Where to Stay in Brisbane

The Best Areas to Stay in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast

a large body of water with a bridge over it

Australia’s third most populous city and capital of the country’s second largest state is beautifully situated along the winding river bends after which it is named. Substantial development around downtown indicates Brisbane’s determination to compete with Sydney and Melbourne, and the superior climate and tropical flair lend itself to numerous open-air markets, dynamic festivals, and an opportunity to swim, surf, and sunbathe throughout the year.

Most opt to lodge in the pleasingly compact city center offering several old and new attractions including one of the nation’s premier shopping districts: Queen Street Mall. The excellent train and ferry networks also make it effortless to cross the wide river to places such as South Bank. This redeveloped waterfront precinct (and part of South Brisbane) is a world-class attraction filled with eateries, drinking venues, shopping centers, and lodging; cultural icons such as the art gallery, state museum, and performing arts center; and remarkable (and complimentary) amenities for example the rainforest and massive lagoon-style swimming pool with a ‘beach’.

Nearby north of downtown Brisbane lies the delightful community of Spring Hill. It offers an appealing semi-urban atmosphere and is home to the magnificent Roma Street Parkland blanketing a ridge with views of the city center. In a livelier mood is nearby Fortitude Valley, renowned for its cafes during the day and vibrant nightlife after dark.

On a peninsula along a paper-clip bend in the Brisbane River is the upmarket residential area of Kangaroo Point renowned for its dramatic cliffs, lovely parks, and views of the city skyline. Alongside South Brisbane is the historic, charming, but often-ignored suburb of Woolloongabba, home to the namesake cricket/football stadium inevitably shortened to The Gabba.

Brisbane`s major international and domestic airports are only about 16 kilometers from the city center and very conveniently accessible by train. Surrounding suburbs like Hamilton, Ascot, and Eagle Farm offer lodging for late arrivals and early departures, while locations on the river provide other attractions.

Unlike most Australian state capitals near the ocean, Brisbane is merely an hour by car/taxi or two by train from the Gold Coast, known for powder-fine sand beaches, pounding surf, and wonderful facilities – as well as an international/domestic airport – the Gold Coast is a significant destination in its own right, not just a short excursion from Brisbane. Along the 35-mile coast stretching from Southport to Coolangatta (on the border with New South Wales) are Surfers Paradise, the most populated and developed region; Broadbeach, pleasantly less touristy and more residential; and Burleigh Heads, especially attractive and roomy.

The Best Places to Stay in Brisbane

a large body of water with tall buildings

The Best Places to Stay on the Gold Coast

a beach with chairs and a surfboard on the sand

Where to Stay in Brisbane for…

  • Best Locale for Seeing Sights: Downtown Brisbane
    As the earliest established and most developed area in the state, the capital provides numerous attractions. These include the colonial-era Parliament House (where guided tours are available), Old Government House (guided tours again), and St. John’s Cathedral – but most cultural icons, like the state museum and art gallery, are in South Bank just across the river. Other attractions in downtown Brisbane include the world-class City Botanic Gardens and cruises along the mighty river. This area is easy to explore on foot, while the excellent trains, ferries, and city loop buses help alleviate tiredness.
  • The Best Neighborhood for Beaches: Burleigh Heads

    • The 35-mile stretch of white sand along the Gold Coast lacks shade and waves can sometimes be rough. In contrast, the coastline at Burleigh (as locals call it) is safely split into a comparatively calm section ideal for swimmers and headlands popular with surfers pursuing outstanding barrels. Swimmers can also splash about in Tallebudgera Creek, part of the adjacent coastal national park, while the pines along Burleigh Heads greatly enhance the natural scenery. However, anyone along the Gold Coast should take care: inexperienced swimmers may struggle with the surf and currents, and surfers sometimes show little consideration for others. Visitors should always swim where professional lifeguards are on daily duty during daylight hours between the flags.

  • The Best Neighborhood for Surfing: Burleigh Heads

    • Although Surfers Paradise dominates Gold Coast`s shoreline with around 35 miles of coast, Burleigh Heads is renowned as the place for surfing. The pine cluster beach has particular appeal, and the atmosphere is much more relaxed and less developed than others. However, the key attraction is the consistent waves – suitable for beginners and experts – which regularly host competitions, while lessons, gear, repairs and rentals in backstreets are available near moderately priced hotels often catering to surfers.

