The capital city of the Sunshine State exudes warmth with tropical temperatures and a laid-back lifestyle that has earnt Brisbane a place in the top ten most liveable cities in the world. At the heart of the city flows the river, with an array of water based activities to cool off from the summer sun; forget hitting the pavements, take a river cruise from your luxury hotel and explore this city by water. Strung along the river is an eclectic collection of urban suburbs to explore from your luxury accommodation, featuring charming shops, shady parks and classic Queenslander architecture, interspersed with a plentiful selection of cafes to sip your perfectly brewed latte. Discover colonial heritage buildings and the City Botanical Gardens where huge Moreton Bay Fig trees offer the ultimate green oasis for quiet strolls, picnics or a laze in the sunshine. At South Bank Parklands, you can swim at the artificial riverside beach, or visit museums and art galleries to learn more about Australian culture both past and present. Brisbane also serves as a perfect gateway to the beautiful golden beaches of the Gold and Sunshine Coasts for which Queensland is renowned.
267 Grey Street, South Brisbane, 4101 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 9.2 Superb
If you are looking for a 5 Star rated CBD hotel in Brisbane, the Emporium Hotel South Bank is an excellent choice. An impressive boutique hotel located right in the heart of the action, the property is centrally located near the Brisbane Exhibition Centre and the magnificent City Botanical Gardens.
The hotel offers 143 beautifully appointed suites, all of which feature views of the river, parklands or the onsite swimming pool. Rooms feature a range of exquisite amenities including large ensuite marble bathrooms, a deluxe Sealy Dynasty Series bed and a 55 inch mirror-finish television. Some rooms also have private balconies.
Onsite the hotel offers 4 terrific restaurants and bars including the Belle Époque, a wonderful French inspired patisserie and the flagship Signature Restaurant, which showcases the freshest local seasonal produce and a great collection of wines. The Terrace and the Piano Bar both serve an excellent selection of snacks, beers and cocktails too.
Boasting a delightful swimming pool and a fitness centre, the hotel also promotes helicopter tours of the city. In addition its Healing Stone spa and wellness centre provides a range of Japanese treatments including shiatsu, ganbanyoku, facial acupoint, oil massage and reflexology. The property also has a number of dedicated spaces for weddings and events.
458 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley, 4006 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 8.8 Fabulous
Rated 5 stars, the Hotel X Brisbane Fortitude Valley is one of the most prestigious hotels in Brisbane. Close to the New Farm Riverwalk, the Queen Street Mall and New Farm Park, the hotel provides a luxurious place to stay in a convenient central location – just minutes from some of the city’s best bars, restaurants, shops and nightlife.
Exuding bold design and ornate finishes, rooms at the hotel showcase stunning art, impressive textures and innovative lighting. Furnished with a flat screen smart TV, a Lavazza espresso machine, a complimentary iPad, fridge and private bathroom with a shower, the accommodation is stylish and comfortable. It even comes with complimentary Karl Lagerfeld Amenities and a pillow menu.
Food options at the hotel include the mouthwatering dishes on offer at Bisou Bisou. A fabulous French bistro that is open everyday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Iris Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, which is open from Wednesday to Sunday, also serves delicious Mediterranean inspired meals and drinks against a backdrop of sweeping city views.
The hotel has a rooftop swimming pool for guests to enjoy. It also has a very good in-house gym as well as a nanny service, for those wishing to have some couples time. In addition to business and event facilities, the property also has a first class concierge service, 24-hour front desk and airport shuttle service.
73 Wickham Terrace, Spring Hill, 4000 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 8.7 Fabulous
The Inchcolm by Ovolo is a luxury accommodation provider that resides imperiously in the Brisbane CBD. Contained within a stunning 1920s neo-Georgian building, this 5 star property epitomises style and grace. Close to all the city’s main attractions, the Queen Street Mall, Southbank and the Story Bridge are all within easy walking distance.
This deluxe boutique hotel offers chic rooms and suites that feature Avant Garde colours schemes and plush amenities. All air-conditioned, they are furnished with a flat-screen TV, minibar, tea and coffee making facilities and private bathroom with a shower. In addition the hotel also runs a Daily Martini Hour where your first drink is free!
