11 Best Areas To Stay in Brisbane: Neighbourhood Breakdown

Are you searching for the best areas to stay in Brisbane and not sure which suburb will suit your trip? Well, you’ve landed in the right place. Brisbane has a wide mix of neighbourhoods, from vibrant spots in the CBD to quieter suburbs in greater Brisbane.

I’ve called Brisbane home for more than 25 years and have explored most of these areas myself. Whether it’s your first time in the city, your coming for the entertainment scene, cultural festivals, family visits, or a quick stopover, each suburb has its own charm and advantages.

In this guide, I’ll break down where to stay in Brisbane with 11 of the best neighbourhoods or suburbs. Sharing what makes each one special, who it’s best suited for, and why you might want to choose it for your trip. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of which suburb matches your travel style and plans.

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Where Should you Stay in Brisbane ?

When I’m looking for a place to stay in any city, it’s certainly revolves around being close to where I need to go. This includes convenience, price, and the facilities available to me.

With that said, I think some people will find certain suburbs better for them than others and, I hope my explanations below will help you determine that.

➡ Brisbane CBD Areas (Inner City Suburbs)

1. Brisbane CBD

(Best for Couples, First timers & Tourists)

The Central Business District meanders around the Brisbane River and has several access points to cross into other suburbs. Being central is great for first-timers, couples after a staycation, the foodies, or people wanting convenience. 

Most of the shopping area will be close to the Queen Street Mall, which encompasses the Myer Centre and several other nearby arcades. So, there is nothing you won’t find here and most of your favourite brands. 

➡  Click HERE to find CBD Hotel Deals with Booking.com

Additionally, you’re never stumped for things to do in the City, especially for those into architecture. The CBD features many old buildings like the Treasury Casino and City hall. In fact, City hall has a 15-minute free tour you can book to take you to the Lookout viewpoint over the city. 

This is the best area for hundreds of Restaurants & cafes servicing the weekly Business crowd and the afternoon drinks scene. You can enjoy fine dining anywhere along the River.

However, the Riverside or Eagle St Pier section, faces the Story Bridge/Kangaroo Point and can be a highlight. During the evenings, this can be one of your best views of the city, and even better joining a dinner cruise on the water. 

When choosing a hotel In City, I would consider things like views, convenience, budget, location, and facilities. This is where you’re going to find the most luxury, infinity pools or even Backpacker Hostels.

Everything in the city will only be 10 to 15 minutes walking distance away and only a little further to get across the river. 

2. Kangaroo Point

(Best for River Views)

The suburb of Kangaroo Point is situated across the river from the CBD and the City Botanic Gardens. It’s well known for its cliff faces, city views, parks lining the shores, and being densely populated.

➡  Find Kangaroo Point Hotel Deals with Booking.com

Accessing from the CBD would be a quick walk over the Story Bridge while admiring its construction. Popular spots would also include the Story Bridge Hotel, the Local Park areas, the Cliffs, and the Riverlife Adventure centre with kayaking and abseiling.

Therefore, it would suit those outdoorsy types, or people looking for a little nature in the big city. 

Additionally, The Story Bridge Adventure Climb leaves from here and has one of the best views of the City. Whether you choose night or day, you can take a few hours to learn about the Bridge, while stepping 74 metres above the ground.

This is very similar to the Sydney Bridge Climb in New South Wales but on a smaller scale. 

For those after a different experience, there are a couple of ways to enjoy the Cliffs. These include the short abseiling trip down the cliffs, or getting your exercise walking the 93 stairs. Alternatively, Bikes can be hired to venture along the waterfront and a brilliant family activity.

3. South Brisbane & South Bank Precinct

( Best for First-timers, Family’s & River Views)

There are attractions galore in South bank or South Brisbane, which is located strait across from the CBD facing the river. It’s the best area to stay in Brisbane for the cultural precinct with Queensland largest Museums, Art galleries, and Performing arts centres.

You’ll also find your perfect Instagram shot with the famous “Brisbane” sign.

➡  Click HERE to find South Brisbane Hotel Deals with Booking.com

This is the best area for families or those wanting plenty of things to do (or Free Things to do) that are close by.

One of your biggest drawcards will be the Streets Beach Lagoon, kids’ water play area, Riverpool, grassed lawns, and parks. You’re going to be a big hit with the kids, and they will love exploring the many different areas. 

Additionally, you can ride the Wheel of Brisbane, view the Nepalese temple leftover from EXPO “88”, The rainforest walk, and the Grand Arbor bougainvillea Walk.

At night, the area lights up with entertainment, various festivals, and top viewpoints for fireworks shows like Riverfire. Or you can spend a sunset walking the Clem jones promenade along the river.

Southbank is foodie central, with streets lined with many cultural options, budget-friendly takeaways, and old-school pubs (Grey Street & Little Stanley Street).

