The Best Hotels to Book in Brisbane for Every Traveller

W Hotels are known for their maximalist approach to decor, something that is wildly apparent at W Brisbane. When it opened in 2018, it was billed as the first five-star hotel to open in Brisbane for 20 years – luckily it’s lived up to the hype. Perfectly placed next to Brisbane River, the hotel takes its cue from Queensland culture. Expect timber reeds, outback-style corrugated-iron bathtubs and in-room retro cocktail bars.

Sitting pretty beneath Brisbane’s iconic Story Bridge, The Fantauzzo is a hotel you can definitely judge by its facade. Inspired by Australian artist Vincent Fantauzzo – it’s part of the Art Series Hotel collection – you’ll find hundreds of Fantauzzo’s original pieces and giclée prints line the walls. When you’re not lounging on your in-room emerald velvet sofa, make a beeline to the rooftop pool for glorious views of the river.

If Glossier and Aesop had a hotel baby, we think this would be the result. Think rose-coloured marble counters, towering concrete columns, blond timber flooring – and that’s just the hotel bar. Rooms are deliciously minimalist, arches and half-moon shapes add a soft feel, and it’s worth opting for one of the rooms with a luxe round tub if you can.

One of Brisbane’s first design hotels, Limes is known for its buzzing al fresco rooftop bar. When there’s no revellers above, nursing tipples into the wee hours, there’s complimentary health and fitness classes taking place. Rooms are snug but large enough to fit king-sized beds and three of the rooms come with private gardens, complete with a comfy hammock.

Another member of Art Series Hotels, the Johnson is inspired by Australian artist Michael Johnson, with over 400 of his vibrant works lining the walls. The 96 apartment-style rooms are muted with pops of colour – courtesy of the art – and many have balconies overlooking Brisbane’s skyline. Hire one of the blue vintage Lekker bikes from the lobby to explore the surrounding area.

Wedged between art galleries, cafes and live music venues in Fortitude Valley, Ovolo is a delightful recent addition to the city hotel scene and a great place to stay in Brisbane. The unassuming facade makes way for a fun, eclectic vibe – you’ll be greeted by fuchsia-hued velvet sofas, plenty of greenery and custom wallpaper. Rooms continue the spirited palette, but it’s the rooftop pool, free minibar and complimentary sundowners that we love the most.

Planted window boxes scale up the side of Sage Hotel, adding a touch of greenery to every room. This design hotel is big on local, everything from its fabrics to staff uniforms and photography are sourced from the immediate area, plus minibars are stocked with ales from nearby Newstead Brewing Co. Rooms are inspired by inky hues – a contrast to the stark white bathrooms – and there’s a complimentary car service for those who don’t feel like walking into the city centre.

Tucked away in the exclusive Kangaroo Point area, the Point Brisbane boasts glimpses of the Brisbane River, Story Bridge and the city’s skyline from its 202 rooms. The palm-fringed pool is perfect for sticky Australian summers, while the in-house Lamberts Restaurant has a farm-to-table ethos. Kangaroo loin and Mooloolaba-caught local swordfish are menu highlights, followed by its signature Nutella martini, of course.

A Fortitude Valley stalwart, right next to Chinatown, Amelia Hotel is Brisbane boutique on a budget. Each room is individually designed – many with vibrant ceiling artworks – but provide all the comforts you need. Ask the friendly staff about arranging activities during your stay, whether you fancy visiting the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or want to check out the Mt Coot-tha Lookout.