  • Best Neighborhoods for Outdoor Activities: Kangaroo Point and Surfers Paradise
    Very few venturous activities are offered surrounding the city, except at Kangaroo Point just across the river from downtown. These involve climbing up and descending down the dramatic cliffs with Pinnacle Sports, and Riverlife, which rents kayaks for exploring the river.

    Most outdoor activities along the Gold Coast are on or above the sea. Many are offered at Surfers Paradise or can be arranged there through numerous travel agencies. Transfers are sometimes included; if not, many are easy to reach independently from Surfers Paradise by taxi, rented car, or, sometimes, public transport. Activities include the usual (jet-skiing and parasailing), the less common (whale-watching and hot-air ballooning), and the more sedate (paddle-boarding and kayaking).

  • Best Neighborhoods for Malls and Department Stores: Brisbane City Center and Broadbeach
    One of the finest shopping precincts in Australia, Queen Street Mall is an extended and shaded avenue that is clear of vehicles and a delight to explore. Alongside numerous places to eat and drink, it is also home to two nationwide department stores (and institutions): Myer and David Jones
  • Tanukidani Fudoin Fire Festival – This fire ritual happens in the mountains of eastern Kyoto, carried out by mountain priests who make the fire from pine branches before traversing the burning ashes. Visitors can try walking across too.
  • Premier Locales for Markets: South Bank and Surfers Paradise
    With so much space and a beautiful riverside setting, South Bank is ideal for pop-up markets. The 120+ stalls at the Collective Markets sell locally-made produce, handicrafts, and jewelry, among other things, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Also, check out the Young Designers Market for contemporary fashion (first Sunday of the month) at South Bank and the twice-weekly Boundary Street Markets (food) in West End, less than a mile away.

    Surfers Paradise, the most popular section along the Gold Coast, also hosts the wonderful Beachfront Markets from 5 pm on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Located at the beach end of Cavill Mall (a pedestrian-only road), over 100 stalls sell locally-produced food, crafts, and jewelry, and the live music is always entertaining.

  • Best Neighborhoods for Families: South Bank and Broadbeach
  • Location: Kensho Ornos is conveniently situated in Ornos, within a 3-minute walk to Ornos Beach and a 7-minute walk to Korfos Beach. Several excellent eateries and upscale coastal clubs can be reached within 3 to 10 minutes on foot from the hotel, as well as 2 supermarkets and a pharmacy. Kensho Ornos is just a 5-minute walk to the bus stop for Mykonos Town and a brief 4-minute walk to the Water Taxi connecting Ornos Beach to many of Mykonos’ finest beaches, including as far east as Elia Beach.

    • Noisy and overcrowded, Surfers Paradise may not be ideal for families with young children. In contrast, the less commercial and more residential Broadbeach, just a four-stop tram ride away, offers Pacific Fair, a massive outdoor shopping complex with cinema and dining options, leisurely cycling paths, and a playground amid expansive lawns near the shore. Also, within a brief trip are go-karting, mini-golf, wildlife sanctuaries, and, most popular of all, the major theme parks (see below).

  • The part of the Gold Coast city renowned for its theme park attractions is Surfers Paradise.

    • Major attractions drawing many visitors to the Gold Coast include the numerous theme parks, particularly the `Big Four`: Warner Bros. Movie World,Sea World (aquarium and rides), Wet ‘n’ Wild (waterpark), and Dreamworld (the largest with the most rides). Enthusiasts can purchase multi-park tickets (that include unlimited visits to all four) online or through one of numerous travel agencies in Surfers Paradise. If bookings don’t include transfers, the theme parks are only 20 minutes away by taxi from hotels in Surfers Paradise. And don’t forget there are other marvelous but lesser known theme parks and wildlife sanctuaries along the Gold Coast.

  • Best Neighborhoods for Food and Restaurants: South Bank and Burleigh Heads
    The scenic riverside recreational and cultural area of South Bank is packed with stylish bistros, more affordable eateries, and take-out shops. All (with one exception) are located one or two blocks from the water, so they lack river views, but each is inviting with outdoor tables alongside the sidewalk and more inside when wet and too warm. The incredible choice includes cuisines from across Asia as well as English-inspired pubs and American-style diners, while some menus focus on steak, seafood, or modern Australian food.

    More attractive, stylish, and admirably less busy than other regions along the Gold Coast, Burleigh Heads is brimming with charming cafés that are mostly priced for locals rather than visitors.