Additionally, you have markets held every weekend for local delicacies, arts & crafts, and picking up your souvenirs.  

Do you need help planning your trip to Queensland? Book a one-on-one consultation call with me, to get your questions answered & personalised help!

4. Fortitude Valley

(Best for Younger crowds & Nightlife)

Just north of the city, you’re going to find Fortitude Valley (The Valley) and much known for its Asian background. Consequently, where you’re also going to find China Town and some of your best Asian Restaurants.

Apart from that, this is the young lifestyle, hottest nightclubs, bars, DJ’s and can get pretty loud on Friday and Saturday nights. 

Obviously, the Valley is suited for the 20 something year olds looking for all-night gigs. You’ll find lots of entertainment, restaurants, pubs, and outdoor drinking areas, and has a very grungy feel.

➡  Click HERE to find Fortitude Valley Hotel Deals with Booking.com

However, not to say that it wouldn’t be suited for 30 or over, just not wandering around in the evenings. Weekends can get pretty rowdy, and police beats will heavily man by roaming the streets on Friday and Saturday nights.

Therefore, unless you are into the young nightlife crowd or running into drunk people, I would avoid this area during these times. 

During the day, you will find several local boutiques, general shopping areas and vendors. There is also a public pool which is open every day and cost about $6 per adult to enter. Chinatown has some lovely architecture and those well-known red style colours, always great for a nice photo.

It’s very budget-friendly and has some of the best Thai, Korean, and Vietnamese cooking. 

5. Spring Hill

(Best for history, or being close to the CBD without being in it)

The suburb of Spring Hill is located just behind the city, further away from the river. There is a fair bit of history here, Roma Street Parklands, modern mansions, and known for being one of the oldest residential areas.

One historical spot would be The Windmill in Wickham Park, which is heritage-listed and built in 1828. 

➡  Click HERE to find Spring Hill Hotel Deals with Booking.com

This would be suitable for those that want quick access to the city without being right in the city. You’ll see couples, retirees, or convenient for families wanting close contact for kids’ entertainment. 

This is the perfect spot to stay when events are held at the Roma Street parklands. This includes but is not limited to The Enchanted Forest when the gardens are displayed in lights at Christmas.

Apart from that, the grassed areas will constantly hold free events with food vans and music. 

6. New Farm & Newstead

(Best for Trendy Cafes, Foodies & Outdoors)

The suburb of New Farm & Newstead is located very close to the city but on the other side of Fortitude Valley. It is a favourite among the locals and a very trendy area for restaurants, and outdoor lifestyles, but prices do correlate with it.

You can stroll, cycle or rollerblade along the famous River Walk, all the way into the city, and enjoy some lovely parks and gardens. 

➡  Click HERE to find New Farm Hotel Deals with Booking.com

This area would suit families, friends looking for some out-of-city lifestyle, or outdoor types looking for wide-open spaces. There are still views of the city, although most the time you’ll be facing the Kangaroo Point peninsula.

It’s a little bit more laid back compared to the city, so might be a nice option to get over Jetlag. 

Despite becoming a trendy area, you will find many old Queenslander homes here to admire. As well as a distinct Italian presence with restaurants offering lots of pizza and pasta. 

It’s common for locals to meet up for weekend catch-ups with so many restaurant choices around. The Powerhouse building is a premier entertainment location with comedies, exhibitions, and live stage shows. However, you can’t forget the New Farm Park for Barbeques, afternoon walks, and viewing the amazing garden displays. 

7. West End

(Best for Dining & Restaurant Nightlife)

West End is very close to the city and just the other side of South Brisbane. This is a trending suburb, full of business professionals and a busy nightlife scene for 30yo plus individuals. 

This is the best area for couples, groups of friends, and young travellers, gathering and arranging get-togethers. It was once known as “little Athens” and continues to develop the city’s Multi-cultural society. 

➡  Click HERE to find West End Hotel Deals with Booking.com

When looking for things to do, you might like to check out a Segway Tour. For us, this left from West End, and was the perfect way to explore South Brisbane and the City Botanic Gardens, without having to walk around. This tour took about a couple of hours, including training and running as a follow-the-leader scenario. 

The area is at its peak over the weekend, with people visiting the markets and local restaurants and cafes along Boundary Street ( near the corner of Vulture Street). Musgrave Park is a great place to relax and also includes a public swimming pool.

➡ North Brisbane Areas

8. Redcliffe

(Best for Beach Views, Relaxed & Slow-paced Holiday)

Heading a little further north and about 40 minutes from the city, the area of Redcliffe offers plenty of activities. Officially part of the Moreton Bay Region, it’s known for its seaside activities and once the biggest hotspot suburbs. 

This area suitable for those wanting to be in city, but far from feeling like you are in the city. The streets are lined with accommodation choices and ocean views, as well as seeing Moreton Island on a clear day.