For something to eat, The Inchcolm Bar is a throwback to the golden age of bistro style gastronomy. Offering all day dining, the caviar served with blinis and oysters Kilpatrick make wonderful accompaniments to a cocktail or martini. While their Moreton Bay Bug Spaghetti or Inchy Wagyu Beef Burger will more than satisfy you for dinner.
The hotel offers guests complimentary access to the gym facilities at Fitness First Elizabeth Street, which is situated just 700 metres away. It also has a sun terrace, meeting rooms and a business centre, a concierge, 24 hour front desk and a tour desk that can book excursions for you.
550 Queen Street, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 7.3 Good
Formerly known as the Spire Residence, the Queen St Residence is a 5 star deluxe accommodation located in the heart of one of Brisbane’s busiest streets. Just 700 metres from the Queen Street Mall, the property is also close to Anzac Square, the New Farm Riverwalk, Southbank and the City Botanical Gardens.
Stylishly appointed with guest’s comfort in mind, each unit features a balcony. In addition they also boast a fully equipped kitchen that comes with a dishwasher, as well as a private bathroom with shower. The units also have a washing machine, flat screen TV and a very pleasant seating area to relax in.
To support your kitchen, all apartments also come with a barbeque. However if you would prefer to eat out Brisbane has a huge range of dining options to suit all budgets and tastes. Many of them are located in and around the Queen Street Mall and Eagle Street Pier areas – both of which are within easy walking distance.
The property features a fantastic rooftop infinity pool that overlooks both the Brisbane River and the CBD. It is also a great spot to watch the sunset too, especially from the onsite sun terrace. Other facilities within this accommodation include access to a fitness centre, a secured parking space and free Wi-Fi in all areas.
515 Queen Street, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 8.5 Very Good
The Brisbane Marriott Hotel offers 5 Star luxury accommodation in a fabulous CBD location that overlooks the magnificent Story Bridge. Having recently undergone a $20 million renovation, the property is an excellent option for those wanting to base themselves near New Farm Riverwalk, the Brisbane Showground, Eagle Street Pier or Suncorp Stadium.
Designed in a contemporary urban style that pairs subtle cream and brown tones with state-of-the-art amenities, rooms at the hotel are all allergy free. Furnished with stunning marble bathrooms complete with separate bath and shower, they also feature king beds and premium bedding, as well as flat-screen TVs, a mini-refrigerator and beautiful views of the Brisbane River.
Onsite, the restaurant and bar options include a number of delicious seafood and steak dishes at Motion Dining. You can also enjoy all day dining of internationally inspired meals at the M Bar. Which also serves a great range of cocktails and one Brisbane’s most considerable selections of fine wines during the evening.
A premier destination for weddings in Brisbane, this hotel also has a number of function rooms available. In addition it hosts an outdoor pool that showcases panoramic views of the city, as well as a 24-hour fitness centre, replete with cardio machines and free weights and a steam room. A tour desk, concierge and multi-lingual staff are also available.
249 Turbot Street, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 8.1 Very Good
Providing an immediate entry to the Central Railway Station, the Sofitel Brisbane Central spoils guests with a brilliant location and deluxe 5 star hotel accommodation. Just 800 metres from the Roma Street Station, the Anzac Square, Queen Street Mall, King George Square and Wintergarden can also all be reached within minutes on foot.
Inspired by French sophistication, each of the 416 rooms and suites at the hotel are blessed with upscale décor and modern amenities, designed to ensure your stay is as enjoyable as possible. These include marble bathrooms with satellite TV and bathrobes, work desks and minibars. Suites also have Nespresso machines and separate living rooms.
The hotel is blessed with a number of fabulous dining and bar options. These include the Thyme² Restaurant which serves a delicious buffet breakfast and an a la carte all day dining menu. It also includes the bistro-style restaurant, Harlequin Jack and Sophie’s Deli. You can also order food at the Poolside or enjoy cocktails at Cuvée Lounge Bar.
An excellent hotel for weddings and businesses, the Sofitel contains 15 conference rooms that can collectively accommodate up to 1100 people. It also offers spa and wellness treatments at Stephanies® French inspired Spa Retreat, an outdoor swimming pool and a games room. While the tour desk is available to book excursions.