  • Best Neighborhoods for Transport: Brisbane City Center and Surfers Paradise
  • Vegas ToyCon – Vegas ToyCon is the maximum toy, comic and pop culture meeting in Las Vegas. Held at the Eastside Cannery over three days, the major event highlights more than 10,000 collectors, an artist’s alleyway, a downhill diecast racing track, celebrity appearances, autograph sessions, Q&A sessions, and extra. It’s one of the few trade shows that allows children. (Those 12 and under enter free with a ticketed adult.)

  • Half Marathon Firenze – This conventional Florentine non-competitive half-marathon race blends sport and culture, while offering a special artistic and cultural backdrop. It’s hosted on a Sunday in early to mid-April.
  • Best Neighborhood for Boat Cruises: South Bank
    The expansive and meandering Brisbane River dominates much of the city and inner suburbs, so several companies provide experiences for guests to admire the city skyline and riverside attractions like South Bank and City Botanic Gardens from the water. Many excursions occur at sunset and incorporate meals and live entertainment. Kookaburra Showboat Cruises depart from Eagle Street Pier, but another option closer for some may be the boat docks at South Bank from where River City Cruises set sail. One can also appreciate easily the beauty and significance of the river using public transportation operated by City Cat and the complimentary CityHopper. Both also halt at South Bank.
  • Best Neighborhoods for the Airports: Eagle Farm and Burleigh Heads
    The Brisbane international airport and domestic airports are well linked by taxi, shuttle bus, and Airtrain into downtown and South Bank, but some opt to stay near the airports in suburbs for example Hamilton, Ascot, and Eagle Farm. The latter is delightfully placed alongside the river and home to the prestigious Royal Queensland Golf Club.
  • Opus Hotel • The Douglas
  • Popular Neighborhoods for Nightlife: Fortitude Valley and Surfers Paradise
    The inner urban district of Fortitude Valley has deservedly earned a reputation for its lively nightlife – featuring live music, booming nightclubs and seamy other options in between. Contrastingly tranquil during the daytime hours, it also provides more refined rooftop cocktail lounges and all kinds of bars with competitive food and beverage special pricing.

    With the largest population and tourist numbers and an atmosphere enjoyed by younger crowds, Surfers Paradise offers the finest selection of nightlife on the Gold Coast. Bars along the main drags feature rock bands, quiz nights, and flamboyant cabarets (some where men are dressed as women), and just a four-stop tram ride away is The Star Gold Coast casino and Pacific Fair shopping complex containing cinema options.

  • Best Neighborhoods for Walking and Cycling: South Bank and Broadbeach
    One of the most enjoyable regions to explore by foot or bicycle in Queensland is the scenic riverside path stretching several miles through the precincts of South Bank and along the cliffs to Kangaroo Point. This walking and cycling route connects the two bridges crossing the river into the city center, with its pleasant walkability, while the urban core presents somewhat less appeal for cycling aside from the park-like surrounds of the City Botanic Gardens.

    With an incredible 1,500 miles of walking and cycling paths, the Gold Coast is ideal for pedestrians and cyclists. Broadbeach is particularly attractive with routes winding through leafy parks alongside the ocean.

  • Premier Neighborhood for Parks and Gardens: Brisbane City Center
    The capital city of Queensland boasts many green spaces, such as the lovely Roma Street Parkland located along an inner-city ridge in the suburb of Spring Hill. Even more impressive are the magnificent old City Botanic Gardens. Situated by the river alongside the Queensland University of Technology, the gardens contain shady lawns, lush plantings, lagoons full of birdlife, and paths for cycling and jogging – all within a brief distance of the hectic downtown core.
  • Best Neighborhood for Sports Activities: Woolloongabba
    Most locals have as strong an interest in sports as others throughout the country. One of the major stadiums for the Brisbane Broncos rugby league team and Brisbane Roar soccer/football club is at Milton within walking distance of Spring Hill and somewhat closer to downtown and South Bank. The historic and charming inner-city suburb of Woolloongabba is home to the eponymous stadium, inevitably shortened to The Gabba. Here, matches are played by the state and national cricket sides and by the Brisbane Lions Australian Rules football team.
  • Most Romantic Neighborhoods: South Bank and Burleigh Heads
    Away from the traffic congestion of downtown and suburban roads, the picturesque riverside South Bank cultural district offers a particularly romantic retreat. Several luxury hotels and apartment complexes directly overlooking the river feature intimate spaces for relaxing. Charming sidewalk bistros and cafes line quiet streets, providing privacy for dining. Further attractions include rainforests, walking and cycling paths, an attractive public pool with adjoining “beach” area, the large Ferris wheel, and river cruise excursions.