➡  Click HERE to find Redcliffe Hotel Deals with Booking.com

Couples will stay for a romantic beachside getaway, as well as families for the kid’s entertainment. 

Redcliffe is not short of things to do like a beach themed mini Putt-Putt course, fishing off the jetties at Redcliffe or Woody Point, or a Sunday morning breakfast along the esplanade. Brisbane’s second Man-made pool is in Redcliffe near Suttons beach, and is called the Settlement Lagoon, which is very popular for the kids. 

Did you know the Bee Gees use to live here when they were young? To commemorate their impact on Redcliffe, a street (Bee Gees Way) has been developed with music, statues, and memorabilia, and is often visited by newcomers and fans. 

9. Bribie Island

(Best for Beaches & Island Life)

If you’re looking for the best beach area, then Bribie Island has what you’re looking for. This is a holiday on its own and one of the best spots for Brissy locals to holiday in. 

Bribie Island has so many things to do there. Plus it’s the perfect spot for a romantic getaway, your younger crowd after surf, or families hoping for some quiet places to swim with their kids. Plus, the Island is linked to the mainland by the Bribie Island Bridge.

➡  Click HERE to find Bribie Island Hotel Deals with Booking.com

Therefore, easy to drive there and cost-effective without taking a ferry. Not only that, but you have an open-water surf side in the west, and low-key calm swimming on the east side – considered the best beaches. 

This is the fourth largest in all the sand islands in the world and has a population of 16 thousand people. This makes a great in-built community and would be your one-stop location to go to. 

Accommodation choices are endless, with hotels, motels, resorts, and luxury-style spas. If you are into camping, then it has one of the best off-grid beach camping at Ocean Beach to get away from it all. Apart from that, four-wheel driving is a favourite pastime, and people will find many different ways to explore the National Park. 

➡ South Brisbane Areas

10. Manly

(Best for Outdoor people, Ocean or Marina Views)

Manly is a seaside suburb about 30 minutes and a great day trip from the City. People will enjoy the relaxed lifestyle and are well known for the Manly Boat Harbour/Marina and the water sports you can partake in. 

This is the best area for anyone that likes the water, boat harbours, sunset walks, and seaside cafes. However, this does not give you direct access to swimming and ultimately for the views only. 

➡  Click HERE to find Manly Hotel Deals with Booking.com

This is your best access point to Moreton Island, and there will be various boats or sailing trips that will leave from here. If you’re a scuba diver, then we have some brilliant year-round diving locations available, leaving from Manly. 

Apart from that, you can indulge in the local seafood restaurants, Tapas bars, or cute little corner cafes. The outdoor people can check out the Wynnum Wading pool, which is just one of the places to swim in and around Brisbane. 

11. Wellington Point

( Best for Family’s & Outdoor)

The suburb of Wellington Point is your escape from reality and perched on a peninsula. It’s a busy local hangout on the weekends for family gatherings, photographers after sunset or sunrise locations, or people looking for exercise. 

One of the more popular past times would be to walk out to King Island. Yes, you read that right, and a very unique experience being able to walk to any Island. This can only be done at low tide but is easy enough for young or old to complete.

➡  Click HERE to find Wellington Point Hotel Deals with Booking.com

The entire walk takes about 40 minutes, and a big hit for the kids to chase the soldier crabs in the mangrove surroundings.

You will find the water is used a lot here for calm swimming for the kids, kayaking through the waters, jet skiing, and wind/kite surfing on a good day. The long jetty provides a great spot for fishing, and you might be lucky to catch an old Snapper, Taylor, or Bream.

How to get around Brisbane?

The Public Transport options are endless in the with Trains, buses, ferries, scooters, and also free loop services in the vicinity. Most of these are run by Translink and easily paid with a Go Card. 

You can watch You Tube HERE to help explain the public transport system, and how to get around.

If you intend on venturing further out of the city or staying in one of the greater Brisbane areas, then it’s probably going to be more convenient to hire your own car. Apart from that, you do have the option for Ubers and Taxis to get you around. 

➡Find your favourite brand & compare prices for your Rental Car HERE

Wrap up!

Thanks for reading today’s blog on the best areas to stay in Brisbane and I hope you have found what you’re looking for. No matter which area you choose to stay in, this city will certainly have you covered for options?

I think there is something to suit everyone’s budget, style, convenience, and location. However, If you’re still researching, please explore other Brisbane blogs here for planning and inspiration.

• Brisbane at night, Fun things to see and do
• Skip the Brisbane Airtrain: Save Using my Airport Hack
• Best Day Trips from Brisbane & South East Queensland
• 5 Day Brisbane Itinerary in South East Queensland
• Closest Motels/Hotels to Brisbane Airport
• Brisbane Vs Gold Coast – Which one is better to visit?
• Sydney to Brisbane Road Trip Stops & Itinerary