I’ve been living in Brisbane for a year now, but before I moved here, I spent months scouting out all the best areas to stay. Previously I lived on the Gold Coast and would often visit Brisbane for sporting events, work functions, and weekend markets – which meant I ended up staying in almost every neighbourhood at least once.
One thing that surprised me is how easily it is to get around the city. Most things are centred around the Brisbane River, and the city is compact compared to places like Sydney or Melbourne.
If you stay in any of the areas I’ve suggested below, you’ll be no more than a 15-minute drive (or ferry ride) from just about everything.
Each neighbourhood has its own personality too. There’s the vibey streets of Fortitude Valley, the tourist-friendly waterfront at South Bank or the relaxed, leafy suburb of New Farm.
This guide covers the best areas to stay in Brisbane based on my own experiences, plus a few insider tips to help you plan your trip.
Brisbane areas overview
South Bank | Best area in Brisbane for first-timers and families. Beautiful riverside walks, tourist attractions, playgrounds, dining, and excellent public transport.
CDB | Most central area with a range of accommodation options. Best for shopping, proximity to Suncorp Stadium and overall convenience.
Fortitude Valley | Best for nightlife and suits a younger crowd. Bars, clubs, live music, and Brisbane’s most energetic streets.
New Farm | Many locals live here. It has a relaxed atmosphere with boutique cafes and riverside parks.
Hamilton | Closest to the airport. Good for quick visits or early flights.
Best places to stay in Brisbane
South Bank
If it’s your first time visiting Brisbane, stay in South Bank. It’s just across the river from the CBD and is easily the most tourist-friendly part of the city.
South Bank is home to some of Brisbane’s top attractions:
- South Bank Parklands
- Streets Beach Lagoon
- The Queensland Art Gallery & GOMA
- QPAC (Performing Arts Centre)
- Playgrounds, walkways, markets, and cafés
It’s also one of the best areas for families as everything is flat, walkable, and safe, and there’s always something happening on the river.
Whenever I have friends and family visiting, the first place we check out is South Bank. From there, we’ll hop on the CityCat ferry and cruise over to New Farm or the CBD for more exploring.
Where to stay in South Bank
The Emporium Hotel is ideally located alongside the South Bank Parklands and South Bank Station. It has a gorgeous rooftop pool with views of the river and CBD, and the rooms are equally as impressive.
For more apartment style accommodation, Ivy and Eve Apartments are an excellent option. Each luxury apartment comes with a equipped kitchen and separate living area. It’s perfect if you’re travelling with kids (and everyone will love the rooftop pool area).
Brisbane CBD
Brisbane CBD is right in the middle of everything. If you stay here, you’re only 5 minutes from South Bank and Fortitude Valley – so if you want convenience, the CBD is where you want to be.
This is where you’ll find the best hotels in Brisbane, like The W. And you’ll be just minutes from the riverfront, Queen Street Mall, Howard Smith Wharves, and some of Brisbane’s best restaurants.
The CBD has a completely different vibe from the rest of Brisbane – skyscrapers, corporate workers and busy weekday energy. There’s a great atmosphere along the riverfront dining precinct during the week. Head here for sunset drinks and a nice dinner (Felons is my favourite).
But on the weekends, the CBD is pretty quiet with not much going on (except for the restaurant strip along the river).
Gary and I stayed in the city when we went to a rugby game at Suncorp Stadium, and the location was super convenient. Everything was within walking distance – including Caxton Street for pre-game drinks.
Tip: Stay in the CBD if you’re planning a shopping trip. Queen Street Mall has the best variety of stores in Brisbane.
Where to stay in Brisbane CBD
When Gary ran the Brisbane marathon, we stayed at Four Points by Sheraton and loved it. The room was immaculate and the service, outstanding. We were able to use pool at the Westin next door which came with a swim up bar. It got pretty festive here!
On a separate work trip, I stayed at Amora Hotel which is closer to Central Station. The rooms here are large and comfortable and I loved the modern styling of the rooms.
