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The ultimate guide to luxury accommodation in Brisbane

There’s no such thing as run-of-the-mill when it comes to luxury accommodation in Brisbane.

Boasting uber-chic interiors and glittering rooftop swimming pools, Brisbane’s luxury accommodation scene is diverse, daring and beyond delicious.

I’ve combed the city to the suburbs to create a list of the best stays, where, really, no choice will steer you away from unadulterated R&R.

In short

If you only choose one spot for luxury accommodation in Brisbane, make it The Calile. Arguably the finest inner-city hotel in the county, the five-star superstar boasts unparalleled design, world-class dining and impeccable service.

1. The Calile Hotel

the pool at The Calile Hotel, Brisbane
The stylish pool is the epicentre of The Calile.

A subtropical oasis in the thick of Brisbane city? Welcome to The Calile Hotel, a $100-million urban resort nestled within Fortitude Valley’s retail haven James Street. A destination dripping in international accolades, the magnificent rooftop pool is my favourite hang and the epicentre of this luxury accommodation. It’s where the bustle disappears and sky-gazing from plush cabanas is king. Leave the pool, if you must, to satisfy hunger from breakfast to dinner at either The Lobby Bar, or two of the best Brisbane restaurants found right on-site: Hellenika and Sushi Room. Prices start from about $684 per night and there’s on-site parking for $40 per day.

Address: 48 James St, Fortitude Valley

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2. InterContinental Brisbane

the suite interior at InterContinental Brisbane
Step into Australia’s only hotel designed by renowned architect Harry Seidler.

Fancy yourself a design nut? You’re probably all over the InterContinental Brisbane, which opened in June 2025 in the former Hilton Brisbane space and stands as Australia’s only hotel designed by renowned architect Harry Seidler. One foot inside the high-drama lobby proves its knockout aesthetic value as curved finishes flow with grace – and then there’s the 319 rooms and suites. Offering walk-in showers, the plushest of bedding, sprawling views, turndown services, bathrobes, and (often) access to Club InterContinental for complimentary breakfast and evening canapes with drinks, it’s about as comfortable as hotel life gets. Additionally, there’s a rooftop pool and on-site parking. Prices start from about $320 per night.

Address: 190 Elizabeth St, Brisbane

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3. The Westin

the Westin Renewal Suite Lounge Room, Brisbane
The wellness-focused The Westin offers a relaxing retreat in the heart of the city.

Swim-up pool bar? Don’t mind if I do. When The Westin Brisbane opened its doors, it delivered on its promise to provide a relaxing retreat in the heart of the city. Pool bar aside, the luxury accommodation in Brisbane’s trademark focus is wellness, evident with Australia’s only Heavenly Spa by Westin: a day spa with five treatment rooms, a steam room and blissful relaxation pods. Add the fully equipped Westin Workout Fitness Studio and delicious culinary options for yet another dream overnight pick. Prices start from about $540 per night and valet parking is available for a fee.

Address: 111 Mary St, Brisbane

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4. The Star Grand

It wouldn’t be a round-up of luxury digs without a sprinkle of Star-dust, right? The Star Grand, which opened in August 2024, is the jewel in the entertainment giant’s Brisbane crown, offering gigantic suites with five-star fit outs (think marble, jewel hues and subtle touches of gold) and amenities, plus access to the Isoletto Pool Club which expanded over from the Gold Coast in April 2025 to illuminate level 7 through an infinity pool and those trademark sunken pool lounges. Prices start from about $326 per night and on-site parking costs $45 per night.

Address: 33 William St, Brisbane

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5. W Brisbane

a suite with city views at W Brisbane
Soak up the city from your luxe suite. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Perched on the edge of the river at the bottom of Ann Street, W Brisbane’s flamboyant rooms are a treat for the senses. With monikers like ‘Wow’ and ‘Spectacular,’ you can imagine the bold patterns and quirky inscriptions (plus the awesome in-room bars with cocktail shakers) I spy when I enter. When I wasn’t relaxing by the lap pool, I was peering across the city from the adjacent WET Deck bar or dining in style at The Lex, a New York-inspired grill with its own Brisbane River views. Prices start from about $640 per night and there’s secure underground parking for a fee.

Address: 81 North Quay, Brisbane

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6. Hotel X

the rooftop pool at Hotel X, Brisbane
Hotel X has one of the most glamorous rooftop pools in town. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Hotel X is the place to book for easy access to Fortitude Valley’s nightlife (and The Calile’s booked up, let’s be honest) and the wining and dining mecca that is Howard Smith Wharves. But location isn’t the only thing that impresses at this luxury accommodation in Brisbane — they’ve also got one of the most glamorous rooftop pools in town, an incredible French restaurant, and the rooms are uber stylish to boot. Prices start from about $293 per night and there’s free parking for one vehicle.

