Switch cookie-cutter for character-plus with our list of every excellent Airbnb in Brisbane.
While an influx of plush hotels dominates the Brisbane skyline, sometimes I crave relaxed home-style comfort, especially when I’m travelling in a group. Lived-in spaces present entirely vivid lifestyles, inviting fresh adventure without even venturing out. In the Queensland capital, the escapades know no bounds. From skyrise apartments and treehouses to an old, converted church, every standout Airbnb in Brisbane and its surrounds offers the key to unforgettable memory making. Here are my top picks.
In short
If you only stay in one Airbnb in Brisbane, make it Holdgate’s Cottage (if it’s available) for its elegant restoration of a gorgeous 1860s home. Plus, you’re less than 10 minutes’ drive from the CBD.
1. The Old Church
Try getting Hozier out of your head as you step into this heritage-listed Airbnb in Brisbane’s Petrie Terrace. Located right near Suncorp Stadium (footy weekend with the gang, perhaps?), the property has been renovated while retaining all the spectacular features of a traditional church – think stained glass windows, pitched ceilings and an old pew. Featuring four bedrooms and two bathrooms, The Old Church sleeps up to seven guests and offers air conditioning, vintage furniture, a 55-inch TV, Miele appliances and a Nespresso coffee machine in the kitchen, Sheridan towels in the bathroom, outdoor dining and a barbecue. Guests should note that there’s only a single car garage on-site, so multiple cars will need to comb the streets for spots.
Unique features: Heritage-listed bones built in the 1800s
Price: From about $520 per night
2. Ting Tong Treehouse
Tap into childlike wonder at Ting Tong Treehouse, a pure fairytale Airbnb in Brisbane suited to couples. Housing two guests, the itty-bitty space is cosy yet stacked with luxe spoils like an outdoor free-standing claw-footed tub and a wall-mounted smart TV. Located in Highvale, which is about 35 minutes’ drive from the centre of town, the retreat also includes a firepit, barbecue, and rather lavish shower room, which is exactly what it sounds like: a huge wet area to get clean in. Visitors should note that the wi-fi is patchy but in better news, the owners are in good stead with a local mobile massage company so booking a couple’s treatment is just a call away.
Unique features: A literal treehouse crafted from recycled materials
Price: From about $460 per night
3. Rainforest Chalet
Speaking of treehouse tranquillity, the Rainforest Chalet in Mount Cotton is another standout forest-immersed stay located about half an hour from the city. Significantly more luxe than Ting Tong, this Airbnb in Brisbane gives serious Pinterest vibes. From the pot belly fireplace in the main bedroom (there is just one bedroom, mind you), to the contemporary bathroom with hotel-feeling finishes, and the Nespresso coffee machine, this is couples’ indulgence up in the hills. Fork out just a little extra for a breakfast hamper to ensure you never need to leave. Do note, however, there’s no TV.
Unique feature: There’s a farm with cows, chooks, ducks and alpacas roaming around
Price: From about $420 per night
4. Bridgeview Luxe
Soak up the Brisbane River’s centrepiece, Story Bridge, with Bridgeview Luxe, an apartment found within the entertainment mecca of Howard Smith Wharves. Inviting groups of up to six people, the three-bedroom Airbnb in Brisbane is a super convenient place to crash if you’ve got plans down within the party precinct. You’ll find two bathrooms with baths, underground parking for two cars, and one sensational outdoor entertainment area.
Unique feature: An open-air terrace that looks directly out to Story Bridge
Price: From about $730 per night
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5. The Skycatcher’s Nest
Craving ultra contemporary? The Skycatcher’s Nest in The Star Brisbane has your name all over it. Located on level 33 of the entertainment complex, directly in the centre of town, the Airbnb in Brisbane is great for couples, with a king bedroom filled with plush bedding and walk-in storage. The views are ridiculous, spanning all the way out to mountainous vistas beyond the city’s skyline. A small kitchen and living area provide compact comfort, but really, this place is all about the location with so many of the city’s best restaurants beckoning below. The best bit? It’s pet-friendly, so long as you give the team a heads up. Visitors should note there’s no parking, so you’ll have to pay pricey casino car park rates if you’re bringing your wheels.
Unique feature: Soaring views of the city from 33 levels above ground
Price: From about $300 per night
6. Holdgate’s Cottage
There’s so much to love about Holdgate’s Cottage, a beautiful restored 1860s property in Spring Hill that welcomes up to eight guests. From the industrial-cool open-plan kitchen and dining, plus those porphyry rock courtyard walls, to the storybook façade, this Airbnb in Brisbane is character-filled at every corner. There are actually two living areas, in addition to two bathrooms, six car parks, a breakfast bar, 3.2-metre-high ceilings, a laundry and ducted air conditioning.
Unique feature: 19th-century bones with a magical modern zhuzh
Price: From about $720 per night
7. River House
Located just four kilometres from the CBD in Norman Park, this tropical Queenslander riverfront house has a beautiful lawn and deck, plus an entertaining area right on the river with amazing city views and stunning sunsets. With six bedrooms and three living sections, up to 12 guests can stay without feeling like anyone is on top of anyone.
Unique feature: Soothing river views
Price: From about $1,300 per night
8. Brookfield Retreat
A sprawling 60s-inspired sanctuary, Brookfield Retreat is an epic option for large groups of up to 16 guests and even more if you don’t mind squeezing. It’s that kind of huge. Set on 2.5 acres, the property features a log-burning fireplace, a retro games room with a tournament-size billiard table, and a movie cinema. Not enough? There’s a dedicated bar, an indoor heated spa, a swimming pool and an outside entertainment area, too. The house is fitted with seven bedrooms in total but just three bathrooms (it must be noted), so bookmark this one if a grand reunion is on the cards.
Unique feature: The enormous bedroom count
Price: From about $1,280 per night
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9. Inner-city apartment
Looking for digs around Fortitude Valley, the trendy suburb that’s home to retail-indulgent James Street? This Airbnb in Brisbane is located within the luxe FV Brisbane by Peppers skyrise, just moments from Brisbane’s best nightlife. Comfortably accommodating up to four guests, the stay also includes access to the heated U-shaped pool that overlooks the city. With fabulous eateries right on your doorstep, this city escape is a dreamy option for a pair of couples.
Unique feature: An extraordinary swimming pool with soaring city views
Price: From about $311 per night
10. Sea Cottage
Switch the skyline for ocean views at Sea Cottage in the coastal village of Beachmere. Situated on the peaceful waters of Moreton Bay, the Airbnb is inspired by seashells and driftwood, designed to bring your surroundings inside as golden sand and still water blends beautiful outside. There are five bedrooms, including a large sea-facing veranda, and a ten-seater table, plus you’re encouraged to swim, kayak, windsurf, boat, paddleboard, fish, or simply gaze on the beach right outside. They even welcome pets.
Unique feature: Seaside proximity
Price: From about $350 per night
11. African Escape, South Bank
Ready for serious character? African Escape, located on the 38th floor of an inner-city apartment block, offers breathtaking views of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. The two-bedroom space features a balcony, making gazing even more compelling, but then there’s all the jungle-themed decor to keep things interesting inside, too. From animal figurines to sofa chairs upholstered in tribal-inspired patterns, fascinating pieces offer reprieve from your typical minimalistic aesthetic.
Unique feature: Level 38 views out across the entire city
Price: From about $690 per night
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