    Burleigh Heads along the Gold Coast boasts natural attractions like a national park, headland, creek, and pine-lined beach, making it one of the most scenic areas in the region. Visitors can enjoy romantic strolls along paths with views of the sea, see cute koalas at a wildlife park, take in panoramas from a lookout, and make day trips up and down the coast. The region is also home to many delightful restaurants.

  • South Bank and Broadbeach are great options for first-time visitors.
    Those new to Brisbane and the Gold Coast can circumvent common irritations – mainly traffic congestion, noise, and overcrowding – without straying too far from major attractions. In fact, just a brief walk across the river from the chaotic city center, South Bank offers notable sights itself – an extremely appealing zone with numerous spots, conveniences, and vehicle-free paths.

    Similarly, Broadbeach provides a pleasant distance – just a four-stop tram ride – from the bustle and congestion of Surfers Paradise while maintaining appealing beaches and amenities.

  • Safest areas: Kangaroo Point and Burleigh Heads
    As anticipated, staying away from congested and crowded places frequented by travelers (such as downtown Brisbane and South Bank) where petty crimes can potentially occur (but are very unusual), and from suburbs where alcohol-fueled nightlife is popular (like Fortitude Valley and Surfers Paradise) is usually more protected. Just across the river by boat from downtown, Kangaroo Point is an upscale region of apartments not part of the tourist path, while Burleigh Heads is agreeably relaxed and distant from possible dangers.
  • Less Safe Areas: Fortitude Valley and Surfers Paradise
    While Brisbane is no less safe than other cities in Australia, taking the standard precautions is sensible, specially along bustling inner-city roads and at festivals, markets, and transport hubs where opportunistic petty crimes like bag-snatching and pick-pocketing are potential (but very rare). Regrettably, physical and sexual assaults are not uncommon in Fortitude Valley and Surfers Paradise where excessive drinking and drug-taking are common.

The 7 Best Neighborhoods in Brisbane for Tourists

a large group of people sitting on top of a beach

1. City Center

The compact downtown area is home to many attractions, including historically significant colonial-era buildings that can be toured; one of the country`s premier promenades, Queen Street Mall; magnificent botanical gardens; and a variety of cafes, bars, and nightclubs characteristic of a vibrant tropical city. What makes Brisbane even more appealing are the several paths designed for pedestrians and cyclists, its attractive position alongside a bend in the extensive Brisbane River, and excellent train and boat services. Most lodgings are in tall high-rises in the form of hotel rooms and spacious apartments, many intended for business people but also highly suitable for families. Some reasonably priced options are available and competitively priced and there are a few boutique hotels, but there`s nothing worthwhile in the budget range.

2. South Bank and South Brisbane

Just across the waterway from the heart of the city, South Bank stands out as one of the world`s premier destinations for fun, leisure, and culture – and admirably avoids flashiness or overdevelopment. Along nearly a mile featuring stunning city skyline perspectives, South Bank offers numerous spots for dining and drinks, top-tier cultural attractions such as the state museum and performing arts complex, river cruises and public boats throughout Brisbane, walking/cycling paths, The Wheel of Brisbane, and weekend markets amid verdant lawns dotted with free barbecue amenities. Even more remarkable (and free of cost) is the lagoon-style public swimming area with a `beach` and surrounding rainforest accessible along boardwalks. Both South Bank itself as well as the nearby suburb of South Brisbane house several high-end hotels and residential complexes, many accommodating for families, yet almost nothing ranked less than 4 stars.

3. Spring Hill

This nearby inner-northern suburb has proximity to downtown though maintains a pleasant residential aura untouched by shopping centers and freeways. A major attraction is the magnificent Roma Street Parkland blanketing a ridge with views of the city center. Inside its lush landscaping and tropical plants are paths for walking and cycling, free barbeque facilities, and an amphitheater intended for community events. Bordered by trendy cafes and traditional pubs, the streets of Spring Hill guide to the core, two handy train stations, Chinatown, and nightlife at Fortitude Valley. Hotels from international chains offer tranquil choices versus the city center, while apartments frequently suit families. A decent selection of reasonably priced hotels also exists.

