Brisbane for Broke Backpackers: A Budget Guide

Discover Brisbane on a budget and live like a local.

21 June 2023

Brisbane, Australia is a great destination for travelers on a limited budget. From free walking tours to affordable public transportation, there are plenty of ways to stay within your budget. With beautiful parks, markets, and cultural attractions, you can enjoy everything this city has to offer without breaking the bank.

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Day trip plan

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Day

The Best of Brisbane on a Budget

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Baker's Arms, an authentic British bakery that serves scrumptious croissants and freshly baked bread.
  • Take a stroll through the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at the base of Mount Coot-tha, and enjoy the stunning views and the beautiful floral displays.
  • Visit the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), which houses more than 17,000 works of art, including contemporary masterpieces, Indigenous art, and international exhibitions.
  • Have lunch at the Red Hook food truck, which serves mouth-watering burgers and fries. Don't be fooled by the truck this is some of the best food in Brisbane.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring South Bank, the city's cultural and entertainment precinct. Take a dip in the man-made Streets Beach, the only inner city, man-made beach in Australia, and stroll along the river walk, where you will find plenty of street performers and vendors.
  • End your day at Eat Street Northshore, a one-of-a-kind shipping container market that offers a diverse range of international cuisine. Grab a drink and enjoy the live music before calling it a night.

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Brisbane, Australia by plane is to fly into Brisbane Airport. There are many airlines that fly to Brisbane from various destinations across the world. Some of the major airlines that fly to Brisbane include Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Emirates.

Car

The best way to get to Brisbane, Australia by car is to drive from major cities such as Sydney or Melbourne. You can take the Pacific Highway from Sydney to Brisbane, which is a scenic route that runs along the coast, or you can take the Newell Highway from Melbourne to Brisbane.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train that goes directly to Brisbane, Australia. However, you can take a train to a nearby city, such as the Gold Coast, and then take a bus or drive the rest of the way to Brisbane.

Boat

The best way to get to Brisbane, Australia by boat is to take a cruise that stops in Brisbane as part of its itinerary. There are many cruise lines that offer cruises to Australia, with stops in major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

Bus

The best way to get to Brisbane, Australia by bus is to take a Greyhound bus from various cities across Australia. Greyhound has buses that run daily from major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne to Brisbane, with various stops along the way.

Destination

Brisbane

In a land down under, where women glow and men plunder, lies the sunny city of Brisbane. Grab a hat (and some sunscreen) and join us for an adventure in the land of koalas and kangaroos.

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More travel plans

Brisbane's Best: A Fun-Filled Family Adventure

Brisbane, Australia offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with its vibrant city atmosphere and abundance of family-friendly activities. Explore the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to meet adorable koalas and hand-feed kangaroos, or visit the South Bank Parklands, where you can enjoy a swim at the Streets Beach or take a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane for stunning city views. With its welcoming locals and countless family-oriented attractions, Brisbane is an ideal destination for an unforgettable family holiday.

Budget-Friendly Brisbane: A 2-Day Adventure

Brisbane is an ideal travel destination for those on a budget. The city offers a range of affordable accommodation options from hostels to guest houses. Visitors can explore the city's iconic landmarks, art galleries, museums and restaurants without breaking the bank.

Brisbane on a Budget: 4 Days of Adventure

Brisbane offers several budget-friendly options for travelers on a limited budget. The city's free ferry service, CityHopper, is an excellent way to explore the riverfront and see the city's sights. Budget accommodation is available in the form of hostels and budget hotels, and there is plenty of street food and cheap eats available.

Experience Brisbane's Romance in 4 Days

Brisbane, Australia is the perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. With its picturesque river views, stunning botanical gardens and world-class dining options, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy. From visiting the iconic Story Bridge to taking a scenic cruise down the Brisbane River, this city is sure to steal your heart.