190 Elizabeth Street, Brisbane CBD, 4001 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 8.4 Very Good
Looking for a centrally located luxury 5 star hotel in the heart of the Brisbane CBD? Then look no further than the Hilton Brisbane. Designed by Harry Seidler and connected to the Queen Street Mall, the hotel is also just a stone’s throw from the Wintergarden, Brisbane Arcade, Metro Arts Theatre and King George Square.
Showcasing lovely city views, rooms at the property are airy and spacious. They feature a range of plush amenities designed for your convenience and comfort. This includes air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels and private bathrooms with walk-in shower. Some rooms have bathtubs too. In addition they also contain a chaise lounge and a work desk.
For your gastronomic pleasure the Vintaged Bar + Grill serve a fantastic range of bar food, dinner menus and cocktails that champion seasonal Aussie produce. Cone Bay Barramundi, Duck Confit and Roasted Porchetta are just some of the gastronomic delights available. Those who enjoy a lovely high tea should also check out the restaurant’s offering.
Boasting an excellent outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace, guests can also play on the hotel’s tennis court, or work out in their well-equipped fitness centre. Also available to use is a business centre complete with meeting facilities. While a concierge, valet parking, 24 hour reception and tour desk are at your disposal too.
Cnr Roma and Ann Street, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 7.0 Good
One of the best 5 Star Deluxe Hotels in the city, the Pullman Brisbane King George Square enjoys an excellent location directly opposite City Hall. Located in the CBD, the property is very close to some of the main tourists attractions in the area including Museum of Brisbane, King George Square and Wintergarden.
Characterised by their stylish accents and modern designs, rooms at the hotel convey views of Roma Street Gardens, the city skyscape or the inner-courtyard. They include large marble bathrooms with double vanity and Co Biggelow bathroom amenities, a flatscreen television with 24 hour on-demand movies, a large working desk and tea and coffee making facilities.
Overseen by Executive Chef, Rahul Raj, the hotel offers three dining choices including the Goldfish Restaurant & Street Café, which serves Mediterranean inspired dishes and the Sixteen Antlers Rooftop Bar, which serves excellent light bites and cocktails while showcasing panoramic views of the Brisbane skyline. An in-room dining option is available too.
The outdoor rooftop pool and sundeck is one of the best in the city, while the rooftop gymnasium has state-of-the-art apparatus including equipment TV’s. A popular hotel for weddings and events, the Pullman also has a 24 hour front desk, business facilities, a concierge service and a dedicated desk where you can book tours and outings.
72 QUEEN ST, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 8.3 Very Good
Enjoying a superb location directly opposite the Queen Street Mall, the Hyatt Regency Brisbane is a great choice of 5 star luxury hotel for those who want to be based in the CBD. Close to King George Square and the Brisbane Arcade, the property is an excellent base to explore all the main highlights of the city.
Each of the hotel’s 292 air-conditioned rooms feature contemporary décor and luxe amenities. Showcasing views of the Brisbane River or CBD, they contain a private bathroom with walk-in shower, 48-inch flat-screen TV, free movies and satellite channels, an espresso coffee machine with free coffee, a refrigerator and a dedicated workspace.
Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner Lennons Restaurant and Bar provides a menu of tasty comfort food made from locally produced seasonal ingredients. The famous Wonder Pies by Ray Capaldi is also available here. At the bar you can order coffee with fresh pastries and a range of wines, beers and cocktails in the evening.
The hotel offers a fantastic rooftop swimming pool with a pool-side bar and terrace. It also has a fitness centre for guests to use, as well as business services, meeting rooms, a laundry and concierge. Other facilities include secured parking, a ticket service, 24 hour front desk and VIP rooms.
5 Boundary Street, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 8.7 Fabulous
Previously known as The Fantauzzo, the Crystalbrook Vincent is a magnificent 5 star hotel that offers guests luxury accommodation in the vibrant heart of Brisbane’s CBD. Very close to the Story Bridge and New Farm Riverwalk, the hotel provides an excellent downtown location in which to explore the main attractions in the city.
Embracing an eco-friendly ‘responsible luxury’ design philosophy, all of the 166 contemporary rooms and suites in the hotel contain artwork prints from the renowned Australian artist Vincent Fantauzzo. Decorated with panache, rooms feature a Nespresso machine with complimentary recyclable pods, 55” HD Smart TV, private bathroom with rainforest shower and 100% waste-free bathroom luxe Immersion amenities.