4. Fortitude Valley

Within a 15-minute walk of Spring Hill, and conveniently connected to the remainder of Brisbane by train, this suburb has a split personality. During daylight hours, popular funky cafés attract upscale locals, including families, while after dark, Fortitude Valley swarms with pub-goers and nightclub attendees. It is also home to the distinctive Chinatown, an attractive palm-lined public swimming location, and fashionable art galleries nearly concealed along narrow lanes. Scattered around the streets are several international-brand hotels, low-key but appealing apartment complexes, and some particularly nice boutique hotels.

5. Kangaroo Point

This narrow finger-like stretch of land between two bodies of water is a popular upper-class residential region where tall buildings compete for spectacular perspectives of the city skyline across the waterway. Kangaroo Point is mostly familiar to locals for its lovely outdoor spaces and dramatic cliffsides, appreciated by those climbing upward and descending via security lines. The area is readily accessible by boat across the river from downtown and through a delightful walk along the riverside path from South Bank.

6. Woolloongabba

East of South Bank and south of Kangaroo Point, this inner-city suburb with antique shops, bohemian boutiques, and chic bistros provides a charm often lacking elsewhere in contemporary Brisbane. Woolloongabba is known outside of Brisbane as home to the cricket and football stadium with the same name shortened to ‘The Gabba’. While convenient to the amazing South Bank precinct, there is no train service, and Woolloongabba is a little distant from boat terminals for transport across the river.

7. Near the Airports: Eagle Farm,Ascot, and Hamilton

Brisbane`s international and domestic airports are only approximately 10 miles from the city center and very well-connected to the downtown area by train, but some travelers with late arrivals, early departures, and/or overnight connections opt to stay in the suburbs near the airport like Eagle Farm, Ascot, and Hamilton. These locales offer a pleasant suburban environment far from the tourist crowds and costs intended for middle-income locals, not big-spending foreigners. Hamilton and Eagle Farm are attractively situated along the river, and the latter is also home to the prestigious Royal Queensland Golf Course.

The 3 Best Neighborhoods on the Gold Coast for Tourists

a person sitting on a bench in a park

1. Surfers Paradise

The most visited section of the Gold Coast, and one of Australia`s primary beaches, delivers everything expected of a tropical tourist region: endless cafés, bars, and nightclubs; inviting shopping centers and engaging outdoor markets; and world-class surfing waves (which will be too rough for swimming). Of course, there is also no shortage of hotels and rental properties – all in towering skyscrapers, though ocean views are often blocked. Loved by younger crowds yet still suitable for families, added advantages of staying at Surfers Paradise are the variety of activities outdoors, weekend beach markets, convenience to numerous theme parks, and trains connecting to downtown Brisbane (a two-hour trip), both Brisbane airports, and further areas of the Gold Coast like Broadbeach.

2. Broadbeach

‘Broadie’ (as it’s locally known) is more suited for living and stylish compared to the frantic nearby location of Surfers Paradise which is only four tram stops away to the north. Other reasons to stay include the extensive parks filled with playgrounds, free barbecuing facilities, and beachside markets; shaded routes for walking and cycling; and the appealing and compact overall layout. High-class features include Broadbeach Mall, a delightful walking lane filled with tempting eating spots, the huge outdoor shopping center called Pacific Fair, and The Star Gold Coast casino. Broadbeach is also nicely connected by tram to much of the Gold Coast (as well as downtown Brisbane and both Brisbane airports) and convenient to numerous theme parks. With an unrushed feel preferred by families and perfect for beginners, Broadbeach offers a selection of upscale hotels and apartments, but nothing good in the moderate or low budget categories.

3. Burleigh Heads

Located about 6 miles south of Surfers Paradise and 55 miles from Brisbane, Burleigh Heads features an impressive setting where Tallebudgera Creek meets the ocean. With a likable blend of locals and visitors and a charm absent in Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads is renowned for its bistros, boutiques, and national park containing gardens and a lookout point. Particularly appealing is the pine-dotted beach where the waves are comparatively calmer and safer for swimming as a result. Surfers enjoy barreling along the nearby headland instead. Accommodations include inexpensive roadside motels, hostels that are popular with backpackers, and moderately-priced options for families, but there are no luxury hotels or resorts. It is also close to the Gold Coast Airport.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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