they travel up the coast, stopping for a day or two before heading onward to the Gold Coast or Cairns.
While it may not be as popular as Sydney or Melbourne, Brisbane won’t disappoint. It is the third-largest city in Australia and offers visitors a mix of modern architecture and lush outdoor spaces. And while most visitors are drawn to its outdoorsy vibe, it’s a cultural hub too, offering fantastic museums and galleries, vibrant street art, and iconic landmarks. (It’s even set to be the home of the 2032 Summer Olympics!)
To help you plan your visit, here’s my list of the best hotels in Brisbane:
1. Novotel Brisbane South Bank
Nestled in the vibrant heart of the South Bank district, this four-star hotel impresses with its sleek, modern design and chic, contemporary décor. It’s a large property that includes an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and restaurant serving a delicious breakfast buffet. The rooms are all spacious and have comfy beds with plush duvets, a seating area, smart TVs, and desks. The bathrooms are large and most have an open-plan design. Overall, it’s a great choice for those seeking a stylish stay in the heart of the city.
2. Royal on the Park
Located directly across from the lush botanical gardens in the Inner City (and a short walk from the popular Queen Street Mall), I find this hotel charming. There’s an outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, lounge, and restaurant that serves an expansive breakfast buffet. The generously sized rooms are simply designed, with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in a ton of natural light. The beds are super comfy and, while the bathrooms aren’t huge, they are well-equipped and well-lit and have good water pressure. All of the rooms have ergonomic work desks, USB ports by the beds, and espresso machines too. And, as a nice welcoming perk, a complimentary drink is offered on arrival.
3. The Constance Fortitude Valley
This funky boutique hotel is decorated with colorful street art and murals by artists from around the world. There’s a cool rooftop bar, a café offering breakfast, a fitness center, and free access to a nearby pool and gym. All rooms have a desk, a pod coffee machine, a walk-in shower, blackout curtains, and a minibar (some even have spa baths and a private courtyard). Overall, this hotel blends artistic flair with modern comforts and amenities, making it a standout choice for those looking for a unique stay that has style and character.
4. Crystalbrook Vincent
Located on the edge of Fortitude Valley right at the base of the famous Story Bridge, this epic five-star property is one of the best hotels in Brisbane. It almost feels like an urban resort, with two restaurants, a fitness center, and an infinity pool with magnificent views. Plus, the rooftop bar offers a panoramas of the city’s skyline. The spacious rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, comfy beds, plush bathrobes, flatscreen TVs, and desks. Most have a couch too. The bathrooms are massive, with walk-in rainfall showers with great pressure. This is the best choice for travelers who want to stay along the waterfront, with all the great restaurants and bars of the Howard Smith Wharves just steps away. This is my favorite luxury hotel in the city.
5. Atlas Apartments by CLLIX
This condo hotel located at the edge of West End offers modern-design apartments with lots of natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. All units have a balcony or terrace, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, and a walk-in shower with powerful pressure. Plus, the property has an outdoor pool, a steam room, a barbecue area, a fitness center, and laundry facilities. However, there’s no restaurant (or breakfast) on-site, and housekeeping is only complimentary after a seven-day stay. The late checkout at 2pm is an uncommon (but welcome) perk though, which is helpful if you don’t have to leave until later in the day. These self-contained apartments are ideal if you’re planning a long stay or traveling with a family.
6. Emporium Hotel South Bank
This contemporary-design five-star hotel features a beautiful infinity pool, a spa, a fitness center, and three restaurants, including one that serves a delicious breakfast. The spacious and elegant rooms are opulent yet comfortable, with indulgent showers with excellent water pressure. Rooms have incredible views and boast marble bathrooms, luxurious mattresses, and Bose sound systems. Many have balconies as well as spa baths. It’s one of the most luxe hotels in the city and perfect for couples looking to splash out.
Though often overshadowed by Melbourne and Sydney, Brisbane is a fantastic city. Here you’ll find beautiful outdoor spaces, great museums, a surprising foodie scene, and a thriving arts community. It’s definitely worth spending at least a few days. By choosing from one of the hotels above, you’ll set yourself up for a fun and enjoyable stay in Australia’s third-largest city!
Book Your Trip to Australia: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
- Safety Wing (best for everyone)
- Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
- Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.
Want More Information on Australia?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Australia for even more planning tips!
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