Known for its awesome cultural scene, the capital of Queensland is a seriously cool destination. However, you don’t just come to Brisbane for the city. In the same area, you’ll find sub-tropical beaches perfect for wildlife watching. You can also tick mountain hiking and vineyards off your list from here – everything you could want on an epic trip!
Even if you’re travelling out in Queensland’s bush, it still makes sense to use Brisbane as your base. If you’ve been travelling long term, you might want a change of scenery from a hotel or a hostel, so check out vacation rentals in Brisbane instead; they’re full of character and offer great value for money.
That’s where we come in. We’re going to show you the 14 best Airbnbs in Brisbane, arranged according to price and travel style. Not only that, we’ll show you our favourite Airbnb Experiences, too. Ready? Let’s get started!
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Brisbane
Peaceful by the River
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Balcony with river view
- > Free Parking
Private room in Woolloongabba
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Well equipped kitchen
- > Good location
Restored Queensland Cottage
- > $$$$$$$
- > 4 Guests
- > Awesome location
- > Heritage listed cottage
Alderley Studio
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Private porch
- > Garden views
Lush Poolside 1 Bedroom Guest Suite
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > Laptop friendly workspace
- > Lush garden views
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Brisbane
There is a huge range of Airbnbs in Brisbane. From a stylish inner-city one-bedroom apartment to stunning townhouses in South Brisbane, and even farm stays if you’re willing to go further out, there’ll be something to suit your budget.
What you get from Airbnbs in Brisbane depends on a few things – the most obvious being budget. At the lower end of the scale, you’ll have to make do with a private room in your host’s flat or home. Happily, though, most do allow you to use their kitchen and living spaces.
Spend some more, and you’ll be able to get an entire place – great if you want some privacy or are travelling in a group. The majority of rental properties you’ll find here have a local feeling – though, in some of the bigger apartments, you may be dealing with a business!
There are more than 200 townhouses in and around Brisbane, though you won’t find them so much in the city centre. You will find them within a stone’s throw through – in districts such as Redhill, Newmarket, and Rosalie.
Townhouses are mostly larger properties, so are suitable for groups of family and friends. However, a couple whose budget isn’t too tight and who are looking for privacy could also benefit. If you’re travelling solo and want the full Brisbane townhouse experience, you’ll be pleased to know there are several private rooms in townhouses available, where you’ll have access to the knowledge of your local host.
Now for one of the more unique accommodations in Brisbane. A farm stay will help you get acquainted with the surrounding areas – and since they’re managed by local hosts, you’ll get some great tips on not only what to see and do, but awesome places to eat and drink – as well as perhaps hiking and swimming the areas around Brisbane.
In recent years, tiny houses have become more and more popular – and the best place to find them is on Airbnb! Though there’s not a clear definition of a tiny house, it’s safe to say you can expect it to be a lot smaller than a townhouse and a nice alternative to a one-bedroom apartment.
The Top 14 Airbnbs in Brisbane
Now that you know what to expect and why to book an Airbnb in Brisbane, let’s get to the part you’ve been waiting for. Our 14 best Airbnbs are arranged by category – so it won’t be hard to find the one most suitable for you. Let’s go!
Peaceful by the River | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Brisbane
This one-bedroom apartment is perfect for a solo traveller or a couple, this river view property is one of the best value properties in Brisbane. The queen bed is a wonderful place to come home to after a day of exploring the city and its surroundings. If you’re not ready to sleep, just boot up the Smart TV and catch a movie on Netflix – or how about cooling off in the swimming pool? This cosy inner city pad is in a convenient location right on the Brisbane River. You’ve got your own private balcony so you can take in the views over to the Brisbane CBD.
Private room in Woolloongabba | Best Budget Airbnb in Brisbane
Finding a budget Airbnb in Brisbane isn’t easy, but it is possible. You not only get your own bedroom in this fully-furnished apartment but access to a big living room, too. Should you want to keep your costs down even further by avoiding eating out, make dinner in the fully equipped kitchen. What more for your money? Well, this modern apartment is in an amazing location in South Brisbane within walking distance of public transport. There’s also a fitness centre and swimming pool as well as air conditioning!
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Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on OspreyRestored Queensland Cottage | Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in Brisbane
This Airbnb Plus property really has a bit of everything. The beautifully restored cottage started off life as a Queenslander workers cottage, so you’re actually staying in a bit of living history! More than 100 years old, it has gorgeous antique furniture and ornate designs throughout. Despite the age and olde worlde charm, it is packed with contemporary features like a fully equipped kitchen and air conditioning. Vintage mixed with cutting edge! Oh, there’s free parking too, rare for rentals in Brisbane!
Alderley Studio | Perfect Brisbane Airbnb for Solo Travellers
If you’re looking to keep your costs down and have a local experience while travelling solo, then a Brisbane homestay is the right option for you. The Alderley Studio is one of the nicest you could have – it’s more than just a private room. The house is located a little further from the Brisbane CBD than some of the others, but it’s still an excellent location if you want to experience local life. It’s also within walking distance to a train station too, so you can be in Brisbane city centre in no time.
There’s a private decking overlooking the garden, your very own bathroom, and a queen bed. All for a fraction of the price of a hotel. What more could you want?! Free parking and air conditioning? Ok, go on then!