The Howard Smith Wharves, with its awesome selection of cafes, restaurants and bars, is not far from the hotel. But if you would rather not to stray from the property you can dine at Polpetta, which offers up authentic Italian meals, or visit Fiume, a rooftop pool and bar, for cocktails, wines and other alcoholic beverages.
As well as an outdoor swimming pool and a sun terrace, the Crystalbrook features a fitness and wellness centre. It also has an art display, business centre, meeting and banqueting facilities, 24-hour front desk, concierge service, dry cleaning service and a tour desk that can arrange tickets to local sights and attractions for you.
81 North Quay, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 8.8 Fabulous
Choose W Brisbane for a luxury hotel with a hip vibe. Situated in the Brisbane CBD, its riverside location affords it gorgeous views. The hotel is within walking distance of the Queensland Museum, Queen Street Mall and the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Each guestroom features large windows that provide stunning views of Brisbane and plenty of natural light. The custom furnishings are inspired by Queensland heritage and the relaxed Aussie vibe. Rooms include a large TV, 24-hour room service, complimentary internet, and W signature beds. The ensuites feature Bliss® bath amenities, a deep bathtub and separate rain shower.
High above the ground, guests can work out in the state-of-the-art hotel gym while looking out over the Brisbane skyline. To relax and rejuvenate, Away Spa provides many premium spa treatments. The shaded, heated WET® Deck pool has a line of sunbeds next to it, positioned perfectly to enjoy the warm Australian sun.
Three Blue Ducks is the hotel’s main dining establishment. It features a seasonal menu that celebrates high quality, sustainable produce. At the Living Room Bar guests can enjoy the comfortable atmosphere and socialise over premium beverages and gourmet snacks. Next to the pool is WET® Deck, a rooftop bar with riverside views, Aussie barbeque, and live DJs.
Corner of Edward Street & Margaret Street, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 8.3 Very Good
Boasting stunning river views from almost every guestroom, the Stamford Plaza Brisbane is a luxury hotel which overlooks the iconic Storey Bridge and scenic Kangaroo Point Cliffs. It is less than 10-minutes’ walk from the Queen Street Mall, Queensland Parliament and Brisbane City Botanic Gardens.
The elegantly appointed rooms feature classic furnishings with a timeless design. Large windows allow for plenty of natural light and the rooms include comfortable beds, complimentary Wi-Fi and bottled water, an executive desk and 24-hour room service. The luxurious marble bathrooms have a large vanity, bath, and separate shower.
Up on the third-floor of the hotel guests can enjoy recreational facilities that overlook the Brisbane River. The 24-hour gymnasium is well-equipped for strength, cardiovascular and yoga based workouts. Out on the sundeck, the heated outdoor pool is surrounded by sunbeds and a dining menu is conveniently available. The space also features a whirlpool spa.
Stamford Plaza Brisbane is home to three dining establishments. At The Brasserie on the River, diners can enjoy fresh local produce and the succulent Riverside Seafood Buffet, featuring premium seafood. Kabuki Teppanyaki Restaurant is a dramatic and unique experience of authentic Japanese culture and cuisine. Meanwhile, The Pav Bar is a relaxed French courtyard space, perfect for social gatherings.
130 William St, Brisbane CBD, 4001 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 8.8 Fabulous
For an opulent escape look no further than Treasury Brisbane. Built on the northern bank of the Brisbane River, this luxury hotel is in the heart of the Brisbane CBD and next to the Queen Street Mall.
The richly appointed rooms feature old-world opulence paired with the luxuries of modern day. High ceilings create a spacious feeling, and the rooms have supportive beds, an executive work desk and luxe marble ensuite. Guests have access to complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service.
To ensure a premium experience, guests have exclusive access to a well-equipped gymnasium and can speak to the attentive staff to organise a range of services including tours, massages, luggage storage and transportation. The building is also home to the Treasury Brisbane Casino.
At Black Hide by Gambero, diners can enjoy an extensive selection of premium Australian steaks and seafood. Fat Noodle merges Australian produce with Vietnamese cuisine, while Mei Wei Dumplings is hawker-style Cantonese. For relaxed, home-style dining guests can visit Kitchen At Treasury. The Lab is a wonderful place for an elegant breakfast or classic High Tea, Will & Flow enjoys stunning views of the river and Ryan’s On The Park is a lounge bar, perfect for catching up.
