Your essential guide to the best Brisbane accommodation

Luxury accommodation in Brisbane doesn’t come better than the Calile Hotel, in the heart of fashionable James Street precinct. With a sleek, contemporary design and a pared back aesthetic, this is an urban oasis where you can spend the day reclined in a poolside cabana, indulging at the day spa, or taking advantage of the exceptional dining. Sink into The Lobby Bar or long lunch at Greek-inspired Hellenika. 

Just steps from the hotel is more of Brisbane's best dining and shopping. 

W Hotel

The jaw-dropping W Brisbane is a 34-storey work of art in the city centre, and offers some of the best Brisbane accommodation. Its contemporary design and art-pop flair will appeal to guests who appreciate a playful approach to luxury, with superior amenities including a W Mix Bar, a signature W bed, Bluetooth speakers and 55-inch LED TV.

Head to the WET Deck for a dip in the pool or a cocktail, recharge at AWAY spa, or tuck into a meal at award-winning paddock to plate restaurant, Three Blue Ducks, overlooking Brisbane River.

Crystalbrook Vincent

Where architecture meets art, Crystalbrook Vincent is all about location. The newest hotel to join the Crystalbrook Collection's growing family in Brisbane, you’ll find the six-storey property carved into the cliff beneath the iconic Story Bridge, forming part of the Howard Smith Wharves precinct.

Inspired by artist Vincent Fantauzzo, the hotel is adorned with many of his originals and prints, making it one of the most stylish hotels in Brisbane.

This Brisbane hotel boasts rooftop bar and infinity pool with river views, and embraces an ethos of 'responsible luxury' which means guests enjoy sustainable amenities, free from single use plastics, and upcycled furnishings. Step outside and get amongst the thriving bars and restaurants on its doorstep. 

Spicers Balfour Hotel

Cut from the same cloth as Spicers Peak Lodge (and indeed all the exceptional Spicers properties), Spicers Balfour combines luxury with quintessential Queensland charm in an award-winning boutique hotel.

Perched on a hillside in fashionable New Farm, and making its home in an old Queenslander, Spicers Balfour has both old-world charm and modern comforts in droves. Each room is a sanctuary from the hustle of everyday life, making Balfour ideal for a staycation, city escape or business trip.

From this prime spot in the heart of the action you can experience Brisbane as a local. It’s just minutes to the city centre and two minutes to Howard Smith Wharves. Visit the rooftop bar for views over the Story Bridge.

On site restaurant, The Balfour Kitchen, is as awarded as the hotel, nestled amongst frangipani trees on the wrap-around verandah, and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Emporium South Bank

Sparkling South Bank holds its own when it comes to the best Brisbane accommodation, with five-star Emporium Hotel its crown jewel. 

Forming part of the $600 million Southpoint precinct on Grey Street, take your pick from 143 luxuriously appointed suites – some with freestanding marble baths that offer floor-to-ceiling city views.

Emporium’s flagship restaurant, Signature, celebrates the best of Australian produce with the five-course tasting menu a highlight. For drinks, take your pick between the classy Piano Bar on the ground level or the Terrace on the rooftop which offers magnificent views over the city. 

South Bank Parklands and the bustling galleries and museums of the cultural centre are right at your fingertips, too. 

Beetson Hotel

Whatever brings you to Brisbane – a night out at nearby Suncorp Stadium, a special event, or just looking to explore the city – this boutique Caxton Street hotel has something for you. 

Beetson Hotel offers unmatched boutique charm and convenience. Enjoy onsite parking, advanced TV casting in every room and award-winning dining. 

From here, you’re also only moments away from the city centre, the Gabba Cricket Grounds, and the Story Bridge.

The Inchcolm by Ovolo

Perched above the CBD in Spring Hill, the 1924-built Georgian hotel and former medical practice boasts 50 bespoke guest rooms. The two-bedroom General Macarthur suite is a highlight, named after the five-star US Army Chief of Staff who was treated there while stationed in Brisbane during World War II.

The Inchcolm by Ovolo leans into its heritage with a 1920's style that fuses with whimsical elements and oddities - most apparent in the bar area of eclectic on-site restaurant Salon de Co. Discovering the tiny treasures here will be just the start of what delights: be sure to make time for a tipple in the martini bar, then devour share plates from the all day menu that shines on local produce.