Lush Poolside 1 Bedroom Guest Suite | Perfect Short Term Airbnb in Brisbane for Digital Nomads
Travelling as a digital nomad is pretty great – as long as you have a laptop-friendly workspace and quick Wi-Fi, you’re good to go. At this self-contained garden studio, you get even more than that and it’s just 3km from Brisbane city centre. There’s your own private bathroom and fully equipped – so you can have breakfast, get showered, and work all without leaving your room! Need to be inspired? You will be by the beautiful garden views, oh, there’s a swimming pool too! It’s one of the most wonderful rentals in Brisbane.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Brisbane
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Brisbane!
Riverview 25th Floor Apartment | Best Short Term Rental for Couples
If you’re travelling with your other half, you’ll surely want to be near all the restaurants, bars, and hotspots that Brisbane has to offer. Look no further than this serviced apartment in the centre. As well as the wonderful location, you’ll have a king-size bed and an outdoor terrace with splendid views across the Brisbane CBD. At the end of a busy day of exploring, come back for a romantic soak in the hot tub or hit the gym!
This one-bedroom apartment an in an excellent location on the South Bank of the Brisbane River. It’s super close to public transport too so getting to the Brisbane CBD and exploring places like Queen Street Mall is easy.
Clara @ Wynnum | Best Airbnb in Brisbane for Families
This guest suite has excellent review scores, room for five guests, and three beds across two bedrooms – making it perfect for any family staying in Brisbane. You’re in an excellent location for enjoying the best of both worlds: the beach is within walking distance and so is the Wynnum Central Train Station, so you can easily access all the attractions Brisbane city centre has to offer, such as Queen Street Mall. Families with young children will be pleased to know a high chair is available, there’s also free parking and air conditioning, so it’s got to be one of the best family rentals in Brisbane.
Stunning Inner City Townhouse | Best Townhouse in Brisbane
This stylish townhouse is everything you could want from these types of rentals in Brisbane. The townhouse is in the hip and happening Newmarket area, just a stone’s throw from Brisbane city centre on public transport. The private garden is a great place to chill out when the weather is right for it (which is most of the time), and architects have cleverly maximised the space inside. There’s on-site free parking too for those who have rented cars.
Highvale Cottage | Best Farm Stay in Brisbane
A farm stay is all about escaping the hustle and bustle of the city while still being near enough to enjoy all the attractions. So, check out this comfortable country style home in Brookfield. The rural village is about 30km from Brisbane and it’s easy to get there with your own car or public transport. However, you’ll want to spend at least some of your time on site, where you can feed chickens and collect their eggs. Nearby, you also have a creek for hiking, picnicking, and mountain biking! It’s got to be one of the most fun and unique rentals in Brisbane!
The Old Church | Most Unique Airbnb in Brisbane
You’ve already seen a heritage-listed cottage – but if that’s not enough for you, then how about a church?! This converted church has four bedrooms and can sleep up to seven guests. The quirky accommodation offers a four-poster queen bed and super cool interiors and communal spaces. It’s just over the road from the Suncorp Stadium, so if you’re in town for sports, there’s nowhere better.
Modern House with Heated Pool | Most Beautiful Airbnb in Brisbane
Though the church we’ve just mentioned was a contender for this category, we’ve decided on something more modern. This cool house with a heated swimming pool is not all about the looks, though. It also boasts a huge entertaining area outside, with a BBQ where you can host multiple guests. Weather not right for it? Head inside to relax in one of two living areas – or enjoy a meal in the poolside dining area. Located in South Brisbane it’s just a short walk to the train station so it’s easy to head into Brisbane city centre if you can bring yourself to leave this place!
Mr B’s Cottage | Best Airbnb in Red Hill
It isn’t easy to decide on the best Airbnb in Red Hill, but this might just be it. Another traditional workers’ cottage, don’t be fooled by the classic exterior. Once you get inside, you’ll find a 55 inch Smart TV, DVD Player, and Bluetooth stereo system. There’s a local touch in here, too – with artwork from the area displayed on the walls. You’ll not only see Queensland’s landmarks but flora and fauna too.
Spacious Bright Apartment | Best Airbnb for a Weekend in Brisbane
If you’re spending a weekend in Brisbane, you’ll want to be close to all the attractions. Well, you’re in luck! You have the awesome South Bank area, Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park, and Brisbane City Botanic Gardens all within a kilometre. You might even be able to see some of them from the balcony! As well as the attractions, the city’s best bars and restaurants are also on your doorstep. Not bad, eh?
Cosy Courtyard Oasis | Best Airbnb in Brisbane for a Group of Friends
Another Airbnb Plus property, this one permits six guests to properly relax and enjoy each other’s company. You can do that on the outdoor patio – or if the weather isn’t right for it, enjoy Netflix or a game on the Xbox in the living room. As well as two bedrooms (one with bunk beds), you can whip up some food in the kitchenette.
What To Pack For Brisbane
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Brisbane Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Brisbane Airbnbs
So, there you have it. Not only have you seen the 15 best Airbnbs in Brisbane, but also five of the coolest things you can do there. Whether you want a city centre apartment, a farm stay in the countryside, or a townhouse suitable for the whole family, we hope you’ve found your dream stay.
And if you’re still weighing up a few, let us remind you one last time of our overall best value Airbnb in Brisbane – Peaceful by the River. Not only is it in a great location, but it also offers sublime value for money, and there are wonderful views of the Brisbane River.
As well as encouraging you on how to book your trip, let us leave you with one last piece of advice. Take out a travel insurance policy with World Nomads. It’ll mean your vacation is not only awesome but safe too.
- Check out our Backpacking Australia guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Brisbane guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the most beautiful places in Australia too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of Australia.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip around Australia.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