We’ve also stayed at YHA Brisbane City which is a short walk from Caxton Street and Suncrop Stadium. This is one of the cheapest places to stay in Brisbane if you’re traveling on a budget – but I was still impressed with their private rooms with ensuite.
Fortitude Valley
If you’re coming to Brisbane for a night out, you’ll end up in Fortitude Valley (otherwise known as “The Valley”).
This is the hip and happening area where you’ll find live music venues, wine bars, rooftop bars, craft breweries, and clubs.
The Valley definitely has a grungy side, and it’s a stark contrast to South Bank, but that’s what gives it personality. It’s fun, busy, loud, and unapologetically chaotic at times.
The food scene here is really impressive, with some of the best asian food you’ll find in Brisbane.
Where to stay in Fortitude Valley
Hotel X is where you want to stay if you’re looking for something luxurious and trendy. Just one look at the rooftop pool and bar, and you won’t want to leave. The location is also super convenient – it’s a short walk from the main strip and James Street, but is far enough to not be in the middle of the chaos.
For something more affordable, take a look at The Constance. It may not have the same lux/fun vibe of Hotel X, but you get a lot of bang for your buck here. The décor is something else and I love it! Its also right next to some of the best restaurants and bars in The Valley.
New Farm
I love New Farm! It feels like its own little leafy village, even though it’s only a few minutes from Fortitude Valley and the CBD.
It’s a popular area for locals – quiet, trendy, and full of great cafés. The riverfront here is beautiful, and New Farm Park is one of Brisbane’s best picnic spots.
New Farm is also home to the Jan Power Markets every Saturday. We often go here to grab some food, and listen to live music under the trees.
Even if you don’t stay here, I recommend popping into this market anyway.
Tip: From New Farm, you can walk or ferry over to Howard Smith Wharves which is one of the best dining precincts in Brisbane.
Where to stay in New Farm
There are many reason Spicers Hotel in New Farm has so many positive reviews – the fantastic breakfast, quiet location, charming rooms. It’s a quick walk to Howard Smith Wharfs and James Street.
Edward Lodge is a boutique hotel across the road from New Farm Park. The rooms are filled with character and the breakfasts are fantastic. You can easily jump on the ferry from here.
Hamilton
Hamilton is the furthest area from the city, but it’s still only about a 15-minute drive to South Bank or the CBD. It’s also the closest base to Brisbane Airport, making it ideal for short visits or early morning flights.
We actually spent a month staying in Hamilton and really enjoyed it. It’s right along the Brisbane River, with walking paths that connect all the way to New Farm. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a longer term stay as there are plenty of apartments available at an affordable price point.
Nearby Ascot is also great for cafés and boutique shopping.
Hamilton is also where you’ll find Eat Street Northshore – the famous food market made from colourful shipping containers. It’s a must-do if you love food, live music, or a fun night out.
Where to stay in Hamilton
Alcyone Residence is located in the Portside Wharf, right next to restaurants and bars. The self contained apartments have everything you need – air conditioning, an equipped kitchen and spacious bedrooms.
If you’re looking for a quick stay before or after landing, check out Hotel Kingsley. You’ll want a comfortable space to rest your head after a long flight – and you’ll get it here. They also offer a free shuttle service to the airport.
Where I stayed in Brisbane
For my first trip to Brisbane, I stayed The Emporium Hotel in South Bank as I wanted to be close to the CBD without actually staying in the city. I’ve since visited South Bank numerous times, and it’s definitely the best area to stay in Brisbane.
During my second visit to the city, I booked a hotel in Fortitude Valley as I had planned a night out and wanted to be within walking distance of the venue.
Now that I live in Brisbane, I frequently visit New Farm and love the atmosphere here.
If you’re visiting Queensland, my other posts may help you plan your trip.
- Where to stay on Gold Coast
- The best weekend getaways from Gold Coast
- My favourite Scenic Rim wineries
- My review of Sheraton Mirage Gold Coast
- The best things to do in Boonah
- Guide to Girraween National Park
- The best wineries in Stanthorpe
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