Address: 458 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley

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7. Spicers Balfour Brisbane

the bed at Spicers Balfour Hotel, Brisbane
Spicers Balfour Brisbane is more luxe inner-city retreat than regular hotel. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

If you favour a personal touch, Spicers Balfour Brisbane is the spot for you. Tucked away in a quiet street in New Farm, and encompassing a sweet Queenslander cottage and a 1940s Art Deco apartment block, the digs are more luxe inner-city estate than regular hotel. Carefully curated antique furniture and jewel-tone velvet chairs are paired with sumptuous bedding, rain showers and Bose speakers in each room. But the real luxury comes from feeling like you’ve been welcomed into a friend’s (expertly decorated) home. Gourmet breakfast, in-room Nespresso machines, sunset canapes on the rooftop, wi-fi and parking are all included. Prices start from about $451 per night.

Address: 37 Balfour St, New Farm

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8. Alex Perry Hotel and Apartments

sunset views at the rooftop lounge of Alex Perry Hotel and Apartments, Brisbane
The sky-high rooftop lounge is a great location for sunset watching. (Image: Alex Perry Hotel and Apartments)

When a fashion designer is behind the aesthetic, one would hope style would prevail. In the case of Alex Perry, his first foray into hotels secures him a model tick of approval. A GHD hairdryer and straightener sit within mirrored bathroom cabinets, while a clothes steamer gets you red-carpet ready – after a stint in the rooftop pool, of course. The apartments are spacious and inviting, decorated with lashings of pewter and charcoal. From studio-style rooms to executive apartments, this is self-contained living at its most fashionable. Prices start from about $209 per night and parking can be booked in advance for a fee.

Address: 959 Ann St, Fortitude Valley

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9. Emporium Hotel

a woman relaxing in a tub at Emporium Hotel South Bank, Brisbane
Unwind in style. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Flamboyant in all the right places: if the Emporium Hotel’s walls could talk, that’s probably what they’d tell you – and they’d have stories to tell from almost two decades of seeing Fortitude Valley evolve. The independent designer abode away from home is all Ferrari-red and flamboyant chandeliers, with the lobby bar serving up cocktails, as does a sleek rooftop pool bar overlooking the city. Prices start from about $477 per night and valet parking is available for a fee.

Address: 267 Grey St, South Brisbane

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10. The Inchcolm

a woman looking out the window in her luxe suite at The Inchcolm, Brisbane
The Inchcolm is in the heart of the city. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Manhattan meets Brisbane is the best way to describe The Inchcolm. A glorious 1880s Art Deco building, the hotel has modernised its bones while paying respect to some extraordinary original features. Each room is entirely unique, making it one of my standout choices when I want something out-of-the-box when exploring the city. Its location is also outstanding, within walking distance to the City Botanic Gardens and South Bank. Prices start from about $333 per night and there’s a nearby car park guests can access for free.

Address: 73 Wickham Tce, Spring Hill

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11. FV Brisbane by Peppers

the pool at FV Brisbane by Peppers
Enjoy a tipple at the heated skyline pool (Image: FV Brisbane by Peppers)

For another slice of New York City on our own east coast, FV Brisbane by Peppers is seriously noteworthy. Inspired by New York’s iconic triangular-shaped Flatiron Building, the hotel features international flair throughout, from the heated U-shaped pool, complete with city views, to the private cinema, fully equipped gym and private spa lounges available to hire. Prices start from about $356 per night and there’s valet parking available for a fee.

Address: 191 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley

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12. Crystalbrook Vincent

a couple relaxing in the pool under the Story Bridge at Crystalbrook Vincent, Brisbane
Relax right under the Story Bridge. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Crystalbrook Vincent sits directly under the Story Bridge within strolling distance of the bars and restaurants of Howard Smith Wharves. Formerly The Fantauzzo, the art-inspired hotel is completely single-use plastic-free, has waste-free bathrooms and showcases items made using recycled material throughout the Brisbane hotel. Plus, the views of the river and the CBD are unmissable from the extremely swish Fiume rooftop bar and swimming pool.

Address: 5 Boundary St, Brisbane

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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Wine, dine and vintage gems: 8 things you didn’t know about Toowoomba

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
    There’s more to Australia’s Garden City than meets the eye.

    With Victorian-era and traditional Queenslander buildings, an abundance of manicured gardens and the famous Carnival of Flowers painting the streets in vibrant colours each spring, Toowoomba is one of the most charming regional cities in Queensland Country.

    While its beauty alone is reason enough to visit, there are lesser-known sides to Toowoomba that locals love most, from its burgeoning culinary scene to its artistic flair. Located just a 90-minute drive from Brisbane (or a direct flight from Sydney), it’s all too easy to discover on a long weekend away.

    1. There’s an awesome local arts scene

    tour group walking in front of toowoomba street art
    Find incredible works of art around Toowoomba’s streets. (Credit: Nathan McNeil)

    Australia’s second largest inland city is a flourishing arts and culture hub waiting to be discovered. Over 100 vibrant street art murals and graffiti works decorate the city, and they’re best viewed along Bank Lane and Searles Walk.

    Regional Queensland’s oldest public art gallery can also be found in Toowoomba – it’s home to 20th-century Australian works created by Queensland artists and those connected to the Toowoomba region.