FV by Peppers

You’ll find FV by Peppers in the heart of Brisbane’s bustling Fortitude Valley. A New-York style skyscraper, FV by Peppers is ideal for couples and families looking for a base to explore the region, offering a small selection of one and two bedroom apartments with modern fixtures and impressive luxury amenities.

A stunning heated U-shaped rooftop pool with views over the city skyline, VIP private spa lounges, an indoor cinema, tropical lounge, and health and leisure club, which includes a yoga retreat, mean you’ll have to find a good reason to go venture anywhere else.

Hotel X

Since opening in early 2021, Hotel X has brought new flair to the immense Brisbane accommodation offering in Fortitude Valley. 

A destination for locals who come sans-luggage to raise a glass at rooftop bar Iris or dine on French-bistro cuisine at Bisou Bisou, those who choose to check-in will be impressed before they even swing open the doors to their room. 

The 146 rooms feature artistic touches and cityscape views, with luxury you'd expect from a modern five-star hotel including GHD appliances and amenities designed by Karl Lagerfield. 

Hyatt Regency

If you’re looking to really get away from it all and recharge, some peace and quiet won’t go astray. Hyatt Regency offers a relaxing haven in the heart of the city and Queen Street Mall. The perfect base to explore the CBD, or recline next to one of Brisbane's best hotel pools, with views over the city.

voco Brisbane City Centre

Located on North Quay with views over the city and Brisbane River, every artfully designed guestroom at voco Brisbane City Centre feature an abundance of natural light, plush sustainable bedding, vibrant artworks, smart in-room technology and modern bathrooms.

Guests can enjoy some fun in the sun and soak on the rooftop pool, work out in the 24-hour fitness centre and enjoy local craft beers, wines and cocktails at Kraft & Co, a chameleon-like space that transforms from a bustling cafe during the day into an atmospheric lounge bar at night.

Rydges South Bank

Rydges South Bank stands tall right in the heart of Brisbane’s bustlings arts and entertainment precinct. Whether visiting for business or leisure, once you’ve made yourself at home, you’ll be a mere elevator ride from the South Bank Parklands, the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, and the CBD is just a short walk across the river.

Rydges is also in prime location for some of Brisbane’s best restaurants, with South Bank's dining options and funky Fish Lane nearby. If you’d rather stay in, award-winning restaurant Bacchus makes dining an artform, while Soleil Pool Bar is the place to be seen – the bar wraps around the Rydges pool, and has an on-site DJ and casual pool party vibes.

Budget accommodation in Brisbane

Brisbane is home to a range of affordable premium and budget hotels, where you can seek comfort without a big dent in your wallet. Here are a few of our favourites.

Pullman Brisbane Airport

Looking for a conveniently located hotel with 5-star amenities? Pullman Brisbane Airport has answered the call, right in the heart of the airport precinct.

With the airport just a short courtesy airport shuttle away from both terminals, it’s perfect for business travellers and those in transit who want a convenient hotel without the hassle of a cab ride.

The hotel offers day rates for those wanting to de-stress on their layover with on-site dining, pool and a choice of rooms or suites for those after a longer stay.

The Constance

Channeling the edgy laneways of Europe, and covered roof-to-floor in art and graffiti, The Constance is one of the hippest hotels to grace Brisbane’s accommodation scene - and just so happens to be pretty affordable, too.

Brisbane’s only street art hotel, The Constance is adorned with murals that nod to its rock and roll roots and embrace the Valley's art and music scene. The hotel has an eclectic past, and was originally the clubhouse for the famous global secret society, the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes.

Just outside you’ll find some of the best Brisbane laneways, such as Bakery Lane and Winn Lane, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars for you to explore, while the busy James Street shopping precinct is just a short walk away.

Ascot Budget Inn

Base yourself on the city's north side at Ascot Budget Inn for budget-friendly Brisbane accommodation that offers plenty of perks, including free WiFi, free parking, an airport shuttle bus and laundry facilities.

Exploring is easy from this hotel too. Eagle Farm and Doomben Racecourses, the Portside Wharf Cruise Terminal and dining precinct and Brisbane's beloved food market Eat Street are close at hand, and public transport hubs are within walking distance for adventures further afield.

Courtyard by Marriott Bisbane South Bank

Courtyard by Marriott Brisbane South Bank sits on prime Brisbane real estate. At the eastern end of bustling South Bank, guests will be a short stroll from South Bank Parklands, Streets Beach, waterfront restaurants, galleries and the entertainment precinct. Cross the pedestrian-only Goodwill Bridge to reach the city centre and Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, while The Gabba is only 1km away. 

