Written by Simon on 29/09/2024

Budget-Friendly Hotels in Brisbane with Stunning Views

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Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is a city that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, finding the perfect accommodation that offers both comfort and a stunning view doesn’t have to break the bank. In this guide, I’ll share my personal experience staying at a budget-friendly hotel with breathtaking views in Brisbane, followed by recommendations for other great hotels that offer value and scenery, without compromising on quality.

My Stay at Ibis Styles Brisbane Elizabeth Street

Location: 40 Elizabeth Street, Brisbane City, QLD 4000

During my recent trip to Brisbane, I stayed at the Ibis Styles Brisbane Elizabeth Street, a hotel that perfectly balances affordability with comfort. Situated in the heart of the Brisbane CBD, this hotel offers not only a central location but also stunning views of the Brisbane River and the South Bank precinct.

How to Book:
Booking a room at the Ibis Styles Brisbane Elizabeth Street is straightforward. I used a popular online booking platform, but you can also book directly through the hotel’s website. The prices are very reasonable, especially considering the location and the view. I recommend booking a few weeks in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best rates.

Getting There:
The hotel is conveniently located just a short walk from the Brisbane Central train station, making it easily accessible from the airport or other parts of the city. If you’re arriving by car, the hotel offers parking, though it comes with an additional fee. I found that the best way to get around Brisbane from the hotel was by foot or using the extensive public transport network, with bus stops and ferry terminals nearby.

Environment and Facilities:
The moment I stepped into the lobby of the Ibis Styles, I was impressed by the bright, contemporary design. The hotel exudes a playful, modern vibe with colorful decor and an open, welcoming atmosphere. The check-in process was smooth, with friendly staff ready to assist with any queries.

The hotel offers a range of facilities, including free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a well-equipped fitness center, and a restaurant that serves a delicious buffet breakfast each morning. One of the highlights for me was the communal lounge area, where guests could relax and take in the panoramic views of the city and river.

The Room:
I stayed in a Queen Room with River View, and I must say, the view was absolutely stunning. The room was compact but well-designed, with all the essential amenities including a comfortable bed, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and a small desk. The floor-to-ceiling windows allowed for plenty of natural light, and waking up to the sight of the sun rising over the Brisbane River was a highlight of my stay.

The bathroom was modern and clean, with a walk-in shower and complimentary toiletries. While the room didn’t have much in the way of luxury features, it was more than sufficient for a comfortable stay, especially at the price point.

My Experience:
Overall, my stay at the Ibis Styles Brisbane Elizabeth Street was excellent. The combination of a central location, stunning views, and modern amenities made it great value for money. The hotel’s proximity to major attractions like the Queen Street Mall, the Brisbane Botanical Gardens, and the South Bank Parklands meant that I could easily explore the city on foot.

I particularly appreciated the friendly and helpful staff, who were always available to provide recommendations or assist with any needs. The hotel’s vibrant and welcoming atmosphere made it a pleasant place to return to after a day of exploring the city.

Rating:★★★★☆
For its price, location, and the quality of the view from my room, I would definitely recommend the Ibis Styles Brisbane Elizabeth Street to anyone looking for budget-friendly accommodation in the heart of Brisbane.

The Point Brisbane Hotel

Location: 21 Lambert Street, Kangaroo Point, QLD 4169

Located in the picturesque Kangaroo Point, The Point Brisbane Hotel is a great option for travelers seeking a mix of luxury and affordability. This four-star hotel offers stunning views of the Brisbane River and the city skyline, making it an ideal spot for those who want to enjoy the beauty of Brisbane without the hefty price tag of a five-star hotel.

Environment and Facilities:
The Point Brisbane is known for its elegant, modern design and offers a range of facilities that cater to both leisure and business travelers. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant and bar. One of the standout features is the rooftop bar, which offers panoramic views of the Brisbane River and cityscape—perfect for relaxing with a cocktail after a day of sightseeing.

Rooms:
The rooms at The Point Brisbane are spacious and well-appointed, with many offering private balconies where guests can enjoy the view. The Deluxe Studio Rooms are particularly popular, providing sweeping views of the river and city. All rooms come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and plush bedding to ensure a comfortable stay.

Accessibility:
Getting to The Point Brisbane is straightforward, with the hotel being just a short ferry ride from the Brisbane CBD. The free City Hopper ferry service stops near the hotel, making it easy to get to popular attractions such as South Bank and Eagle Street Pier. For those driving, the hotel offers free on-site parking, which is a great bonus in Brisbane.

Pricing:
While The Point Brisbane is slightly more expensive than some other budget options, the combination of luxurious amenities, spacious rooms, and stunning views makes it excellent value for money. Prices start from around AUD 150 per night, depending on the season and room type.