    2. It has world-class farm-to-table dining

    rosalie house aerial toowoomba secrets
    Stop into Rosalie House to wine and dine.

    As a regional city, Toowoomba has direct access to incredibly fresh produce that’s shaping its culinary scene. At sunset, head to the verandah at Rosalie House Cellar Door Restaurant for a grazing-style dining experience and to discover Queensland’s underrated wine scene. Indulge in dishes such as Warilba lamb rump and roasted pumpkin with ginger-roasted potatoes and lime yoghurt, paired with their delicious cool-climate wines.

    For a more relaxed affair, sweet tooths should make a beeline for award-winning The Baker’s Duck. Be sure to try their cult favourite strawberry cheesecake danish; you’ll learn why 35,000 of these treats are sold annually.

    3. Small bars are doing big work

    table spread at Uno Más small bar in toowoomba secrets
    Pop into small bars like Uno Más.

    Toowoomba doesn’t disappoint with fantastic pubs, but discerning drinkers can take happy hour to the next level at one of the city’s impressive small bars. Savour Spanish-style bites paired with a thoughtful line-up of wines at the newly opened Uno Más Tapas & Wine Bar. On Thursdays, head to Cork & Lever to tap your feet to live music over creative cocktails made with their all-Australian gin collection. And enjoy elevated toasties and premium drops at the cosy Press’d Coffee & Wine. Or try newly opened The Book Pour.

    4. There’s no shortage of fabulous stays

    Bunnyconnellen
    Chill out in beautiful surrounds at Bunnyconnellen. (Credit: Salt Media)

    Whether you prefer the buzz of the city centre or retreating to the hinterland, there are stylish stays aplenty to settle into in this idyllic corner of the world. Apartment-style living can be found at Quest Toowoomba; partly housed in a heritage church building in the city, it’s a comfortable and convenient base. And at The Arbour Boutique Apartments, spacious rooms are injected with old-world charm.

    In the hinterland, enjoy bucolic bliss at the boutique Bunnyconnellen, where an 1880s farmhouse and self-contained cottage are backdropped by rolling hills. And at the secluded Ravensbourne Escape, one-bedroom studios, two-bedroom chalets and three-bedroom holiday homes overlook Ravensbourne National Park and the Brisbane and Lockyer Valleys.

    5. It’s a nature-lovers paradise

    extinct volcanic peak Table Top Mountain
    Tackle Table Top Mountain. (Credit: Ariana Potamianakis)

    Toowoomba is hugged by national parks, making it a haven for nature lovers. On its doorstep you’ll find the extinct volcanic peak Table Top Mountain, where keen hikers can tackle the challenging two-kilometre return trail which rewards them with 360° views of the Lockyer Valley and surrounds.

    For a more gentle experience, Ravensbourne National Park offers peaceful walking trails within lush rainforest. It’s a top spot for bird watching as there are over 110 bird species that call the area home, including the paradise riflebird. Crows Nest National Park is home to platypus and koalas, and its refreshing natural swimming spots, like Kauyoo Pool, are a great place to beat the heat.

    6. Wellness enthusiasts are well looked after

    Toowoomba’s cool and calm energy lends itself to a wellness-focused getaway. Slated to open in August 2026, soak in the serenity at Vikasati Toowoomba, a bathhouse oasis with outdoor hot and cold magnesium pools, ice baths and Finnish saunas. Rest and recharge at City Cave Toowoomba, which offers float therapy, infrared sauna and massage services, or visit Kalm Springs for LED therapy, cryotherapy and float therapy.

    7. It’s preserved its 19th-century charm

    inside Queensland Museum Cobb + Co
    Learn all about the history of Cobb+Co.

    History buffs can step back in time at Toowoomba’s fascinating cultural and historical museums.

    Explore 50,000 years of Darling Downs and Toowoomba history at the Queensland Museum Cobb+Co; it’s known for its impressive National Carriage Collection of 47 restored horse-drawn vehicles, which were put to use for Queensland’s urban expansion. Visitors can also try their hand at blacksmithing or leadlighting in heritage workshops, refuelling with traditional scones at the onsite cafe.

    Train enthusiasts can celebrate the golden era of rail travel on a heritage steam locomotive thanks to the volunteer-driven, community-led organisation DownsSteam Toowoomba. Vintage train rides range from a two-hour journey between Toowoomba Station and DownsSteam Railway Museum to an overnight adventure from Toowoomba to the Southern Downs and Granite Belt

    8. There are vintage gems waiting to be found

    Whether it’s to pick up a unique piece for your home or a one-of-a-kind accessory for a loved one, you’re guaranteed to find something special in one of Toowoomba’s antique and vintage stores. Range Antiques sells everything from furniture, rugs and lamps to fine porcelain, jewellery and art, while Toowoomba Antiques & Collectables is a treasure trove of Art Deco, farmhouse, retro and mid-century modern pieces.

    Start planning your weekender of a lifetime in Queensland Country region at queenslandcountrytourism.com.au.