When you need a break from sightseeing, the Courtyard is one of the best spots to recharge - with modern guest rooms to super-size suites equipped with kitchenettes, perfect whether you're in town for business or pleasure. Take a dip in the indoor pool, then head out to explore again. 

Nearby you'll also find premium yet affordable digs at Novotel South Bank. 

Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane

One of the best things about budget-friendly Brisbane accommodation is you don't have to sacrifice on style or location. Adina Apartment Hotel offers both, in a heritage-listed building on George St in Brisbane's CBD. 

Ideal for travellers, business trips and families, choose from contemporary studio and multi-bedroom apartments. There's also an onsite pool, gym, restaurant and bar - with plenty more a short stroll away.

Bunk Backpackers

Bump elbows with the locals, see the sights and make some new friends at Brisbane's Bunk Backpackers.

Close to just about anything you might need, Bunk is located amongst the hustle and bustle of Fortitude Valley’s entertainment precinct. Actually, it’s a part of it, with the legendary Birdees Bar only a few steps from your room.

Want more budget friendly Brisbane accommodation ideas? Explore our backpackers guide to Brisbane.

Ipswich Accommodation

Woodlands of Marburg

Leave the city behind you and take a step back in time when you enter the estate of Woodlands of Marburg, a stately homestead plantation style mansion with all of the perks of a resort.

Just 45 minutes from Brisbane in the historic town of Ipswich, Woodlands of Marburg offers accommodation for families, couples, and guests - and the venue is a popular choice for weddings. Choose between standard hotel rooms in the Bunya House or more luxurious offerings at Bougainvillaea House. There’s a swimming pool on site.

Well worth the short drive from Brisbane, stay for breakfast at the pioneer-themed Tommy Smith Cafe, with views over the Marburg Valley. The cafe was originally a prayer room for the monks at the old St. Vincent’s Seminary.

If you like the sound of this, you’ll love this guide to the most unique Queensland accommodation.

Island Accommodation

Minjerribah Camping

Soak up the beauty of Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) like you’ve never seen it before with a glamping experience.

Minjerribah Camping offers beachfront camping across 6 campgrounds on the island, located at Dunwich, Amity Point and Point Lookout. Even better, there's the option to forgo a tent and check into an Eco Shack at Cylinder Beach, Adder Rock, Amity Point and Bradbury’s Beach. This is glamping paradise. 

Wake up surrounded by native cotton trees to a view over Moreton Bay, where local dolphins visit daily and koalas laze among the tree branches, then catch the sun’s candy coloured show as it disappears over the bay’s islands every afternoon.

Map out your days with this guide to spending 48-hours on Stradbroke Island and this local’s guide.

Castaways on Moreton

Swap a roof for the night’s sky and truly unplug with a glamping experience on beautiful Mulgumpin (Moreton Island). Castaways on Moreton boasts furnished glamping tents, each fit out with queen sized beds, a private ensuite and your own veranda overlooking tranquil gardens, and just a stone’s throw from the best sights and adventures on the island.

Put your feet up, pour a glass of wine, and watch the sunset from the beach at the famous Bulwer Wrecks, located just a 100 metre stroll from your front door.

Fancy glamping without the ferry ride? This guide to the best glamping experiences around Brisbane has your back.

Tangalooma Island Resort

Escape the everyday and disconnect at Tangalooma Island Resort, just  75 minutes from Brisbane on Moreton Island.

Tangalooma offers the perfect Queensland island experience, with every underwater activity under the sun, from snorkelling to kayaking. Not one for getting wet? Take to the sand quad-biking and sand-tobogganing.

With two cafes, two restaurants, buffet breakfast, bar, and convenience store, this is no deserted island. Kick back with a sundowner and look out to the water as the sun’s golden rays light up the afternoon.

While you’re there, make some new friends and take home a memory that will last forever; helping to feed the local wild Bottlenose dolphin family, with eco rangers on hand to ensure the dolphin’s safety.

Redcliffe Accommodation

Oaks Mon Komo

Proving Redcliffe is so much more than just a day-trip destination is Oaks Mon Komo. Offering apartment-style suites with panoramic ocean views across Moreton Bay, Mon Komo is a modern, peaceful reprieve from the Brisbane city, with a gym and pool on site.

With all of the fun and sun of Redcliffe on your doorstep, sunscreen and a hat are your only packing essentials.

Ready to explore the coast? Find the best accommodation on the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.