Arise Brisbane Skytower

Location: 222 Margaret Street, Brisbane City, QLD 4000

For travelers who want a mix of modern luxury and self-catering convenience, Arise Brisbane Skytower offers apartment-style accommodation in the heart of the city. This towering hotel provides stunning views from its upper floors, along with all the amenities needed for a comfortable and independent stay.

Environment and Facilities:
Arise Brisbane Skytower is a sleek, contemporary building that offers guests the luxury of space with apartment-style rooms. The hotel features a 24-hour reception, an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and even a private cinema room. One of the main attractions is the observation deck, where guests can take in 360-degree views of Brisbane from one of the tallest buildings in the city.

Rooms:
The apartments at Arise Brisbane Skytower range from one-bedroom to three-bedroom units, making it an ideal choice for both solo travelers and families. Each apartment includes a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and a spacious living area. The floor-to-ceiling windows in the living areas and bedrooms offer breathtaking views of the Brisbane River, the city, and beyond.

Accessibility:
The hotel is located in the Brisbane CBD, making it easily accessible by public transport or on foot from major city attractions. The nearby Central Station and Queen Street Bus Station provide convenient links to the airport and surrounding suburbs.

Pricing:
While the prices at Arise Brisbane Skytower are higher than typical budget hotels, they are reasonable considering the space, facilities, and views on offer. Rates typically start from AUD 200 per night for a one-bedroom apartment, but it’s worth it for those who prefer the convenience of a fully equipped apartment with stunning city views.

Mantra South Bank

Location: 161 Grey Street, South Brisbane, QLD 4101

Mantra South Bank is a popular choice for travelers who want to be close to Brisbane’s cultural heart. Located in the vibrant South Bank precinct, this hotel offers easy access to some of Brisbane’s best attractions, along with comfortable accommodation and beautiful views of the city.

Environment and Facilities:
The Mantra South Bank is a stylish, modern hotel that offers a range of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a gym, and an on-site restaurant. The hotel’s location in South Bank means it’s just steps away from the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, the Queensland Art Gallery, and the South Bank Parklands. Guests can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverfront or take in the cultural attractions that are right on the doorstep.

Rooms:
Rooms at Mantra South Bank are modern and comfortable, with many offering views of the Brisbane River or the city skyline. The hotel offers a variety of room types, from standard hotel rooms to self-contained apartments with kitchenettes, making it a versatile choice for different types of travelers. All rooms come with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and plush bedding to ensure a comfortable stay.

Accessibility:
The location of the Mantra South Bank is one of its biggest selling points. The hotel is just a short walk from South Brisbane train station, and there are numerous bus and ferry services nearby. For those driving, parking is available, though it comes at an additional cost.

Pricing:
Mantra South Bank offers excellent value for its location and amenities, with prices starting around AUD 160 per night. The hotel’s proximity to cultural attractions, dining options, and public transport makes it a great choice for visitors who want to explore Brisbane while enjoying a comfortable and affordable stay.

Oaks Brisbane Festival Suites

Location: 108 Albert Street, Brisbane City, QLD 4000

Located in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD, Oaks Brisbane Festival Suites offers apartment-style accommodation with stunning views and easy access to the city’s top attractions. This hotel is perfect for those who want the convenience of a central location without sacrificing comfort or views.

Environment and Facilities:
Oaks Brisbane Festival Suites is a modern, high-rise building that offers a range of facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a sauna. The hotel also has a barbecue area and a sun deck, where guests can relax and enjoy the city views. The on-site café serves a range of breakfast and light lunch options.

Rooms:
The hotel’s apartments are spacious and well-appointed, with many offering views of the city or the Brisbane River. Each apartment includes a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and a comfortable living area. The large windows provide plenty of natural light and offer fantastic views of the cityscape.

Accessibility:
Situated in the Brisbane CBD, Oaks Brisbane Festival Suites is easily accessible by public transport, with Central Station and several bus stops nearby. The hotel is also within walking distance of major attractions such as the Queen Street Mall and the Brisbane Botanical Gardens.

Pricing:
Oaks Brisbane Festival Suites provides good value for money, with rates starting from around AUD 180 per night. The combination of spacious, well-equipped apartments and a central location makes it a great choice for both short and long stays.

Brisbane offers a wide range of budget-friendly hotels that don’t compromise on views or comfort. Whether you’re looking for a central location, stunning river views, or the convenience of apartment-style living, there’s something for every traveler. From my experience at the Ibis Styles Brisbane Elizabeth Street, to the recommendations for The Point Brisbane Hotel, Arise Brisbane Skytower, Mantra South Bank, and Oaks Brisbane Festival Suites, each of these options provides a unique blend of affordability and stunning vistas.