80 Albert Street, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane, Australia
Rating: 8.1 Very Good
Capri by Fraser Brisbane features an indoor swimming pool, a sauna, and a 24/7 fitness centre. Located in the heart of Brisbane CBD (Central Business District), this stylish urban accommodation is just 500 metres walk from Queen Street Mall. Guests enjoy free WiFi.
Capri by Fraser Brisbane is 3 minutes’ walk from City Botanic Gardens, 7 minutes’ walk from Eagle Street Pier and 8 minutes’ walk from Museum of Brisbane. It is 5 minutes’ drive from Suncorp Stadium and 20 minutes’ drive from Brisbane Airport.
All rooms are air-conditioned and offer a flat-screen TV. They feature a coffee machine and an on-demand minibar. You can enjoy city views. The bathrooms feature a shower, free toiletries, a bathrobe and slippers.
Black Fire Restaurant produce some of Australia’s finest Mediterranean cuisine, serving delicious organic and fresh seasonal produce grown and sourced locally.
The capital city of sunny Queensland, Brisbane is a great destination to see and explore. After securing accommodation at a luxury hotel in the city, it is time to plan your personalised travel itinerary. To assist you in organising your dream vacation, we have compiled a list of the top things to see and do, in and around Brisbane.
Located in Fortitude Valley, James Street is a haven for those who enjoy fine dining and boutique shopping. Many of Australia’s finest designers and luxury brands have flagship stores or boutiques along this road, including Camilla, Zimmermann, Natasha Schweitzer, Aje and Bespoked. There are also international homewares stores and art galleries selling pieces from contemporary Australian artists. Once you have finished shopping you can choose a fine dining restaurant to enjoy, such as Gerard’s Bistro, Bucci and Hellenika.
Throughout the day you can hop aboard a comfortable ferry and cruise along the Brisbane River, taking in the riverside city sights. Many of these cruises offer high tea or dinner service, and you can choose the route depending on the sights you are most interested in looking at. If you want to go further afield, there are also ocean-going sailboats that head up the river and out into picturesque Moreton and Horseshoe Bays’.
Located under the iconic Story Bridge, Howard Smith Wharves is filled with a range of dining establishments to suit every occasion and palate. You can choose to enjoy one of a range of different experience, including a beer hall atmosphere, delicious Italian food, a European beach club vibe, homestyle cooking with a gourmet twist or an energetic Japanese bistro. After your meal enjoy a drink at Fiume, a rooftop bar above the wharves that has a sweeping view of the river.
In the heart of Brisbane is the Queensland Cultural Centre, home to the state’s premier art, culture, and historical institutions. At the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) you can view a large collection of works by artists from across the ages. Nearby, Queensland Museum showcases a range of artefacts which teach visitors about different parts of history including the dinosaurs, ANZAC legacy, extinct creatures, and Australian biodiversity. Also in the precinct is the Queensland Performing Arts Centre which hosts different shows throughout the year.
From Brisbane you can organise to spend a day out in the gorgeous Springbrook National Park. This beautiful rainforest is filled with hiking trails to explore. You can walk up to, and behind, the stunning Twin Falls, and experience a panoramic view of the area from Canyon Lookout. Springbrook National Parks is also home to a population of glow worms, which can be seen after sunset in the Natural Bridge Cave.
The Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha are an incredible collection of gardens located just outside of Brisbane. There are themed sections for visitors to explore, including a fragrant garden with medical plants, a Japanese garden, tropical dome, collection of native rainforest trees, desert region space, Bonsai collection and bamboo grove. Only a short distance from the gardens is the Mount Coot-tha lookout, which overlooks the city of Brisbane and it perfect for sunset.
The Queen Street Mall is a large pedestrian shopping mall with a range of international and local luxury brands. Along the mall there are a few shopping centres, including Wintergarden, The Myer Centre and historic Brisbane Arcade. For more shopping, turn onto Albert Street and then make your way along Edward Street, Adelaide Street and Elisabeth Street. At the end of a hard-days retail-therapy, why not stop and refuel your body with one of the many fine eateries in the area. For details on some of the best places in Brisbane to grab a pizza check out our travel guide here.